News | Independent School | Wells Cathedral School

22 Nov 2018

Somerset Badminton Squad

Five talented Wells badminton players were selected to represent Somerset at last weekend’s county matches. Congratulations to Serena, Yolanda, Nate, Kevin and John!

21 Nov 2018

Cadets visit the Wildcat Maritime Force

Last Wednesday, cadets from the Royal Navy Section had the pleasure of visiting the Wildcat Maritime Force (WMF) at RNAS Yeovilton. The purpose of this visit was to further cement the affiliation between the section and the WMF. Cadets met with the Commanding officer Cdr Gus Carnie and were then given an oversight of the Force structure, its operational output, followed by familiarisation with the Wildcat Aircraft. All the cadets enjoyed their visit, especially the opportunity to sit inside the...

21 Nov 2018

Senior Maths Challenge

Congratulations to the following pupils who achieved bronze, silver or gold in the recent UKMT Senior Maths Challenge, designed for pupils in Year 13 and younger. The gold awardees will go on to sit the follow on paper later this term:GoldAmber, Year 11 William, Year 12 Maxim, Miranda, Jane and Samuel, Year 13 SilverHarry, Till, Rose, June and Jeroan, Year 11 Alfie, Emma, Oliver and Danni, Year 12 William, Year 13 BronzeElaina, Justin, Serena, Francois and Bartholomew, Year 11Hilary, Nicholas, Maria, Year 12Lulwa, Flora, Angus, Lucas...

21 Nov 2018

Percussion Day with O Duo

30 delegates and pupils enjoyed an inspiring workshop day in Cedars Hall with O Duo on Sunday. Taking part in a three hour workshop, the musicians created two pieces with the delegates, which were subsequently performed as part of O Duo’s concert in the evening. O Duo‘s sparkling mix of popular classics arranged for tuned percussion, fun temporary works and vibrant drumming from across the globe has been captivating audiences for over ten years. The duo give recitals around the...

21 Nov 2018

French Horn Day

Former Wells pupils, Dave Oxley and Matt Gunner, joined Simon de Souza as the tutors for this year’s French Horn Day on Sunday. The format incorporated workshops, ensembles and masterclasses rounded off with a concert to family and friends. One parent summed up the day by saying, “My daughter was just bursting with enthusiasm when we picked her up. This morning she insisting on taking her horn to school to do extra practice in break time! The workshop was so...

21 Nov 2018

English in Action

As part of the ttp Education in Action programme, Wells Head of English, Neil Bowen, is running two lectures for the GCSE English in Action at the Emmanuel Centre in London today, alongside award-winning Welsh poet, author and playwright Owen Sheers.The innovative session will feature an interactive programme to prepare and enthuse students, giving them the skills and confidence to exceed expectations in their examination. Students will explore ways to increase their creativity and improve their writing skills, delve into...

21 Nov 2018

GCSE and A-Level Artwork

Our current GCSE and A-level Drawing exhibition is currently on display in The John Baxter foyer of Cedars Hall. Come and enjoy the skills on show!

16 Nov 2018

Adventures in Southern Italy

Between 23-27th October 32 pupils and four staff led by Jeremy Boot explored the geography and antiquities of southern Italy. On the first day the group travelled west from Naples to the area called Campi Flegrei (burning fields), a zone of volcanic activity that saw a powerful eruption 39,000 years ago and which is still active today. They visited Pozzuoli and its famous ruin The Serrapeum, the Roman resort of Baiae, much of which is now under the sea and...

16 Nov 2018

Remembrance Sunday

This weekend marked the 100th anniversary of the end of the First World War. In addition to the beautiful remembrance service held by the Junior School in Cedars Hall on Friday, the School held a Remembrance Service in Wells Cathedral on Sunday evening, at which the Bishop of Bath and Wells preached, the Chapel Choir sung, poems were read in English, German and French, and the Old Wellensian Roll of Honour was read out. Junior and Senior School parents, OWs,...

16 Nov 2018

Last Post and Reveille

15 trumpeters from Wells Cathedral School, were honoured to take part in 22 Armistice Day and Remembrance Services across the region, and as far afield as Alderney, to commemorate the fallen, on this particularly poignant centenary of the 1918 Armistice.Wells musicians, specialist, special provision and general, aged from 10 to 18, played The Last Post and Reveille at moving Armistice Day and Remembrance Day Services in churches, cathedrals, concert halls and primary schools in and around Somerset over the Remembrance...

16 Nov 2018

Hosting the Royal Marines Band Service

This afternoon, Wells was proud to host the Royal Marines Band Service. First and foremost, these are Royal Marines, which involves considerably more than simply playing music. The Royal Marines have a vital role to play in the most challenging military operations, providing vital operational and logistical support for 3 Commando Brigade. Regarded as the world’s most versatile military music organisation, the Royal Marines Band Service is the public face of the Naval Service, playing at some of the most...

16 Nov 2018

Side by Side Orchestra Day

Paul Denegri, Wells Head of Student Musical Performance, hosted an exciting workshop and concert day for Prep Schools in Cedars Hall on Tuesday.50 young musicians, from King’s Hall School, Taunton; Salisbury Cathedral School and Leehurst Swan School in Salisbury, plus 15 from Wells Junior School, enjoyed workshops, sectionals for brass and percussion, woodwind and strings, as well as multi-use sectionals. At the end of the day, the musicians gave a finale performance side by side with Wells specialist orchestral players...

12 Nov 2018

Everest Base Camp Expedition

A group of twelve Sixth Form pupils experienced a successful 18 day trip to Nepal, and expedition to Everest Base Camp over the half term break. The group showed tremendous teamwork and resilience coping with temperatures as low as -10.2 degrees C, the effects of high altitude, tummy upsets, basic facilities, very early starts and the cumulative impact of a lengthy and strenuous trek. Accompanied by David Rowley, Stuart Elks and Fiona Robertson, the entire group reached base camp and...

06 Nov 2018

Critics Competition Highly Commended

The Forward/emagazine Young Critics Competition 2018 offered students and teachers the opportunity to respond to their choice of poem from the Best Collection and Best First Collection shortlists in one of two ways: a critical appreciation or a creative response, alongside a reflective commentary. The competition was judged by the editors of emagazine, the quarterly magazine for advanced level students published by the English and Media Centre, and the poet Sinéad Morrissey, winner of the Best Collection in 2017 for...

06 Nov 2018

National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain

Congratulations to the following 12 students who have been selected for the National Youth Orchestra, including the Summer Tour to the USA in 2019 –Strings: Nellie, Isabelle, Summer, Carys, Tom, Alex Woodwind: Ella Brass: Hannah, Meggie, Eliza Percussion: Meadow (Principal), Alfie (Spring course)

06 Nov 2018

The Sierra Leone Project

This year’s trip to Freetown, as part of the Sierra Leone Project, has been another great success. 13 pupils, including seven musicians, aged 17 and 18, spent ten days in the capital over the October break. During the trip, students taught maths, English, French and physical activity at the JT Reffell memorial school, whilst music was taught at the Ballanta Academy of Music. The group also visited the Chimpanzee Sanctuary, attended church services and relaxed on the beach. Every afternoon,...

06 Nov 2018

Regional Finals Await

In October the mixed age Under 14 Girls Hockey team took part in the Tier 2 section of the County Hockey Tournament at King’s Taunton, finishing in second place. The team will now go through to the Tier 2 Regional Finals later in the term. Congratulations!

06 Nov 2018

Defining Tragedy Lecture

In early November, Wells Head of English, Neil Bowen, gave a lecture, Defining tragedy, the tragic genre and tragic sub-genres to A-level students from across the country at the Emmanuel Centre in London. In a programme designed as part of ttp Education in Action to inspire, support and entertain, expert speakers, including actor, director and lecturer, Nick Hutchison, and Dr Simon Avery, lecturer at the University of Westminster, explored the literary, social and international perspectives of Tragedy, offering students comprehensive...

06 Nov 2018

Experiencing chorister life!

On Saturday 13th October, Wells Cathedral hosted a behind the scenes day, where children were able to experience the life of a Cathedral chorister. Thirty seven girls and boys, aged between seven and nine, came from schools across Somerset and beyond for the annual Be a Chorister for a Day event where they met the Cathedral choristers and participated in singing workshops. The day culminated in singing Choral Evensong in the Quire of the Cathedral with the award-winning and world-renowned...

06 Nov 2018

Fireworks!

Pupils, staff and families from the across the Wells community enjoyed a fabulous firework display on Monday evening, prepared by Andy Davies and his fireworks team. The event was supported by the Wells Parents’ Association, who sold tasty burgers, hot dogs, candyfloss and other confectionery to help raise funds for the PA bid process, which supports the purchase of equipment for pupils around the school.The evening was a huge success, raising in the region of £1,600 for school community projects,...

18 Oct 2018

Emma Craigie Creative Writing Masterclass

On Thursday 11th October, the English Department had the great pleasure of welcoming local author Emma Craigie to Wells. She came to talk about her own novels and to give three creative writing workshops to some of our most enthusiastic writers from across the school. Students were invited to take part in a variety of writing tasks, including characterisation, plotting and group poetry writing. All three sessions were a huge success, with Emma being able to offer her valuable advice...

18 Oct 2018

Badminton Success

The Wells badminton squad goes from strength to strength, with a fantastic set of results following Saturday’s local derby against the mighty Millfield.Wells played 8 boys singles, 6 girls singles, 3 boys doubles and 3 girls doubles, and 7 mixed doubles, winning all but one of the matches. All the rallies were competitive and a special mention must go to Kevin Luk, who gave away the least number of points!Congratulations to the successful team: Nate (Boys Captain), Timmy, Max, Kevin,...

18 Oct 2018

Geneva Exchange 2018

Over the last week Wells students and their parents once again played host to 16 students from the Florimont institute in Geneva. The Swiss students enjoyed visits to the Bristol Aerospace museum, WTC in Bristol and The Roman Baths, as well as joining in lessons with Wells students.Student feedback about the experience at Wells has been very positive and we are now looking forward to the second leg of the exchange, when Wells students return to wintery Geneva in December!Thank...

18 Oct 2018

Primary Schools Shakespeare Festival

Wells Cathedral School hosted a Shakespeare Festival in mid-October involving pupils from two local primary school pupils.Pupils from Croscombe Primary School and Coxley Primary School joined three classes of Year 6 pupils from Wells to perform half hour versions of five of Shakespeare’s most well loved plays: A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hamlet, Macbeth, The Tempest and Twelfth Night, over two evenings on 15th and 16th October. Each Autumn nearly 30,000 young people from primary, secondary and special schools across the...

18 Oct 2018

CCF Biennial Inspection

Reviewing Officer Brigadier Graeme ‘Jock’ Fraser MBE RM, Naval Regional Commander (Wales and Western England) visited Wells on Wednesday for the biennial inspection of the school Combined Cadet Force. The Brigadier spent the morning with the Army section of the CCF at Yoxter Ranges on the Mendips, where cadets underwent a series of training exercises and activities. The Royal Navy section undertook leadership tasks on the school site; whilst groups of RAF cadets had an early start from Weston-super-Mare, spending...

15 Oct 2018

Cedars Hall Scoops Somerset Building Award

Six Somerset building projects, including Wells Cathedral School’s very own Cedars Hall, have won prestigious awards for the exceptionally high standard of their design and craftsmanship.The winners of the William Stansell/Somerset Building Preservation Trust Awards were announced at a special ceremony at the Somerset Rural Life Museum, Glastonbury in late September.Russell Lillford, chairman of the Somerset Building Preservation Trust said: “A total of 25 entries were received this year, all of a very high standard. I congratulate to all those...

15 Oct 2018

Save the Children Walk

On Sunday, a chilly and autumnal morning, bathed in glorious sunshine, hundreds of pupils, staff, families and excited canine companions from Wells Cathedral School, set off bright and early from the dining hall for the Save the Children Walk, a much loved annual community event to raise money for this fantastic charity.Pupils from the Reception class, right through to Year 13 took part in the event, which followed a picturesque route through Wells and up onto the glorious Mendip Hills...

15 Oct 2018

Top Class Hockey Coaching

In late September 14 Wells students spent the day at Millfield, benefiting from top class hockey coaching from GB internationals Kate Richardson-Walsh, Barry Middleton and Crista Cullen. Wells student made up almost half the cohort taking part in the masterclass and so made the most of the small group coaching, which involved game play and advanced technical skills. Congratulations to Year 8 student Florence, who was awarded Player of the Day.

15 Oct 2018

Trio of Chorister Siblings Sing in the Cathedral

For the first time in a decade, a trio of choristers from the same family is singing together in Wells Cathedral as part of the Wells Cathedral Choir. Siblings Cecilia, aged 13; Daniel, aged 11; and now Estella, aged 8, are all choristers at Wells Cathedral, and have the opportunity to sing with each other when the girl and boy choristers perform jointly in Cathedral services. Cecilia and Daniel are both now in their fourth year as Cathedral choristers, having...

11 Oct 2018

Artistic Inspiration

Internationally acclaimed artist Ian Murphy visited the school in early October to spend a day working with Year 11, 12 and 13 artists. The students were introduced to a wide range of techniques, processes and materials, producing some inspiring and accomplished drawings to add to their portfolios.

05 Oct 2018

Megan selected for England Hockey Diploma in Sporting Excellence

Congratulations to Year 12 student Megan, who has been selected by England Hockey to attend their DiSE (Diploma in Sporting Excellence) programme for 2018-2019. Megan was nominated following her selection for the Wessex Leopards U17 squad for Futures Cup. The objective of the programme is to select players identified as high potential hockey players by England Hockey, and to develop an oversupply of players who have the potential to be world leading internationals, and can transition into the England U18,...

05 Oct 2018

Lulworth Cove Geography Trip

This week 32 pupils accompanied by four staff headed down to Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove on the annual Geography GCSE field trip. Pupils busied themselves collecting data to reconstruct the beach profile at Durdle Door Bay and then further data collection on pebble size and roundness and wave counts. At the Lulworth Cove visitor centre they learnt about how this remarkable feature, part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, was formed.

04 Oct 2018

Podium Place for Matt in GB Youth Super Series Triathlon

Congratulations to Year 12 athlete, Matthew, who completed the GB Youth Super Series Triathlon Championships at Mallory Park in Leicestershire in mid-September, with a podium place, reaching third overall in the 2018 series.This weekend he also competed in the Triathlon Super Series in Jersey; and represented the North Somerset Athletics team in the Midlands Road Relays the previous weekend.

04 Oct 2018

Dartmoor Expedition

14 Year 10 students completed their Silver DofE practice expedition on Dartmoor this weekend. The weather was glorious and each team navigated extremely well earning their place on a qualifying expedition later on in the year.

04 Oct 2018

Head of Schools Conference at Wells

In late September 45 students from independent schools across the South West descended on Wells to take part in the Head of Schools Conference hosted this year, by Wells Cathedral School.The day started with an inspiring keynote presentation by Tessa Munt, previously Liberal Democrat MP for Wells (2010-2015), who reflected on the lessons she has learned both within and outside of politics. The morning then focused on the development of some of the key practical aspects of leadership: visibility, chairing...

19 Sep 2018

Year 12 Crime Squad Day

On Monday students in Year 12 were challenged to think outside the box as part of a Crime Squad day with Wiser Words. Students cracked codes to dispose bombs; pieced evidence together to rescue gorillas; and worked on their team strategy to steal the loot. New relationships were forged and students developed their critical thinking skills in preparations for the rigours of sixth form life.

19 Sep 2018

Yamaha #FUTUREBEAT Regional Finals

Congratulations to Year 10 percussionist, Luke, who won the regional finals of the prestigious Yamaha #FUTUREBEAT competition for the South region, held in Cardiff over the weekend. From video submissions, 64 young drummers were selected to perform live on a Yamaha Drum Kit at eight Regional Finals, showcasing eight drummers. The drummers played two pieces of music in front of audiences comprising of family, friends and members of the general public. A judging panel decided on the winning drummer.Luke won...

17 Sep 2018

Matt Selected for GB Team

Congratulations to Year 12 student Matthew, who has been selected to compete as part of the GB Triathlon Team going to the Channel Islands at the end of September, following his podium finish at the Eton Dorney Super Series in July, his best result to date.

17 Sep 2018

James Buckle appointed Principal Bass Trombone of the Philharmonia Orchestra

Congratulations to Old Wellensian James Buckle who has been appointed as Principal Bass Trombone of the Philharmonia Orchestra. Emerging as one of the UK’s most exciting young musicians, he is the only brass player ever to win the Gold Medal of the Royal Over-Seas League competition, receiving acclaim from international soloists including baritone Jonathan Lemalu, oboist Nicholas Daniel and pianist Piers Lane. James has won first prize in the British Trombone Society Bass Trombone competition and the Drummond Sharp Prize...

17 Sep 2018

The Royal Northern Sinfonia

Congratulations to Old Wellensian, Jonathan Evans, who has just been appointed 2nd horn in The Royal Northern Sinfonia, one of only two horn positions in this prestigious orchestra. Royal Northern Sinfonia, Orchestra of Sage Gateshead, is the UK’s only full-time chamber orchestra. Founded in 1958, RNS has built a world-wide reputation for the North East through the quality of its music-making and the immediacy of the connections the musicians make with audiences. The orchestra regularly flies the flag for the...

17 Sep 2018

Take One Picture at the National Gallery

Year 6 pupil Freddie enjoyed a trip to London in early August, visiting The Take One Picture event at The National Gallery, in which his collagraph, inspired by Pintoricchio’s ‘Penelope with the Suitors’ was featured as part of the artwork chosen to be shown from Wells Cathedral School.

17 Sep 2018

CASE Europe Leadership Award

Congratulations to former Principal, Elizabeth Cairncross, who was awarded the prestigious CASE Europe Distinguished Service Award at the CASE Europe Annual Conference in Edinburgh, on 30th August. The CASE Europe Leadership Award recognises heads, presidents, vice-chancellors, chancellors, principals, rectors/rectrices and other organisational leaders for their outstanding efforts in promoting and supporting education.These prestigious awards celebrate and recognise the contribution of individuals and showcase the best in the sector, who through their amazing work, help to advance education to transform lives...

17 Sep 2018

Choralia Wins Grand 1st Prize

Congratulations to the wonderful singers of Choralia, who won the Grand 1st Prize at the 9th Musica Eterna Roma International Choir Festival and Competition over the summer. The girls choir, conducted by Christopher Finch, also took home the Category Prize, Youth Choirs of Equal Voices, and Christopher was awarded a special prize, for excellent programme choices and the choreography of the performances; thus winning the most categories of any group in the competition.Choralia, who performed in the stunning surroundings of...

14 Sep 2018

England Hockey Selection for Lily

A huge congratulations to Year 11 student Lily, who has been selected for the England U16 Girls’ Hockey Squad, one of only 38 girls from across the country. Lily was selected for England following an impressive performance at the recent Futures Cup competition, where she represented the Wessex Leopards at U15 level, winning the Player of the Tournament Award and a significant financial prize.Lily will train with the full England squad for the first time at Lilleshall in Shropshire this...

12 Sep 2018

Gold Duke of Edinburgh Expedition

Twenty Year 13 students successfully completed their four-day Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions in Snowdonia at the end of August.The groups all impressed the external assessor, walking over 50 miles across the mountains and in many cases camping at remote wild campsites.

BBC-Proms-Inspire-Composition-competition

11 Sep 2018

BBC Proms Inspire Competition

Congratulations to Thomas, whose composition, Mirage, has been highly commended in the prestigious BBC Proms Inspire Composition competition. Head of composition, Paul Whitmarsh, said, “Thomas’s achievement is a huge success, as the BBC Proms composition competition is probably the most competitive and prestigious composition competition in the country.” Thomas’ success is the fourth success in this competition in the last five years for Wells students, following in the footsteps of Rebecca Farthing (Winner, Upper Junior category 2017), Oliver Buckland (Highly...

23 Aug 2018

Wells Cathedral School GCSE Exam Results Summer 2018

Pupils at Wells Cathedral School celebrated impressive GCSE results on Thursday, the first year where the majority of subjects have been assessed against the newly implemented and more rigorous, reformed GCSE examination grades. At Wells, 50 per cent of the subjects examined were assessed with the new system. Five Wells students achieved eight or more 9s or A* grades; nearly one third of Wells students achieved six or more grade 9s and 8s, or their A* equivalent; and over half...

16 Aug 2018

Robust A-level Performance at Wells Cathedral School

Students at Wells Cathedral School achieved a robust set of A-level results on Thursday with a pass rate of 99 per cent; 40 per cent were awarded the top two grades, compared with a national average figure of 26 per cent.20 per cent of pupils achieved three or more A or A* grades or better, with four students gaining more than three A* grades: congratulations to Samuel B who gained four A* grades, as well as to Julian and Elias...

11 Jul 2018

Medieval Football’s coming home…

Bishop Thomas Beckynton’s regulations for cathedral choristers, dated circa 1460, contain the earliest reference we have to sport at Wells Cathedral School:‘Seeing that it is of advantage to provide relaxation from time to time from the cares of work and observances in quire, it is right that the Master or under-Master should assign a suitable time and place for the boy’s games; provided that in their games the boys are in no way associated with laymen or boys from outside...

11 Jul 2018

Adam’s Passing Out Parade

Congratulations to Old Wellensian, Adam, who finished at Wells in 2015, shown in the photos at his Passing Out Parade at the end of June. Adam was awarded the prestigious Hollis Award for Education, as the best recruit in the company for his education activities while training.

11 Jul 2018

Netball Hub at Team Bath

Congratulations to Year 10 netballer Amelia who has been selected for the prestigious Hub at Team Bath.

11 Jul 2018

Speech Day

Wells students, parents and staff enjoyed a glorious end to the academic year at this year’s Speech Day on Friday 6th July, with Prize-giving, poignant service at Wells Cathedral and informal buffet on Cedars Lawn. As Elizabeth Cairncross celebrated her final Speech Day as principal, following 18 successful years at the helm of the school, it was apt that she gave the main speech at senior school Prize-giving, encouraging student leavers to always turn up and take part, to vote...

04 Jul 2018

Dido and Aeneas – Wells’ First Opera

The school’s first ever opera took place on Sunday evening in Cedars Hall – an extraordinarily charming and moving production that stunned the sell-out audience. Dido and Aeneas, Purcell’s great opera of love, betrayal and loss, was transposed to a contemporary setting at the end of a school term as an international crowd of students fell in and out of love and got ready to leave school.The professionalism of the musicians was matched by the impressive acting talents and stunning...

02 Jul 2018

Max selected for Performance Centre

Congratulations to Year 9 student Max who has been selected for the prestigious West Hockey Performance Centre!

18 Jun 2018

Regional Athletics Champions!

Congratulations to both Jasmine in Year 12 and Matthew in Year 11, who were both crowned regional champions at the South West Championships held in Exeter this weekend.Both athletes were chosen to represent Somerset at the regional finals, having been crowned county champions in their disciples at the Somerset Athletics Track and Field Championships in May. On Saturday, Jasmine competed in the 100m, coming second overall with a new PB of 12.34s, closely followed by a fantastic first place in...

15 Jun 2018

Butterfly Champion!

Congratulations to Year 4 swimmer Asta who was crowned Under 10 Butterfly Champion at the IAPS National Swimming Championships held at the London Aquatics Centre in the Olympic Park in Stratford in London on Saturday.Asta was selected for the National Finals following a series of regional heats, attracting over 4,000 competitors from 250 schools nationwide. She competed in the Under 10 25M Butterfly category, racing against competitors in the year above, and securing a place in the final with the...

Visit to Matrix barristers’ chambers in London

07 Jun 2018

Indigo’s Week at Matrix

Year 12 student Indigo spent an inspiring and motivating week at the prestigious Matrix barristers’ chambers in London in May, experiencing a day at the Employment Tribunal Court, as well as several days at the Royal Courts of Justice, where the leading judge was the Lord Chief Justice of England and Wales. Indigo’s week featured on the Matrix blog and can be viewed by clicking this link.

07 Jun 2018

Visit to Buckingham Palace

The school was included in our patron, the Prince of Wales’ 70th birthday celebrations in May, along with all his other charities. Principal Elizabeth Cairncross said, “It was very special to be amongst thousands of people who work and volunteer for so many different causes, and the gardens of Buckingham Palace were splendid, as was the tea!” Elizabeth Cairncross along with the Dean of Wells, The Very Revd Dr John Davies DL, as Wells chair of governors, the head girl...

07 Jun 2018

Mid Somerset Festival Vocalists

Year 13 vocalist, Samuel won the prestigious May King Vocal Award, for the most outstanding singer in the Young Adult section; whilst other Wells singers swept the board across the different vocal classes.Congratulations to the following category winners: Year 13 students Gregory (Opera/Operatta), and Samuel (Vocal Recital: 16-19); Year 12 students Gabrielle (Ortorio), and Susanna (Art Song: 16-19); Year 10 students Harriet (Jazz and Pop Songs), Ellen (Show Song), and Cordelia (Art Song: 14, and Vocal Recital U15); and Year...

Somerset County Athletics Association Track and Field Championships

07 Jun 2018

Jasmine Crowned Double County Champion

Congratulations to Year 12 student Jasmine who competed at Yeovil in the Somerset County Athletics Association Track and Field Championships in May, winning both the 100m and 200m with personal best times, and crowned double county champion!

07 Jun 2018

Somerset County Cricket

Congratulations to Year 8 student Cerris, who, after a long winter of district trials, county winter training squads and finally four trial matches, has been selected for the Somerset County Girls U13 cricket squad.Matches will include a T20 competition in Berkshire, fixtures against schools and county teams in Wales, Gloucestershire and Hampshire.

07 Jun 2018

The Wells You Want

Year 12 student Archie took the floor at The Wells You Want forum in May, part of an initiative by Wells Independents to discuss ideas about the future of the city. Having recently passed his driving test, Archie suggested some answers to the parking difficulties in Wells, provoking lively discussion amongst the audience.

07 Jun 2018

Inter-area Cross Country

Congratulations to the following nine pupils who were selected to represent Mendip at the recent Inter-area Cross Country championships:Year 3-4 Girls – Augusta and Willow Year 5-6 Girls – Linsey, Georgia, Aeryn and SianYear 3-4 Boys – CharlieYear 5-6 Boys – Arthur and Ralph

07 Jun 2018

Gold for Eliza

Congratulations to Year 6 pupil Eliza who won gold in the International Acrobatic Gymnastic tournament in Switzerland in May.And also to Year 6 pupils Alexander, who has been selected for the Somerset County Cricket summer squad U11 team; and Oliver who has been selected to represent the South West Trampolining Team at the British Gymnastics Junior Regional Finals in June.

07 Jun 2018

Two Moors Festival Winner

Congratulations to Year 12 vocalist Maddie, one of four winners at this year’s prestigious Two Moors Festival. Maddie, a specialist singer at Wells, won a significant financial prize and will perform at the Festival in October.

06 Jun 2018

Gold Duke of Edinburgh

A group of Year 13 students have achieved their Gold Duke of Edinburgh award this year, with seven of them visiting Buckingham Palace in May, where they were congratulated by HRH Prince Edward and presented with their certificates by actor, comedian and director, Stephen Merchant.Photo shows: Melissa, Darcie, Eleanor, Thomas, Harry, Samuel, Thomas

23 May 2018

The Wedding of the Year

On Thursday pupils in the nursery and reception classes took part in a magnificent mock wedding ceremony in Wells Cathedral. The children entered the Lady Chapel in wedding order whilst the organist played Widor, our very own ‘Meghan Markle’ was given away by the father of the bride, hymns including Jerusalem were sung, Haribo rings were exchanged and vows were made. The West Doors of the Cathedral were opened as the newly married couple appeared for photographs, whilst confetti was...

21 May 2018

Chess Success

After qualifying via a tournament held within school over last term, seven Year 5 pupils, George, Georgia, William, Paul, Joshua, Linsey and Hugo; as well as Charlie from Year 6, all competed in the follow-on Megafinal held at Millfield on Sunday.Each pupil had to play six games. They gained lots of valuable experience and had a lot of fun too.Particular congratulations should go to Joshua and Hugo, who gained enough points to go on to the regional Gigafinal.

21 May 2018

Chemistry Trip to the University of Bristol

In mid-May the chemistry team took 40 Year 10 chemists to the University of Bristol’s Chemistry Department, where they spent the morning in the lab conducting practical work and extracting caffeine from tea leaves. In the afternoon they enjoyed talks from some of the postgraduate science students and a lecture demonstration in one of the giant Bristol lecture theatres.

21 May 2018

Dorset Golf Championship Semi-Finalist

Congratulations to Year 9 student Hermione who reached the semi-finals of the prestigious Dorset Ladies County Golf Championship, a scratch golf competition for the best lady players in Dorset, this weekend. Hermione, who plays to an impressive 9-handicap, played five rounds from Friday to Sunday, beating two 5 handicap players on her way to the final four, despite a badly sprained ankle. Head of sport, and herself a talented golfer, Gemma Pritchard said, “We are delighted for Hermione – this...

18 May 2018

Taunton Young Musician of the Year

Very many congratulations to Year 12 double bassist, Alexander, who was crowned Taunton Young Musician of the Year 2018 at this year’s prestigious Taunton Festival of the Arts, which took place over the first May bank holiday weekend.Alex, who performed the Fryba Suite im Alten Still “Allemande” and Vanhal Double Bass Concerto no.1, first movt., was given glowing praise for his performance by adjudicator and renowned cello soloist Lesley Shrigley Jones, who said that Alex gave “A fascinating display of...

09 May 2018

Incredible Season for Badminton

On the last Monday in April the U18 Boys Badminton team played their final league match of the season against the league leaders, Queens Taunton, with all to play for! Having won Division 3, and leapt over Division 2 due to considerable success earlier in the season, the boys had enjoyed a storming run, making it to the pinnacle of Division 1. The final matches were neck and neck, but with 8 points to make up, Queens proved too impressive...

09 May 2018

Bath Sevens Trophy for Thomas

Congratulations to Year 9 student, Thomas, who was selected to play in the prestigious U14 Bath Rugby Sevens Tournament, organised by Bath rugby over the May bank holiday weekend.Thomas’ Bath team played in pool matches against Chippenham, Salisbury, and arch rivals Walcott during the morning, winning all three matches, which culminated in their progression as pool winners to the final. The final, against the team from Dorchester, was held at the Bath Recreation Ground during the half-time interval of the...

09 May 2018

Confirmation Day

Five students took part in the Confirmation Quiet Day at the Bishop’s Palace last Wednesday, run by Wells chaplain, the Revd Juliette Hulme. Year 7 students Matilda, Miranda, Jessica and Daniel; and Year 11 student Nicola, were then confirmed by the Bishop of Bath and Wells, the Right Revd Peter Hancock in Wells Cathedral on Sunday.

09 May 2018

Ferio Play at Jersey Boat Show

Six Wells Ferio percussionists, accompanied by Jayne Obradovic, James Mayes, Chris Rondel and Ashley Deacon, visited Jersey over the bank holiday weekend, where they performed at the prestigious Jersey Boat Show, Queen Victoria College and its prep school, where Stool Pigeon drew noisy requests for an encore!

09 May 2018

Woodwind Instrument Days

Over the last month, Wells has hosted three Woodwind Sundays as part of the Instrument Days Scheme, created for the benefit of the wider community.There were excellent turnouts for the Single Reed, Flute and Recorder Days, with delegates attending from as far afield as London and Gloucestershire. The unique teaching techniques of our specialist teachers and visiting professors of music were much appreciated by the attending musicians. Marina Kummer of the Plymouth Clarinet Choir commented “Always inspiring to hear my...

02 May 2018

Adventures in Cyprus

A group of seven Year 10 RAF cadets enjoyed the trip of a lifetime and witnessed history in the making over the Easter break when they spent ten days at the RAF base in Cyprus. The group who were joined by 53 other students from across the country experienced a wide range of activities from the bases of RAF Troodos, RAF Akrotiri, and RAF Episkopi.As well as go karting, clay pigeon shooting, water sports, and visiting a water park, the...

02 May 2018

Lily Selected for England Hockey Camp

Congratulations to Year 10 student Lily who has been selected as one of only two girls from the West Region, and one of only 16 nationally, to take part in an England Hockey training camp in the May half term. Lily currently plays at Under 15 level for the South West Regional Performance squad based at Taunton.The national camp will take place over four days at the end of May and will be based in Stoke, a central location to...

02 May 2018

Principal Flute for the Opera North Orchestra Academy

Congratulations to Year 12 specialist musician, Eliza, who has been selected as Principal Flute for the Opera North Orchestra Academy. The Opera North Orchestra Academy is an immersive orchestral training programme for outstanding young musicians age 14 – 19 Grade 7+ from across the North of England and beyond.As part of this fabulous opportunity, Eliza has been invited to attend the Orchestra Academy summer residential course at Leeds College of Music at the end of August. The course provides a...

30 Apr 2018

Tower Poetry Finalist

Congratulations to Year 12 student Miranda, who was selected as one of the six finalists in the prestigious Oxford Tower Poetry Competition 2018. Miranda attended the awards ceremony over the Easter recess where she met the judges, Christopher Reid, John Fuller, and Peter McDonald and received a significant cash prize for her poem, Corner Table at Tom’s Cafe. Her poem was highly commended. In addition to her individual prize, Miranda also received a cash prize for the school. Tower Poetry...

30 Apr 2018

Making Racing History

Year 11 student Tom became the youngest ever racing driver in British GT history when he competed on the track over the Easter recess. Tom is too young to hold a UK driving license but can regularly be seen hitting speeds of over 150 mph on famous tracks such as Silverstone.Tom partners 22 year old Sennan Fielding in the British GT Championship for 2018, driving for Steller Motorsport in the Toyota GT86 #68, in one of the most competitive years...

30 Apr 2018

Hockey Players Represent Somerset at West Academy Centre Tournaments

Ten Wells hockey players represented Somerset at the West Region’s Academy Centre Tournaments in Clifton, Street and Taunton over the last weekend of the Easter break.Players were selected from the Junior Academy Centre (JAC) squad of players for each age group, following the JAC training camp the previous week. The Somerset teams played matches against Avon, Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire; with the Somerset achieving particular success across the age groups.The following players represented Somerset: Lewis and Max at...

30 Apr 2018

Holly Rides for Glory

Year 7 student Holly has been representing Wells on her pony Ro, at National Schools Equestrian Association competitions (NSEA) across the South West over the last few months. Holly rides at Naydon Equestrian and goes out to compete at both unaffiliated and affiliated British Show Jumping Association (BSJA) events.Although Holly has only had Ro, who is 14.2hh, for five months they have regularly been competing, with clear rounds, in show jumping and dressage competitions at Pontispool and Taunton Vale, as...

30 Apr 2018

Honey-voiced Harriet Stars on the Small Screen

Year 10 student Harriet has been selected to voice the character of Honey in the new Channel 5 cartoon, Shane the Chef, and has been recording the programme in studios in London over the last few weeks. She will also be featuring in the film Ploey: You Never Fly Alone, which will be shown at Vue Cinemas from 2nd July.Harriet has enjoyed a successful voice-over career to date, having voiced Oona in Bubbleguppies, Lilly Bobtail in Peter Rabbit and Young...

25 Apr 2018

University and Music College Offers

Final year students at Wells Cathedral School have been receiving offers and scholarships from prestigious academic and music establishments worldwide, as they plan the next steps in their education post A-level.Students have received over 150 offers from Russell Group universities this year, with offers to study a wide range of subjects within the UK, from geology to psychology, architecture to law. Others have cast their net further this year, with offers from colleges across the States, including Wheaton College, Massachusetts,...

23 Apr 2018

Rugby Academy Success for Tom

Year 11 student Tom has had a busy couple of months of rugby. He was selected to play for Somerset U16 in games against Bristol Schools and Cornwall, and also for Bristol Academy U16 in an Academy Festival in Solihull, where they played London Wasps and Northampton Saints Academies.Following his performances on the pitch and at training he was chosen as part of a squad of 30 players from the Bristol Academy to attend the U16 Wellington Academy Festival over...

13 Apr 2018

Amadeus Academy Orchestra Course

Congratulations to Year 13 french horn player Josie, who has been successful in securing a place with the Amadeus Academy Orchestra, for which there is a week long course in mid-July in Somerset.The orchestra is made up of young professionals and music conservatoire students from across the world and is conducted by Phillip McKenzie. Repertoire will include: Adams – Short Ride in a Fast Machine, Stravinsky – Rite of Spring, and Berlioz – Symphony Fantastique.

13 Apr 2018

Prep Schools Hockey Tournament

We hosted the inaugural Wells Cathedral School Prep Schools Hockey Tournament last week on the new astroturf, with teams from Sherborne Prep, Perrott Hill and Salisbury Cathedral School represented. The Wells team won 4:3 in the final, but the day provided the opportunity for an introduction to Wells sport and facilities to prep school pupils, as well as an opportunity for new catering manager Simon George to wow the hungry boys with a pop up noodle bar and newly created...

13 Apr 2018

Mid Somerset Festival Successes

Wells musicians performed exceptionally well in this year’s Mid Somerset Festival held at venues across Bath. Wells musicians won two of the major awards at the Festival:The Western Daily Press Challenge Trophy for Outstanding Young Pianist aged 13 and under was awarded to Bridget; The May King Vocal Award to Samuel.The results of the competitive concerto classes were as follows:Piano Concerto – Joint 2nd Laetitia and BenConcerto for Stringed Instrument – 1st SamuelOur musicians were winners in the following classes:Keyboard:Baroque...

27 Mar 2018

The Event on the Lawn raises thousands!

Over 70 students were involved in this year’s Event on the Lawn, which took place on Saturday evening on Cedars Lawn and in Cedars Hall, to raise funds for the school’s ongoing Sierra Leone Project, supporting Freetown’s Ballanta Academy, the country’s only music academy and also the JT Reffell Primary School. The night showcased local music, food and drink; and highlights included Hetta and the Fridge making their debut performances, the stunning Light Show by Rupert Newman on the facade...

26 Mar 2018

African Creativity

Year 8 students have been studying African art, dance and music through their creative arts lessons this year. Last week they enjoyed a day off timetable dedicated to African Creativity. The day included sessions on drumming, dancing, singing, storytelling, adrinka printing and art recycling. Kwame who comes from Ghana, was wonderfully enthusiastic and everyone had a great day.

Harpists at Bristol Festival of Music, Speech and Drama.

26 Mar 2018

Wells Harpists Hit the High Notes

Congratulations to two Wells senior harpists, who have achieved considerable success at the recent Bristol Festival of Music, Speech and Drama.Jess won the Advanced Class; whilst Katie won the Advanced Performers Class at the Bristol Festival; and the girls were joint winners of the Advanced Recital class.Katie has also been asked to join the National Youth Music Theatre along with her harp, as an on-stage musician, in their production of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow in London in August.The girls...

19 Mar 2018

The Wells Sporting Challenge

There was a robust turnout of keen young local sportsmen and women at the Wells Cathedral School Sporting Challenge held at The Moat Walk next to The Bishop’s Palace last weekend. 45 local children came along to take part in the 5 Challenges, five different events, which allowed competitors to demonstrate their running, jumping and throwing skills, alongside their balance, agility and coordination abilities. These are the fundamental movement skills that underpin long term sporting success, and are skills that...

19 Mar 2018

UKMT Success

We are delighted that so many Wells students have achieved success at this year’s intermediate UKMT Challenge, with 34 students achieving Bronze, Silver or Gold awards; 11 selected to proceed through to the follow up Kangaroo rounds; and Jeroan in Year 10 selected to take part in the prestigious Olympiad round.Eight students achieved Gold, and have all been selected for Kangaroo or Olympiad follow up rounds. Congratulations to Year 10 students Justin, Harry, Amber and Jeroan; and Year 11 students...

19 Mar 2018

Crufts Agility Winner

Congratulations to Year 11 student Emma and her beautiful cocker spaniel Bandit, who won the Crufts Young Kennel Club Medium ABC Agility Competition on Friday, as well as winning the semi-final and reaching fourth place in the Young Kennel Club Agility Dog of the Year Competition, held in the main Crufts arena on Thursday evening, and televised on Channel 4.Emma has trained her dog Bandit, (Kennel Club name, Black Knight of Wessex), since he was a puppy. He is a...

12 Mar 2018

Year 7 Glastonbury trip

Last Tuesday, students in Year 7 took part in a field trip to Glastonbury Tor. Harry, 7K, wrote up a piece: First of all, we came to a notice board, which told us about the Tor and the church on top of it (the original church is said to be destroyed in an earthquake in 1278). It also told us about why they built the church there, and the history of the Tor.It was a fairly easy walk up the...

02 Mar 2018

Publishing success for young Wells composer

15 year old double bass specialist Jan is now a published composer. His short work Syrinx for unaccompanied double bass was released by Recital Music on 15th February as the first piece in Syrinx Book 1 which includes music from six composers in four countries. UK double bass publishing house Recital Music has the largest catalogue of double bass music in the world and publish music by many of the leading composers writing for the double bass today. The Syrinx...

22 Feb 2018

Prep School Music Skills Day

The inaugural Prep School Music Skills Day was held for trumpet players this week. Over 30 children, from Farleigh School, Andover, St. Peter’s, Exmouth and Dean Close, Cheltenham attended the day, which was led by members of the brass department. The musicians had a fabulously varied day, which included practice skills, musicianship, performance and instrument maintenance. At the end of the day the children performed in a concert at Cedars Hall for parents, playing a range of tunes, including The...

19 Feb 2018

Strings Cup for Alex

The past few months have been busy and successful for 16 year old Alex, a specialist double bassist at Wells, who is one of ten Wells musicians in the National Youth Orchestra of Great Britain (NYO). Their first residency in Nottingham, just after Christmas, culminated in a series of sell-out concerts, conducted by Sir Mark Elder, in Manchester’s Bridgewater Hall, in Nottingham and at London’s Barbican Centre. At the end of January Alex performed in three classes at the Oxford...

19 Feb 2018

British Flute Society Winners

Congratulations to Year 13 flautist Anna and Year 9 flautist Josh, who came second and third, respectively in their age group categories in the prestigious and highly competitive British Flute Society competition at Regent’s Hall in London over the half term break.

ALL NEWS

Download our App

Read our Latest 'In Touch'

News Filter