VIEW FROM The Abbey
Monday 16 December 2024
Welcome From... The Headmaster
The point of our Capability programme is not that the students have to prove to us they have Capability; it is that we prove to our pupils that they already have Capability, that they have an inherent power to achieve
The modern school of Milton Abbey was founded in 1954 with the ambition of being very different from other schools At its foundation, the school had the financial backing of five big British companies Two of them survive today: Rolls-Royce and John Lewis. Those companies believed that, although schools prepared students very well for an academic life at university, they did not prepare them adequately for the world of work and careers. Hence, Milton Abbey has always had a philosophy that, while we focus, of course, on academics, we also offer a host of practical and vocational qualifications
This summer, we celebrated a significant improvement in our public examination results Already this term, our pupils have earned an impressive 5,000 academic awards and 3,000 community awards September marked a recordbreaking intake of new joiners, with an unprecedented number of offers already made for next September.
In the Independent School Awards, we were proud finalists for Boarding School of the Year, a win feels closer than ever. On the topic of success,
I’m delighted to share that this term we ’ ve triumphed over many schools in a wide range of sports. Even more remarkable, 90% of our pupils have represented the school in sports this term, and we are targeting 100% participation for the full year
Our pupils have also embraced new opportunities, starting clubs and activities such as environmental initiatives, debating, PADI Open Water diving, and badminton.
I couldn’t be prouder of everything our Miltonians have accomplished this term, which gives me a lot of hope for the future.
Mr James Watson | Headmaster
In The Classroom
BLOOD BROTHERS PERFORMANCE
Thank you to everyone who joined us to watch the school performance of Blood Brothers Mr Watson described the performance as “the best dramatic production” A third of the school contributed to the revitalised New Barn Theatre Company. Sophie C, Middle Sixth, and one of the co-directors, shares her thoughts after catching her breath from the back-to-back performances:
"As my first experience both directing and performing, I absolutely loved it and would jump at the chance to do it again The cast and crew were an absolute joy to collaborate with. Everyone was so supportive and open to our creative vision, striving to make the production the best it could possibly be Knowing the audience enjoyed the show as much as we did creating it means the world to us Thank you for sharing this journey with us!"
Congratulations to the entire New Barn Theatre Company team for bringing this story to life with such passion and dedication!
Thank you to Tessa M-W, Lower Sixth and Justin M, Middle Sixth for capturing the images View the full gallery here
CREATIVE MEDIA
Third Form Creative Media students have been immersing themselves in the climactic final scene of the iconic 1955 film “Bad Boys” recreating it with their own unique flair and creativity!
Maybe one day we will see them on the big screens in Will Smith and Martin Lawrence’s footsteps!
CHRISTMAS BAKING
As part of their Round Square activities, students who selected Hospitality had the delightful opportunity to showcase their creativity by decorating Christmas cakes generously baked and expertly iced by Mrs Driver!
GEOGRAPHY
A-Level Geography students have been learning about “changing places”, a topic that requires a philosophical approach to how people find meaning in the places they live, go to school, travel to, and learn about through the media We were fascinated to find Milton Abbas is included in the AQA Geography A-Level textbook, as a place that has been altered through time by decisions of landowners through the centuries and how that informs how we feel about this place today. Students have been reflecting on how they found place meaning as a student at Milton Abbey School:
“In our recent Geography lessons, we have studied Milton Abbas by using 'big data' to help us understand the demographics of the village. I learnt many facts such as how many families own houses in the village, a large number
up in a big city and then moved towards the countryside, this is a drastic change and completely new way of living which has a big impact of my sense of place. A sense of place is an emotional meaning or significance of an individual or a group of people to a specific place. My time at Milton Abbas has helped me improve as a individual completely, and enabled me to become a better version of myself, therefore I feel a deep sense of place "
COUNTRYSIDE MANAGEMENT
As part of National Tree Week, Lower Sixth Countryside Management students are engaging in a hands-on practical assessment this term, focusing on tree planting
This activity not only provides valuable learning opportunities but also contributes to enhancing the biodiversity of the school’s woodlands With much of the area affected by ash dieback, the students are determined to restore and revitalize sections of the woodland. Their efforts aim to create a thriving environment that can be sustainably managed and serve as a rich resource for their
Cadets from the Combined Cadet Force (CCF) were warmly welcomed by One Regiment Army Air Corps at RNAS Yeovilton
During their visit, they explored an Army Wildcat helicopter, gaining valuable insights into its reconnaissance role and impressive performance capabilities
DIGITAL LEADERS
What is it like to be a
Digital Leader?
As a digital leader, you play a vital role within your school community by educating others about online safety You need to complete a number of online modules before you officially qualify to be a digital leader and then make it your responsibility to engage the community which might include presenting during assemblies to raise awareness
This role not only enhances your knowledge about digital safety but also allows important skills in teamwork, communication, and leadership By working with others and sharing views and opinions, you contribute significantly to a safer online environment for everyone at Milton Abbey
Jamie T | Middle Sixth
What we aim to do in the future?
We are aiming to create media for our fellow classmates and teachers, which are informative about online safety, and which are entertaining at the same time At the moment we are creating three short movies about different types of scams, that are very prevalent in our day-to-day life’s, in hopes it will spread more awareness about their danger
Tessa M-W | Lower Sixth
Online Safety Quiz
Created by Eliza GDC | Lower Sixth
What have we already achieved as Digital Leaders?
At Milton Abbey, our student-led Childnet Digital Leaders team has been at the forefront of promoting online safety and kindness We have actively created numerous social media posts to spread the message of kindness and safety online. Collaborating closely with creative media students, we design relatable posters that are displayed around the school. Our team also produces engaging videos featuring iconic staff and students, which receive excellent feedback. These videos emphasize kindness, support, and online safety in an interactive, relatable, and entertaining manner One of our significant achievements is a highlight video inspired by David Attenborough, which won the 2023 Childnet Film Competition Neo T | Lower Sixth
Sisters, Rachel and Rahel K, Fourth Form, performing at the Christmas Musical
SPORTING NEWS!
STAFF VS STUDENTS HOCKEY!
Our U18A Girls’ Hockey team faced off against members of staff in a spirited and festive match that brought excitement to players and spectators alike!
The game showcased exceptional skills and teamwork on both sides, culminating in an exhilarating 3-3 draw Standout performances came from Libby B-S, Middle Sixth, and Mr Treadaway, who made incredible saves in goal
CLAY PIGEON SHOOTING
We hosted a friendly competition at Purbeck against two teams from Sherborne School.
There was a good rivalry between the teams and some excellent individual scores from both teams and a chance for some newer students to enter the teams for the first time
A mention to both new team captains, Tiggy M, and Lorenzo NDDR, Middle Sixth, for their leadership which resulted in both teams winning their matches an giving Milton Abbey the overall win as a result!
Well done to everyone involved for making it such an enjoyable event!
SAILING
Our students competed against Sherborne School at their home venue, Sutton Bingham Reservoir, in an exciting afternoon of sailing The team faced off in two challenging races against Sherborne's A Team but narrowly missed out on victory. However, they bounced back impressively to triumph 2-1 in a best-of-three series against the B Team
It was great to see Freddie H, Fourth Form, back on the water, sailing skilfully alongside Eliza GDC, Lower Sixth, as crew. Meanwhile, Ed D and Scarlett H both Middle Sixth, delivered exceptional performances throughout the event.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT!
A massive congratulations to Eddie M , Middle Sixth, who represented Dorset and Wiltshire U18s in a South West England rugby trial match against Cornwall
Eddie capped off the game in spectacular style, scoring a try in the final play What an incredible achievement!
SWIMMING
Our swimmers faced a strong opposition against Bryanston School and performed admirably, but what stood out most was the unwavering support and encouragement they showed for one another - a true testament to their team spirit!
INTER-HOUSE RUGBY
Hambro, Tregonwell, and Athelstan faced off in the Inter-House Rugby tournament, competing fiercely for the title of House Rugby champions!
The tournament featured three exciting and highly competitive games of touch rugby, highlighting the players' impressive growth in skill Each match was played with exceptional sportsmanship and enthusiasm, creating a spirited atmosphere throughout
Congratulations to Athelstan, who emerged victorious after defeating both Hambro and Tregonwell
Despite challenging weather conditions, all the boys displayed remarkable passion, determination, and teamwork throughout the afternoon.
Hornets
END OF TERM SPORTS AWARDS
Rugby
1st XV Player of the Season 2024 – Archie L-W, Middle Sixth
1st XV Most Improved Player of the Season 2024 – Charlie H, Lower Sixth
U14 Player of the Season 2024 – Bear H, Fourth Form
U14 Most Improved Player of the Season 2024 – Gabriel D-B, Third Form
Colours – Miro W, Archie L-W, Arthur W, and Harrison E, Middle Sixth
Hockey
1st XI
Player of the Season 2024 – Puddle H and Evie H, Middle Sixth
1st XI Most Improved Player of the Season 2024 – Lily H, Middle Sixth
Junior Player of the Season 2024 – Ella O’N, Fourth Form
Junior Most Improved Player of the Season 2024 – Luise L, Fifth Form
Colours – Libby B-S, Puddle H and Evie H, Middle Sixth
Football
1st XI Player of the Term – Emmanuel J, Middle Sixth
Most improved 1st XI Player of the Term – Henry W, Middle Sixth
2nd XI Player of the Term –Zach R, Middle Sixth
Junior Player of the Term – Finley G, Fourth Form
Most improved Junior Player of the Term – Juan RA, Fourth Form
Colours – Edi A, Emmanuel J, Henry W, Oscar F, Antoine S, Alex H, Middle Sixth
Running
Runner of the Term - Mary H, Middle Sixth
Most improved Runner of the Term - Immy C, Fifth Form
Swimming
Swimmer of the Term – Lexi P, Middle Sixth
Most improved Swimmer of the Term – Somerled M, Fifth Form
Cycling
Road Cyclist of the Term – Seb A, Third Form
Mountain Bike Rider of the Term – Senior – Wilf W, Lower Sixth
Most improved Mountain Bike Rider of the Term - Charlie S, Third Form
Golf
Golfer of the Term – Lachlan B, Middle Sixth
Most improved Golfer of the Term – Walt W, Fourth Form
Sailing
Sailor of the Term - Jamie T, Middle Sixth
Most improved Sailor of the Term - Edmund T, Fifth Form
Badminton
Player of the Term - Artur A, Middle Sixth
Most improved Badminton player - Harry M, Lower Sixth
Equestrian
Horse Rider of the Term – Bianca MTP, Fifth Form
Most Improved Rider of the Term – Juliet VDB Fifth Form
Basketball
Player of the Term - Yuya Y, Fifth Form
Clay Pigeon Shooting
Shooter of the Term – Tiggy M, Middle Sixth
Student Commendations
OUTSTANDING ASSIGNMENTS
Mr Lawes, Head of Sport, has praised Euan J, Lower Sixth, for his exceptional performance in BTEC Sport. Euan consistently demonstrates a high level of commitment and enthusiasm in his assignments, often going above and beyond the expectations. Mr Lawes commends Euan not only for his academic achievements but also for his exemplary work ethic and passion for sport, which are evident in every task he undertakes
HELPER IN HUGHIE’S
DEDICATION TO WORK
Bianca MTP, Fifth Form, has been commended by Ms Cooper for her commitment to her Classical Civilisation work Bianca re-submitted her work in the 15-mark question for her mock in which she compared the foundation stories associated with Athens and Rome.
Having planned the answer as a class following the mock, Bianca wrote the answer for prep and achieved full marks.
Ms Nicholson has praised Olivia B, Lower Sixth, for her consistent and invaluable contributions around the house.
Olivia is frequently seen going above and beyond, tackling tasks like laundry with enthusiasm and a cheerful attitude Her positivity and dedication make a noticeable difference!
WEEKEND ACTIVITIES!
CHRISTMAS PARTY
The Fifth and Sixth Form students were treated to a wonderful evening at the Masquerade Christmas Ball Turning the 14th Century Abbot’s Hall into one of the world’s coolest dancefloors proved worthwhile, and the students danced the night away to the brilliant band
View the full gallery here
TRIPS TO RESTAURANTS
HOUSE WEEKENDS
The Heads of Tregonwell House organised the annual Christmas Quiz, where students formed teams to compete for the ultimate bragging rights as champions. To fuel their brainpower, everyone indulged in a delicious Chinese takeaway The festivities continued the following day with an exciting shopping trip to Southampton, making it a memorable holiday celebration for all involved.
Students often enjoy outings that bring them together as friends or as a house Recently, Mr Anderson treated his Lower and Middle Sixth tutor groups to a delightful meal at a popular steakhouse
CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS BATTLE!
The Houses have embraced the holiday spirit in style, turning the tradition of festive decorating into a delightful and friendly competition!
Tregonwell set an impressive standard with their stunning outdoor winter wonderland, complete with sparkling lights and inflatables. Not to be outdone, Hambro quickly responded with a dazzling light show, expertly designed and installed by Mr and Mrs Collins
Meanwhile, Damer and Athelstan showcased their creativity with a beautifully adorned Christmas tree, while Hughie’s transformed their common room into a warm, festive haven, glowing with twinkling lights.
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Life in Boarding
HAMBRO CHRISTMAS QUIZ
Hambro House came together for a Christmas quiz, blending festive cheer with friendly competition. The boys divided into teams named after iconic Greek gods (Poseidon, Ares, Hermes, Zeus, and Apollo), ready to put their Christmas knowledge to the test. Thankyou to Housemaster Mr Olufunwa and Resident Tutor, Mr Mitchell, who provided a spread of delicious food that everyone enjoyed
A big congratulations to Team Poseidon for emerging victorious and claiming the crown of Christmas quiz champions!
ST NICHOLAS VISITS HUGHIE’S
The students at Hughie’s were thrilled to discover that St Nicholas had paid them a special visit, leaving surprises in the shoes they placed under the Christmas tree
DAMER TRIP TO WAGAMAMAS
Sixth Form students from Damer enjoyed a delightful evening out at Wagamama’s, courtesy of their house staff. The outing was filled with great food and camaraderie, leaving everyone with wonderful memories
First Term Reflections
“My first term at Milton Abbey School has been very enjoyable I have made some great friends and I am enjoying lessons, especially Creative Media I am also having fun playing Badminton and joining in with the other activities on offer.
I am particularly enjoying my Boarding house, Athelstan, and all the great staff and students in house It is a great way to meet new people and learn new things I am looking forward to the rest of the year and to making more memories at Milton Abbey ”
Henry B | Third Form
“I have enjoyed my first term at Milton Abbey School because I have had the opportunity to be involved in various activities around the school For example, being part of the New Barn Theatre Company and its production of Blood Brothers, performing at the Christmas Soirée, the Middle Sixth Parents’ Dinner as part of my BTEC Music Performance course, at the Remembrance Day Service, the Capability Celebration, Carol Service as part of the Abbey Voices Choir, and taking part in sporting fixtures with the Football 2nd XI.
It has been an interesting experience adapting to life as a boarder, but I have found it a fun and relatively smooth transition thanks to the Athelstan Pilot team, and I have made new friends who have helped me settle into life at Milton Abbey ”
Noah M-S | Middle Sixth
“I have enjoyed my first term at Milton Abbey because it is so different to how it was at my previous school, because of all the amazing opportunities I have been given For example, I had never played hockey before September and now I am loving it Especially trying out new positions such as being in goal
At Milton Abbey, we are part of one big, yet small community I feel like it is a home from home I feel very comfortable in my surroundings.
Being part of a house, that has age ranges of 13 to 18, has given me so many new friends and support This includes being friends with teachers within the school.
I feel incredibly fortunate to have transitioned from a school with class sizes of 30 students to one where there are just nine I have found that I have learnt more due to less distractions and more one to one support I feel my confidence has grown "
Flo E | Third Form
“I enjoyed my first term at Milton Abbey because of the plethora of BTECs and sports to choose from I felt welcomed by my house staff, as well as the teachers Milton Abbey is very different from all of the other schools I have been to I enjoy all the different evening and weekend activities that are on offer as well.”
Alfred L-P | Fifth Form
Capability Celebration
The Power to Achieve
News & Reminders
Holiday Work, Exa
BTEC Assessments
For students across the school, formal a on the horizon, with a wide range assessments due to be sat early in Janua
Teachers and tutors will have been in t to confirm details, and relevant work a will be on the pupils' Teams pages The the summer exams are also now av accessed by logging into the Parent Por
All pupils will have holiday work to co can reinforce their learning from th themselves for the Lent term, so I hop festivities of the Christmas season, the little time to build on the excellen completed this term and prepare, whe formal assessments due on our return
Dr Bradbury | Deputy Head Academic and Head of Sixth Form
As a special well done and for working so hard, Mr Anderson cooked a special treat of lamb neck for his students and fellow Science staff!
As part of their Round Square afternoon, art students have been delighting in the experience of life drawing
y sert everyday in December which put a smile on everyone ’ s faces.
H O T O G A L L E R Y
George R, Rocco T and Josh W, Lower Sixth from Hambro House enjoyed dressing up for the Masquerade Christmas Ball
Art and Photography Sixth Form students had the privilege of attending an inspiring talk by Charlie Hall, director of John Hall Venice, on the topic of Renaissance Rivals
Dates For your Diary
Tuesday 7 January
Wednesday 8 January
Wednesday 29 January
Saturday 8 February
Thursday 13 February
Saturday 1 March
Friday 7-9 March
Thursday 27 March
| Boarders return 17:00 - 21:00 (supper serves 18:00-19:00)
| Return of Day pupils and Start of Term
| London Drinks at The Lansdowne Club invitations have been emailed
| Termly Masterclass
| Fifth Form Parents’ Dinner
| Open Morning and Day Parent Coffee Morning
| Parents’ Fashion Trip to Paris
| End of Term Heads of School Service
Nadiia S, Fifth Form, was the runner up in the Boarding School’s Association Christmas Card Competition
