News Abingdon A highlight of the previous term was hearing a panel of Old Abingdonians (OAs) and current parents sharing the stories of their careers with Lower Sixth students. What united them all in their diverse career choices was their willingness to take risks and embrace challenges. They had not taken the easy option but rather looked for opportunities that would extend and reward them. Message from the Head This is a mindset that we seek to develop in all our pupils. Our approach to academic life is founded on aspiration and ambition while the breadth and depth of The Other Half is designed to provide exceptional opportunities for personal development in its widest sense, building resilience, confidence, leadership skills and the ability to work in a team. The OA Club Careers Evening is just one component of our After Abingdon programme. From their very first year at Abingdon, students are encouraged to think about what the future might hold and what careers might appeal to them. As they move through the school, advice becomes more focused on helping students make informed choices, while also developing key skills, for instance in negotiation or interviewing. As students move into the Sixth Form, there’s personalised advice available regarding university choice, both in the UK and abroad, as well as support for those exploring degree apprenticeships or Gap Years. With this rich programme in place, in alliance with our dynamic and ambitious approach to education, we believe that by the time every Abingdonian leaves us, they do so with a sense of purpose, excited about the future, and ready to embrace the challenges that await. On 23 September, our entire senior school community took part in a sponsored walk to raise much needed funds for Homeless Oxfordshire. Each student was challenged to raise a minimum of £25 and the total surpassed £23,000. The ten mile route included sections of the Thames Path and Oxfordshire Greenbelt Way, and provided a healthy and engaging way for students to raise money. Well done to all who took part and in particular to Mr Johnson and the Charities team who co-ordinated the event. 2 January 2026 Walk this way for charity On 8 December, the Upper Sixth CCF visited Wellington Barracks, home to the Household Division, and were hosted by OA Lieutenant Max Martin of the Coldstream Guards. The group received a briefing, viewed military weapons systems, and were instructed on Close Quarter Combat (CQB) drills. The day concluded with a Q&A session, offering invaluable career insight for the cadets. CCF visit Wellington Barracks Festive fayre Abingdon students hosted a festive tea party on Tuesday 9 December for local residents. There was a tasty afternoon tea (thank you to our caterers), carols, a quiz and a raffle with lots of lovely prizes. Our students enjoyed spending time with our guests who remarked on the seasonal atmosphere and had a lot of fun.
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