1 Stories of Impact and Appreciation 2026 Abingdon Foundation Impact Report
2 On behalf of the entire Abingdon community, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported our Seven years to change a life campaign. Your generous contributions and unwavering support have played a pivotal role in advancing our mission to provide exceptional educational opportunities through our bursary programme. As of September 2025, Abingdon supported 71 pupils on bursaries, of which 22 were full bursaries. This impact report is dedicated to sharing the difference your generosity has made in the lives of our students. Welcome A message from the Head Mike Windsor Head
3 The bursary places funded through your support have opened doors to world-class education for talented young individuals who might not otherwise have had the opportunity. A bursary doesn’t just support academic success; it enables students to engage fully in life at Abingdon, participating in Other Half activities, fostering lifelong friendships, and developing essential skills for their futures. Your support is an investment in transforming individual, young lives, but also in the future of our community and beyond. The ripple effect of educating bright minds in this nurturing environment is immeasurable, and it is with your help that we continue to inspire and cultivate the leaders of tomorrow. Thank you once again for your incredible generosity and for believing in the transformative power of an Abingdon education.
4 The power of our community: your support in numbers October 2021 to July 2026 £3.1m since October 2021 in donations, pledges and Gift Aid £99,310 donated to boarding £105,131 raised during the 2022 Telethon Over 80 members of our community are regular givers 49 members of the 110 Club supporting 10% or more of a bursary £103,046 in donations on Giving Day 2023
5 Thank you 63 members of our 1563 Society those who have pledged a gift to Abingdon in their will £83,241 donated during Giving Day 2025 £174 a month plus Gift Aid for seven years = 10% bursary support £2.5m total amount donated and pledged to the Seven years to change a life bursary campaign 7% of Abingdon’s pupil cohort receive a bursary Our ambition is to provide 10%
6 Investing in potential: A parent’s journey with Abingdon I fell in love with Abingdon at the open day when we visited to see if the school might be suitable for our son, Evan. I remember being shown around by Toby, who was creative and artistic, engaging in theatre and music - and full of energy about the opportunities which Abingdon was enabling him to explore. His engagement in all of his education - not just academic, but also The Other Half as we came to know it - was captivating. We were impressed with the facilities - educational and sporting - and all the pupils and teachers we met. Evan loved it and so did we. Our anticipation of what a life at Abingdon would be like came true. It’s a positive environment where everyone focuses on what matters and pupils are encouraged to be themselves and explore their interests. Standards are high, which helps potential to be achieved. There is no arrogance at Abingdon. It’s a school with history and a school open to the few, not the many. Because Evan had such a great time at the school, achieving his potential and enjoying the challenge and high support in equal measure, I was very keen to help enable other pupils to attend the school; pupils who might otherwise not be able to go there. I give to a number of charities, but the opportunity to help make a difference to an individual person resonated with me. And it’s been a great investment. I receive an annual anonymised update on how the bursary pupil I support is doing. I’m rooting for him from the sidelines and wishing him success in all his endeavours. I’m very glad to have had this chance to support Abingdon’s bursary programme. Natalie-Jane Littler, Parent of OA
7 A legacy of learning: Supporting families at Abingdon School Rob Duncan (1995) Whilst I was hardly the most diligent pupil and, to my eternal regret, didn’t leave Abingdon with the sort of qualifications I was certainly capable of, I am reminded almost daily of the breadth of education the school afforded me, whether through appreciation of languages, literature, theatre, music, art or sport. Despite my lack of application, staff including MacDonald, Barratt, Soper, Wilmore, Pope, Mitra, Revill, Fishpool (neé Chapman), Henderson, St John Parker, Oxlade, Derek Jones and others all left me with gifts I treasure today. I know my parents were acutely aware of the importance of this “wider” education, and keen that we kids should benefit. To do so, they stretched themselves hugely, forgoing all manner of niceties they might have otherwise enjoyed - a bigger home, fancy foreign holidays. I am forever in their debt. When this Labour government levied VAT on school fees, I knew there would be parents in the same position as my own - for whom even a little extra might be the deal breaker. If my modest contribution allows any hard working parents to continue sending their child to Abingdon to enjoy the opportunities I was afforded, I should be very happy.
8 My late husband, Peter Kandiah (1959), attended Abingdon School from 1954 to 1959. His years there were among the happiest of his life. He cherished the school’s beautiful surroundings, its strong traditions, and the wide range of opportunities it offered—not only academically, but also in sport, particularly rugby. The friendships he formed at Abingdon became lifelong bonds. Even though we spent much of our life overseas, Peter stayed in close touch with his school friends. Their continued companionship, along with that of their families, meant a great deal to him. Peter was deeply grateful for the foundation that Abingdon gave him. It paved the way for his career as a lawyer and a life spent working in the Bahamas, Hong Kong and, for the last 50 years, in the Cayman Islands. Beyond academic excellence, he valued the discipline, integrity and moral compass instilled in him by the school—qualities that guided him throughout his life. It was for these reasons that Peter wanted to give another pupil the opportunity to benefit from the same rich experience. He hoped to support someone who might not otherwise have the chance to attend a school like Abingdon—someone who, with the right environment and encouragement, could flourish. Peter established a bursary to fund the education of a pupil just like him and was delighted when this was matched to Pranit, bright and hardworking, who joined the First Year in 2018. Since then, Pranit has more than fulfilled Peter’s hopes. He studied four A Levels and plans to read engineering at university. I hope that, like Peter, Pranit will carry with him a deep love for Abingdon, fond memories of his school days and friendships that last a lifetime. Peter took great joy in knowing that he could help change one boy’s life in the way Abingdon had so profoundly shaped his own. With this in mind Peter also left money in his will to go a future bursary fund to help another pupil. Julia Kandiah A gentle man’s legacy: Peter Kandiah’s gift to Abingdon’s future
9 Being a bursary holder at Abingdon has truly enabled me to develop personally in ways I don’t think would have been possible otherwise. The sheer generosity of Peter and Julia Kandiah has enabled me to not only develop my academic skill set for seven years at the school (thanks to the help of fantastic teachers and staff), but also make amazing friends and develop personal skills that will hopefully go a long way in enabling my career to take shape. Selflessness, generosity and good will enriches society, and Peter and Julia embody these. It’s thanks to their generosity alone that I was able to be at Abingdon. I never for one moment took my bursary for granted, and I seized every opportunity at the school that this bursary has offered me. I truly hope that I can embody the Kandiah’s sense of generosity to others as I leave school, and the dream is to one day be in a position myself to be able to give back to a school that has given me so much, and support the bursary programme myself. Pranit Narain (2025) Enriched by generosity: Seizing every opportunity
10 From rugby fields to computer labs: How a bursary opened doors beyond Abingdon Joshua Mensah (2023) Receiving a bursary to attend Abingdon School afforded me the opportunity to be part of a warm and enriching community that had a profound impact on both my academic and personal growth. This financial support not only allowed me to focus on my studies but gave me the chance to immerse myself in a wide range of subjects and experiences that I never would have imagined exploring. In many ways, my journey at Abingdon started and ended with rugby. I was first introduced to the school when the Deputy Head at the time saw me playing for my local Sunday league club in Year 7. He spoke to my mum and encouraged me to apply. That moment set everything in motion— from preparing for the entrance exam to realising that both academics and rugby would go hand in hand during my time at Abingdon. One of the most memorable moments came on my 18th birthday, during our final match of the season against Bedford. It was my last game for the 1st XV, and we were fighting tooth and nail alongside some of my best friends— many of whom are still my closest mates to this day. That game was a real culmination of years of shared effort, camaraderie and personal growth. Later that evening, at the rugby dinner, I was honoured to receive the Coach’s Player award, presented to me by Matthew Gold, who was also a great mentor and friend throughout my time at school. It’s a day I’ll never forget. Sport gave me a deep sense of belonging at Abingdon. I’ll always treasure the memories and friendships formed through the many teams I played for, and I’m especially grateful to the teachers and coaches who nurtured my development, not just as a player but as a person. Their belief in me, both on and off the field, helped forge my confidence and drive. Beyond sport, Abingdon’s Other Half programme gave me the opportunity to explore computing—something I hadn’t studied before, but quickly fell in love with. That experience sparked my interest in technology and led me to pursue a degree in Computer Science, which I’m currently studying at Brunel University, alongside continuing my rugby journey there. I am genuinely thankful to the bursary programme and the kindness of the benefactors who made it possible for me to attend Abingdon. The experiences I had, the people I met and the opportunities I was given have shaped who I am today and will continue to influence the person I become in the future. The bursary programme at Abingdon School is not just an investment in a child’s education, but an investment in their future.
11 The importance of bursaries at Abingdon A reflection Bursaries can be transformative. They enable a pupil’s future to be defined by character, talent and potential, rather than financial circumstances. Joshua Mensah’s journey is a powerful example of this impact. From the moment he joined the Lower School, Joshua threw himself into every opportunity, particularly on the sports field. His natural talent in rugby, combined with his humility and determination, saw him rise through the school’s pathway and earn external selection for the Wasps Development Programme. By the time Joshua reached the Sixth Form, he was a key player in the 1st XV and was later awarded Player of the Season, securing an elite rugby scholarship to Brunel University. Mentoring Joshua over his time here, and especially taking him to that pivotal university interview in London, was a privilege. I saw a young man who had grown into himself: calm, articulate, focused and proud. For Joshua, the bursary didn’t just fund a place at school, it unlocked opportunities, broadened his horizons and gave him confidence in his own potential. His story is why bursaries matter. They don’t just change individual lives, they enrich our community and reflect everything Abingdon stands for: excellence, inclusion and opportunity for all. Matt Gold, Director of Rugby
12 Finding harmony: My journey of belonging and achievement at Abingdon Adam Readman (2025) For me, Abingdon is all about busy. And not in the sense of rushing around type of busy, but a purposeful and excited buzz that exists in every corner of the school: from inside music department practice rooms to the edges of classrooms in Big School and to the grass on Waste Court. Busy is Abingdon, and Abingdon is busy. When deciding that Abingdon was the place for me, it was this busyness, this excitement, the sense of opportunity that drew me in and made me feel like this was somewhere I could thrive. Ever since I started school, I’ve often felt like a big fish in a small pond; my curiosity and passion for academics and music didn’t quite fit with the environments and circumstances of my old schools. But at Abingdon, I knew that there would be people just as passionate as me, just as excited as me, just as keen to be busy and fulfilled as I have always wanted to be. From my very first day I threw myself into every music club imaginable, from the Chapel Choir to the Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Big Band, Concert Band, the close harmony choir, you name it - I wanted to do it. And it was in the corridors of the Amey Theatre, sitting on the chairs in front of music stands in the Ingham Room, rehearsing
13 in the music classrooms overlooking Upper Field, that I felt like I belonged. I was finally able to feel like a part of something so much bigger than before. Reflecting on my two years at Abingdon, I’ve tried to pick some ‘stand out moments’, some highlights of my experience. And yes, absolutely, I’ve had some amazing moments: singing tenor solos in the Messiah, conducting my own music in symphony orchestra, pulling off a solo at the Cabaret evening with the big band are all absolute moments of pride for me. Beyond music, the moment when Mr Windsor sat me down in his office and told me I had become Head of school, and walking down the Chapel corridor in Big School, staring at that board of Heads of School and looking at the legacy and history I would have the privilege to continue. Opening that email from Cambridge in my economics lesson, seeing that after so many hours and nights of hard work, revision, practice interviews and essay competitions, I’d earned a place to read economics at Cambridge, was such a moment of pride for myself - and for my family. There is no doubt in my mind that these moments, how much they meant to me and to my parents, would never have been as special, and perhaps never have happened at all, without the opportunity to come to Abingdon afforded to me by the bursary programme. What made these moments so special to me wasn’t just that they were fantastic in their own right, but instead that they were with some of my favourite people, surrounded by a support network of brilliant teachers and in an environment that celebrates excellence and achievement. But out of my whole time at Abingdon, and what it means to me to have the privilege of coming to this school, isn’t just one defining moment. It’s that feeling of belonging, like Abingdon really was for me, that I feel every day I come to school. It’s that feeling in the mornings as I walk into school, the sun rising over Big School and Upper Field, excited to face new challenges, have amazing moments with my friends, nervous about speaking in assembly or a performance later that evening. It’s that feeling of going between lessons with my mates, and just appreciating how awesome and how privileged it is to be in such a historic school that gives us the chance to just have fun and enjoy ourselves. It’s that late-evening choir rehearsal in the chapel, in winter as it’s completely dark outside, the yellowish lights colouring the chapel windows and wooden pews. It’s that collective deep breath in, as we all look around the room, and craft a chord that sings around the high ceiling with resonance and beauty that just makes me swell with happiness. Leaving after those rehearsals, looking back at Big school lit up by the archaic lights, makes me feel like I belong. Without support from the bursary programme, I would never have been able to come to this amazing school, meet these amazing people, become engrossed in the breadth of opportunity that Abingdon has to offer, and to feel like I really belonged. My parents are both exceptionally hard-working, motivated and ambitious people that I admire in more ways than words can describe: my dad works 10-12 hour night shifts at the Mini factory and my mum is an immigrant who trained herself to become a qualified chartered accountant whilst raising me and my brother. They had always wanted me to come to a place like Abingdon, somewhere I could explore my potential and have my hard work and dedication really pay off. Their dreams and ambitions for me would have stayed just that, dreams and ambitions, without the generosity of the donors and the amazing work of the bursary program here at Abingdon. I would never have been able to feel this sense of excitement about school and academics, learn so much about my subject, get that offer from Cambridge and to experience and enjoy life in a new way. The bursary program has meant I’ve become busy in the same way that Abingdon is, I’ve become more passionate about my subjects, developed a deeper love for the beauty of music, made friends that I’m going to go to university with, that I know will be my friends for life. Without support from the bursary programme I would never have been able to come to this amazing school, and to feel that l really belonged.
14 A home away from home: Your impact on boarding With your support, Austin and Crescent Houses have been thoughtfully extended and comprehensively refurbished, significantly enhancing the daily lives of boarding and day students. This summer will see School House undergoing extensive renovations, completing this complex and important investment in boarding at Abingdon. Boarding is a core part of life at Abingdon, a boarding house is far more than just a space to sleep; it is a home away from home where lifelong friendships are forged and character is built. Those parents and OAs who chose to sponsor rooms have ensured that our physical spaces truly reflect the warmth and exceptional pastoral care for which we are known. These enhanced and modernised environments continue to offer our boarders the comfort and space they need to flourish, both in their studies and their personal growth. It was particularly poignant when a close group of OAs who left in the 1950s and 1960s came together to give back to School House, their old boarding house.
15 The 1563 Society is a group of forward-thinking Abingdon benefactors who have pledged a legacy gift in their will. Members and their guests are invited to an annual society event held at Abingdon and other special occasions during the school year. With 63 members drawn from the OA community, their partners, former parents and staff, the Society is growing and keen to welcome new members. 1563 Society members: • Make a significant and lasting impact on the lives of future Abingdonians without impacting any current financial capacity. Alan Aitchison (1958) Mike Arundel (1966) Clyde Aylin (1952) Arnaud Barge (Partner of OA) Robin Blackburn (1969) David Blomley (1976) David Brice (1961) John Bunce (1962) Adrian Burn (1963) Glynne Butt (Parent of OA) Henry Carter (2006)* Diana Cobban May (Honorary OA) Bryan Costin (1955) Noel Crosse (1972) Ken Cuthbert (1969) Tony Edwards (1962) Paul Evans (1975) Ted Evelegh (1980) Mike Farwell (Parent of OA) Alison Farwell (Parent of OA) Beryl Gingell (Widow of OA) Jonathan Grosvenor (1979) Your legacy, their future Join the 1563 Society • Are welcomed into a proactive community of OAs and friends who are deeply invested in the long-term future and historic legacy of Abingdon School. • Are acknowledged and celebrated in their lifetime. We warmly welcome new members and would be delighted to have a confidential, no-obligation discussion about the 1563 Society. When you decide to include Abingdon in your will you join a growing community who share a deep interest in Abingdon’s future. Simon Hills (1975)* Charlie Hobson (1976) Justin Hodges (1989)* Anne Iredale (Parent of OA) Adam Jenkins (1993) Ian Lamberton (1965) Bruce Mackay (1964) Michael Matthews (1952) Neil McGowan-Docherty (1968) Jim Milne (1960) Gareth Morris (1976) Gerald Nicholls (1952) Chris Pickup (1960)* David Ray (1966) Felicity Rutland (Honorary OA) Kevin Senior (Former Governor) Olga Senior (Former Governor) Norman Shurrock (1953) Brian Smith (1957) Anne Smithson (Former staff) Mike Stevens (1968) John Walker (1970)* Chris Webb (1961) Simon Wilden (1982) Brenda Williams (Partner of OA) Alan Williams (1965)* Helen Wood (Friend of Abingdon School) Martin Woodgett (Honorary OA) Cyril Woodruff (1956) Patrick Wyatt (1959) Anonymous (1947) Anonymous (1952) Anonymous (1962) Anonymous (1963) Anonymous (1967) Anonymous (1977) Anonymous (1981) Anonymous (1989) Anonymous (Partner of OA) Anonymous (Widow of OA) Anonymous (Widow of OA) * members of the 1563 Society Committee
16 Seven years to change a life: Five years on - the impact of Abingdon’s bursary campaign We believe that an Abingdon education should not be defined by financial boundaries. Launched in October 2021, the Seven years to change a life campaign was born from a vision to widen access to an education at Abingdon School in the immediate term, from a need to be able to fund additional bursary places for those children offered a place at Abingdon whose families required a level of means-tested fee support. With the generous commitment of our community, this campaign has grown from an ambitious goal into a reality. The impact on Abingdon’s bursary programme has already been significant: • £2.5 million secured in gifts and pledges since October 2021, proving the deep commitment of OAs, parents, and friends to providing an Abingdon education. • The 110 Club: 49 members - a community of donors who support a pupil’s journey through Abingdon for five or seven years, from 10% fee support to a fully supported bursary place. • In 2025-26, Abingdon supported 71 bursary places, with 22 of these providing 100% fee remission for the greatest need. Bursaries do more than just open a door, they provide a stable, inspiring environment where bright minds can focus entirely on who they want to be. A richly diverse student population is central to the ethos at Abingdon, everyone benefits in a school society that mirrors the world in which we live and work. Abingdon has always provided free and assisted places and it remains core to our purpose as a school which has been in existence for over 750 years. This campaign is committed to ensuring Abingdon remains a grounded, dynamic and forward-thinking community. Your belief in the power of an Abingdon education is actively shaping the leaders, thinkers and innovators of tomorrow. Thank you. Alexa Broad and Harriet Alderman Development Office
17 Opening doors: A vision for an ambitious endowment At Abingdon, a strong bursary programme remains the cornerstone of our commitment to social mobility, ensuring the school is a vibrant, diverse community where bright minds can flourish together. To secure this vision for the long term, it is time to shift our focus towards a more ambitious endowment model. By building a permanent fund, we wish to move beyond year-on-year fundraising, creating a sustainable legacy that underwrites bursary places in perpetuity. An endowment isn’t just a fund; it is a promise to future generations of Abingdonians that their place here is secured by the merit of their potential, not their financial means. Whether through a one-off gift or a legacy commitment, your support will change lives.
18 A community united: Giving Day 2025 Our third Giving Day proved to be a powerful testament to the strength and generosity of the Abingdon community. Over 36 hours between the 5 and 6 of November, our community rose to the occasion, raising £85,000 for the Abingdon Foundation. With nearly 300 donations streaming in from current and former parents, OAs, staff, and friends, the energy was palpable. This collective effort highlights not just a milestone in our fundraising, but a shared commitment to the future of our pupils and the sustained excellence of the school. The impact of this kindness cannot be overstated. These funds are more than just a number; they represent expanded opportunities, enhanced facilities and the vital support that allows pupils to thrive. Every individual who shared our vision, spread the word, or made a gift contributed to this success. Your belief in Abingdon ensures that we can continue to provide a transformative education. Abingdon has been an extraordinary place for our son and we hope as many young people as possible can have that same experience and opportunity. Current Parent
19 Abingdon School presents pupils with an amazing range of opportunities to stretch their development into adulthood. My son was lucky enough to benefit and I support efforts to fund deserving applicants in the future. Former Parent
20 Partnerships Inspire - Support - Challenge A Community of Philanthropy in OX14 and beyond: The Mercers’ Company and the Abingdon Foundation Abingdon School and the Mercers’ Company have a historic relationship, dating back to the Abingdon re-endowment in 1563 by Mercer and OA, John Roysse. Today we enjoy a collaborative partnership founded on mutual respect and a shared vision for empowering young people in education through community-focused initiatives that aim to inspire, support and challenge while developing essential life skills. As one of 17 schools in the Mercers’ Company network of Associated schools, in 2020 we applied for grant funding to establish two new roles - Partnership Coordinator and Mental Health and Wellbeing Coordinator. Now in our sixth year of active grant funding and renewed partnership with the Mercers’ Company, we can reflect on the extraordinary impact and reach of some of our student-led collaborations, and how working together with our partner schools has enabled different communities of young people to work together to achieve great things. As the older Abingdon pupils introduce the fun activities and explain what they will be doing, you can see their shoulders start to relax, their eyes darting to the colourful and exciting equipment and games. As they explore the activities, it is evident how the reassurance and support from the older student leaders allows them to engage and enjoy themselves and fully immerse themselves in something new. Partnership Coordinator, Student led Primary STEM Club • 25,000+ hours of student experiences in partnership activities in 2024/25. This has grown from 5,000 in 2018 • 300+ Abingdon students involved in partnerships each year • 5,000+ primary school children take part in activities annually from at least 17 local primary schools • 250 teachers from local schools take part • A third of Abingdon school staff support or lead on a partnership activity
21 Over the last eight years Abingdon School has been dedicated to working in partnership with local schools, building a long history of work within the community. • We work with over 30 schools and colleges in the area with colleagues and students collaborating and challenging each other to create opportunities for all • 250+ partnership activities and events each year Abingdon was the founding member of the formal partnership - the OX14 Learning Partnership. A group of six state and independent schools, this is a partnership of equals based on collaboration and mutual benefit. Its core aim is to focus on inspiring, challenging and supporting students across schools through a variety of activities and events. Weekly clubs in local primary schools provide the opportunity for children to try something new and work with our students on activities. Abingdon students gain leadership experience, as well as developing skills such as empathy, active listening and communication. Clubs are planned in collaboration with partner schools and have included Chess, STEM, Art and Multisport. If you would like to make a donation, here are some examples of what your donation could support: £20 Transport for a local school to get to an event £50 A Science workshop £50 Art materials for a primary school club £100 Multisport or primary club for a term £200 A primary event £400 Guest speaker for a community wellbeing webinar £850 A term of weekly swimming lessons for a local school £1,000 will fund a team challenge day £2,000 will fund a large scale wellbeing event OX14 Learning Partnership Leadership and Support We have appreciated the collaboration over our diversity, equity and inclusion work, with OX14 providing a platform for young people to express themselves in an authentic and safe environment. The themed ‘..ED’ days have been excellent for collaborating and reviewing ideas based on a social purpose, further explored with the shared mini-UN sessions, which our pupils have enjoyed.’ Headteacher, Partner Secondary School The Academic Coaching programme is now in its sixth year and is well established as both a leadership opportunity for Sixth Form students and a method of peer support for younger students. Coaches are trained in the coaching conversation and then work 1:1 with younger students at weekly sessions. In addition, our award winning Peer Mentoring programme provides an additional layer of pastoral support through Sixth Form mentors, quality training sessions and weekly 1:1s. I believe the Abingdon Science Partnership is a rare and valuable initiative, offering a unique opportunity for both volunteers and attendees. It not only helped me build essential skills but also inspired me to pursue a career in STEM, and I hope many more pupils will be able to benefit from this programme in the future. Gerald Zhang (2020)
22 The vibrant life of Abingdon School is enriched by the volunteers who make up our parents’ associations. Whether standing pitch side or on the riverbank in the wind and rain, coordinating annual dinners and fundraisers, organising masterclasses with world-renowned artists or musicians, or driving our sustainability initiatives on site, these groups foster a unique sense of camaraderie, inclusivity and community spirit. We extend our thanks to every parent, OA and friend who has given their time, energy and donations this year. Your generosity provides pupils with exceptional experiences that simply would not be possible otherwise. Supporting our community: Our parents’ associations at Abingdon The Music Society (ASMS) Abingdon School Music Society acts as a vital pillar for the school’s musical community. By raising additional funds through refreshment sales at concerts, and flagship social events like the blacktie Cabaret performance, the society directly enhances the musical journey of our students. The impact of this support is shown through a series of elite masterclasses with world-renowned soloists (spanning jazz, woodwind, strings, drumming and brass), as well as purchasing specialist equipment such as performance-grade live microphones and audio equipment. Friends of Abingdon School Boat Club (FASBC) Established over 25 years ago, FASBC serves as the official supporters’ club for one of the most successful school rowing programmes in the country. Comprised of current parents, former parents and OAs, FASBC is celebrated for its legendary hospitality and loud cheering from the marquee at regattas. Beyond giving our rowers a warm riverside base, the club raises substantial funds via memberships, merchandise and their Annual Dinner and Quiz evening. It was a core group of rowing parents who supported the funding and construction of the school’s award-winning boathouse in 2003. More recently, FASBC funds have enabled the purchasing of vital training kit and new racing boats.
23 Touchliners Touchliners are the vocal, dedicated parental group driving the development and community spirit of Abingdon’s Rugby Club. Operating under Director of Rugby, Matt Gold’s ethos of “rugby for all,” the group champions a socially inclusive environment where every player - from the First Year E-teams to the 1st XV - is supported regardless of age or playing level. Through family memberships and their annual fundraising dinner, the Touchliners invest directly back into the sport, funding essential training equipment like scrummage machines and collision shields, matchday kit, team awards, and vital tour bursaries. The Boot Room As the parent association dedicated to promoting football at Abingdon, The Boot Room nurtures a friendly and inclusive environment recognising that football is often a pupil’s very first introduction to team sports at school. The group works closely with families and coaches to build a strong community through social events and newsletters. The Boot Room seeks to elevate the profile of football across all year groups and raises funds to assist with extra kit, specialist training gear and football tours. Hockey Griffens The Hockey Griffens are a passionate community of hockey parents focused on raising the sport’s profile and keeping Abingdon’s sidelines welcoming, friendly and inclusive for all visitors. The group hosts the popular annual Hockey Griffens Dinner & Awards. Through family memberships and social fundraising, they invest heavily in pupil development, funding specialised goalkeeper coaching blocks, professional scoring equipment and team shelters. Second-hand Uniform Shop (SUS) Run by a friendly team of parent volunteers, the Second-hand Uniform Shop (SUS) based at Faringdon Lodge provides a crucial service centred on sustainability and community support. By collecting, processing and selling good-quality donated and unclaimed uniform items, the SUS ensures that families have an affordable, eco-conscious option for day-to-day schoolwear and sports kits. Parent-led fundraising and volunteering have enabled the successful launch of a wide range of projects and initiatives which benefit pupils. To every committee member, event organiser and parent volunteer - thank you.
24 Thank you: The following are just some of the donors who have supported us. Old Abingdonians Garth Round (1953) Mr Norman Shurrock (1953) Dr Brian L Smith (1957) Alan Aitchison (1958) Major General Walter Courage (1958) Tom Denniford (1958) Peter North (1958) Ian Oliver (1958) Telfer Saywell (1958) Tim Morgan (1959) David Morris (1959) His Honour David Morris (1959) Squadron Leader John Ogle RAF (Retd) (1959) Patrick Wyatt (1959) Christopher Pickup (1960) Rupert Allison (1961) Richard Bampton (1961) Michael Bett (1961) David Brice (1961) Terence and Carolyn Libby (1961) John Bunce (1962) Tony Edwards (1962) Andrew King (1962) Peter Sheard (1962) Michael Westwood (1962) Adrian Burn (1963) Geoff(rey) Keeys (1963) Lt Col Tym Marsh (1963) Paul Ramsey (1963) Peter Fry (1964) Dr Bruce Mackay (Late Lt Col RAMC) (1964) Dr Chip Johnson (1965) Ian Lamberton (1965) Cavell Portman (1965) Alan R Williams (1965) Dr Peter Bosley (1966) Ross Coomber (1966) Richard Schnellmann (1966) Stephen Sewry (1966) Stephen Allen (1967) Peter Kingdon Booker (1967) Philip Minns (1968) Mike Stevens (1968) Chris Alford (1969) Dr Richard Butland (1969) Kenneth Cuthbert (1969) Dr Andrew Iddles (1969) George Nasmyth (1969) Anthony Dugdale (1970) Jonathan Frere (1970) John Walker (1970) Noel Crosse (1972) M Kendall (1972) Mr David Adams (1973) Mr and Mrs Steven Bowkett (1973) David Hares (1973) Steve Fabes (1974) Chris Cambray (1975) Dr Paul M Evans (1975) Simon Hills (1975) Richard Clarke (1976) Jonathan Clarke (1976) Charles Lowe (1976) Jonathan Hamberger (1977) Richard Feltham (1978) Phil Reed (1978) Hugh de Lusignan (1979) Peter Douglas (1979) John Madgwick (1979) Alastair Robertson (1979) Jerry Westmore (1979) Ted Evelegh (1980) Mark Round (1980) Sandy Black (1981) Stephen Clarke (1982) Nick and TJ Rawlinson (1982) Patrick McLeod (1983) Andrew J Storer (1983) David Colson (1984) Chris Coupland (1985) Tim Gentles (1986) Paul Gingell (1986) Ian Green (1987) Dr and Mrs Sutcliffe (1987) James Smethurst (1989) Andrew Brown (1990) Mr Ben Clothier (1991) Martin Haycock (1991) Dante Peters (1991) Simon Kinsella (1992) Andrew Sweeting (1992) and Rebecca Zarutskie Nick Drake (1993) Adam Jenkins (1993) Mr Neil Carson (1994) John Chandler (1994) James and Lucinda Sporle (1994) Rob Duncan (1995) Edward Conway (1995) James Warner (1995) John Oldham (1996) Supraj Rajagopalan (1996) Matt Jones (1997) Nick Watney (2000) Michael Conway (2001) Benjamin Carter (2003) Philip Wong (2004) Henry Carter (2006) Nicholas Li (2007) David Rawcliffe (2007) Peter Nikitin (2008) Charles Hutchence (2009) James Percival (2011) Dr Osman Tack (2011) Charlie Landells (2017) James Jingzhi Deng (2023) Jimmy Ip (2025)
25 Parents Andy and Harriet Alderman Clara Anderson Ralph Anker Gail Aspland-Robinson Duncan and Rhian Atkins James and Lindsay Austin Stephen and Dawn Barksfield Dr and Mrs Bell David and Emma Bermingham Jemma and Mark Blaylock Patricia and José Bonchristiano Ms Gillian and Matthew Bonthron Cristina Bordea Rupert and Alexa Broad Will and Jenny Brocklebank Kate and David Burland Neil and Annicka Carter Mr and Mrs Chan Charles Chapman and Siobhan Cooney Mr and Mrs Chirakranont Robert and Emma Chorley Mr Ka Po Chow and Ms Pong Wa Wai Jeremy and Henrietta Church John Clune Mr and Mrs Collins Jennie and Tim Costello Marie and Mark Cowen Owen Darbishire and Lindsay Freeman Linda Davis and Barry Robinson Neil and Fenella Derbyshire Olivia Dickson Mr and Mrs Dineen Howard Dingwall Mark and Sian Dodson Shaun and Amanda Dominic Joe and Natasha Dukes Jan Dunbar Mrs and Mrs Dyke Margaret and Godwin Emefiele Mike and Alison Farwell Rosa Lombardo and Gianluca Fontana Linda Forrester Paul and Karen Fox Akiko and Bjarke Frellesvig Mr and Mrs Fung Richard and Natasha Ginks Ian Gray Nigel and Sophie Grice Mr and Mrs Grund Nicole Guest Hasniza Syed Muhammad Peter Hearn Mark and Jane Hewlett Mr Hon Nai Shan Mr and Mrs Horan Ed Horner Rachel and Robin Horrex Andrew and Gabrielle Howe Ren Hu Mr Sun and Mrs Huang Zeyuan Henry Sun’s Family Freda and Wai Lok Ip Mrs Anne Iredale Mr Hongming Huang and Mrs Nan Kang Drs Drosos Karageorgopoulos and Ioanna Korbila Ian and Emily Kerrigan Dr and Mrs Kimber Siann and Chris Knights Mr and Mrs Chung Mr and Mrs Yung Kai Law Melanie and Justin Lawson Tom and Elizabeth Leishman Neil and Alison Lester Mr and Mrs Tam Kaye and David Lillycrop Simon and Susie Lisemore Rachel and Anthony Lloyd Mr Raphael Lo Patrick and Islay Lord Shenyuan Ma Russell and Orla Macdonald Justine McQuillan James Mitchard Jeremy and Victoria Morgan Anna Norman Andrew and Sarah Nott Georgina Paton Virginia Phillips Melanie Pinnington Mr and Mrs Lloyd Matt and Nicki Ratcliffe Mr and Mrs Roberts Benjamin and Sylvia Robertson Cath and Dan Rowe Euan and Clare Russell Felicity Rutland Parul and Tom Scampion Mrs Michael Scarlett Mr and Mrs Snell Mrs L Soames Mr and Mrs Stuart Amanda and Stephen Stubbs Alan and Zoe Tam Maridi and Mark Taylor Marnix and Esther Teeken Krystian Volak Mr and Mrs Wang Nigel and Sarah Wearne Mr and Mrs Shi Mr and Mrs Guan Mr and Mrs Martin Wheatley Angus and Kerry Whitfield Rob and Alison Whittenbury Bradley and Katherine Wickens Peter and Susan Williams Graham and Adele Winsey Philip Winston Li Ching Wong and Wing Yau Chan Nick and Amanda Wood Mike and Vicky Woolfrey Dr Jiang and Ms Wu Mr and Mrs Zheng Catherine Wu Mr and Mrs Mao Mr and Mrs Zhao Dr Victoria Zhou Friends of Abingdon Shelagh Allen Mrs Jossie Austen Glynne Butt Richard Dick Julie Dillabough Mr and Mrs D Evans Chris Fletcher-Campbell Georgie Grant Haworth Mr G May David McGill Kevin and Olga Senior Dr Michael St John Parker Jeremy Taylor Jennifer Wiggins Mike Windsor And all of our anonymous donors
26 Shaping the future: The power of your support Type of gift The Commitment The Impact Single Gift A one-off donation Immediate support for current priorities Regular Giving A monthly or quarterly Direct Debit Reliable funding that allows us to plan longer term The 110 Club A commitment to fund 10% or more of a seven year day place with a planned giving schedule if preferred Changes lives now and maximises collective donor support The 1563 Society A legacy gift pledged in your will Secures the excellence of Abingdon for future generations Endowment gift A gift held in perpetuity Provides a sustainable source of income to support the school
27 The 110 Club: Collective transformation The 110 Club enables our bursary supporters to witness the tangible results of their philanthropy. By committing to cover at least 10% of a bursary, you join a dedicated group whose support ensures that talented children from all backgrounds can thrive at Abingdon. The 1563 Society: A lasting legacy Named in honour of John Roysse, who re-endowed the school in 1563, the 1563 Society recognises those who have chosen to remember the school in their will. These bequests play a crucial role in maintaining the autonomy and spirit that defines Abingdon. Unrestricted Funds: Flexibility in excellence While bursaries are a priority, unrestricted gifts are equally vital. They allow the Head and Governors to direct resources where they are most urgently required, whether that is supporting our bursary campaign, enhancing our Academic and Other Half programmes or upgrading facilities. How to Support Us: Every contribution, regardless of size, makes a meaningful difference to our pupils. Online Giving The quickest way to donate is via our secure online portal. You can donate a one-off gift or set up a Direct Debit in just a few clicks. Visit: connect.abingdon.org.uk/pages/donate-online The 110 Club and 1563 Society To discuss a more tailored commitment, such as joining our 110 Club (10% bursary support) or notifying us of your intent to join the 1563 Society, please contact our Development Office directly. Email: [email protected] Phone: 01235 849107/117 Maximise your gift with Gift Aid If you are a UK taxpayer, Abingdon can reclaim the basic rate of tax on your gift. This means for every £1 you give, the school receives £1.25 at no extra cost to you. As a higher rate (40%) or additional rate (45%) taxpayer, you can claim Income Tax relief on the difference between your tax rate and the basic rate (20%) on the gross value of your donation—reducing the net cost of your gift while allowing the charity to receive the full amount including Gift Aid. To find out more about how you can support the Abingdon Foundation, please contact: Alexa Broad Director of Development and Alumni Relations [email protected] +44 (0)1235 849117 Harriet Alderman Senior Development Manager [email protected] +44 (0)1235 849107
28 To find out more about how you can support Abingdon, please contact: Alexa Broad Director of Development and Alumni Relations [email protected] +44 (0)1235 849117 Harriet Alderman Senior Development Manager [email protected] +44 (0)1235 849107 Abingdon Schools Group: A company limited by guarantee. Registered in England and Wales. Registered Office: Park Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1DE, United Kingdom. Company No. 3625063 Registered Charity No. 1071298
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