Welcome From... Dr Bradbury
Those easy days "under the apple boughs about the lilting house and happy as the grass was green " are now perhaps behind us and the annual kaleidoscope of autumn colour now abounds And so it is for the school life: carefree no more, with tough challenges on the way, but a multitude of colour to be celebrated as the pupils embark on new courses, try new things, find new strengths and embrace new challenges
For some this has been the challenge of a new school with new rhythms and new kinds of teaching, and the staff have relished getting to know each and every one of our new pupils over these past weeks For others, new courses and new levels of complexity and challenge have greeted them and it has been a real pleasure to see each of our pupils rising to the challenge, engaging with learning which will underpin their academic grades, but also hopefully stay with them long after they leave us, setting them up for a life of learning and enjoyment For all though, we are now heading into the heart of the academic year, with courses moving quickly, major BTEC units nearing completion, and, for some, exams on the immediate horizon.
Steady momentum is now the key. For the Fifth form and the Middle Sixth, we have a full set of mocks on our return from half term.
This will provide a good catalyst to focus minds and draw attention to the end goal, which though it seems now distant, is closer than they think Their teachers will provide advice and guidance and we will of course be there to help them adjust to the rigours of the exam room, but it is also a time for the pupils to start building the independent approach to work that will be vital for success at the end of the year
It's not all nose to the grindstone, however, and it has been great to see pupils heading out of their classrooms and taking their learning into new spaces Milton Abbey pupils have, amongst other things, managed a live game show broadcast; visited a zoo to investigate the world's last remaining species of wild horse; headed out to visit galleries and fashion shows; attended life drawing workshops; put on challenging drama; explored the BBC studios; and, as you read this, taken flight to northern climes to explore the wonders of Iceland. I hope that as they head into half term for a well-deserved rest, they can take this spirit of investigation and experiential learning with them, ready to return, renewed and brimming with new knowledge with which to enrich their studies.
Dr Bradbury | Deputy Head Academic and Head of Sixth Form
UpTheAbbey!
In The Classroom
MIXEDMEDIA
Art students have been exploring the exciting world of mixed media portraiture, combining drawing, painting, collage, and texture to express individuality and emotion
Students have experimented with layering materials, bold colour choices, and expressive mark making to bring their portraits to life, each piece showcasing a unique design.
It’s been fantastic to see such confidence, imagination, and curiosity developing in their work
EQUINEMANAGEMENT
Ms Ruckley and Mrs Da Silva took the BTEC Level 3 Equine Management students to Marwell Zoo and the New Forest The students looked at Przewalski horses, the closest to prehistoric breeds that we can currently study before they evolved to our modern day breeds The students are studying equine behaviour and were able to compare natural habitat behaviour against domesticated horse behaviour
ANAEROBICFERMENTATION
A Level Biology students, Rocco T and Sol B, Middle Sixth, have produced cider to demonstrate the process of anaerobic fermentation in yeast
As consumption of the cider is not permitted, alongside Mr Anderson, sought to confirm the presence of alcohol by distilling the liquid to obtain pure ethanol The distilled ethanol can then be used for further experimental investigations
LANGUAGESPROJECT
Third Form students are now starting their second ASDAN Languages project, working towards a globally recognised certificate. Milton Abbey offers French and Spanish at GCSE and A Level, with opportunities for native speakers to take exams in languages like Chinese, Russian, and Italian
With language learning in decline nationally, we ’ re proud to keep it thriving through dynamic lessons, cultural experiences, certificates, and upcoming overseas trips
LEARNINGDEVELOPMENT
Dyslexia is a set of processing difficulties that affect the acquisition of reading and spelling At Milton Abbey School, we encourage and promote students to make use of the technological aids that support dyslexia such as dictate for writing and audio text for reading.
Alongside this, we also run specific learning development lessons that provide that all important multisensory approach to learning As we recognise Dyslexia Awareness Week (6-12 October), it's an opportunity to celebrate the strengths of dyslexic learners and raise awareness of the support available to help them thrive
YOUTHELECTIONS
We had the pleasure of welcoming Ms Browne, Youth Officer from the Dorset Council, who introduced us to the UK Youth Parliament Elections. From understanding how the voting process works, to exploring how to stand out as a candidate, it was an inspiring and informative session.
Exciting opportunities ahead for Milton Abbey's young voices to be heard!
E LGN
The English Department have been incredibly busy getting creative with National Poetry Week.
In assembly, Mrs Baney, Head of English, was accompanied by three A-Level English students, Adam H, Lower Sixth and Middle Sixth students, Fran P and Conor B, who spoke to the whole school about the Milton Abbey poetry competition
This is an opportunity for every single member of the Milton Abbey community, from pupils to staff, to harness their creative natures and write and submit a poem of their own for adjudication.
The theme for this year is “Play” and so each poem needs to centre on this topic, however as we all know, poetry allows for the individual components of our language to be assembled in a myriad of way to best communicate the poet’s intended message
More information about this competition can be found on our news and information page
H I LS
Fifth Form have begun composing their poems with English Teacher, Mr Crane
A Level English Literature students enjoyed a trip to the Marine Theatre to watch a production of Jane Eyre. Before the performance, they dined by the seafront in Lyme Regis, just steps away from the town's iconic fossil beach.
0 Bright beams of life, the dawn of existence
5 joys
10 screeching and squeals of exultation, a symphony of innocence
15 numbers lie ahead, crossroads of destiny mapping my future
20 adventures, journeying the globe, searching for my purpose
25 Flower blossoming within my hear, symphonies playing as I walk the white walk
30 younger versions of myself, painting the pictures of my past
35 the suns daily rise drawing forward unfamiliar bliss, each setback only a gentle rain
40 a deep trench has appeared and swallowed my heart leaving only a dark void of despair - the green eyes he gave me now clouds gushing tears
45 Soul fractured, cut deep, the haemorrhage held back by a thin veneer of hope
50 new perspectives, rebirth, my flame re lit, my soul ablaze
Fifth Form English students are diving into ‘An Inspector Calls’ as part of their IGCSE Literature coursework. Essay planning is underway and creativity is flowing.
55 my personal puzzle gifted new pieces and a picture slowly forming
60 seeds sprouting - my babies - feeling the pride I once felt
65 endowing my virtues to those after me, my legacy taking root
70 Gentle winkles of wisdom, lines of laughter etched in my skin
75 the quiet moments, sipping tea, reflecting on battles won and lost
80 halves of myself torn away at the climax of a taxing battle
85 a defining new quiet, dimming my flame but igniting peace
90 my mind, held back by the being of my body
95 familiar strangers showing their faces
100 conclusion
0 welcoming chills engulfing me Stripping my flaws and merits
Nothing more
SPORTING NEWS!
FOOTBALL
The 1st XI kicked off their Dorset Schools County Cup campaign with a solid 2–1 win over Queen Elizabeth School, with goals from Lower Sixth duo Zach A and Phanuel A Captain, Euan J, Middle Sixth, earned Man of the Match.
The U15A team impressed with a 3–1 win over King’s College Taunton, thanks to standout performances from Third Formers Ted W and William C, and Fourth Former Jago B.
In the ISFA U15 Cup, our Junior team made history with a brilliant win over Marlborough College, reaching Round Three for the first time. Every player contributed to a superb all-round performance, too many standouts to name just one
Meanwhile, the 1st XI edged a thrilling 4–3 win over Cranleigh in the ISFA Shield Trailing 3–0 at half-time, second-half goals from Euan J, Phanuel A, and Zach A completed a stunning comeback
Discover more about our Elite Football programme here
HOCKEY
The 1st XI hockey team delivered a commanding 3–0 win over Queen Elizabeth School Claudia B, Middle Sixth, led the charge with two goals, while Elena T, Middle Sixth, added a third The team’s composure and cohesion were outstanding, with Claudia named Player of the Match Great performance from the team
The Juniors took on Ballard School and came away with a wellearned 2–1 victory. The team displayed excellent teamwork and strong defensive play, with a standout goal from Kitty N, Fourth Form.
RUGBY
The Junior Rugby team maintained their strong start to the season with a fantastic 32–14 victory away at Dauntsey’s
The team put on an excellent performance, with standout tries from Seth B, Lower Sixth, Austin N, Fourth Form, and Charlie G, Fourth Form Freddie F, Fourth Form, added points with conversions, rounding off a dominant team effort Congratulations go to Robenson C, Fourth Form, Robbie K, Fifth Form, Jovie C, Lower Sixth, and Seth B also in Lower Sixth, who were all named Players of the Match The Juniors then faced Sexey’s school and won 39-26, with some great play from Fifth Form students, Bear H, Arthur and Billy H
The 1st XV Rugby team battled hard in a fiercely fixture against Leweston showing grit and determination throughout Their teamwork and resilience were outstanding Despite a narrow defeat, the students be proud of a display full of heart and character Fantastic play from Charlie H, Middle Sixth and Rory S, Lower Sixth
Congratulations to Maggie H-G, Fifth Form, for her fantastic performance at the Moreton Equestrian Centre, where she competed in the 80–85cm show jumping class and secured 1st place!
Maggie has now qualified once again for the NSEA Championships at Hickstead, alongside her horse, Huckleberry.
GOLF
Some of our golf players enjoyed a day at the Isle of Purbeck Golf Course to support the Willdoes! charity This charity is close to our hearts and it empowers young people across Dorset and beyond to thrive and achieve wellbeing Sofia G-R, Fourth Form, Alex M, Lower Sixth and Rocco T, Middle Sixth, performed brilliantly in the competition
We hosted Sherborne School in a higher handicappers fixtures and came out on top Pablo J, and Alex M, Lower Sixth, secured a 2&1 win, Gio M, and Egor S, Middle Sixth, halved their match and George R and Josh W, Middle Sixth, clinched victory on the final hole
Our first ever House Night Golf was a success with neon lights and glow in the dark balls Well done to Hambro who won in the boys’ competition and Hughie’s who took victory for the girls
The Clay Pigeon Shooting Team enjoyed a sporting clay challenge at Marlborough College against 40 other schools
Student Commendations
Erin W | Criminology
Erin W, Lower Sixth, consistently produces a high quality standard of written work which is well researched She is always engaged and focused in lessons, asking good questions to further her own understanding
Gabe DB | Science
Gabe was awarded pupil of praise for Science due to his strong natural interest and ability in biology, which he shows consistently in lessons He produced outstanding work during a microscopy investigation, clearly demonstrating his understanding of intracellular structures Most impressively, he achieved a grade 8 in his recent assessment - well above his target
Robenson C | Maths
Robenson C, Fourth Form, has shown a keen interest in Economics and an intellectual curiosity within the class to both demonstrate his knowledge and extend it beyond the current discussion to further his understanding. He is enthusiastic and participates well in the classroom
GCSE Photography students have been exploring the creative potential of the 50mm lens, experimenting with how aperture and depth of field can completely transform an image
ACTIV WEEKEND
HOUSEMUSIC
Saturday night was a huge cause for celebration, with the highly anticipated annual House Music event The solo pieces were fantastic: Kitty N, Fourth Form, blew the room away with Never Enough from The Greatest Showman for Hughie’s Grace L, Middle Sixth, represented Damer with a lovely rendition of Burn from Hamilton Hambro’s Leonard K, Fourth Form, performed a traditional piece in German and Tobes B, Fourth Form, impressed for Tregonwell by singing Stay by Rihanna The winner, and stand out performance of the category however, was Harry C, Lower Sixth, who stunned the school with a brilliant solo performance of Sparks by Coldplay, playing acoustic guitar beautifully, and taking the points for Athelstan
We moved then to ensemble pieces from all five Houses Up first were Tregonwell’s group, with Aziz A, Middle Sixth, on vocals ably supported by Middle Sixth students, Neo T, Sam M-A, Will W (drums) and Harry M on keyboard performing Happy by Pharrell Williams Next up were Hughie’s Middle Sixth with The Best Song Ever by One Direction: Fran P, Olivia B, Leila P, Claudia B, Elena T, Teresa K and Phoebe K had a fabulous job dance routine and gave it their all Hambro in cowboy hats, sang Old Town Road by Lil Nas X, well represented by Middle Sixth students, Rafa RVD, Jayden E and AY A, and Lower Sixth students, Tom T, Phanuel A and Ini A with conducting from Sean E We were treated to Rihanna’s Umbrella by Damer, with an enthusiastic routine including branded umbrellas, from Middle Sixth students, Mazarine M, Iman T, Anisha M, Eliza GDC, Estee V, and Lower Sixth, Alize EK, Ila K, Muriel T, Hannah P and Laure V Athelstan smashed a performance of Careless Whisper by George Michael, with outstanding performances from Lower Sixth students, Khalid A on vocals, Harry C on vocals and guitar, Alex M on keyboard, Tevin N on drums and Charlie H, Middle Sixth on guitar
Finally, the whole House song category, much anticipated and well-rehearsed Double points go to this category, for things like timing and togetherness, everyone in the House being involved, innovation in the performance and general enthusiasm We had four retro song choices: ABBA’s Mamma Mia musical was popular, with performances of Money Money Money from Damer, and Super Trouper from Hambro, both real crowd pleasers! Athelstan wanted to break free with their rendition of Queen’s iconic song and Tregonwell gave a smooth performance of Grease (is the word) However, it was an exceptional performance of You’re Never Fully Dressed Without a Smile by Hughie’s from the 2014 Annie musical that won hearts and points and stole the category So, with Athelstan leading the pack for the solo and ensemble categories, closely followed olo category and Tregonwell in the ensemble category, the overall winner of the night was
View the full gallery here
VITIES!
PAINTBALLING
Students ventured to the nearby woodlands to shoot each other with paintballs mercilessly The students played four games and included students from all year groups across the teams. Everyone had lots of fun and returned home with lots of great stories to tell and bruises to show!
SIXTHFORMSOCIAL
Athelstan joined Hughie’s for an American themed frat party, organised by the Head of Houses, where students enjoyed pizza and danced into the night Meanwhile, Damer hosted Hambro and Tregonwell for a lively fancy dress celebration featuring a Chinese buffet The festivities later moved to Tregonwell House, where a DJ kept the energy high and the party going well into the evening.
Life in Boarding
Life in boarding is always a busy one, with our evening and weekend activities.
Athelstan House enjoyed an evening of tapas and Spanish delights, courtesy of Mrs Le Gassick The padron peppers and patatas bravas were standout favourites among the students!
Mr Olufunwa treated his Sixth Form students to a trip out to Southampton for the BBAM (Black Business, Art and Music) Festival to celebrate Black History Month
Sunday Activities: Making slime! Students enjoyed experimenting with colour and texture to create their own slime
Q &
W I T H M S R I C H A R D SO N
Q Who are you, what do you teach and how long have you been here?
My name is Ms Richardson (Ms Rich) and I teach Criminology and Learning Development This is my fourth year at Milton Abbey School, and I have just transitioned over to Tregonwell House as Assistant Housemaster, from Hughie’s House, where I was the Resident Tutor for two years
Q
Favourite memory of Milton Abbey?
One of my favourite memories of being at Milton Abbey School has to be the barge trip in my first year as Resident Tutor in Hughie’s, as our residential house trip. Mr Vigar was the interim Housemaster at the time, and he surprised us all by booking an obscure trip where I was to lead a group of students on a barge, having never stepped foot on one before I have never laughed so much, and it stays with me because I didn’t think I would be able to do it, but I did!
Q Best and worst subjects when you was at school?
My best subjects at school were History, Geography, PE (Physical Education), and English Language, as I always enjoyed learning about the world, staying active, and expressing myself through writing On the other hand, my worst subjects were Maths and Chemistry
Q What advice do you give to our students?
The advice I often give to my students is that there is nothing more powerful that knowing and understanding yourself! It’s only then that you can tell others what you need and how you work in all aspects of your life
Q What book, play or film would you recommend on every student’s bucket list?
It is a hard one for me to choose just one book because I love to read I think the book that has made me question things the most, and above all others, has to be ‘Invisible Women’ by Caroline Criado Perez
Q What don’t we know about you?
One thing you may not know about me is that before I became a teacher, I served as a Metropolitan Police Officer It was a challenging and rewarding role that gave me invaluable experience, which I now bring into the classroom every day
Page - 15
Our Pilots enjoyed a leadership training session with Head of Boarding, Mr Peel
Round Square dog walk activity, took a trip up to St Catherine’s Chapel
Lower School enjoyed a roller disco night as part of their weekend activities
Some of our sailing team enjoyed a training session as part of their sporting choice
Damer House made a delicious apple crumble dessert for all to enjoy
Third Form Coasteering activity as part of our Adventure Programme
News & Updates
POETRYCOMPETITION
Keep up to date on school news by visiting our news page on
Mrs Baney, Head of English, is excited to announce a poetry competition open to all students, staff, and parents. Write a poem inspired by the theme of ‘Play’, this could link to the annual theme or take on your own unique interpretation Poems can be in any form: free verse, rhyming couplets, sonnets, whatever suits your style and creativity
Open to: Students, staff, and parents
Style: Any poetic form, any length
Prizes: Awarded for the best entries
House Points: Earn points for every entry with bonus points for winners
Deadline: Wednesday 5 November (after half-term)
How to enter:
Email your poem to Mrs Baney at karen baney@miltonabbey co uk
Make sure your poem includes your name and House (or your child’s name if you ' re a parent submitting)
LOWERSIXTHTRIP
Lower Sixth students are invited to attend an academic trip to What University? What Career? on Friday 14 November This is an exciting opportunity to explore courses and apprenticeships that may be of interest to you after Middle Sixth For more information and to sign up, please email Mrs Monaghan, Head of Careers (leonie monaghan@miltonabbey co uk)
CHRISTMASCARDCOMPETITION
Get creative and design this year ’ s official Milton Abbey Christmas Card Your artwork could be printed and sent out by the school this festive season. Competition Rules and Guidelines:
1 Format Options - You may choose one of the following sizes for your design: 148mm x 148mm (square format)
A6 landscape – 148mm (w) x 105mm (h) (postcard size)
2 Medium - You can use any medium ; drawing, painting, collage, photography, or digital design Be original and festive
3 Theme - Your design should reflect the spirit of Christmas ; this could include winter scenes, celebrations, peace, togetherness, or traditional imagery
4 Submission Requirements - Designs must be your own original work, and you can submit into both size formats Please ensure the original artwork, is clearly labelled with your name and year group, or a high-quality scan or photograph of your work (if created by hand) Digital entries should be sent to Mr Lynn, Mrs Burton, Mr Lukosius, or Ms Noble Physical entries can be handed in to any member of staff in the Art Department.
All entries must be received by Friday 7 November.
Entries will be judged on creativity, visual impact, and originality Winning designs will be featured in the school magazine, entered into Boarding Schools Association competition and printed as the official Milton Abbey Christmas cards
School Community
As a small by choice school, we take time to make sure that every student is known, noticed and nurtured.
The Gardening Club have been busy bringing areas of the school back to life with a touch of green as part of their Round Square IDEALS activities, focussing on the environment.
We marked Mental Health Awareness Day with a focus on connection, conversation, and kindness, the values at the heart of our school.
From a whole-school wellbeing walk to a relaxed “cake and chat” session, kindly organised by the Health Centre team, students and staff took time to pause, connect, and support one another.
For Black History Month, Juanita S-M, Lower Sixth , made a video talking about the importance about understanding heritage and yourself. The video featured clips from all our students.
After
DATES F YOUR
The Milton Abbey Story
diary
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.
Friday 17 October
Wednesday 5 November
Friday 7 November
Saturday 8 November
Sunday 9 November
Friday 14 November
Saturday 15 November
Wednesday 19 November
Thursday 20 November
| Third Form Parent Consultations & Iceland Residential Trip
| Third Form Parent Consultations
| Art Workshop with Darrell Wakelam
| Deadline for Christmas Card Submissions & Guy Fawkes Celebrations
| Remembrance Service
| Lower Sixth Trip to What University?
| Sports Scholarship Assessment Day - Register Here
| Lower Sixth Parents’ Dinner
| Lower Sixth Parent Consultations and Exeat
Ben R , Middle Sixth, dressed up for the Sixth Form social
Keep up to date with school news by following our social media channels
We will be posting updates from our Geography trip to Iceland
www.miltonabbey.co.uk
