We’ve Discovered Our Other Half: the hidden talents that power Abingdon’s co-curricular programme
By Lucinda Powell, Director of Teaching and Learning, Joint Head of Psychology, J14 Abingdon Rowing Coach, and England Commonwealth Women’s VIII (2002)
A fundamental part of life at Abingdon is developing skills and talents beyond the classroom in what is known as The Other Half. With over 150 activities from board games to Model United Nations to robotics to Young Enterprise, there really is something for everyone.
But none of this would be possible without the extraordinary talent of our dedicated staff team, who have already discovered their own Other Half.
Beyond the classroom door
It’s a delight to find out exactly what our staff can do. Recently (having worked at the school for over three years) I discovered that one of our Biology teachers is a qualified helicopter pilot, whilst another member of staff is a boatbuilder in her spare time. I wear beautiful jewellery made by one of our German teachers who is a professional goldsmith. I attend yoga run by a Philosophy teacher and circuits run by a female Geography teacher (who is also an ex-GB Powerlifter and England Rugby player). Our female Contingent Commander, has a Meritorious Service Award for the work she does leading our cadet force.
These personal passions aren’t kept secret though, they are shared directly with our students and staff. Through activities as varied as the flight simulator club, silversmithing workshops, student yoga, and rugby coaching, our staff don’t just support excellence; they also model it.
The power of performance and belonging
Music is a key component of The Other Half. Many teachers, including our Head, actively role-model participation and support the phenomenal work of our Music department. Our Head of Middle School is a talented clarinetist, and a Deputy Head plays the tuba. Both regularly join the orchestra to play alongside the students. I am equally impressed by the Staff Choir (as someone who genuinely cannot sing!), and it is a pure joy to see staff singing alongside students in the Chapel Choir. The recent House Singing competition showcased just how music can bring our community together and foster a deep sense of belonging.
International excellence in sport
Every activity is valued, however, sport is clearly an important player in The Other Half timetable. It is appropriate, then, to mention the incredible talent pool not just within the PE department, but across the entire teaching staff.
We are proud to have nine members of staff (seven female and two male) who have represented their country in sports ranging from volleyball and hockey to rowing and rugby. Additionally, four members of staff have coached international teams. Many others have competed at county and national levels and hold nationally recognised coaching qualifications in diverse fields such as swimming and climbing.
The privilege of passing it on
One of the great joys of working at Abingdon has been seeing students in a different light, away from the formality of the classroom and doing something we all truly enjoy.
When I started coaching rowing, I was surprised by how much joy I got from sharing my passion for the sport. There is nothing better than the golden moment when you see a student suddenly ‘get it’—especially, for me, on a glorious spring day when the boat just flies through the water. At that moment, the rain, cold and flooding of the winter are all but forgotten.
As adults, we continue to discover and nurture our Other Half beyond our school roles. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to not just tell, but show our students why this balance is such an important part of school life – indeed life in general.
By encouraging staff to share their passions, we create a stronger sense of community and belonging, forge powerful small connections between staff and students, and open the door to deeper learning, richer conversations, and greater personal growth – for everyone.
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