News Abingdon April 2026 | No. 72 Glitz, glamour and jazz Parents, governors, and pupils gathered for an unforgettable night of music and lively commentary in March as we hosted our third annual Cabaret evening. Guests enjoyed a delicious supper whilst listening to a selection of show stopping hits.
News Abingdon Sport is a big part of life at Abingdon. We want our students to recognise the value of sport to their wellbeing and to leave us with the habit of enjoying physical exercise. There is so much more that they can gain in terms of their wider personal development of course, such as building resilience and learning to communicate and collaborate with others as a team. We’re proud therefore of the range of sporting choice at Abingdon: with nearly Message from the Head 30 sports on offer, we hope everyone will find an activity that they enjoy. Netball, dance and volleyball have all recently been added to the offer and Abingdon will soon be joining the national craze for padel, with new courts set to be built at Tilsley Park. The popularity of basketball continues to grow and this will benefit from the construction of a new Multi-Use Sports Area this summer, which will also accommodate netball and tennis. But sport perhaps doesn’t get any simpler than running; no equipment required - just a pair of trainers. The Park Run phenomenon is testament to the attraction of running as a lifelong physical activity that can be enjoyed by anyone. Our annual Road Relay event, now over 50 years old, is founded in the same ethos. Participation is key, and earlier in March nearly 200 teams, made up of four runners each, took part. Spectators were able to enjoy the sight of our elite cross-country runners gliding around the 2.6km course but also gave full-throated support to those who were just out there to do their bit and enjoy their run. Members of staff who opt to run always get a particularly big cheer and a quartet of teachers managed to set a new staff record this year. It’s such a great way to bring the entire school together in the spirit of sport. Inspiring young minds Members of Lower School enjoyed a visit from Paralympian Ian Rose in January. He spoke to them about how, having lost all the sight in his left eye and most of the sight in his right eye, he went on to represent Great Britain in Judo at five Paralympics, earning a bronze and silver medal, became European Champion four times and World Champion in 1995. His story was full of inspirational messages that really tied in with the ideas discussed as part of our Be More Griffen programme. After the talk, Ian ran a workshop on developing leadership skills with a small group of Second Years to encourage them to show empathy and good communication skills when working with others. 2 April 2026
A quiz for the wise At the beginning of March, four teams of Geographers took part in the annual Geographical Association Worldwise Quiz, hosted at Magdalen College School. Having won the senior category last year, our two senior teams were keen to repeat the triumph of 2025. The Fourth Year team (including a Second Year pupil) succeeded in doing just that, winning the overall prize once again. The Second Year team placed 4th in the junior competition, and managed to also win the ‘picture round’ of the quiz. Well done to everyone who took part. At the beginning of term, 20 boarders swapped their textbooks for highstakes puzzles during an exhilarating trip to the Oxford Escape Hunt. Demonstrating exceptional collaboration and critical thinking under pressure, the teams worked frantically to decode cryptic clues and unlock hidden chambers before the clock hit zero. Fun was had by all and three out of four teams were successful in their missions. There’s no escape 3 abingdon.org.uk At the beginning of term, Abingdon's Upper Sixth Spanish students celebrated El día de Reyes (Three Kings’ Day) with a traditional Roscón de Reyes (Kings’ Ring). This brioche-like sweet bread is shaped like a crown, filled with cream and decorated with candied fruits and sugar. Often containing a hidden trinket that symbolises the Natvitiy, it is said to bring luck to the finder - in this case Hélio! Three Kings’ Day News Abingdon In February, two teams of Third Year pupils travelled to the University of Birmingham for the annual Big Physics Quiz. The questions were very challenging, covering topics from thermal physics to electromagnetism, with this year's special round being on medical physics. Well done to both teams for a very strong performance, and congratulations to one of our teams for winning 2nd place overall. They walked away with silver medals, trophies, and model rocket kits as prizes. Fantastic Physics
4 April 2026 News Abingdon Raising teenagers in the age of Social Media At Abingdon, student Peer Support Leads (PSLs) work closely with younger pupils to understand the challenges they face both in school and beyond it. One topic that consistently comes up is social media and technology. In this article, Ed - one of our Upper Sixth PSLs - provides his perspective on how social media affects teenagers and how parents can support healthy technology use. For many young people today, social media is not simply entertainment — it is a central part of their social lives, identity, and friendships. However, like any powerful tool, it presents both opportunities and risks. Understanding the teenage brain: Adolescence is a period of rapid brain development. The brain’s emotional and reward systems develop earlier than the areas responsible for long-term decision making. As a result, teenagers are often more sensitive to rewards and more likely to act impulsively. Social media platforms are designed to tap into this psychology. Notifications, likes, and comments activate dopamine pathways associated with pleasure and habit formation. Psychiatrist Anna Lembke describes smartphones as providing “digital dopamine 24/7 for a wired generation”. For teenagers whose brains are still developing, this can make social media particularly engaging and sometimes difficult to regulate. The reality of teen screen time: Technology is deeply integrated into teenagers’ daily lives. For many, digital communication has partly replaced traditional social interaction. Messaging apps, online gaming , and social media now play a major role in maintaining friendships. This raises an important question for parents: how can technology support young people rather than control them? Practical tips are: no phones upstairs and no phones at mealtimes; gaming only on weekends, not during the week. If most families are doing this, then it is easier for it to become the culture in a school community. The risks of social media: While technology can connect people, it also introduces challenges that previous generations did not face. Cyberbullying can be persistent and difficult to escape, as it follows young people home through their devices and may feel more anonymous than face-to-face bullying. Privacy and grooming are also concerns. Teenagers may not fully understand how easily personal information can spread online or how strangers can access them through digital platforms. Comparison and self-esteem are another issue. Social media often presents a highly curated version of life. Constant exposure to idealised images of others’ achievements, appearance, or lifestyles can negatively affect confidence and mental wellbeing. Finally, online actions can contribute to a lasting digital footprint. Photos, messages, or comments may remain accessible long after they are posted, sometimes with serious consequences. Algorithms and the attention economy: Social media platforms are designed to maximise the time users spend on their apps. Algorithms analyse behaviour and continuously present content likely to keep users engaged. For teenagers, this can lead to extended scrolling or gaming without realising how much time has passed. The result may include reduced sleep, distraction from schoolwork, and difficulty concentrating. The positive side of technology: Despite these concerns, technology is not inherently harmful. When used well, it offers valuable opportunities. Young people can access educational resources, develop new skills, express creativity, and maintain friendships and communities. The goal should therefore not be to eliminate technology but to develop healthy digital habits. Practical tips for parents: Research suggests guided engagement is more effective than strict prohibition. Creating boundaries, modelling healthy behaviour, focusing on what children do online (not just how long they spend there), and having open conversations can be helpful. A shared responsibility: Technology is now an integral part of modern life. The challenge is not removing it, but learning to navigate it responsibly. Parents, schools, and students all have a role in building digital resilience so it becomes a tool for connection, not a source of harm.
Celebrating Chinese New Year 5 abingdon.org.uk Students in Lower and Middle School celebrated Chinese New Year through a series of immersive workshops. From calligraphy and dumpling making to Kung Fu and artefact treasure hunts, there was plenty of opportunity for hands-on cultural discovery as well as using and honing their language skills. As we enter the Year of the Horse, we wish everyone a year of strength, ambition and academic success. On Monday 2 March, students were invited to a lecture by Dr Sonka Reimers, a Physics teacher at Abingdon, to hear her talk about her PhD research topic Antiferromagnetic Spintronics. Students from Fourth Year to Upper Sixth learned about the applications of magnetism in data storage and were keen to ask questions during the Q&A session at the end. Antiferromagnetic Spintronics News Abingdon To complement their IGCSE English Literature Shakespeare study, Fourth Year pupils experienced an immersive live performance of Macbeth. Pupil volunteers took to the stage to perform speaking roles, serve as extras in the banquet scene and participate in a live combat workshop! Something wicked A Level and GCSE astronomers were finally rewarded with clear skies in March, trading weather-watching for telescopetuning to capture stunning images of Jupiter and the Orion nebula. Star gazing
6 April 2026 News Abingdon Top tanks In January, a group of boarders went on a trip to the Tank Museum at Bovington Camp in Dorset. They had a fantastic day looking at the world’s largest collection of over 300 armoured fighting vehicles, telling the story of tanks from WWI to the modern day. Abingdon's quiz team beat an excellent Bishop Stortford team 360-180 in the first round of the schools challenge plate in January. The team displayed excellent knowledge of Harry Potter and snooker, scoring 100% in these bonus sets. They also managed to answer a number of the bonus questions passed over by the opposition. All the team are looking forward to their next match in this prestigious competition. Schools challenge plate In February, our boarding community headed up to Birmingham to visit the National Sea Life Centre. They marvelled at the sharks, giant rays and Mo (the giant green sea turtle) in the centre’s 360degree ocean tunnel; watched Ozzy and Ola, the UK’s first Alaskan sea otters; and enjoyed the penguin ice adventure. They then fitted some shopping in at the famous Bullring before heading back. Lower Schools speaks up Lower School pupils have been flexing their rhetorical muscles over the last half of term in the annual public speaking competition. After some very fiercely fought inter-year group rounds, the grand final on the last day of term saw first year champions 1G take on second year winners 2C. The topics under discussion both had a technological theme with 1G discussing AI and 2C talking about social media. Mrs Keevil had a tough job as judge but named 1G the winners. Waters run deep
Lorem ipsum Taking pride in one’s work 7 abingdon.org.uk In their final tutor period of the first half of term, Lower School pupils talked to their peers about a recent piece of work that they are particularly proud of in one of their regular Work Exhibitions. It was great to hear them talking so enthusiastically about the topics that they have particularly enjoyed and to see the obvious pride they have in their work. The RAF Section of the CCF attended the South West Region Royal Air Squadron Trophy competition on 8 February. The cadets competed in a range of events from drill and first aid to shooting and code breaking. They represented the school with pride, embodying the values of the RAF. While we haven't qualified for the national finals, we bettered our performance from last year and most importantly beat local rival schools. Checkmate! In February, four representatives from each Lower School tutor group took each other on in the annual inter-tutor group chess tournament. After a very competitive set of matches, 1H and 2M emerged as the winners in each year group, but it was the Second Years who went on to win the coveted trophy. News Abingdon Royal Air Squadron Trophy In March, Sixth Form students and the French Department enjoyed a sophisticated evening at Six by Nico in Oxford. The group sampled a creative six-course Parisian tasting menu, featuring exquisite modern takes on classics like steak tartare and a crowd-favourite deconstructed crème brûlée. Set in a stylish Art Deco dining room, the event offered a memorable masterclass in contemporary French gastronomy, blending traditional flavours with innovative, artistic presentation in a truly refined atmosphere. A taste of Paris
8 April 2026 News Abingdon Keep the fires burning As part of the service and citizenship scheme, our Third Year students completed a bushcraft course. They learned how to safely use tools including knives, axes, and saws as well as how to do some practical whittling. They then used their creations to attempt to light fires with a fire steel. They were further incentivised with the promise of being able to toast marshmallows over the fire if successful. Following on from this, students became a little more adventurous and learned how to cook on a bigger fire. On 12 March, Lower Sixth Psychology students attended Psychology in Action at Warwick Arts Centre. They listened to a series of engaging lectures from leading psychologists covering a wide range of topics. Talks included how behavioural science can influence people’s decisions and how attention and concentration develop from childhood to adulthood, as well as providing some practical strategies for improving focus. In This talk may cause side effects the speaker started with the story of a US Police officer who had apparently overdosed on Fentanyl, as it happens he hadn’t, but believed that he had. This belief was enough to cause him to collapse and go into respiratory failure before a colleague administered an antidote. This ‘Nocebo’ effect reflects the darker side of the placebo effect, explaining how our expectations of medications and drugs can sometimes cause us to experience negative symptoms. The final talk introduced us to ‘Mr Fur Potato’ to offer some light-hearted relief to the subject matter: “psychopaths” and what is meant by this term. Entitled Is your teacher a psychopath? we were relieved to find out that teachers are at the top of people least likely to be psychopaths - phew! Psychology in action Scholarly learnings Our Third Year scholars visited Portsmouth Historic dockyard in March, as part of their academic scholarship provision. The visit started at Nelson’s flagship HMS Victory, where they really enjoyed getting to grips with Napoleonic gun drills. This was followed by the Mary Rose museum where they had a session exploring the likely causes of the sinking of the ship and spent time looking around the exhibition.
9 abingdon.org.uk Fourth Year urban fieldwork Earlier in March, more than 120 Fourth Year students took their learning beyond the classroom to complete Geography urban fieldwork in central Oxford. To investigate recent shifts in the city’s urban landscape, students conducted primary research through public interviews and rigorous data collection. By measuring environmental quality, pedestrian footfall, and the Retail Value Index, they gained firsthand insight into the economic and social factors shaping Oxford today. This practical experience is vital for developing their analytical skills. A language treasure hunt On 24 March, our Second Year pupils enjoyed an enriching and engaging trip to London, visiting both the Natural History Museum and the Science Museum. The day combined exploration with language learning, as pupils were set the challenge of gathering information about the exhibitions while completing a specially designed booklet. Completing their work in either French or German, they put their language skills into practice in a real-world context. The activity took on the feel of a treasure hunt, as students navigated the museums, searching for key information, and working collaboratively to piece together their findings. I can and I am In March, our First Year pupils enjoyed spending time on the I can and I am double decker bus. They learned how to make pizza and discussed how to keep their balloons of self-belief inflated by focussing on what their strengths are and the things that they enjoy doing.
I’ve always seen the Abingdon Art department as more than just a place to make things; it’s a sanctuary for critical thinking. Here, students aren't just learning the mechanics of how to paint or draw. They are learning how to observe, how to innovate, and how to realise that there are so many different ways to see and shape the world. But for a student to truly start seeing themselves as a ‘creator’, we have to bridge that gap between our classroom and the real world. In my experience, one of the best ways to do that is by bringing visiting artists directly into our space. There’s a certain buzz that hits the room when a professional artist walks in. They bring a sense of awe and a fresh perspective that inspires the staff just as much as the students. When an artist shares their specialised skills, the ‘lightbulb’ moments happen fast. Students begin to see how a tiny adjustment in texture or a subtle shift in tone can completely change the mood of a piece. There is something incredibly powerful about seeing original work up close rather than on a screen. It helps students understand the nuances of the craft and often gives them the spark to try out new, alternative media. Perhaps most importantly, getting feedback from someone who actually makes their living as an artist provides a massive boost. Having your ideas validated by a pro brings a unique sense of pride that stays with a student long after the lesson ends. With professional guidance, students feel more comfortable trusting their gut or their creative feel. It’s about permitting them to express themselves authentically without that nagging fear of getting it wrong. By connecting them with a professional artist, we’re helping them find their own boundaries and the confidence to push past them. We saw this dynamic in action when we recently welcomed the contemporary British Fine Artist, Ian Murphy, into the school. Best known for his powerful tonal drawings and atmospheric mixed-media oil paintings of architectural sites, Ian is the perfect embodiment of an artist who utilises those "subtle shifts in tone" to create immense emotional impact. Having first gained recognition in 1985 as a British Young Contemporary Artist, Ian brought decades of professional expertise directly to our easels, providing our students with a masterclass in technical precision and creative vision. Beyond visiting professionals, we place immense value on our alumni network. Many of our former students return to the department to present their university portfolios, offering current students a "peer-to-peer" bridge into higher education. This dialogue is vital; it empowers our students to make informed choices about their futures. Consequently, we are seeing a growing number of Abingdonians secure places at the world’s best institutions for Architecture, Computer Game Design, Film, Special Effects, and Fine Art. To facilitate this level of ambition, we have cultivated a space that functions less like a classroom and more like a contemporary professional studio. This environment is anchored by a teaching team of rare depth; our three lead teachers have all previously served as Heads of Art elsewhere. They bring a collective wealth of knowledge that prepares students for the highest levels of creative endeavour. Ultimately, Art at Abingdon is defined by this high standard and sense of purpose, ensuring our students leave with both the skill and the self-belief to thrive in the creative industries. 10 April 2026 News Abingdon Beyond the canvas Abingdon School’s Head of Art, Paul Williamson, explains the importance of visiting artists
11 abingdon.org.uk In March, over 50 primary school pupils enjoyed a variety of interactive language based workshops at our annual Let’s Communicate event. Assisted by 11 Abingdon students and five of our teachers, children participated in Mandarin, Spanish and German, as well as learning sign language and secret coding. Feedback from the day was excellent. in Partnership Abingdon School After half-term, 28 Abingdon pupils attended the Model United Nations conference at Magdalen College School, Oxford. For many, this was their first experience of a conference, making the results even more impressive. Representing the nations of the USA, Japan, Burkina Faso and the UAE, student delegates had to navigate proceedings with heightened sensitivity and diplomacy, given the real-world events which had unfolded on 28 February. Despite the pressure, Abingdon swept the board, securing five individual winner awards; three highly commended awards; and the overall delegation award for Japan. Congratulations to all. An Easter treat At the Easter tea party, Abingdon residents enjoyed scones, sandwiches and cakes, including a delicious Guinness cake to celebrate St Patrick's Day. They were entertained by music and completed a fiendishly difficult quiz to win a giant Easter egg. Allies Week 2026 As a fitting start to Allies Week 2026, 35 pupils from Abingdon, Larkmead, St Helen and St Katharine, Fitzharrys and John Mason got together for their halftermly Pride social. All enjoyed board games, pizza, and a badge maker which sparked amazing artistic creations. Let’s communicate Over 50 Sixth Formers have recently received training in the coaching conversation. Unlike traditional tutoring, this programme focuses on leadership, active listening, and powerful questioning to help younger students unlock their own academic solutions. During these sessions, Abingdon’s Student Partnership Ambassador, Jacob observed that younger students gained vital organisational skills and confidence, whilst the coaches developed essential professional and interpersonal tools necessary for future success. Model United Nations winners Coaching conversation
12 April 2026 Music Abingdon On 2 February, six senior vocalists took part in an inspiring masterclass with OA, Guy Cutting. A former New College chorister and choral scholar, Guy coached each student on vowel shape, text, and vocal production. The day ended with a breathtaking recital by Guy with Vaughan-Williams’ Songs of Travel as the centrepiece. English song English National Ballet flautist, Ian Mullen came into school this term to host an inspiring masterclass. Five students received his expert feedback on their playing - in everything from tone production to musical phrasing. Ian’s approach was both precise and encouraging, providing the students with practical exercises to refine their daily practice. Ian then performed a stunning solo piece, perfectly modelling the artistry and professionalism he had championed throughout the day. In February, concert cellist Peter Adams came into school. He worked with five cellists to enahance both sound and intepretation leading to immediate improvement for each performer. He also offered invaluable advice on how to hone specific skills and techniques to the wider cello group. The evening concluded with a deeply inspiring solo performance by Peter, leaving our young musicians motivated and highly impressed. Setting the tone Cello masterclass Keeping composed Composer David Bednall visited Abingdon in January to work with our Fifth Year GCSE class in an afternoon workshop and with our more advanced composers in an evening masterclass. Our students certainly gained a lot from his insights and advice which they are now implementing as they continue their composition work.
Open Mic night House Ensemble In the last week of term, we welcomed Tom Richards OA - conductor, composer, and arranger - as the adjudicator to our House Ensemble competition. Given his diverse career, Tom was perfectly suited to judge the broad range of performances. His feedback was as thoughtful and inspiring as it was encouraging. While the competition was fierce, Crescent claimed the top spot with a refreshing rendition of the 1936 classic Caravan. Pygott’s and Donnelly’s followed closely in 2nd and 3rd place. Well done to all who took part. On 12 February, 13 singers rose to the challenge of presenting a piece as part of our termly Singers' Recital. A wide variety of music was enjoyed by the audience, with both Bach and Finzi being well represented. Well done to all. 13 abingdon.org.uk Evensong at Pembroke On 9 February, the Chamber Choir sang a service of evensong in the beautiful and intimate chapel of Pembroke College, Oxford. The music sung was by Johannes Eccard, Orlando Gibbons, and Henry Purcell, and the Choir rose remarkably well to the challenge of performing complicated polyphony, much of the time without any organ accompaniment. It was a well attended event and a privilege for the Choir to perform at this Oxford College which shares so many historic associations with our school. Music Abingdon The Amey Theatre buzzed on 11 March for the annual Rock Concert, featuring high-energy performances from Abingdon, Fitzharrys, and John Mason students. Playing a number of hits, bands thrilled a near capacity crowd. Rock on Singing sensations Our Open Mic night on 16 March showcased diverse talent from the Lower School to the Sixth Form. Highlights included an exciting debut by a new First Year band and served as a fantastic preview for June’s Anything But Classical. Intermediate competition On 13 March, 300 students (ranging from grade six to eight) took part in our intermediate competition. Tom Neal, the adjudicator, remarked on the breadth, and high standard, of music making on offer. Very many congratulations to Toby (1st), Vincent (2nd), Lawrence (3rd) and Laurence (Highly Commended).
14 April 2026 On Thursday 15 January, nine Abingdon students travelled to Winchester College to compete against three teams from two other schools in a climbing fixture. The students had an hour and a half to complete as many routes as they could, gaining extra points for topping a route on the first try. Abingdon School placed first overall, with three of our students taking the podium spots: Dan (Lower Sixth) in 1st, Jonah (Fourth Year) in 2nd and Charlie (Third Year) in 3rd place. Well done to all those involved for an excellent set of performances. Congratulations to the senior cross country team (Monty, Edward, Ralph, Harry, Hugh and Quinlan) who took part in the 54th King Henry VIII Relays on 28 January. Run on mixed terrain around War Memorial Park in Coventry, the relay draws its field from all over England. All six athletes ran strong legs, with Monty returning from injury to record our fastest leg of the day (11.38). Fourth Year debutant Edward continued his superb season form to power round in 12.19 to set up an exciting finish. After 73 minutes of racing, only 28 seconds separated the four schools who trailed the eventual winners with Ralph bringing Abingdon home in 4th place. The team received their cup and medals from 400m Diamond League final winner, Charlie Dobson. Radley relays Cross country success A winning combination On 10 February, the cross country club delivered a dominant performance at the Radley Relays. The Senior As beat their closest rivals by over a minute securing a convincing win. The Senior Bs finished 5th overall. In the inters, the team secured a podium finish, with Edward clocking the fastest time of the day (11:30) propelling the team into 3rd place. Both junior badminton teams enjoyed great success, facing competition from Magdalen College School and Wood Green School. The U16 team showed great composure to win both their matches 4-1. The U14s performed exceptionally well to achieve 5-0 victories in both fixtures. Both teams advance to the regional finals to face challengers from Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, and Hampshire. It was a fantastic team effort. Shuttlecock superstars Sport Abingdon And they’re off Lower School pupils braved wintry conditions in their first PE lesson of the term in the annual inter-tutor group cross country competition. Congratulations to 1G and 2P who won.
15 abingdon.org.uk Early March brought a flurry of fixtures for our Lower School pupils. Six teams were in action on the hockey pitch against Bloxham on Saturday 7 March; and then the U12s took part in their first Rugby Sevens match for the school against MCS on Sunday 8 March. A superb team spirit was on display at all times and it was great to see so many pupils collectively coming together both representing the School and enjoying their respective sports. The 55th annual road relay proved, once again, to be a highlight in the school calendar. There was record turn out of participants from Lower School pupils all the way through to the Sixth Form, each showcasing immense House spirit. Each House and year group was cheered on by their peers, many of whom were lining the route. Most impressively, the high level of competition pushed some of our athletes to new heights, resulting in three brand new course records. Congratulations to all who took part - whether staff or student; athlete or spectator. Road relay A flurry of fixtures Hooray for hockey In March, Abingdon School's U14 boys' hockey team secured a thrilling 4-3 victory over KES Southampton in the Quarter Final of the Tier 1 National Cup. It was a really close and well fought match with the win only being secured with a crucial save in the last few seconds. It follows a strong performance in the tournament, highlighting the team’s progress and commitment this year. The climbing team competed at the National Schools Climbing Competition on Monday 16 March at White Spider in London. The A team came 2nd out of 31 teams and the B team came 11th. Daniel (Lower Sixth) ranked 1st out 179 students across the disciplines, topping the Boulder and Lead ranking. Jonah (Fourth Year) came 2nd place in the U16 category overall and came 1st in the U16 Top Rope ranking. Congratulations to all those involved for all their hard work and training this year. Aiming for the top Sport Abingdon
In March, five Abingdon pupils took part in the English Schools’ National Cross Country Championships in Liverpool. Competing both for the school and Oxfordshire, they faced fields of up to 350 runners on a fast course. Harry (Third Year) navigated a physical Junior Boys’ race to finish 218th, while Edward secured 188th in the Inter Boys. In the Senior Boys’ 6000m, Monty delivered an outstanding 45th place finish, supported by Harry (217th) and Ralph (294th). Making up 25% of the Oxfordshire team, the Abingdon athletes received high praise from coach Dan Studley. A good run After half-term, Abingdon’s clay shooting teams excelled at the Harrow Fido May Trophy at EJ Churchill. Despite high winds and tricky targets, the A team placed an impressive 11th out of 31, outperforming several established rivals. Fred led with a top score of 35/50, followed closely by Cosmo and Norwyn. Both the A and B squads showed remarkable composure, marking a promising start to the competitive season. Aiming high It’s been a positive term for the School’s Rugby Sevens programme, with our U12, U14 and 1st VII squads all taking part in a number of competitive events. Our U12s played in a well-balanced series of matches, against Magdalen College School, gaining valuable experience of the Sevens format and showing great effort and teamwork throughout. Our U14s began their tournament programme at the 50th Queen Elizabeth School, Barnet Rugby Sevens Tournament. Competing in such a well-established event provided an excellent tournament experience for the squad as they continue to develop. The 1st VII competed at the Collegiate Sevens, finishing as Plate Runners-Up; the Middlesex Invitational Sevens and the Oxford City College Sevens. In the final week of term, our U13, U14, U16 and 1st VII squads all took part in the Rosslyn Park National Schools Sevens Tournament, delivering a week of high-quality competition, strong engagement and meaningful development. The 1st VII secured two wins from four group matches losing out to the eventual cup winners. Rugby Sevens update In March, Abingdon hosted England Rugby U19s for a two-day training camp, providing a rare and inspiring opportunity for the school community to witness an international age-grade performance. Across the two days, players and staff operated with an exceptional level of professionalism, intensity, and attention to detail, offering a powerful example to Abingdon pupils of what is required to perform at the highest level. 16 April 2026 Sport Abingdon
Abingdon’s Director of Drama, Ben Phillips, shares his perspective on the Senior production of Earthquakes in London - a play written by OA, Mike Bartlett in 2010. Earthquakes in London - the 2026 Abingdon School production For me, Jeremy’s essence - what has made him a true "one-off" in the world of education - is distilled entirely within his original production of this play. Directing Earthquakes in London during the 2025/26 year has been an exercise in profound reflection. It is a play that grapples with the collision of past, present, and future, examining how human agency shapes the destiny of our world. I first joined the Abingdon drama department in 2010, working under Jeremy after a five year hiatus of study. I arrived to find him in a state of creative electricity; he had just witnessed the premiere of OA Mike Bartlett’s epic at the National Theatre. Jeremy was struck by its urgent, "about-the-now" vitality. Characteristically, he decided that every pupil possible needed to experience it. We immediately swarmed a train to London with 30 students. On the return journey, Jeremy’s mind was racing. He didn't just want them to see the play; he wanted them to inhabit it. He set about staging a school production of a show so contemporary that the performance rights didn’t yet exist. But in the theatrical world, it’s often “who you know” - and Jeremy, of course, had taught Mike Bartlett. I was fortunate enough to assist Jeremy on that first ever amateur performance of the play, and I have never encountered anything like it since. It wasn't just that the play captured the zeitgeist; it was the electric, subversive energy that surged through the cast and crew. We felt we were doing something truly monumental. That was the hallmark of Jeremy’s tenure. He was never excited by the "hum-drum" of the every day - the predictable rhythms of lessons, marking, and essays were not what kept him coming into work. He viewed the stage not as a classroom, but as a crucible for life-changing experiences. He wanted the young people he mentored to feel like artists, to subvert the "school play" stereotypes, and to be part of a collective creative explosion that would remain with them forever. He instilled this fire in countless Abingdonians. Indeed, two members of that original cast went on to become BAFTAwinning actors and the writer of a smash-hit musical, respectively. They will undoubtedly tell you that Jeremy Taylor was a key architect of their journey (as would the man who wrote the play!). In a year of monumental transition for Abingdon - one defined by the forward-looking momentum of becoming co-educational - I have found myself doing something uncharacteristic: looking back. We know there's nothing to be done, so we're dancing and drinking as fast as we can. The enemy is on its way, but it doesn't have guns and gas this time. It has wind, rain, storms and earthquakes. Returning to this play fifteen years after it was written has been a strange mix of nostalgia and genuine alarm. While it feels almost funny to source "vintage" props like iPods, the core message hasn't aged at all. In fact, Robert’s stark warning at the end of Act III carries a weight in 2026 that it simply didn't have in 2010. Back then, it felt like a warning; today, it feels like a reckoning. I’ve always believed that the best drama is fundamentally about people. What makes Earthquakes in London one of my favourite plays is the way Bartlett takes massive, terrifying themes like climate change and makes them deeply personal. He has a gift for taking a global crisis and centring it on the lives of one family. It’s his focus on the human heart - with all its flaws and contradictions - that makes his work so gripping. Even after all this time, I humbly believe this play remains his greatest work. My reasons for revisiting this particular text are manifold. As we prepare for a new era, we have embraced the opportunity to collaborate with our partner schools, and I could not be prouder of the pupils I have been directing from John Mason, Larkmead and Abingdon. As ever, our incredible production team have worked tirelessly to bring this juggernaut of a play to life so imaginatively and seamlessly; and the creative energy of movement director, Selina March, is an enormous part of this production. However, this choice was also driven by a desire to offer the most fitting tribute possible to my former teacher and mentor, Jeremy Taylor, who retired this year after 28 years of service to Abingdon. I have known Jeremy "man and boy”. To list his accolades or map his achievements would be an impossible task. 17 abingdon.org.uk News Abingdon
April 2026 Abingdon Prep Hello. I’m Nicky, and I have been thoroughly enjoying my first few months as Head of Abingdon Prep. I believe a Prep School’s core purpose is to prepare children for a changing world by fostering values of equality and inclusivity within a vibrant co-educational environment. Abingdon Prep has a well-earned reputation for cultivating ambition without arrogance, and I have been deeply impressed by how thoughtful and considerate our pupils are - both in their studies and with one another. My aim is to build on these strengths, working with our talented staff to inspire pupils in new and engaging ways - both in and outside the classroom. My journey here includes leadership roles as Head of Maths, Director of Studies, and Deputy Head, as well as Headships at Dulwich College (Kindergarten and Infants) and Cokethorpe Prep. As a mother of two teenagers, I truly understand the importance of finding a school that feels "right" - a place where children are happy, supported, and empowered to truly flourish. Meet new Head, Nicky Black 18 Aiming high This term has been packed with energy and impressive achievements across the school. From thrilling rugby, hockey and netball fixtures, to national-level swimming and cross-country, pupils have shown incredible determination. Particular praise goes to our Year 4 and Year 5 teams for their skill development, and to Year 8 for their resilience at the Rosslyn Park 7’s, alongside Abingdon School. Whether competing in local matches or at national level, our athletes have consistently challenged themselves and embraced every opportunity. Six Year 7 pupils joined in with the Geography Association Worldwise Quiz on Tuesday 3 March. Hosted by Magdalen College School, the quiz included eight different rounds, covering a variety of Geographical topics and including quick fire rounds, picture rounds, and some questions giving longer response times. Overall, it was a very successful day, with one team winning the 'more or less round' and lots of Geography knowledge shared. Geography Worldwise Quiz
abingdon.org.uk/prep Year 2 have enjoyed exploring Art and DT with Sherrey this term. They have made Easter baskets using plywood and paints, practiced using oil pastels and blending for a daffodil still life, and made yummy Italian Easter bread rolls whilst learning some Italian songs. Happy Easter (Buona Pasqua) Year 2. 19 Abingdon Prep Creating waves We kicked off Science week by welcoming Charlie and Justin from the Earth Sciences department at Oxford University. They taught pupils how earthquakes are caused at plate boundaries, extending their knowledge into P and S waves. Pupils were delighted to be able to generate their own seismic waves, created by jumping in time with each other, and measured using a homemade lego Seismometer. Pupils were then challenged to construct the tallest and most stable marshmallow and spaghetti tower, testing stability using the shaker tables. Under the expert guidance of School Nurse Debbie, Year 7 practiced essential choking rescue techniques. Utilising specialised training vests, pupils mastered back blows and abdominal thrusts with great skill. It was a reassuring display of confidence in a session that provided invaluable real-world preparation. Life saving skills On 17 March, we welcomed Henry Muller, OA and former gap student, back to school to deliver an insightful assembly on neurodiversity. Explaining some of the joys and challenges of neurodiversity through his own ADHD journey, Henry looked at the science, the experience and most importantly the power of supportive friendship. All of our children and staff left the assembly with a palpable sense of positivity and joy. Embracing neurodiversity Easter art
Taking bookings for conferences, events and special occasions in 2026/27 For more information: email: [email protected] Telephone: 01235 933383 abingdon.org.uk/sports-and-leisure Amey Theatre and Pavilion Activities are run by Abingdon School Enterprises Limited on behalf of Abingdon School. Company No. 04442429 KEEP UP TO DATE, JOIN OUR MAILING LIST BY SCANNING THE CODE News Abingdon
Discover the Other Half Academic excellence is only half the story at Abingdon. Co-ed from 2026.
The Arthur Pearce Legacy Abingdon School Boat Club has been shaping rowers since the 1800s and today it stands among the very best school rowing programmes in the UK. Our crews have won at the highest level, including Henley Royal Regatta (Princess Elizabeth Challenge Cup) and the National Schools’ Regatta, alongside many other major successes. With over 150 students participating in rowing, there is a challenge to provide off-water training in the winter months on our school site. In addition, advances in technology mean it is now possible to mimic water-based rowing with specialised ergo machines like the RP3. The school has identified an opportunity to re-locate our current Concept 2 ergo fleet from its restricted space in the Sports Centre to the old shooting range on Lower Field, alongside a new RP3 fleet. This dedicated high-performance indoor/outdoor rowing centre will more than double the number of rowers who can train simultaneously, and redefine the commitment to support elite and participation rowing at Abingdon. We are honoured to announce a generous legacy gift from the estate of Arthur Pearce. A dedicated local man and a former gardener and handyman at Abingdon during the 1980s, Arthur chose to support the School's future by leaving the School his property in his Will. Arthur’s bequest has been directed toward the provision of bursaries at Abingdon and will make a tangible difference to those students requiring financial support for many years to come. We remain deeply grateful for his kindness. If you would like to find out more about supporting Abingdon’s Seven Years to Change a Life bursary campaign, or you are interested in learning more about joining our legacy community, the 1563 Society, please contact Harriet Alderman in the Development Office. Development Abingdon This once-in-a-generation project offers the chance to support the legacy of rowing at Abingdon, laying down strong foundations of athletic performance and helping our rowers perform at their very best. All donors will be celebrated on our crew board. To find out more and confidentially discuss a specific donation, including sponsoring an individual RP3, please scan the QR code or contact the Development Team: [email protected] or [email protected] Computer generated image For illustrative purposes only HIGH PERFORMANCE ROWING FACILITY OPEN FROM SEPTEMBER 22 April 2026
Hong Kong meet ups 23 abingdon.org.uk Sports poll Our recent sports poll sparked a fantastic wave of nostalgia and engagement from the OA community, providing invaluable insights for the long-term vision of sport at Abingdon. We are still eager to hear from as many OAs as possible, regardless of their current fitness routine. OA Club Abingdon On a recent visit to Hong Kong to see their son Hector (OA 2015), former Director of Music and Hon OA Michael Stinton, and his wife Clova, caught up with musical OAs from across his 36-year tenure at Abingdon. An informal gathering in Cambridge on Friday 13 March was enjoyed by leavers from 2025-2001 representing both study at Cambridge and the various professions. Joined by Chris Burnand (Teacher in charge of Scholars), Ian Middleton (Teacher of Chemistry), Mike Litchfield (Head of School House and Teacher of Chemistry), and James Ambrose (Teacher of Languages), OAs shared stories on life beyond Abingdon over drinks and food. Earlier in the month, OAs also gathered in Bristol joined by Adam Jenkins (OA 1993 and Head of Lower School), and Hon OA Ian Fishpool, former Head of Geography. Over 100 Abingdonians gathered at the RAF Club in February to celebrate our growing Defence and Security community, generously hosted by Tony Edwards (OA 1962). With talks from Alistair Halliday (OA 1977, Chief Executive of the Forces Employment Charity) and Henry Nunney (OA 2015, British Army Officer), the evening fostered professional networking and offered senior CCF cadets unique access to those working across military and associated fields. Regional gathering RAF Club drinks
@abingdon_school @abingdonschool @abingdonschool linkedin.com/school/abingdonschool The Abingdon Foundation, Park Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1DE Edited by Julia Cooke - [email protected] 01235 521563 Lorem ipsum OAs of the Grundy era (William Grundy Head 1913-1947), always looked on him and Miss Florey as the twin pillars of the School: Mr Grundy with his stentorian voice and limp, Miss Florey with her little dog and insistence on good manners. Annie Julia Florey had served as a nurse in Gallipoli and Mesopotamia during the First World War for which she had been mentioned in despatches. She came to Abingdon in 1922 and left in 1947. The boys were never convinced when she told them that she had a brother engaged in very important work until the day in 1945 when Mr Grundy granted them all a half holiday after her brother, Howard Florey, was awarded the Nobel Prize for Medicine for his role in the development of penicillin. If it were not for Lydia Martha Layng we would have no informal photographs of the School in the years before the First World War. The sister of Thomas Layng, Head 1893-1913, ‘Mattie’ Layng’s album captures social occasions, sporting events, people and places. Miss Mattie, as she was affectionately known, not only acted as housekeeper for School House but also taught German and, during the First World War, French and Geography too. Out of the Past Abingdon Women in our history Desiderius Erasmus by Hans Holbein acquired a copy but it is a significant possession. The Greek inscription comes from Isocrates (388 BC) and reads, ‘if you are a lover of learning you will be learned.’ Erasmus believed that the words were so important they ‘should be painted in gold letters on the title page of your books’. Abingdon School carved them onto the walls of the old schoolroom and they are now on the display case in the entrance to Big School. To Erasmus, the only way to become learned, knowledgeable, was to really engage with the process of learning, to enjoy it, show curiosity, be inquisitive; advice as good today as it was in the days of Isocrates and Erasmus. Abingdon has two connections with the sixteenthcentury humanist Desiderius Erasmus (c1466-1536). One is our copy of The Paraphrase of Erasmus upon the New Testament published in 1548, the other is a Greek inscription ἐὰν ᾖς φιλομαθής, ἔσῃ πολυμαθής. In 1547 Edward VI decreed that The Paraphrase should be translated into English and copies placed in all parish churches. It is not known when the School Erasmus Miss Annie Florey Miss ‘Mattie’ Layng on the Nag’s Head bridge Outside Big School before 1901
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