NORWICH SCHOOL FASHION SHOW DELIVERS AN EVENING OF FUNDRAISING, FASHION AND FUN!

July 1, 2022

"On Thursday 30 June, Norwich School held their annual Charity Fashion Show at The Space, Sprowston. There was a multitude of performances, such as pupil-choreographed dances, a pride-themed dance and singing. As well as some brilliant performances, the models and comperes were in full force and brought incredible energy to each line.

This year’s show was in aid of The Norfolk LGBT+ Project and from the sale of tickets, raffle tickets and charity t-shirts the Partnerships Committee was able to raise a substantial amount for The Norfolk LGBT+ Project.

The Norfolk LGBT+ Project was founded in 2007 by a small group of individuals who came together with the aim of making a difference in the lives of LGBT+ youths in Norfolk and Waveney. The Project does, however, work with members of the community across all age groups. In 2009, they registered as a charity in order to expand their services to all ages and provide face-to-face support. The Norfolk LGBT+ Project’s continued mission is to improve the health, mental health and wellbeing of LGBT+ people in Norfolk and Waveney through support, empowerment and non-judgmental, informative services. We were extremely pleased to be able to support such an amazing charity for The Norwich School Fashion Show 2022!

The show was kicked off by a Pride-themed dance choreographed by Scooby. The dance included a remix of three LGBTQ+ themed songs and some spectacular rainbow umbrellas. Later in the show, The Senior Dance, choreographed by Miss Hacking was an empowering piece in support of women’s rights and a hip-hop inspired piece to Destiny’s Child Lose My Breath, choreographed by pupils Lucy Benton and Shraeya Saravanavel was a house favourite. Amy Griffiths, The Upper 5 Quartet and the Senior Dancers were incredible as always and The Charity T-Shirt dance was not only a great way to model the charity t-shirts but to also close the first half of the show.

The first line of the evening was an A-Level line which showcased some of the beautiful work our pupils have created, ranging from dresses designed by Cassia Miller and Amelie Bredican to a blazer focused on feminism designed by Tilly Banks. Pupil’s work also closed the show with the A-Level Jubilee line. These garments were inspired by the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee and were created by a handful of L6 pupils this term.

As well as pupil-made garments, we were lucky enough to include lines from our local community. Dipple and Conway and Dogfish and Catfish are always a must and each year they never disappoint. This year, Dipple and Conway brought sunshine to Norfolk with their line to Walking On Sunshine by Katrina and the Waves. The energy was high as models included actions and dance moves into their line. Dogfish and Catfish stuck to a traditional catwalk which enabled their clothes to be showcased to the fullest. The clothes were then on sale after the show and a voucher was up for grabs in the raffle.

New additions this year included Vegas Vintage and The Priscilla Bacon Line. Vegas Vintage, run by Hannah Springham and located in Reepham’s The Dial House brings pre-loved designer items at a cost-effective price. Designer clothing doesn’t have to be saved for special occasions nor does it have to be exclusive- the beauty of vintage designer clothing can last several lifetimes and the best thing is that it’s sustainable. Sustainability was a crucial aspect of this year’s fashion show and we tried to use pre-loved clothes wherever we could. The Priscilla Bacon Hospice charity was kind enough to lend us red, white and blue clothes from their stores to create their line and the models were given free rein to style their outfits themselves. They loved the creative freedom and it’s definitely something we would like to include in future fashion shows.

In addition, to celebrate the Queen's Platinum Jubilee, Lower School pupils designed their own crowns, which they were then filmed modelling in the recently named Jubilee Wellbeing Garden, with the film played on the night of the fashion show. It was great to have pupils from 4-18 involved in this year's show!

The Green Group partnered with Coral Eyewear for another sustainable line. They worked tirelessly over the last couple of weeks and managed to create garments out of recycled materials. Coral Eyewear was a perfect fit, as their frames use completely recycled materials from landfills. They are British designed, and Italian made so the quality of the eyewear is extremely high. Their ethos is ‘style without the compromise’.

The Staff and ONs got involved in this year’s show and they definitely gave the pupils a run for their money. More than 10 of our own Norwich School staff featured in a line which took the audience through decades from 1950-2020. They could either style their own clothes or they were able to buy pre-loved items from charity shops for £10 or less.

The ON line consisted of a mixture of video, graphics and pieces. Avalon Thursby focused her videos on femininity in fashion, William Catchpole’s graphics were designed with the concept of fashion houses in mind and Jess Girling’s knitted pieces combined fashion and comfort with a focus on post-pandemic living. Will’s signed graphics were not only framed and modelled but they are also available as prizes in The Gala Night raffle later this term. Soon to be ON, Mia Bartram created a brilliant video which showcased some GCSE and A-level jewellery created over the course of this year.

A huge thank you to all involved and a very special thank you to: The Partnerships Committee, Mrs Hill, Mrs Stevenson, Miss Hacking, Mr Passam, Mr Cann, Mr Campbell, Mrs Thomas, Miss Cann, Mrs Reynolds and all the staff, comperes and models.

Further thanks to our partners for providing us with outfits, training and their overall support: Jess and Georgia from Sandra Reynolds Modelling Agency, Hannah Springham- founder of Vegas Vintage, Priscilla Bacon Hospice, Coral Eyewear, Dipple and Conway, The U6 A-level textiles pupils, U5 Jewellery creators, Green Group, Dogfish and Catfish, Mia Bartram, Herbie Hilyer, Milton Maxwell, The Lower School crown designers and our venue sponsor- The Space.

If you didn’t manage to see the show live, a video of the show will be available on the Norwich School YouTube channel soon."

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Nick Conway (L6) to Represent Great Britain at the U19 Junior World Championships

By Eleanor Lewis • August 5, 2025

Nick Conway, L6 pupil, has been selected to represent Great Britain at the Under 19 Junior World Championships in the Men’s Eight racing in Trakai, Lithuania, which is taking place from 6-10 August. This is a very proud moment for the Boat Club program and the School as a whole, as Nick is the first Sixth Form rower from Norwich School to be selected for the Junior World Championships. To celebrate this achievement, we caught up with Nick in the lead up to the Championships... How long have you been rowing? I’ve been rowing for 2 1/2 years since starting lent term in L5. However, rowing has been a part of my life from a young age through my parents. How often do you practice/train? As a boat club we have 14 sessions a week, where we train as a whole boat club, both girls and boys squads together, which helps build a strong community and group. How has Norwich School helped you on your rowing journey? Norwich School have helped me develop by providing elite coaching by various members of the sports department, most of all, Mr Carter-Mayers, our senior rowing coach, along with my academic teachers who have been supportive along the way. How did you get selected to represent GB in U19 Junior World Championships? Selection was decided by a week of testing and racing up to 8 times a day. Through the results from then and throughout various trials this year the selectors build a ranking of the top 7 rowers, which they will take to the worlds championships. Thankfully I was in this group to be selected. How have you been preparing for the event? Since leaving for selection camp on the first week of the summer holidays I’ve been down in London and Reading at the national training centre. I have been rowing with my crew and getting familiar with each other ready for when we take on the rest of the world on the 7th of August. Throughout these 4 weeks we’ve come together well, with a few rocky patches, but nonetheless feeling confident as we enter competition week. We wish Nick the best of luck!

Next at the Crypt - Reepham Artists and Makers

By Eleanor Lewis • July 31, 2025

5 - 16 August Open daily 10:00 - 16:00 Closed Sundays. Free admission. Reepham Artists and Makers are a collective of artists and makers based in and around Reepham, Norfolk. They have been exhibiting together since 2017 in galleries and other venues. They work in textiles, ceramics, painting, silver-smithing, glass, wood, gilding and sculpture. Many of the group display and sell as individuals but also come together as a group. Meeting on a regular basis, the artists work together on exhibitions, run workshops within their disciplines and have social visits to galleries and exhibitions in and around Norfolk. Jackie Watson - Ceramics • Sue Johnston - Paintings and Textile Art • Carolyn Penney - Glass and Metal Work • Sara Kenyon - Painter and Water Colourist • Linda Sadler - Ceramics and Textiles • Jane Bygrave - Ceramics • Emily Longhurst - Artist, Working in wood, acrylics and gilding • Tamara Goulding - Lacemaker

The Final Day for the Class of 25

By Eleanor Lewis • July 14, 2025

Friday 4 July, Independence Day in America, happened to be a memorable day of independence for some of our community, as it heralded the last day of school for our Upper Sixth pupils. And it wasn’t just the pupils sharing this special day – parents and guardians were welcomed to the Close to share in the celebrations. Some pupils had been through the entire Norwich School journey, reflecting on 11 years growing up in the Close, whilst others had experienced a packed and exciting two year Norwich School journey, having joined in Sixth Form. Whatever the ‘length of service’, however, the mixed emotions amongst leavers were shared – excitement for the future, sadness and trepidation as such an important chapter of their lives drew to a close, pride at having reached such a milestone and a touch of exhaustion at the end of such an important academic year. A beautiful sunny day dawned, with an early breakfast for the pupils and a special address from the President of the Horatio Society, Jacob Stevenson, who wished his peers well and encouraged them to embrace their new status as Old Norvicensians (ONs). Jacob also handed out awards as voted for by the pupils themselves including, to name but a few, Most Likely to Start A Charity, Best Bromance, Most Likely to Headline Glastonbury and Most Likely to End Up Back at Norwich School (an easy win for Joel Newman who returns next year as a Lower School Gap Student!). They then headed to tutor group where they were presented with their Valedictory Reports – as written by their Head of House and the Head. Parents and Guardians then joined the celebrations for a brunch on the Refectory lawn before filing into the Cathedral for a very special Farewell Assembly. It was hard to spot a dry eye as parents and pupils joined in singing I Vow To Thee My Country and Jerusalem, and the Head delivered a moving and inspirational address. The congregation were then upstanding and clapped continuously as the Upper Sixth filed out of the Cathedral for the very last time, exiting the West Doors, where they were greeted with a farewell and handshake from the Head. The Upper Close was buzzing as families reunited with one another, hugging and crying as they shared the emotion of such a significant day. Overall, however, despite the tears, it was a day for celebration – to toast a job well done to the Class of 2025 who gave it their all and embraced every opportunity on their Norwich School journey. Corks popped and there were photos a-plenty as families embraced a last chance to take pictures in the Norwich School uniform, before departing for perhaps a rest or a power nap, before dressing in their finest and heading for Norwich City Football Club for the Leavers Ball. Over 300 parents, staff and pupils attended a magnificent evening, with a sumptuous three course meal, entertainment and a live band which kept everyone on the dancefloor until 1am. There was an after party, but we will leave it at that…! Wishing the Class of 2025 every success for the future and stay in touch. Remember. You are all ONs for life!

DofE Gold take on the Peak District for their Practice Expedition!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 12, 2025

Three groups undertook their practice expedition at the end of term. The weather kept to the predictions, being warm and sunny. On the hottest day the groups left camp early, with altered routes to ensure water could be topped up several times. They all coped very well, arriving in campsites and shade before the highest temperatures were reached. The fourth group arrived and the first groups returned to Norwich. The training was repeated with a short walk to refresh and learn navigational skill, followed by some first aid training. The next day the group walked to their next campsite, where they adopted an 8th member which you can see with the team below!

Norwich School Success in the Oxford Scholastica Academy Essay Competition!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 10, 2025

Congratulations to Norwich School pupil Anna Rechel, who was successfully shortlisted in the Oxford Scholastica Essay Competition 2025! Oxford Scholastica exists to inspire teenagers to seize the future. They do this by offering academic programmes which combine university-style teaching with academic challenges, Masterclasses and cultural adventures, including their summer school in Oxford as well as online courses and internships. You can find out more here about their Oxford Summer School. Anna Rechel wrote a brilliant essay answering the question "What do you think the greatest challenge currently facing Writing & Journalism is and how might you play a role in tackling it?". The panel of judges were very impressed with Anna’s essay, shortlisting it within a competitive field of over 650 entries. Anna’s prize was a free place at an Oxford Scholastica academic conference. Entering an Essay Competition is a great way to prepare for university applications, think deeply about a topic beyond the school curriculum, and widen your academic horizons. Oxford Scholastica warmly welcome entries from Norwich School for future Essay Competitions, and any students who are interested can find out more here ! Many congratulations again to Anna Rechel!

Coming Up at The Crypt - Contemporary Landscape

By Eleanor Lewis • July 10, 2025

In August, we welcome Alison Dunhill to the Crypt for her exhibition ' Contemporary Landscapes'. An original exhibition of paintings of the natural world by renowned Norfolk artist Alison Dunhill. Vivid, bold and colourful paintings reflect the unique land and riverscapes of Norfolk, as in her response to the rewilding and regeneration of Walton Wood. These are contrasted with work inspired by the dramatic land of New Mexico and the Rockies, and some of the artist's earlier landscape work. Dunhill's dynamic explorations of colour, texture and perspective convey her close engagement with nature and the land, bringing an original, striking and provocative quality to her art. 19-30 August Open daily 11:00 - 5:00 Closed Sundays. Free admission.

Cambridge Chemistry Challenge

By Eleanor Lewis • July 10, 2025

In June, twenty Lower 6 chemists took part in the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, a gruelling competition in which participants had to apply their chemical knowledge beyond the specification and were encouraged to think about Chemistry in the way they would at university. This year's two mammoth questions saw competitors learning about alkene isomers and the use of nuclear magnetic resonance in determining structures, as well as a 'non-boring question about boron'. The Chemistry Department was delighted with the level of participation this year, as well as the high proportion of certificates awarded to Norwich School, including three gold awards. The following pupils obtained awards: Copper – Brandon Camderman, Harry Chant, Thomas Irvine, Ana Paduraru, Mei McAuley, and Ansh Thakur. Silver – Omar Alfiky, Isaac Chan, Sissi Chan, Katerina Di Maria, Isio Emore, Emmanuel Milne, Emile Verschoor and Aaron Zhang. Gold - Mari Lee, Freya Simmonds, and Adit Raje.

FONS Support Helps Deliver Repaired Bicycles to Refugees

By Sonja Mitchell • July 9, 2025

Thanks to the Refugee Support Group and financial support from FONS, over 30 bicycles have been repaired for local refugees.

Celebrating Norfolk Summer School 2025!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 9, 2025

Norwich School is proud to have hosted its 25th Norfolk Summer School this July, welcoming an incredible 111 pupils from schools across the county! Hosted by Norwich School and funded with the support of private benefactors, Norfolk Summer School aims to help the brightest pupils from all backgrounds who are considering Oxbridge, other academically demanding universities and medical school. Through a range of activities, including sessions on interview practice, in-depth subject seminars taught at university level and a chance to experience a university-style interview, pupils are given the chance to hone their subject knowledge and improve their skills in preparation for university application. This year teaching was delivered by Norwich School staff who were joined by industry experts from Cambridge University, UEA, London Universities and the University of Dundee. Pupils also enjoyed talks on personal statement writing, student finance and applying for Oxbridge. Organisers were delighted to see an increase in pupil numbers this year, confirming that there is a high demand for quality university application advice from young people. Pupils came from 23 schools across Norfolk and beyond, with pupils travelling from as far as Oxford and Leicester to attend the three days. During the week, 184 subject seminars were delivered covering 23 subjects including Maths, English, Science, Psychology, Engineering and Medicine. A real asset of the Summer School is its ability to cater for the more niche areas not commonly offered at A Level such as Law, Art History and Politics, meaning pupils have the opportunity to explore these new subjects at undergrad level before embarking on their university applications. The 32 staff were drawn from the school’s own teaching team, UEA and several undergraduate and graduate ONs. In total, teachers delivered 2,442 hours of information, advice and guidance over the three days. Pupils also had the opportunity to book a 1:1 appointment with Norwich School’s Oxbridge advisor, Mr Pearce. The Summer School will continue to offer UCAS support to all its Alumni for the next academic year and we look forward to supporting pupils through their applications! For more information about Norfolk Summer School click here . For requests for information please contact partnerships@norwich-school.org.uk

Choristers Set Off on Tour!

By Eleanor Lewis • July 8, 2025

With the Trinity Term and 24/25 Academic Year coming to a close, on July 8 Norwich School Choristers set off on a Cathedral Choir tour of Paris and Normandy. 16 Pupils from both the Lower and Senior school made their way to France to sing in some of the most beautiful churches and Cathedrals in the country, all while enjoying the culture in their spare time! One highlight on this trip will be the choir's appearances at the British Normandy Memorial in Ver-sur-Mer, where their performances of music will commemorate and remember the 22,442 servicemen and women who fell during the Battle of Normandy in 1944. You can find their itinerary below; Tuesday 8 July: 12.30pm Mass, Église de la Madeleine, Paris Tuesday 8 July: 6.30pm Concert, Cathédrale St Etiénne, Meaux Wednesday 9 July: 12.30pm Mass, Église de la Madeleine, Paris Wednesday 9 July: 7.30pm Concert, Église Notre-Dame d’Auteuil, Paris Friday 11 July: 12.00 noon Concert, Église St Maclou, Rouen Friday 11 July: 6.30pm Evensong, Église St Pierre, Caen Saturday 12 July: 12 noon and 1.15pm, Music for Remembrance, British Normandy Memorial Saturday 12 July: 5.30pm Concert, Sanctuaire Sainte Thérèse de Lisieux To find out more click here!