Abingdon Impact Report

4 Giving in Action The abolition of Direct Grant Schools in 1976, and of the Assisted Place Scheme that replaced it between 1980 and 1997, removed the possibility of boys being able to come to Abingdon with fee assistance from the state. Since 1997 the School has sought to continue offering assisted places to boys wanting an education at Abingdon. Today, thanks to the generosity of OAs, parents, Governors, staff and friends of the Foundation, we currently support 58 boys through our bursary fund. Many OAs who benefitted from free places contribute to this bursary fund as they feel it is important that boys like themselves are still able to benefit in the way they once did. We have committed to increase the funds available so that we can support more pupils in the future. Widening access through bursaries Gill Bowen, parent of James Bowen (OA 2019) An increasing number of Abingdon parents are joining us in making an Abingdon education possible for others. Gill Bowen explains why she has chosen to give to bursaries at Abingdon. “The amazing quality of teaching, facilities and opportunities offered should be made available to a wider group of pupils who may be less able to fund a place but are equally deserving of an Abingdon education due to their talent, skills and motivation. If the school community as a whole joins together to give more financial support to assist this group in accessing this opportunity, then I believe that the pupils and School would benefit enormously.” Passionate about supporting music David Allen (OA 1967) Some of our supporters choose to give to specific areas of School life. David’s passion for music led him to give a generous donation to the music department so that Abingdon pupils could have the opportunity to learn the harp. We have been able to invest in two small sized harps which has enabled two boys to take up the instrument. The School will soon be investing in a Japanese Student Lever Harp so that the students can practise at home. We hope to be able to purchase a full concert harp for use in lessons and orchestral rehearsals once the boys have reached the required standard. We are delighted to be able to offer such specialist music provision and without David’s support, this would not be possible.