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www.abingdon.org.uk 21 Abingdon Parents’ Association OA and ASPA Travel Awards This year, five awards were given to boys embarking on a range of projects around the world. Awards are jointly funded by the OAs and ASPA and we’re delighted to announce this year’s recipients below. Adam Bradley Undertaking a history project in the Kisii District of Western Kenya in an attempt to record, for the first time, the history of a Kenyan clan. Daniel Neild Working within local communities and marine conservation amongst the islands of the Raja Ampat archipelago, Indonesia. Carl Olavesen Volunteering in Zambia to teach science and maths at an under- resourced secondary school. Cameron Thomson Ecuador – living and contributing in remote communities in the Andes, jungle, Amazon and on the Galápagos. Tom Woods Practical and theoretical game reserve veterinary experience in South Africa. ASPA – a social group worth following ... What was most remarkable about the June get together of lower sixth parents (who are now upper sixth parents) in the Abingdon School Café, was that many of this group have attended virtually every ASPA event since their first coffee morning at Lucy Fishburn’s house in November 2011! So, to find out more about this sociable group, we asked them a few questions about their time at ASPA events – here are just a selection of their comments… Most memorable events? Pembroke College Eynsham Hall Ipsden Barn Dance Anne-Marie’s pop knowledge at the ASPA Annual Quiz! Why would you encourage someone to attend an ASPA event? Fun evenings, a great way to keep in touch …makes you feel very much part of the school The friends we have made have been my support network as a working mother Great friends who hopefully we will stay in touch with…one of the best things about our Abingdon experience! How have ASPA events impacted on your Abingdon School experience? Enabled us to feel connected in a small way to our son’s experience Really helped to hear what is going on, other parents’ points of view and how to guide our son Why have you attended every ASPA event over the past 6 years? Why wouldn’t we? Always up for a good night out with lovely people! We didn’t want to miss out! We’ve looked forward to them and will miss them when our son leaves! ““ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ ““ www.abingdon.org.uk/aspa Cameron Thomson receiving his award at Prize Giving