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Welcome From... Ms Garrett

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind of activity across our school community, with exam season bringing its usual mix of challenges. Focus, and determination have seen the Fifth and Middle Sixth give their all in the summer exams. Fergus, the health centre and Hughie's Puppy has been great support to the pupils with his cute, playful energy

It has been inspiring to see students rising to the occasion while also learning how to manage stress in healthy, positive ways. Taking mindful breaks, staying organised, and supporting one another have all played an important role in maintaining calm and wellbeing across the community

Alongside this, we have also enjoyed some fantastic moments together as a whole school community. International Picnic Day offered a chance for everyone to relax and connect, while our excellent Athletics Day saw all pupils fully involved, showing true Milton Abbey spirit The much-anticipated parents vs pupils matches were a huge success, filled with energy, laughter, and friendly competition The students are excitedly talking about the end of year trips, which is great way to end a successful year at Milton Abbey as a group

As we move forward, let us continue to prioritise balance, celebrate our achievements, and face each day with resilience and positivity.

UpTheAbbey!

Ms Garrett | Senior Nurse Manager

and out the

In Classroom

PublicSpeaking

Mr Crane's Third Form Public Speaking group went to the Abbey to present their speeches

The Abbey is a tremendous venue, for many reasons of course, but for Public Speaking, it provides an environment that requires steady pacing and voice projection and so it really allows us to build on our vocal skills The team this morning presented a wonderful variety of talks on topics close to their hearts and the lesson was a happy celebration of the individuals within this Third Form group

ChlorophyllChromatography

Lower Sixth completed A-level Biology Practical 7, investigating the separation of spinach chlorophyll pigments using thin-layer chromatography (TLC) They successfully adapted the method by using a centrifuge to separate plant solids from the chlorophyllcontaining supernatant, producing clear chromatograms Students were then able to identify the different pigments and calculate their Rf values accurately, demonstrating strong practical skills and a good understanding of the underlying biological principles

TriptoLondon

Our Fourth Form Fashion, Art, and Lower Sixth

Geography students enjoyed an inspiring trip to Brick Lane, connecting their classroom studies with real-world experiences

Fashion students attended the Graduate Fashion Show, taking part in an illustration workshop, learning about opportunities for young people in the industry, and watching a catwalk featuring award-winning designs from top UK fashion universities Art students explored creative careers and visited a record store, linking to their recent GCSE project on album artwork

Congratulations to Robbie K, Fifth Form, and Middle Sixth students, Harry M and Will W, who have provided unstinting service to the CCF since they arrived in the Third Form.

Cadet Staff Sergeant Will is our Senior Cadet and Robbie and Harry are both Cadet Sergeants We all thank them for their service, including helping the younger cadets and taking the lead in various exercises and adventurous training expeditions

PilotSpeedInterviews

Lower Sixth students have been applying for Pilot positions for the next academic year After presenting to the whole school in assembly about why they wanted to become a Pilot, they took part in a series of speed interviews with members of staff and Heads of School Their quick thinking, confidence and initiative were put to the test as they answered challenging questions within a minute before moving on to the next interviewer The process provided an excellent opportunity for students to develop their communication skills and demonstrate their suitability for the role

HospitalityAssessment

As part of their Contemporary World Food unit, the Lower Sixth students have explored key culinary concepts including seasonality, commodity sourcing, and the development of high-end restaurant menus.

Their brief was to design and deliver a menu to Rosettestandard restaurant expectations Each student was responsible for creating and refining a dish before taking part in a restaurant-style practical assessment, where they worked collaboratively as a professional kitchen brigade to produce and serve the menu

CREA

Every term is fun and unique and the summer term 2026 has been no exception.

Watch his video here

At this time of year the Middle Sixth are often working on their final fictional genre films, that final of 10 units across the BTEC film and television production course. This summer, Mr Ratcliffe would like to highly commend AY for his efforts in producing an ambitious sci-fi horror film that uses a range of layered visual effects Page - 06

We're currently working on manipulating footage from the movie back to the future and using visual effects to turn themselves into Marty McFly and other characters to create their own fun final sequence, watch this space to see what happens!

ATIVE

The Fourth Form Creative Media, Design and Technology class enjoyed an inspiring trip to London Highlights included visiting Battersea Power Station and riding Lift 109, where students learned about the landmark’s history and transformation into a vibrant modern destination They also took part in a business and media tour of Chelsea Football Club’s Stamford Bridge stadium, gaining valuable insight into the club’s operations

We’re Finalists!

We are delighted to share some exciting news that Mr Ratcliffe has been awarded Bronze in the Pearson NationalTeachingAwards -‘Unsung Hero’ category

At the end of the Lent term the Lower Sixth we ' re on a high having completed some of the most stunning stop motion animations we ’ ve seen But this term they've leaped to another level as they work towards producing an entry into The Childnet Film Competition 2026, a national film competition which Milton Abbey has had huge success in in recent years The theme for this year ’ s competition was: Smart tech, safe choices – exploring the safe and responsible use of AI, and we ’ re delighted that their film ‘Artificial Confidence’ has been selected as one of the top three finalists As a result, they have been invited to attend a special awards event at the Disney Head Office in Hammersmith, London on Wednesday 1 July The event promises to be a memorable occasion, featuring an impressive panel of judges from the film industry Unfortunately, our Lower Sixth students are unable to attend due to a scheduling conflict with their expedition to Cornwall, so Mr Ratcliffe will attend with some other pupil representatives Let's wish them all the best and we will be celebrating their achievements on the school speech day

Greg P, Lower Sixth has been very motivated this year, and you may have seen his efforts online with his production of the Parkrun film with Ed T. He has also been working on lots of other projects around school and it's great to see him so motivated and productive

SPORTING NEWS!

SPORTS DAY

A real highlight of the week was our Parents’ Sports Day, which brought together families for fixtures and activities across cricket, golf, tennis, mountain biking and athletics We were delighted to welcome so many parents and would like to thank everyone who attended and supported the day It was wonderful to see pupils sharing their sport with their parents, whether competing, participating or cheering from the sidelines, all in a fantastic atmosphere

These occasions are always a special part of the school calendar and are a wonderful reflection of the strength, spirit and community of Milton Abbey Thank you to all the parents, pupils and staff who helped make the day such a memorable success

Athletics Results

Boys' Competition

1st – Hambro (86)

2nd – Athelstan (85)

3rd – Tregonwell (82)

Girls' Competition

1st – Damer (66)

2nd – Hughie’s (65)

TENNIS

Before the Exeat weekend, Hambro, Tregonwell and Athelstan enjoyed a few rallies of House Tennis.

Senior Division 1:

FOOTBALL

The U16 girls took on Forres Sandle Manor The final score did not quite reflect the game, as it was very close going into the final stages before we conceded late on Lots of positives though A fantastic goal from Luise S, Third Form and Clara R, Lower Sixth, excellent throughout, and Rosie W, Lower Sixth outstanding in goal

A special mention to goes to Rosie Having never played football before, Rosie stepped up to help the team when a goalkeeper was needed Usually found in goal on the hockey pitch, she embraced the challenge of switching erformance

Final Positions:

=1st Athelstan & Hambro

CRICKET

GOLF

Congratulations to Sam M-A and Euan J, Middle Sixth, who were presented with their baggy MA cap by Mr Mitchell, Head of Cricket, in recognition of their tenth and eleventh appearance for the First XI, a fantastic achievement and a proud milestone in their cricketing journey

A really strong week for golf We played Bryanston and were excellent, winning every match to secure a comfortable overall victory It was a great opportunity to showcase our course, and the team represented the school superbly Special mention to Roco Toll for his excellent leadership as captain

Student Commendations

Ben B | Tregonwell

Ben B, Lower Sixth, consistently goes above and beyond in House, helping and being an excellent role model for the Lower School He is approachable and truly embraces the House values. Ben has rallied the house together for house events such as the time capsule and has represented the house for numerous creative competitions. Ben has played a pivotal role in welcoming new students into Tregonwell, being a buddy and being a friendly face

Gemma M, Fifth Form, has demonstrated strong focus in lessons and has shown a consistently positive approach to her learning this year. Her work has highlighted her growing confidence and developing understanding of mathematics, and she has shown enthusiasm and determination in ensuring her work is completed to a high standard

Tom H, Fourth Form, has demonstrated remarkable progress in developing his practical skills in Hospitality.

For his recent independent cooking assessment, Tom pushed himself in the time allowed to make his own fresh pasta and serve it with an extremely tasty bolognaise sauce. In the kitchen it is a joy just to watch him at work Tom emulates the best traits of a professional chef, being well organised, methodical and showing attention to the presentation of his food

Gemma M | Maths

Tom H | Hospitality

ACTIV WEEKEND

Miltonbury

Our annual Miltonbury Festival, our take on Glastonbury is a fantastic celebration filled with activities for everyone to enjoy

Students took part in zorb football, bouncy castles, face painting, football and a variety of games organised by each House, including the ever-popular Sponge the Teacher The festival also showcased musical performances from our talented students, making it a memorable day for the whole school community.

VITIES!

PavilionParty

Third and Fourth Form students enjoyed a summer party at the pavilion, with rounders, a bouncy castle, music and lots of pizza! They then had the opportunity to enjoy a range of on-site activities of tennis, gold and pétanque.

Life in Boarding

Life in boarding is always a busy one, with our evening and weekend activities programme.

With the start of a new year comes new, exciting activities for our students to get involved with

The Summer Term brings open swim, tennis, public speaking, touch rugby, cricket, chat and relax, as well as our much loved classics

Ms Fitzgerald, Mrs Savill and Ms Kleiser took their tutor group to the Hambro Arms for an end of year tutor meal trip.

Surrounded by beautiful green spaces and excellent facilities, our students have a wide range of ways to spend their evenings Every day offers new opportunities to pursue interests, develop skills, and relax with friends Sihle M, Middle Sixth, has been dedicating time to improving his tennis, while other students have enjoyed coming together in House to watch the World Cup

Damer welcomed it’s newest member, Tilly the tortoise!

Q &

W I T H M RS H A K I M Z A D E H

Q Who are you, what do you teach and how long have you been here?

My name is Genevieve Hakimzadeh, I am a qualified nurse, and I work in the health centre I started work here at Milton Abbey at the beginning of the summer term I have two sons, and a husband I used to work at Milton Abbey 15 years ago, I am thrilled to be back

Q Favourite memory of Milton Abbey?

My favourite memory of Milton Abbey is the relationships I built with the pupils and staff 15 years ago The atmosphere here is filled with fun, laughter, and a genuine sense of community, which is what inspired me to return Milton Abbey is a happy and welcoming place, and I am grateful to be part of it once again

Q Best and worst subjects when you were at school?

My best subjects when I was at school were biology and geography I was not a fan of maths!

Q What advice do you give to our students?

My advice to our students is to make the most of every moment Enjoy every interaction, embrace every opportunity, and approach each challenge with an open mind Be fully present, whether you ' re in Chapel, Congo, or simply spending time with friends These are the experiences and memories you will cherish long after you leave It may seem like a long journey when you start in Third Form, but there are only 15 terms until you finish in Middle Sixth, and the time passes remarkably quickly Make every term count

Q What book, play or film would you recommend on every student’s bucket list?

A book I would highly recommend to students is Atomic Habits It offers practical, accessible advice on building positive habits, developing consistency, and making small improvements that compound over time The principles in the book are highly relevant to school life, helping students improve their study routines, manage their time effectively, and achieve long-term goals More importantly, the lessons extend far beyond the classroom, providing valuable guidance for university, careers, and everyday life

Q What don’t we know about you?

Before joining Milton Abbey, I worked in intensive care at Poole Hospital Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, and snowboarding is a particular passion of mine I love the challenge, adventure, and sense of freedom it brings

School Nurse

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Henry L, Third Form, has been enjoying is evening free time in the gym

Third Form Adventure enjoying sailing in Portland, working on their resilience

Plans are under way for the new hospitality kitchen in Fa1

News & Updates

Keep up to date on school news by visiting our news page on the

ACTING AND PUBLIC SPEAKING TUITION

We are delighted to announce that Paul Lawless will become the school’s ‘Visiting Actor’ from September 2026.

Paul will be supporting the Performing Arts / Drama department, and the ‘New Barn Theatre Company’, from September across the range work we do and will also be at school to offer personalised, individual performance and public speaking tuition as part of our ‘LAMDA’ programme

Sessions are suited to both those with and without prior performing or public speaking experience Sessions can be tailored to your interests, goals and ambitions. For more information, please speak to Mr Lucas craig.lucas@miltonabbey.co.uk.

NEW HOSPITALITY KITCHEN

As you may have seen on our social media, work is now underway on our new hospitality kitchen.

While construction has already begun, we still need funding to purchase essential equipment, including ovens, work tables, sinks, and chairs. Please see the poster on the left for details of the items we require and how you can contribute towards each one

Any donation, large or small, will help us complete this exciting project and provide our students with a modern, fully equipped learning environment

We would be extremely grateful for your support in helping us bring this kitchen to life

Please donate here

School Community

International Picnic Day

To celebrate International Picnic Day, the whole school gathered for a picnic at lunchtime on the grounds behind the Abbey With blankets, bean bags, chairs, delicious food and a game of croquet, everyone enjoyed the sunshine while spending time and chatting with friends before the Exeat weekend

Alfie C’s Fundraiser

We are incredibly proud of Alfie C, Fourth Form who on 22 June will be taking on an extraordinary golfing challenge to raise money for Cardiac Risk in the Young (CRY)

Alongside three friends, Alfie will play 72 holes of golf in a single day, starting at 4am The challenge is particularly meaningful as Alfie is fundraising in memory of his father and in support of the charity that has helped him and his family following his father's sudden cardiac arrest

We wish Alfie and his friends the very best of luck and would be grateful for any support for this wonderful cause. To read Alfie's story and donate, please see his GoFundMe page

Thank A Teacher Day

To celebrate our wonderful teaching staff, students in Athelstan House have been writing thank you messages to show their appreciation to everything they do.

Lower Sixth students Greg P and Ed T, made a video to thank Mr Ratcliffe after he won bronze for the National Pearson Teaching Awards as a ‘Unsung Hero’

To watch their fantastic video,please scan the QR code here

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DATES F YOUR

The Milton Abbey Story

Mr Ratcliffe’s book is available to purchase on Amazon, the only illustrated book that tells the story of Milton Abbey, blending history with a light touch suitable for younger readers from age seven through to the history curious adult. Written and illustrated by James Ratcliffe, a teacher at Milton Abbey School, this book promises an engaging journey through history.

Sunday 21 June

Wednesday 24 June

Saturday 27 June

Monday 29 June