Abingdonian 2020

3 www.abingdon.org.uk This edition of The Abingdonian reports on a year like no other. We enjoyed a busy and productive Michaelmas Term which included some spectacular highlights, including drama productions, concerts and some notable sporting success, not least the 1st XV’s dramatic run to the quarter finals of the National Schools’ Cup. Then, in January 2020, the world changed. At that stage, I don’t think many of us understood the implications the coronavirus might have on everyone’s lives. I certainly didn’t anticipate that we would end up spending more than a term working remotely. The strength of any organisation is only really tested in adversity, and the response of students and staff to the challenge of moving online was astonishing, characterised by resourcefulness, commitment, creativity and determination. The school site was suddenly eerily quiet but our sense of community was sustained as students Zoomed into lessons from around the world, Other Half activities were adapted to virtual forms, and even House Sports Days went ahead, with boys joining in from their gardens, bedrooms and living rooms. We were proud of the key roles that members of the Abingdon community - parents, governors, Old Abingdonians - played in combating the virus. The quality of our online offering ensured that academic momentum was sustained while we also maintained our responsibilities for the wellbeing and welfare of our students. Having said that, we were all relieved to return to the school site - and at least an element of normality - in September. Happily, we were also able to sustain momentum in our latest building project. Faringdon Lodge, at the north end of the site, will provide a beautiful new home for Computer Science, Economics and Business as well as accommodating two new day houserooms, a new Reception area and the Second Hand Uniform Shop. It will prove to be a great asset. I am grateful to Mr Jenkins and the editorial team for putting together this edition of The Abingdonian and capturing such an extraordinary year in our collective lives. Despite the many challenges that we continue to face, the School is set to emerge strengthened and emboldened, thanks to the collective spirit that underpins our community. Michael Windsor Head’s Foreword