The Portico
As I walk into school each day, it isn’t uncommon for me to think, I wish I was a pupil here. Whether it is seeing a poster advertising a new production in the Theatre, the stream of coaches outside the Gate of Honour to take teams to fixtures or overhearing the choir rehearsing in Chapel early on a Friday morning, there is a sense of purpose throughout the School. That Mill Hill is ‘Instilling Values and Inspiring Minds’, is evident every day.
In recent weeks, we bid farewell to our Upper Sixth Leavers at their Valedictory Service (pictured top right), the Chapel service concluded with the now traditional release of doves by our Senior Monitors. Both our Head Chorister and Leader of the Orchestra have been o ered Choral Scholarships at the University of Oxford and we wish them every success as they begin their next chapter.
The past few months have also been filled with a rich programme of events, from our Spring Concert to Careers Day, where pupils had the opportunity to meet Old Millhillians, industry professionals and university representatives to explore their future aspirations.
I hope this edition of The Portico gives you a glimpse into School life and more importantly, the impact of your support on the lives of our pupils.
Yours sincerely,
Lucia Hull Director of Development lucia.hull@mhsfoundation.co.uk
Valedictory May 2026
The Spring Concert
REFLECTIONS FROM THE CLASS OF 2026
As we say farewell to the Upper Sixth leavers of 2026, we wanted to share news of some of the Bursary Award Holders as they reflect on their achievements during their time in the School and their aspirations for the future.
Irrespective of the length of time spent in the Foundation, each pupil has made the most of the opportunities a Mill Hill education has a orded them, both in the classroom, and beyond. These impressive young people will undoubtedly continue to achieve great things, and we are excited to see what the future holds for them.
We wish them well and look forward to welcoming them back to the School very soon as valued members of the Old Millhillian community.
ALIYAH EASTERMAN
Mill Hill School (School 2021-2026)
SCHOLARSHIP Exhibition for Drama
DAY/BOARDER Day pupil
A LEVELS Art/Business Studies/Drama
INTERESTS Drama
ASPIRATIONS Degree Apprenticeship with Moore Kingston Smith in Accountancy
“The experiences and the opportunities I’ve had at Mill Hill have given me the confidence to find myself: what I like, what I’m good at and I know that will help me throughout my entire life.”
ANTONIO HARB
Mill Hill School (Ridgeway 2024-2026)
SCHOLARSHIP Alford House Scholar
DAY/BOARDER Weekly Boarder
A LEVELS Economics/Maths/Psychology
INTERESTS Christian Society Founder and Sport
ASPIRATIONS Taking a Gap Year with a view to studying Finance
“I often think about the identity of a Milllhillian and the idea of legacy; Millhillian passing onto Millhillian. Bursaries bring di erent perspectives and experiences into the School. They remind everyone that talent and potential exist everywhere, allowing people with di erent skill sets to contribute positively to the Mill Hill community.”
MAX WORSLEY
Mill Hill School (Burton Bank 2024-2026)
SCHOLARSHIP Saracens Partnership Programme
DAY/BOARDER Weekly Boarder
A LEVELS Physical Education/ Design Technology/French
INTERESTS Sport
ASPIRATIONS Professional Rugby player
“Mill Hill feels like a second home. It’s an honour to be a bursary holder and I’m just so grateful. The fact that someone cares about people like me, who they don’t even know, is incredible.”
ZAC JONES
Mill Hill School (Burton Bank 2024-2026)
SCHOLARSHIP Saracens Partnership Programme
DAY/BOARDER Weekly Boarder
A LEVELS B Tec Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport
INTERESTS Sport
ASPIRATIONS Professional Rugby player with Saracens or another top club
“When I arrived at Mill Hill, I was a lot more introverted, trying to learn from other people. Now, I feel very comfortable and I am thriving; knowing that people support me, and that I can, in turn, support others.
That someone has belief in me, enough to invest in my future, gives me hope.”
CHLOE KUET
Mill Hill School (Weymouth 2021-2026)
SCHOLARSHIP Sixth Form German Award
DAY/BOARDER Day pupil
A LEVELS Classics/German/History
INTERESTS Language Ambassador
ASPIRATIONS To read Classical Civilisation at University
“The Bursary programme allows pupils to flourish. Without a Bursary Award, I would not have been able to do the things that I’ve done, have the experiences I’ve had and to explore di erent avenues in education.”
ALFIE COX
Mill Hill School (Winfield 2021-2026)
SCHOLARSHIP McClure Scholar, Drama Award Exhibition in English and Maths
DAY/BOARDER Day pupil
A LEVELS English Literature/Digital Media/Drama
INTERESTS Drama
ASPIRATIONS Film Studies at York University
“Receiving the o er to stay at Mill Hill was like a dream come true. From my perspective, bursaries play a massive part in bringing talented people together. There’s diversity and di erent stories that inform and teach you how to co-exist; that’s very special.
If I look 10 or 15 years into the future, I’m excited to see to see how the School and the Bursary Programme continue to develop. There’s more to do but it’s very, very exciting.”
REMEMBERING
PETER WOODROFFE
2 AUGUST 1927 - 13 APRIL 2026
The late Peter Woodro e was a quintessential Old Millhillian in every way but one; he spent his entire school years in Cumbria, at St Bees, when Mill Hill evacuated there during the war. To his mind, boarding life in the north and the School CCF equipped him well for adult life; indeed, he always felt he owed much to the Mill Hill. In his words: “We all develop a love for our old school. In my case I feel indebted to it for my education, without which I would have achieved little.”
The passion Peter had for the School fuelled his desire to give back, taking shape in many ways; firstly, as Clerk to the Court of Governors and later through his support for the Mill Hill preprep fundraising campaign, raising £1 million towards its creation.
Peter was instrumental in establishing The 1807 Society. His idea was simple; to bring together likeminded Old Millhillians who had chosen to support the School through a gift in their Will. 15 years since the first lunch meeting, Peter's vision to better the lives of countless young Millhillians through this group which continues to grow.
Peter's significant contribution as a founding father of the 1807 Society was recognised at the most recent gathering of its members at Ironmongers' Hall. It was a fitting occasion to remember a genuine Mill Hill legend who has transformed the school and the lives of so many Millhillians.
Peter had recently published his autobiography. If you would like a copy, please contact the Development O ice.
We all develop a love for our old school. In my case I feel indebted to it for my education, without which I would have achieved little.
Peter Woodro e (Weymouth 1940-1945)
The 1807 Society Lunch May 2026
SUPPORTER SPOTLIGHT
At a recent reunion for Old Millhillians who attended the School in the 1950s, John Nelson (Murray, 1957–1962) spoke about the lasting impact Mill Hill has had on his life.
‘I have described myself as a rather passive Old Millhillian over the years. I went to the odd dinner, played Rugby and Cricket for the OMs. I have always had many OM friends, which in itself is a great testament to the School; but it is only recently that I have taken stock and realised what a wonderful springboard Mill Hill gave me for life.
The turning point was when I went to a Tony Fitzjohn Born Free lunch late last year. Gerry Westoby (Ridgeway 1956-1961) asked me to come to an Oakers lunch. I had resisted these over the years but thought “Come on John, life’s too short.” The rest is history as they say. At the lunch I sat opposite former Head Jane Sanchez. She invited me for lunch and a tour of the school.
As I entered the school reception, I immediately sensed something special about the place. Everyone I encountered looked happy, both young and not so young. All the pupils I met were polite, confident and respectful. In the Music School, the Careers Centre, the Sports Hall, the Theatre, everywhere we went, people looked enthusiastic in whatever they were doing. I came away from that day absolutely buzzing from what I had seen. Those five years I had spent at Mill Hill which had been almost dormant in my
mind suddenly came to the forefront. I realised just how lucky I had been and how many lifelong friends I had made.
It is a combination of how inspired I felt after my visit and the importance of the bursary programme which really make me want to give something back. My father could a ord to send both my brother and me to Mill Hill, so I was very fortunate. But I know many Old Millhillians who received a bursary (or Middlesex Scholarship as it was then) to come to Mill Hill and of course it completely changed the trajectory of their lives. For all these reasons I have decided to make a gift to the School and have also made a provision in my will to support the Bursary Endowment Fund and feel much better for it.’
John Nelson (Murray 1957-1962)
Tom Oxenham, Cli Rose, Stuart Hibberdine, Richard Bee, Murray Holmes and Michael Cohn at the 1950s Reunion
David North, Paul Reik and Peter Harris
REFLECTIONS FROM OUR SENIOR MONITORS
Foundation Day took place on Friday 19 June. Starting with a Chapel service, this is a chance for pupils and sta to look back in gratitude for what our founders and supporters made, and continue to make possible.
On the Quad, during the prize giving after Chapel, Senior Monitors shared what Mill Hill means to them. That two of the four Senior Monitors are Bursary Award Holders is a testament to the impact of your support and the di erence that opening the doors to pupils from all background makes not only to these individuals but to our entire school community.
Here are excerpts from two of the Monitors’ speeches on the day:
When I was thinking about what I am most proud of from my time at Mill Hill, it was not any one achievement that came to mind first. What stood out were the moments that made me feel part of something bigger than myself, and the people I shared them with.
One of those moments was winning the 6/10 Mile Cup this year. It was one of my proudest memories, not simply because we won, but because of what it represented about life at this School: the noise, the support, the excitement, and the feeling that everyone in the House had shared in it together. In that moment, I realised it was not really about the race or the result. It was about belonging. About feeling part of something and knowing that everyone around me felt that sense of belonging too.
Benji Large Senior Monitor
When I arrived at Mill Hill, I would not have recognised the person standing here speaking at Foundation Day today.
This School has given me the confidence to become more fully myself. My bursary opened a door, but it does not define my time here. What defines it are the friendships, opportunities and people who have supported me along the way. The culture of support is what makes Mill Hill so special and what has helped me become the person standing her today.
Maj-Britt Boatemaa Senior Monitor for Boarding
Our Poet Laureate wrote and performed a poem for the occasion:
THE TURNING PAGE
Today we reach the end of this long road, But really, it’s the start of something new, We’ve carried dreams and lessons as our load, And now new possibilities come into view.
These halls have seen us change and learn and grow, Through every challenge, setback, win, and try, The people that we’ve become now start to show, Prepared to spread our wings and learn to fly.
Ahead are paths we cannot fully see, New places, people, chances still unknown, Yet every step will shape who we will be, As confidence replaces what we’ve outgrown.
So as we leave, let’s see how far we’ll go; The seeds we planted here are set to grow.
Ben Carruthers Fifth Form
Poet Laureate
A GAME CHANGER FOR BELMONT
Old Belmontians, pupils and parents have come together in support of the new AstroTurf pitch at Belmont, already raising nearly £200,000. The spectacular Gala Dinner at StoneX Stadium, featuring national sporting icons and a live performance from Old Belmontian and multiaward-winning musician Jamie Hartman brought parents and Old Belmontians together. Alongside this, Belmont hosted a parent v sta Football tournament, Golf Day and Colour Run. Thank you for your generosity which will help create a facility that will benefit pupils, Old Millhillians and the wider community for generations to come. Preparatory groundworks will begin shortly, with construction of the new pitch planned for later this year. This has only been possible thanks to your support and opportunities that have since emerged for community lettings. There is still time to be part of this lasting legacy. Every gift of £200 or more will be recognised with a named brick on the pathway leading to the new pitch.
THE 2026 TELEPHONE CAMPAIGN
This summer, a group of Sixth Form pupils and recent leavers are reaching out to Old Millhillians and supporters as part of our 2026 telephone campaign.
Our callers are looking forward to hearing about your time at Mill Hill and your journey since, while sharing the latest news from The Ridgeway, and the impact philanthropic support continues to have across the School.
The telephone campaign remains an important part of our fundraising e orts, helping to support bursaries at Mill Hill. We hope you enjoy this opportunity to connect with pupils.
“This project is about unlocking potential, unlocking opportunity and enabling pupils to be the best version of themselves that they can be.”
Dr
Susannah Abbott Head
To find out more and pledge your support, visit millhill.co/gamechanger or scan the QR code.
Meet one of our callers...
“Hi, I’m Caroline, I’m in Upper Sixth and I study Mathematics, Economics and Geography. I’m Head Girl, a part of the 1st VII Netball squad and a proud member of School House. Being a part of this telephone campaign will help me pay forward all the privileges and opportunities I have received by attending Mill Hill. From specialist sports training to academic support on my successful application to the University of Oxford, to the beautiful grounds I’m so lucky to see everyday. I truly believe every child should be able to benefit from a Mill Hill education, no matter their background.”
Caroline M (School 2021 – 2026)
To meet the full team, scan the QR code below:
Parents and pupils taking part in the Colour Run
UPCOMING EVENTS
Southern Counties Lunch
Thursday 10 September, 12pm to 3pm
Coolham Manor, East Sussex
Cost: £35 to include lunch
Following the success of regional events in Oxford and Leeds, former Head and Associate Director of Development, Jane Sanchez and OM Mike Corby (Winterstoke, 1953-1958), invite Old Millhillians living in Surrey, Sussex and Kent to lunch at Coolham Manor, Coolham, West Sussex. The event provides an opportunity to hear updates from the School and the work of the Development O ice.
Act of Remembrance
Wednesday 11 November, 10am – 1.30pm
Mill Hill School
Join us for our annual Act of Remembrance to mark the sacrifices of Old Millhillians and masters in the service of their country during The Great War and subsequent conflicts. Old Millhillians will join pupils and sta for a ceremony in front of the Gate of Honour, including a two minute silence at 11am, before processing through the Gate and on to Chapel. Following the Chapel service a light lunch will be served.
Across the GenerationsCelebrating bursaries at Mill Hill since 1945
Wednesday 16 September, 12 to 3pm
Mill Hill School
Middlesex Scholars, those who attended Mill Hill on the Assisted Places Scheme or through the A Better Chance Bursary Programme, together with Top Terracers and Supporters, are invited to join us for lunch to celebrate over 80 years of support for transformational bursaries. Invitations will be sent out by post.
The Class of 1970 – 1973 Reunion
Saturday 10 October, 2-5pm
Mill Hill School
If you left Mill Hill between 1970 and 1973, you are invited back to School for tours, afternoon tea, to reminisce with school friends and hear the latest news from Mill Hill.
The 1807 Society Luncheon
Wed 18 November, 12 to 3pm
Mill Hill School
All those who have pledged a legacy gift to the school are invited to lunch with the Head. Invitations will be sent by post.
Benefactors’ Reception and Service of Nine Lessons and Carols
Thursday 10 December, 6-8pm
Mill Hill School
Join us for a wonderful end to the year with drinks, canapés and a traditional Service of Nine Lessons and Carols in the Chapel.