Gazette 2024 - 2025

From the Headmistress

Welcome to the 2024/2025 edition of the Gazette. On reflection, this past academic year has been a fulfilling one at Wycombe Abbey and there is much to be proud of. In the following pages, you will find highlights from the many activities and achievements of our community, whether on the stage or the sports field, working hard for charitable causes or engaging in leadership training, travelling abroad or simply enjoying time at School with friends.

The Autumn Term included Bonfire Night with its spectacular fireworks display, a moving Remembrance Day service led by our new Chaplain, Padre Paul Stanaway, and the Archer Concert. The annual Headmistress’ Christmas Lecture was given by Victoria Prentis, former Attorney General and MP for Banbury, who delivered a fascinating talk on human rights. In the Spring Term, we held our first Giving Day, raising money for our libraries and celebrating reading – something of a passion for girls and staff at Wycombe Abbey. You can read more about this successful initiative on page 136. A particular highlight for me was the renaming of Junior Library as the Hall Library, after the former Headmistress,

Lady Cynthia Hall. Lady Hall joined me to talk with the Lower School about children’s literature and our favourite books, as well as sharing memories of her time at Wycombe Abbey.

Our Independent Schools Inspection took place in March 2025 and we were delighted with the outcome – in particular, the acknowledgement of mixed-age boarding as a significant strength of the School.

The report states:

‘Pupils develop self-confidence and selfesteem from the frequent opportunities presented by living and working alongside pupils of different ages. The consequent

growth in pupils’ emotional wellbeing, and the extent of their awareness of and respect for others is a significant strength of the school.’

As our 2020–2025 Strategic Direction comes to an end, we are now looking ahead to the next five years. Our new Strategic Direction (2025–2030) has been published in line with our stated vision which is ‘to be at the forefront of girls’ boarding education and recognised globally as a world-class school’ and I am excited to build on all that has been achieved to date.

Mrs Jo Duncan Headmistress

School Positions 2024/2025

HEAD GIRL TEAM

Head of School: Frances Balkan-White

Deputy Heads of School: Isabella Butler and Lara Davies

HEADS OF HOUSES

Junior: Genevieve Donald

Airlie: Sasha Semark-Masters

Barry: Estelle D’Souza

Butler: Chloe Jones

Campbell: Jane Law

Cloister: Alice Moser

Pitt: Todi Bamisaye and Margot Evans

Rubens: Maria McMullan

Shelburne: Radha Haria

Wendover: Kitty Kenyon

Chairmen of Clarence: Amelia Sallybanks, Chung Yu Kwok, Maya Thompson and Laeticia Trotabas

SCHOOL PREFECTS

School Sports Captain: Emily Warrack

Charity Prefects: Grace Ren and Riana Karia

Music Prefect: Francesca Cockroft

Drama Prefects: Judea Olagundoye and Madeline Tyrer

School Artist: Cara He

School Almoners: Alison Chiu, Tess Ebert Max-Lino

Lower School Prefects: Cassandra Cope, Kate Hsu, Leanna Li, Eve Pinsent, Valentina Pucci, Esther Smith and Daphne Xuan

Upper School Prefects: Esme Bartlett, Linda Cai, Millie Di Vito, Margot Evans, Judy Li and Serena Falzon Sant Manduca

Lower Sixth Prefects: Neda Aryan and Abila Bian

SCHOOL OFFICERS

Heads of Orchestra: Sophia Bong and Gloria Chang

School Pianist: Sophia Bong

Head of Choir: Francesca Cockroft

MUN Secretary General: Ava Preston

MUN Deputy Secretary General: Maya Thompson

MUN Secretariates: Issy Duncan, Ambika Crawford and Ahana Kotibhaskar

Debating Officers: Maya Abebe and Alicia Yau

Digital Officers: Bea Nield and Rebecca Turnock

Diversity and Inclusion Officers: Sydney Diao and Christine Nam

Poet Laureate: Polly von Schmieder

Sustainability Officers: Bea Nield and Sydney Diao

School Librarians: Cecily Taylor and Sasha Kochman

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Officer: Milly Thomas

School Photographer: Bella Zhang

Wellbeing Officer: Farah Malik

Learning Enhancement Mentors: Aoife Hopson, Madeline Tyrer and Georgie Larard

Scholarships 2025

Wycombe Abbey is pleased to announce the award of the following Scholarships for September 2025:

11+ ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS AND EXHIBITIONS

Allegra Lavatelli – Dove Scholarship (Garden House School)

Mia Park – Wycombe Abbey Open Scholarship (North London Collegiate School Jeju)

Grace Zhou – Academic Exhibition (Elstree School)

13+ ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Serena Chandler – William Barnes Scholarship (Wycombe Abbey)

Lizzie Xu – Lancaster Scholarship (Wycombe Abbey)

11+ MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Emily Iwabuchi – Violin and Piano (The British School in Tokyo)

13+ MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS AND EXHIBITIONS

Celeste Fodor Magnen – Music Scholarship, Euphonium and Double Bass (Putney High School)

Natalie Jiang – Music Exhibition, Cello (Bilton Grange School)

16+ MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS

Elizabeth Chwu – Flute (Benenden School)

Genevieve Donald – Choral Scholarship (Wycombe Abbey)

Kelly Huang – Oboe and Piano (Wycombe Abbey)

Academic Excellence

This year has been filled with academic accomplishments for Wycombe Abbey girls. Pupils from UIII to UVI have had the chance to explore their interests, develop as learners and share their enthusiasm for their intellectual passions. A strong emphasis on developing our five Academic Qualities has led to a wide range of approaches in the classroom. In this section of the Gazette, you will discover some of the exciting experiences that have shaped our girls’ studies.

Miss Emily Boswell

Pupils Take the Lead:

Wycombe Abbey’s First Pupil-Devised Mock Trial

This academic year, we have had the exciting opportunity to step into the role of creators and judges for Wycombe Abbey’s latest mock trial. With guidance from Mr FitzGerald, we co-wrote and organised Mock Trial IV – the first in our School’s history to be entirely pupil-devised.

October’s Mock Trial III set the tone for the year’s theatrics, bringing the courtroom (Fisher Library) to life by acquitting the Deputy Head Girl of stealing musical instruments from the Lancaster Arts Centre. Statistical analysis of attendance records played an important part in the jury’s decision.

Having previously taken part as barristers over the last few years, working behind the scenes to lead Mock Trial IV was a unique and rewarding challenge. Our writing process blended creative exploration with careful planning. We wanted to keep the trial grounded in legal plausibility whilst also building an engaging and compelling mystery. Inspired by the calling cards of Conan Doyle’s Dancing Men, our idea gradually developed into a layered scenario. From brainstorming plot twists to building interconnected character backstories, watching it come alive through the performances of our witnesses was one of the most gratifying parts of the experience.

In early January, graffiti-covered walls and mysterious black origami doves popping up around the premises set the stage for the mock trial. These visual touches teased a case centred on the Black Dove Society, a clandestine gambling ring accused of manipulating the outcomes of sporting fixtures for profit. The trial featured a range of intriguing witnesses, including the notable Mr Harrington as a freelance ‘transformational life coach’, as well as more reliable specialists, teachers and pupil witnesses alike. Following two polished cases presented by our prosecution and defence barristers, the jury acquitted the defendants, redirecting suspicion to another revenge-driven suspect.

Beyond the outcome, Mock Trial IV was first and foremost a joint endeavour shaped by critical thinking, risk-taking, and a commitment to bringing a pupil-led vision to life with depth, nuance, and originality. Above all, it reminded us how much can be achieved when pupils are given space to lead, create, and collaborate.

Annika and Catherine UV

UV Visit World War One Battlefields in France

At the end of September, UV took a two-day trip to the World War One battlefields in France. This was a truly unforgettable experience that allowed us to gain a sense of the enormity of the war and how many places, countries and people were involved. We visited the sunken lane at Beaumont-Hamel, learned about loss at the Newfoundland Memorial Park, and gained insight into the immense sacrifice made by the soldiers at the Ulster Tower. The Thiepval Memorial was the most poignant of all. With the support and help of my guides and teachers, I found my relative’s name among the tens of thousands inscribed. This pilgrimage was an emotional and powerful experience, not only for me but for everyone. As the Last Post played and poems were read, we felt the weight of the lives lost and the importance of appreciating and remembering them. The next day we visited locations around Arras, including the Arras Flying Services Memorial, Vimy Ridge, and a German cemetery. Each location allowed us to view the war from a different perspective, but the location I found the most striking was the German cemetery due to its stark contrast with everything seen before. Lastly, we descended deep into war tunnels at the Wellington Quarry Museum before ending the trip at the Ring of Remembrance, a tribute to the countless lives lost.

Isla UV

The Trenches Trip was an unforgettable experience that allowed us to connect with history on a personal level, reminding us of the courage and sacrifice made by so many. We will remember them.

Photo and Film Competition

The History Department was thrilled to receive an impressive number of entries for this year’s UV Trenches Trip Photo and Film Competition. To acknowledge the effort and enthusiasm of each participant, every pupil who entered has been awarded a commendation. After careful review, the Department selected a winner and runner-up in each of the three categories.

• Telling the Story of the First World War: Eloise (winner), Isla (runner-up)

• Most Creative Shot: Catherine (winner), Eva (runner-up)

• Capturing the Spirit of the Trenches Trip: Kelly (winner), Amelie (runner-up)

Freya and Georgina were crowned winners in the film competition, both of whom demonstrated exceptional storytelling and creativity.

Mr Neill George Head of History

Eva

Catherine

Eloise

Amelie

Isla

Kelly

Conquering Chemistry Challenges

To start the academic year, LVI chemists took part in the prestigious Cambridge Chemistry Challenge, a rigorous 90-minute exam that stretched pupils beyond the A level syllabus. The challenge is known for testing pupils’ knowledge and problem-solving abilities in ways that go beyond their usual classroom learning, making success in this exam a remarkable achievement. Our pupils once again rose to the occasion, with an impressive number receiving awards for their exceptional performances. Ten pupils earned the Copper Award, and five went further to secure the Silver Award. But our success did not stop there. Four of our pupils achieved the prestigious Gold Award: Caterina, Bea, Grace, and Suzette, placing them in the top 11% of over 13,000 participants from across the country. This outstanding result highlights the strength of their scientific understanding and the hard work they have put into their studies.

The most prestigious of achievements came from Tiffany, who was awarded the Roentgenium Award for placing in the top 0.5% of all candidates. In recognition of her success, she was offered a place at a prestigious residential event at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge. This opportunity gave her the chance to engage with world-class researchers and fellow high-achieving pupils from around the UK, further fuelling her passion for the subject.

Mr James Young Head of Science and Head of Chemistry

Geography and Classics trip to Italy: History, Culture, and Carbs Galore!

We arrived in Naples just in time for some local pizza and, with slices of heaven in hand, we fuelled up for our first excursion of the trip: the Naples Underground City. As we descended into this labyrinth of ancient tunnels, we discovered the maze of archaeological treasure troves hidden under the city. The day wrapped up at the Archaeological Museum, home to some of the most important relics of the ancient

world. The next few days took us to Capri, cruising around this famous island on a boat tour; we explored a range of ruins and volcanic threats at Pompeii and Vesuvius and toured the Amalfi Coast, visiting Paestum to see ancient Greek temples. On our final day, we set off for Herculaneum. This ancient city, also preserved by Vesuvius’ fury, offered an intimate look at Roman life and served as a poignant close to our tour of history’s

greatest hits. As our coach took us back to the airport for the flight home, the group buzzed with memories of ancient ruins, archaeological marvels, and extraordinary Italian cuisine. We touched down back home, tired but grateful for a week where history came alive – and where we ate our weight in pizza, pasta, and gelato!

Mr Simon Bannister Head of Geography

A Level Pupils visit Paris

October Long Leave saw a group of French A level pupils visit Paris. We began our cultural exploration of the capital by visiting the Musée d’Orsay and then the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral. In the evening, we had a lovely dinner together before attending La Cantatrice Chauve, a play that we had the chance to discuss in our French book club. Seeing the play in person was a truly hilarious and immersive experience. The next day, we headed to Montmartre to see the Sacré-Cœur and felt like we were re-enacting a scene from our A level set film on the steps of the magnificent basilica! We also visited the renowned Rodin Museum, and watched the sunset from the top of La Tour Montparnasse with an incredible 360° view of the city. Our final day began by visiting the memorial of Vél d’Hiv, where Jewish children and families were gathered before being deported to concentration camps. In light of the book we have been studying (Un sac de billes), it was harrowing to see the real-life recounts of people’s experiences and the sheer number of those arrested. Our trip continued with a scenic trip on the Bateaux-Mouches, giving us a new perspective from which to admire the city’s sights, notably the highly anticipated Tour Eiffel. Our final stop was L’Orangerie to see Monet’s Waterlilies before we headed back home. This was truly a magical trip to remember and was made so special by the energy of the group. Merci beaucoup tout le monde!

Ava UVI

An Andalusian Adventure for the Fifth Form

The Andalusian sun was a generous and glowing host for the LV and UV Spanish pupils over October Long Leave. The trip was designed to offer them a taste of authentic Spanish life, visiting Seville and Cádiz. The group spent a full day in Seville exploring key sites linked to Christopher Columbus and the discovery of the Americas, including the Reales Alcázares and the Giralda Tower, which offers stunning panoramic views of the city. Our visit to the Plaza de España was a highlight, with its cinematic setting showcasing the pinnacle of Spanish architectural skill and

artistic flair. In Cádiz, our pupils attended CLIC International House, a renowned language school, where they participated in a lively programme of Spanish lessons tailored for them. Beyond the classroom, Cádiz provided eye-opening cultural experiences. From tasting fresh seafood at the bustling city market to an unforgettable Flamenco show, the girls were captivated by the rich traditions of Andalusian life.

Snr Luis Fuentes Olea Head of Spanish

Reading Week 2024!

At the end of November, we celebrated Reading Week: an annual wholeschool initiative to inspire pupils to make more time to read, take ownership of their academic development, enhance their literacy skills and take pleasure in discussing books with their peers and staff alike.

To promote reading across the School, there were activities for pupils to enjoy: craft activities in the Hall Library, reading recommendation stations, the shredded book competition, the new audiobook challenge and Joseph Elliott, author of the Shadow Skye series, spoke to UIII. Our School Librarians also launched our Lower School Book Club with a special UIV Literary Quiz. To end the week, we held the beloved Cosy Day in Fisher Library, where everyone was encouraged to pop by during their free periods. Departments across the School also participated by providing reading lists, hosting subject-related reading groups, creating calligrams, holding literary competitions and offering book giveaways. Pupils were not given prep during the week and were instead encouraged to read in their spare time and discuss books with their peers and in the boarding houses.

The fundamental focus of Reading Week is, of course, to read and so we hope that our pupils took the time to read and enrich their appreciation of literature: a habit we hope they will continue for life!

Mrs Susannah Morrisby Head of Libraries (Maternity Cover)

The English Department believes that every day is a good day to read a book and so we were thrilled to throw our support behind the annual Reading Week, encouraging pupils to complete the sentence: “I love to read…” as we built a display celebrating our community’s love of reading. Following a special lunchtime poetry event with visiting speaker Professor Tim Kendall, organised by our Poet Laureate, Polly (UVI), I eulogised about the wonders of Paradise Lost on the Tuesday evening. The grand final of the UIII–UIV Poetry Declamations competition was eagerly anticipated, showcasing passionate and perceptive performances of many dearly loved poems.

Mr Sam Lenton , Head of English

Based on Rosetti’s line:

‘Believe, but leave the truth untested still’

by Polly UVI, Poet Laureate

Reading used to be a secret door Into a secret garden, secret life

Where I can be transposed. Escapism is its potent, plosive form. Mine not to fathom the spring time Green of all the blooms

Or the tendrils that snaked around. tied me, imperceptibly down and anchored me in the aphotic depths of words, under and over the tongue; to believe, but leave the truth untested still. But now, learning to assess, attest and probe

Is the magic nearer when it’s known?

GSA Human and Artificial Intelligence Conference

In October, a group of nine UIV pupils set off to the Abbey School in Reading to attend the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) Human Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence Conference. This unique event brought together leading experts in artificial intelligence (AI), offering pupils a fantastic opportunity to learn about the latest developments in technology and its impact on society.

The day commenced with an enlightening keynote speech by Sally Sfeir-Tait, CEO and Co-Founder of RegulAItion. Sally’s presentation delved into the incredible advancements and potential of AI, exploring how artificial intelligence is already being integrated into our everyday lives, from digital assistants to complex data analysis. Pupils were left with a clear understanding of AI’s possibilities and the responsibility that comes with its use. Following the keynote, girls attended various workshops, each shedding light on a different aspect of human or artificial intelligence. A highlight of the day was ‘The Power of Memory’ workshop, which celebrated the extraordinary capabilities of human memory. This session aimed to deepen pupils’ understanding of how our brains retain and process information, building a foundation of cognitive science principles that influence learning and recall. In another engaging session on

‘Sustainability and AI’ pupils were presented with real-world examples of how AI is being used to tackle environmental issues, such as optimising energy usage, reducing waste, and enhancing resource management. This session sparked discussions on how they, too, can contribute to sustainability in their everyday lives and potentially through future careers in technology.

Overall, the pupils returned from the conference with new knowledge,

enthusiasm, and a deeper appreciation for the potential of AI. The event succeeded in not only broadening their perspectives but also empowering them with practical skills and ethical insights. This experience highlighted the importance of lifelong learning in an ever-evolving digital landscape, and our pupils are already looking forward to future opportunities to explore the world of technology further.

Mr John Doherty Director of Digital Learning

Success at the Medical Lecture Competition

Upper Sixth medics had the privilege of attending the annual Medical Lecture Competition with Radley College and Harrow School in November. The event offered a platform to share and explore innovative ideas in the field of medicine. Speakers presented on a wide range of medical topics, such as the use of Ozempic for obesity treatment, faecal transplants for improving the microbiome, and cutting-edge research into a new cancer vaccine. Wycombe Abbey representatives, Astrid and Izzy, both delivered outstanding talks focused on the impact of probiotics in managing Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and key healthcare challenges within UK prisons. The judges commended both talks for their confident delivery, with Izzy winning the overall competition.

French Theatre Performance from Onatti Prendre sa

LIV and UIV were treated to an end-of-term surprise from the fabulous French theatre troupe Onatti, who performed their show Prendre sa Revanche in December. Centred around the story of two corrupt and incompetent antique dealers, the play was performed entirely in French by two native-speaking actors, and had the girls laughing from start to finish. The performance was fully immersive and

thoroughly entertaining, and the girls were excellent participants in the show. They were invited up on stage several times to try their hand at acting en français. Playing dissatisfied customers, angry family members and a police detective, they were practising their speaking skills without even realising, learning lots of useful vocabulary along the way. As the play was written for an English-speaking audience, the girls

Revanche

followed the storyline very well and used their good knowledge of vocabulary and idiom to ensure they could understand what was happening. Un grand merci to the Onatti troupe for entertaining and delighting the Fourth Form so thoroughly, immersing them so creatively in the French language.

Miss Sophie McIver Head of French

Sixth Form Politics Conference

Members of the LVI Politics class attended the annual Sixth Form Politics Conference, PolEcon UK, at Methodist Central Hall, Westminster, at the end of 2024. It was an exciting and insightful event that featured a brilliant line-up of speakers, including MPs from Labour, the Green Party and the SNP. Learning more about the smaller parties, their values, and their impact on parliamentary discussions was fascinating. The opportunity to ask questions allowed us to interact directly with distinguished politicians and look at current UK political issues from a range of different perspectives, covering topics like Scottish Independence, private members’ bills and the possibility of a four-day work week. The thought-provoking answers to some provocative questions were especially entertaining! We also had the chance to

participate in two polls led by Seb Wride, Director of Polling at Public First: one before and one after listening to politicians discuss a wide range of UK political issues. This was done to see whether our views changed throughout the event. He also compared the conference’s responses with those of the general public, revealing some interesting differences in opinions. Among the notable speakers was Sir Lindsay Hoyle, who made a surprise appearance. His distinguished and fascinating career includes

serving as the MP for Chorley and currently as the Speaker of the House of Commons. Another key speaker was Nigel Farage (Reform UK), a controversial person sparking lively debates, making his session a highlight of the day. The conference was engaging and enlightening, informing us better of different perspectives on British and global politics.

Chloe, Catherine and Cicely LVI

Blasting to Victory: Wycombe Abbey Wins UK Space Design Competition

A team of 12 budding engineers competed in the UK Space Design Competition held at Imperial College London. The UK Space Design Competition is a science, engineering and business challenge designed to simulate life in industry. The team, made up of LV–UVI pupils, won the regional round in Oxford in October, securing our place at the national finals. For the final, we were tasked with designing a mining settlement in the Asteroid Belt and collaborating with schools nationwide. Bea (UVI) once again led

the team as President, with Selin (UVI) taking on the role of Systems Engineer. Of 269 entrants, Wycombe Abbey pupils won two out of 12 individual prizes and won the overall competition! Hanyang (UV) was awarded an individual prize for Skills and Innovation, while Mable (UV) received the Randall Perry Award for Quiet Leadership.

The Wycombe Abbey Space Design Team

STEM Challenge Day

At the beginning of the Spring Term, teams from Wycombe High School and Cressex Community School joined our LIV pupils for an exciting Institute of Engineering and Technology Faraday Challenge Day. The day began with an apprenticeship in basic engineering techniques, followed by a challenge where teams were tasked with designing, prototyping, and presenting an innovative engineering project. The standard of work on the day was exceptional, with all teams demonstrating creativity, teamwork, and technical skill. Judges noted that any of the teams could have been winners at other events! Ultimately, our Wycombe Abbey team, which consisted of Iselda, Lizzie, Serena, Neeva, Athena, and Louise, emerged victorious. Congratulations to them and well done to all participants for their impressive efforts.

Mr James Young Head of Science and Head of Chemistry

History of Art Trip to London

To kick off the Spring Term, Sixth Form Art Historians embarked on a journey to London in the pursuit of masterpieces and masterminds. The first stop was the Royal Academy, to view the exhibition ‘Michelangelo, Leonardo, and Raphael,’ offering a rare opportunity to witness the genius of these titans of the Italian Renaissance up close. The exhibition featured Michelangelo’s celebrated Taddei Tondo, his only marble sculpture in the UK, alongside related preparatory drawings. Lively discussions and deep reflections were particularly sparked by the two profoundly different approaches on display in Leonardo’s The Fight for the Standard and Michelangelo’s The Battle of Cascina For Michelangelo, the body – perfected and in action – was the primary vehicle of expression; for Leonardo, it was the face that was key to conveying emotion. Following the exhibit, LVI pupils headed to Dartmouth House for the ARTiculation public speaking competition. The elegant setting provided the perfect backdrop for Wycombe Abbey’s finalist, Sasha, to express her knowledge on the photography of Cindy Sherman. Her eloquent presentation was described by the judge as demonstrating ‘great personal insight throughout’, and was delivered so confidently and clearly with peerless description of the artwork, explaining clearly the ideas, interests and ambiguities of Sherman’s work. Meanwhile, UVI, made their way to the National Gallery for a whistle-stop revision tour with each pupil presenting on one of the works that we have studied. These included Jan van Eyck’s Arnolfini Portrait and Turner’s Rain, Steam and Speed. The pupils’ talks were so

professional and compelling that they often attracted members of the public to listen in too! We then made our way to the National Portrait Gallery where some pupils took the opportunity to see historic portraits of the Tudors, while others were more excited to see Quinn’s 3D self-portrait of his head made from his own blood. The day was rounded off with a visit to the Taylor Wessing Photo Portrait Prize exhibition to contemplate the A level theme of identity through the lens of photography.

It was a pleasure to see pupils so enraptured with art and deploying their own considerable knowledge and expertise outside of the classroom.

Mrs Emma Bowen Head of History of Art

From Page to Stage: UIV See Blood Brothers

We thoroughly enjoyed reading and analysing the play, delving into the heartwrenching tale of twin brothers separated at birth and exploring its underlying themes of social inequality, fate and destiny. However, nothing compared to the magic of seeing our favourite characters come to life on stage and witnessing our favourite moments unfold. After studying Blood Brothers during the Autumn Term, we went to see the play at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. A crucial aspect of the play was its beautiful music, with songs that could make the audience laugh hysterically one moment and then cry uncontrollably the next. Blood Brothers strikes the perfect

balance between humour and tragedy and despite knowing the ending from the moment the curtain rose, we remained on the edge of our seats throughout. The meticulously executed special effects heightened the emotional impact of the devastating finale, leaving not a single dry eye in the audience. Watching Blood Brothers was a truly remarkable experience which deeply moved us. We wholeheartedly recommend this outstanding production to anyone seeking an unforgettable night at the theatre.

Sanvi UIV

A Celebration of Pi Day

Pi Day, marked on 14 March, is an annual celebration of the beloved mathematical constant, 3.14. This year, the Mathematics Department organised various Pi-related events, including edible pies, outdoor activities, and mathematical insights. These events highlighted that Mathematics at Wycombe Abbey is far more than just solving problems on paper. To kick things off, each house decorated a pie over the weekend, a lot of pioneering creativity was involved. The prize for the best-looking pie went to Pitt. A highlight of the week was the Guess the Circumference challenge. With the help of the grounds team, a mystery circle was drawn on the lawn outside Clarence for people to guess its circumference. The challenge proved to be popular, receiving more than 40 entries. A variety of creative approaches was used

Botticelli, Bernini, and Beyond: A Journey Through Italian Art

At the start of the Easter holidays, nine art historians embarked on a trip to Italy. Day one was a complete immersion in Florence, beginning with the beautiful Uffizi Galleries. While sitting in front of Botticelli’s Birth of Venus , a crowd gathered around us, highlighting art’s ability to unite strangers worldwide. Next, we stumbled upon the famous Gothic exterior and dome of the Duomo, leaving us awestruck. Then, we visited the Galleria dell’Accademia, seeing Michelangelo’s David standing there in full glory. Our first day in Florence ended with an astounding sunset on the Ponte Vecchio.

Day two began with discussions of Donatello’s David and the significance of the feather, followed by a conversation about the public display of The Rape of the Sabine Women in the Piazza della Signoria, where the UVI also came face to face with their mock visual analysis sculpture, Perseus and Medusa. We then walked to the Museo dell’Opera Del Duomo, where we

chose between the two golden Gates of Paradise, saw the haunting wooden sculpture of Mary Magdalene, and viewed Michelangelo’s final work, The Deposition, intended for his own tomb. After lunch, we explored The Old Sacristy, where we could all truly feel the order, balance, and harmony that typifies the Renaissance. We then headed over to the magnificent Palazzo Medici.

The next morning, we left for Rome, where we enjoyed the endless splendour of the Vatican Museums, culminating in the Sistine Chapel, and the breath-taking, illusionistic ceilings of St Ignatius of Loyola Church, which made us feel like we were in a High Renaissance fairy tale. The excitement of finally standing beneath the Pantheon’s dome, followed by revelling in the glory of St Peter’s Basilica and admiring Bernini’s sculptures at the Villa Borghese, filled us with joy. We were also lucky enough to have the Villa Farnesina almost entirely to ourselves to explore.

for the estimation, ranging from walking around the circle to more mathematical methods featuring geometric constructions. The runners-up were Mia (UIV) and Lara (UIV). The winner was Mrs Compton’s LVI Further Maths class, whose estimate was within an impressive two centimetres of the actual answer. Everyone who participated had lots of fun in this outdoor activity. Maths Society also featured a stimulating proof of Pi’s irrationality, presented by Mr Graham, and an exciting Pi recital contest challenged pupils to recite as many digits of Pi as possible from memory. Huge congratulations to Freya (UIII) for reciting 110 digits and Yolanda (LV) for an impressive 260 digits!

Judy LVI

We’d like to say a huge thank you to our wonderful guide, Celia, the brilliant Sra Woods and the incredible Ms Bowen, whose passion for History of Art continues to inspire us all. Ciao!

Jess and Ava UVI

The Power of Voices: How Guest Speakers Enrich Learning at Wycombe Abbey

Wycombe Abbey has long embraced the invaluable opportunity that hearing from external speakers provides, enriching pupils’ education with real-world perspectives, expert insights, and thought-provoking discussions. By welcoming professionals, academics, and industry leaders across diverse fields, the School fosters intellectual curiosity and encourages pupils to broaden their horizons.

This commitment is particularly evident in the award-winning Carrington Programme, which offers Sixth Form pupils weekly speaker sessions designed to prepare them for life after Wycombe Abbey (read more about this on page 106). Through engaging and inspiring talks, pupils gain a deeper understanding of career paths, higher education opportunities, and essential life skills. This year’s programme featured a range of distinguished speakers. Lissie Mackintosh, a Wycombe Abbey Senior (2018) and Formula 1 Content Creator, shared her journey into the world of motorsport media. Senior Jess Haworth (2003) explored the profound impact of communication beyond words, offering insights into how non-verbal cues shape interactions in the workplace, while Dr Roni Savage shared her empowering career journey in the maledominated fields of construction and engineering. Bonita Norris, the youngest British woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest, inspired pupils with her story of resilience and determination, encouraging them to embrace challenges with confidence.

Beyond the Carrington Programme, pupils benefit from themed conferences that provide invaluable insights into leadership, business, and career development. The Wycombe Management Conference featured speakers such as Peter Higgins, former CEO of Charles Tyrwhitt, and Lord Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer, who spoke about the unpredictable paths to success and the realities of entrepreneurship. Helen Steel, founder of Streamlion Consulting, emphasised the importance of soft skills in the workplace, offering practical guidance for navigating professional environments.

Later in the year, Future Ready Days welcomed Vicky Ellis, a record-breaking yacht race skipper, who shared her experiences as the first female skipper to win a leg of the Clipper Round the World Race. Pupils also heard from James Darley, Founder and CEO of Transform Society, who spoke about the evolving future of work, while recent Wycombe Abbey Seniors provided candid insights into university life.

The opportunity to learn from guest speakers extends beyond the Sixth Form, ensuring that pupils at all stages of their education benefit from meaningful interactions with industry experts. Career

spotlight talks from representatives of Apple, Allstate, Linklaters, and the Financial Times have provided pupils from all year groups with invaluable knowledge about different professional fields.

Beyond industry-focused and skill-based discussions, pupils also engage with speakers who inspire through literature, politics, and social issues. During Reading Week, pupils enjoyed a captivating talk from Joseph Elliott, author of Shadow Skye, who shared his experiences as a writer and storyteller. A highlight each year is the Headmistress’ Christmas Lecture, this year Victoria Prentis, former MP for Banbury and Attorney General, delivered a thought-provoking speech titled Human Rights Aren’t Just for Christmas and you can read more about this on page 130.

Wycombe Abbey’s dedication to inviting inspiring individuals ensures that pupils receive a well-rounded education. By integrating external speakers into the learning experience, we cultivate a culture of lifelong learning, fostering confidence, curiosity, and a readiness to excel in a rapidly evolving world.

Miss Gracie Caine Communications and Digital Content Officer

Jess Haworth

Lissie Mackintosh

Lord Bilimoria

Developing our Academic Qualities

At Wycombe Abbey we are committed to academic excellence and we prepare our pupils for success at school, as well as at university and their careers beyond. We have identified those attributes that categorise successful learners as our five Academic Qualities: Risk-taking, Resourcefulness, Determination, Reflection and Development. They are embedded within teaching and learning and are central to success both inside and outside the classroom.

Risk-taking

Our pupils know that, in the long run, putting your hand up and having a go is far more important than getting it right the first time and that an imperfect paragraph is infinitely better than a pristine, empty page. Growth always happens by pushing ourselves up to and beyond our current abilities, whether that’s in the classroom or on the lacrosse pitch, even if, especially if, it doesn’t go as we hoped.

Resourcefulness

We want to encourage our pupils to be self-reliant thinkers who wrestle with challenging questions and find their solutions. Research shows that active recall (answering essay questions, multiple-choice questions or completing past papers) is much more beneficial than passive revision (re-reading or highlighting). We encourage pupils to quiz each other, teach a friend or write their own questions. By adopting this approach, pupils create their own intellectual resources, enabling them to work through challenges methodically and with confidence.

Determination

Determination is clearly in abundance at Wycombe Abbey, but what is it, and how do we foster it? My favourite definition of determination is ‘the ability to continue trying to do something, even though it is difficult.’ Whether on the sports field, stage, or in the classroom, we equip our pupils with the skills and knowledge they need to take on new challenges. Once they do, we give them the opportunity to get ‘stuck’. After the initial confusion, somebody spots something familiar, and the puzzle unfolds. They learn a crucial lesson here: initial confusion is not a signal to stop, but an invitation to dig deeper.

Reflection

At Wycombe Abbey we see evidence of authentic and meaningful reflection at every turn. Whether it involves analysing grammatical errors, exploring the connections between a piece of art and a poem, or drawing interdisciplinary links, reflection is at the heart of everything we do. The hallmark of high achievers is their commitment to lifelong learning, with reflection at its core.

Development

In the classroom, our pupils are encouraged to develop their understanding of topics through a range of reflective strategies; their reflection on their work outside of the classroom allows them to develop this further. Through discussions with their teachers, pupils develop their own approaches, considering what works best for them and what revision strategies they can use to fulfil their potential. Developing power skills, such as communication and collaboration, in the classroom through discussion-based lesson activities helps prepare them for the world of work.

Particular thanks to the following staff for their work helping promote our Academic Qualities: Mr

and

Tom Startup (Consultant Teacher), Miss Tara Strange (Consultant Teacher), Mr Neill George (Head of History and Politics), Mr Olly Murphy (Deputy Head of Sixth Form)

Mrs Lucy Nott (Head of Modern Languages).

French Trip to Normandy

Fourth Form visited Normandy during Easter for an action-packed week of fun, excitement and total French language immersion! We had the chance to take part in lots of exciting activities, try new things, and learn lots of French along the way. It was an incredibly fun experience and a trip we will never forget. Highlights included visiting Avranches, a beautiful local town where we toured the castle, a Camembert farm where we saw how the cheese was made using traditional methods and specific round moulds, and the stunning UNESCO World Heritage site, Mont-Saint-Michel. Once we arrived at the site, we had a tour of the tiny village

Epic Creativity: UIII Bring Ovid’s Metamorphoses to Life

This year, our UIII classicists once again had the exciting opportunity to explore myths from Ovid’s Metamorphoses , an epic poem in which the Roman poet weaves a sweeping narrative of transformation, spanning from the world’s creation to his contemporary era. Pupils read a selection of these captivating tales, selected their favourite, and created their own version of the myth across five categories.

We were blown away by the imagination and effort poured into each submission. After careful consideration, we were delighted to choose the following overall winners in each category:

• Creative Writing : Camilla, for her eloquently crafted short story inspired by Arachne.

• Artefact : Saatchi, whose inventive model of Daedalus’ Labyrinth stood out for its originality.

• Animation: Adhya’s engaging retelling of Orpheus and Eurydice was imaginative and insightful.

• Performance: Vivian and Matilda, for their moving and expressive interpretation of the Demeter and Persephone myth.

• Comic Book : Wendy, whose beautiful illustrations brought the story of Demeter and Persephone to life.

surrounding the abbey and then were given an hour of free time to explore this fascinating historical monument. On our last day in Normandy, we learnt how to make bread using traditional French methods, before tasting our delicious creations at the farewell lunch. Before heading to the ferry, we stopped at a galette restaurant, where the food was delicious, and it was the perfect opportunity to sit down and enjoy one last meal in France with everyone together.

Olivia, Charlotte, Elizabeth and Adaobi LIV

All winners received a prize from the Classics Department and were entered into the national Ovid Competition, hosted by The Cambridge School Classics Project. We are thrilled to share that Adhya was named runner-up in her category, which is an outstanding achievement. Congratulations Adhya, and a huge well done to everyone who participated!

Dr Christina Tsaknaki

Head

of Classics

Kathleen Wilkes Essay Prize

This year saw the fourth running of the annual Kathleen Wilkes Essay Prize, a prize named in honour of Wycombe Abbey Senior, philosopher, member of Pitt House and educationalist.

We had a record 44 entries from Upper Fourth and it is great to see how engaged the year group is in academic enrichment. This year’s essays were judged by Catrina Yang (2022), a Wycombe Abbey Senior, former Head of School and current medical student at the University of Oxford.

Catrina reported that she was blown away by the quality of the girls’ writing, depth of research, and analytical rigour. Rosalie was awarded second prize for her essay answering the question What was the most significant revolution in history? She was commended for her nuance and creativity in her writing. Jennifer won first prize with her exceptional essay on whether a translation can ever be perfect.

Mr Luke Wildgoose Head of Upper School

Can there ever be such thing as a perfect translation?

Translation has long been regarded as a bridge that connects various languages. By transcending linguistic barriers, it fosters an enhancement of relationships and understanding among different countries worldwide. In a world where words define and shape our thoughts, identities, and culture, precise articulation of words is crucial. Despite the ongoing advancements of translation tools like Google Translate, accurately conveying the meanings and emotions embedded in a text remains a challenge. This raises questions: Can there ever be such thing as a perfect translation? Would it be feasible to achieve one? Or is it merely a fantasy in the minds of men?

To understand, we must sketch the premises of a perfect translation. Theoretically, a flawless translation should appear natural and fluent as though it were written in the target language while simultaneously delivering both the meaning and the underlying message of the source text. Furthermore, it should preserve the cultural nuances of the original text while also allowing the target audience to comprehend. (‘6 Ingredients of a Good Translation’).

This research essay seeks to address the likelihood of a perfect translation by first examining the inherent trade-offs found while translating, then uncovering the artistic dimension of translations.

Scan the QR code to read the full essay

Pupils Win Prestigious Translation Prizes

At Wycombe Abbey, we believe that when it comes to learning a language, real understanding stems from experiences beyond the classroom. Our girls take part in exchanges, study trips, international events, and external competitions where they practise their language skills.

We are proud to share that UIII pupils Helen and Morinsojo have been named Level One Area Winners for Mandarin in the South East category of the prestigious 2025 Anthea Bell Prize for Young Translators, organised by The Queen’s College, University of

Oxford. With over 22,000 pupils participating nationally and nearly 5,000 entries judged, this is a remarkable accomplishment. Helen and Morinsojo won the prize for their translation of Luo Binwang’s There was additional success for Stefania (UIII) who won in her age category for her Russian translation. Russian was added by the University for the first time this year.

Many congratulations girls, we can’t wait to see what linguistic accomplishments you go on to achieve in the future!

In German, all UIV pupils submitted entries across a range of categories in the Oxford German Olympiad. These included videos about music, ideas for a game show, and posters about inspirational sports personalities. Sophia D (UIV Campbell) achieved a Highly Commended prize for her wonderful poster about Simone Biles. There was further success for our German translators with Henrietta (LVI) being awarded a commendation in the Level 4 Anthea Bell Translation Competition.

Lower Fourth Declamations Competition

In June we held the Final of this year’s Lower Fourth Declamations Competition. We are incredibly proud of all our Lower Fourth pupils, who showcased their talents across three languages throughout the year.

In the Autumn Term, they presented their English Declamations. Amelia emerged as the winner with her powerful rendition of The Hill We Climb

During the first half of the Spring Term, pupils selected poems from the modern languages they are studying. Ella won the Chinese Declamation with Dēng Guàn Què Lóu, Serena triumphed in the Spanish competition with Todos Contra La Contaminación, Neeva won the French category with Le Cancre, and Lita took first place in the German competition with Mondnacht

In the second half of the Spring Term, all pupils performed a Latin poem. Olivia was named the winner for her expressive delivery

of a passage from Ovid’s Metamorphoses

In the Final Competition, attended by all Upper Third and Lower Fourth pupils, our six outstanding finalists impressed us with their performances which truly brought the poems to life. Our judge, Miss Boswell, found it too difficult to choose just one winner due to the exceptional quality of the presentations. As a result, both Olivia and Lita were awarded first place and became the inaugural recipients of the Megan Lee LIV Declamations Cup.

Congratulations to both pupils on this well-deserved recognition!

Dr Christina Tsaknaki

Head

of Classics

LVI Economics trip to BMW

In June, the LVI economists took a tour of the BMW Mini factory in Oxford. It was fantastic to see the extent of capital investment and automation, with production at scale and at maximum efficiency.  We could better understand the impact of globalisation and specialisation as we toured the factory, learning for example that steel is sourced from Sweden and Belgium and that BMW even owns an ostrich farm in South Africa. It turns out that ostrich feathers are the perfect material for removing any small particles before spray painting. A definite highlight was seeing a new Mini driven off the production line every 67 seconds; we witnessed the engine started for the first time and as each car crossed the finish line, we enjoyed the beeping of its horn in fanfare. Our tour guides had worked on the production line themselves, so they were extremely knowledgeable, answering the many questions the girls had, and we are very grateful for the welcome and insight we gained.

Mrs Alison Kiln Head of Economics and Enterprise

What’s your favourite season?

Nature: An Interview with Mrs Duncan

This interview was taken from the Spring Term issue of the Wycombe Abbey Nature magazine.

I will choose a favourite season, but I do really like all of the seasons for different reasons. When I sometimes go, say on holiday, or I visit places with more sunshine like Florida or Dubai, I think, ‘Oh, imagine living here, this would be amazing’. Actually, when I stop and really reflect on that, one of the things I always think about is how much I would miss the changing seasons and what each one brings. If I had to choose one, it would be late spring. I suppose the reason is that early spring can be a bit cold and unpleasant as we’re coming out of winter. But as you get to later spring, it’s lighter in the mornings and the evenings, nature is starting to come to life again; looking forward to things restarting and all the promise and potential that brings.

Do you have any outdoor hobbies or special experiences that connect you with nature?

I do lots of walking around the school as I have a dog. I think one of my favourite places is through the meadow, it’s very beautiful. When I started teaching, I taught at a school in London, but it had an outdoor pursuits centre in Snowdonia, North Wales. I often went with different year groups, so I spent a lot of my time hiking in the mountains. I absolutely loved it. I think a lot of those pupils hadn’t had that experience because they lived in London and hadn’t necessarily spent that much time in the mountains. The more I went, the more experienced I became. I did my Mountain Leader qualification, so I could take a leading role on those trips.

Do you have a favourite animal or plant?

I have a black Labrador called Beau, probably my favourite animal in a day-to-day sense. He’s quite energetic and requires quite a lot of walking, which is why I spend a lot of time out in the grounds. Although I wouldn’t say wildlife is a particular passion of mine, I once went to a tiger reserve in India. You didn’t know whether you would see a tiger, so I was kind of indifferent about it at first, but when I saw a tiger in the wild, I thought that was an amazing experience.

Do you have a sustainability initiative in School that you’re proud of?

There was an initiative led by the pupil Sustainability Committee about the removal of single-use packaging from cups and boxes in the Courtyard Café, switching to using reusables. Almost overnight, we reduced our use of disposable packaging by 50%. That made a very significant change in quite a short time with a small shift in mindset, and I think that was really good.

How can we ensure that School developments are sustainable?

We are now at the point of confirming our next five-year strategic direction for the School. We have been discussing developing a sustainability philosophy as part of that. We can test anything that we want to do against it, whether that’s buildings, food waste, energy sources, etc. Hopefully, this sustainability philosophy will drive positive change and engagement across the whole school community. One thing that has happened this year is that we’ve been given planning permission to put solar panels on the Davies Sports Centre roof.

How would you encourage us to look after the environment? Talking about it and getting girls involved is really key. Small things can make a big difference. Whilst we will look at sustainability as part of our five-year strategy and in a broader sense, it’s about reminding ourselves, encouraging each other, and having small initiatives in which people can be involved. I see my responsibility, or that of whoever is leading in these areas, is to give feedback about the difference these small actions make on a bigger scale. If we can all be responsible, I think that will make a positive impact.

Fiona LVI

A Celebration of Curiosity and Cortex: Brain Day 2025

In May, the minds of our Lower Sixth Psychology pupils were set alight by one of the most exhilarating events in the academic calendar: Brain Day. Designed as an immersive introduction to the fast-paced world of Psychology and Neuroscience, the day proved to be both enlightening and inspiring – a true celebration of how far we’ve come in understanding the most complex organ in the human body.

Over the past two decades, neuroscience has made astonishing strides. From mapping brain activity in real time to exploring the genetic roots of behaviour, the field has opened up thrilling new perspectives on how we think, feel, and act. Brain Day brought these breakthroughs to life, offering pupils a rare glimpse into a discipline that sits at the cutting edge of Science and Psychology.

The day’s sessions offered a comprehensive and accessible overview of how the brain works. Pupils explored

fundamental aspects of neuroanatomy and brain function, gaining insights into the architecture that underpins human experience. Through engaging tutorials with Dr Guy Sutton, they examined modern techniques used to investigate the brain – from brain imaging technologies to emerging fields like neurogenetics. The psychologists even had the opportunity to examine the brain up close with a live dissection of a brain.

No exploration of the brain would be complete without acknowledging its vulnerabilities. Brain Day also tackled what happens when this delicate organ is damaged or degenerates. Using real-life clinical examples, pupils were encouraged to consider the human side of neurological conditions, deepening both their scientific understanding and their empathy.

The event succeeded not only in enhancing academic knowledge but also in sparking intellectual curiosity. For many, it will mark the beginning of a lasting fascination with

the mysteries of the mind. As neuroscience continues to evolve, so too will the young psychologists inspired by days like this –ready to explore the brain’s remarkable power and potential. It was a joy to see the girls so animated and intellectually engaged by the wonders of the brain, and I look forward to exploring the fascinating world of neuroscience even further next year through the topic of Biopsychology when we study the unit together next year.

Mrs Lauren Monteil Head of Psychology

Geography Field Trips

Our geographers have been out on a number of field trips this year, consolidating their classroom learning and gathering data for their exam projects. The LV visited the FSC Juniper Hall to conduct a river study and investigate the development of urban environments. The LVI carried out their physical geography fieldwork at Minehead, Porlock Weir, and FSC Nettlecombe Court in Somerset, and explored urban regeneration and gentrification during a visit to the Olympic Park in Stratford, London. Meanwhile, the LIV and UIV enjoyed an exciting international trip to Italy’s Bay of Naples, where they explored volcanic landscapes and coastal processes in a dynamic Mediterranean setting (read more about this on page 16).

Mr Simon Bannister Head of Geography

Over the past few years I have both heard and experienced amazing things about geography trips. They’ve ranged from research trips around Wycombe flying to all over the world to places like Iceland and Italy. While away, I’ve learnt fascinating facts about the area in addition to being immersed in the culture.

Tiya UIV

UIII Science Trip to Jersey

In May, UIII pupils set off on an exciting trip to Jersey, where they spent several days enjoying all that the island had to offer. Blessed with beautiful weather, the group made the most of the sun, sand, and sea, creating wonderful memories by the coast.

One of the main purposes of this trip to Jersey is to learn about conservation through the world-renowned Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. They run an education programme for us, where we

learn about the trust’s work and why zoos are important. Girls also get to do an animal behaviour project, design an enclosure and prepare enrichment food parcels which they feed to the geladas (a type of baboon). Other highlights of the visit included a lively evening of bowling, as well as hands-on arts and crafts sessions inspired by archaeology and the marine environment. All in all, a wonderful trip!

Dr Beccy Dawber

Teacher of Physics

Reflecting on the Dove Award: A Journey of Independent Learning

The Dove Award, named after our founder Dame Frances Dove, is a unique programme for LIV pupils that encourages reflection, independence and personal growth. Through a range of activities and a self-directed project, pupils develop key skills that will prepare them for life both as they progress through School and beyond. Read on to discover what this year’s LIV had to say about the Dove Award.

The Dove Award was a wonderful experience! Starting in October with the Film Workshop and ending in June with a celebration and prize-giving evening.

The super curricular project was my favourite part, not only did I work on my project digitally, but I also visited many places associated with my project such as an observatory owned by UCL, Imperial College London and CERN in Switzerland. I also learnt to use Microsoft Sway to present the project and improved my editing skills whilst making a video of the process. The alchemy topic was particularly interesting. To learn more, I read a digital science magazine that contained some very interesting stories. I also loved the Dove Award Celebration Evening. It was so much fun seeing my friends collect prizes for various achievements; I am proud of us all.

Anjola LIV

I loved seeing the range of topics people chose, from learning to write with their left hand to sculptures of dragons and persuasive essays. My project was based on Italy. I wrote about Italy’s culture, learnt how to cook starters and pasta with tomato sauce from scratch as well as improving my language skills. I loved this project because it was very personal for me and my family, I feel it is something I will continue to learn about and improve on.

I felt extremely proud because I worked completely independently, from choosing which Canva backgrounds to use to consistently reading, revising grammar and watching Italian media. It allowed me to be accountable for myself in an enjoyable way.

It was nice to see everyone’s projects culminate at the Dove Award Celebration Evening. I am very thankful that this project was available to us and I had a lot of fun doing it!

Serena LIV

The Dove Award comprises three pillars: Community, Flourishing, and Learner. Community emphasises teamwork, Flourishing encourages us to reflect on our daily actions and cultivate kindness towards all.

The Learner pillar provides opportunities for independent skill development and exploration of non-academic avenues. I sought help from various departments and the Hall Library and engaged in multiple projects, including a research project on fast fashion and an essay on the Berlin Wall.

To commemorate our collective efforts required in the process, our entire year gathered for an evening filled with enjoyment, felicitations and a delicious pizza feast. I feel privileged to have been noticed for my work in the Learner’s category. I extend my sincere gratitude to the teachers who contributed to making this journey memorable.

Avyana LIV

Creative Vision

Art

Wycombe Abbey artists have had another successful year producing vibrant work and experimenting with a wide range of materials from textiles to collage. We are also delighted to showcase their talents across the school as their work adorns the walls of corridors, communal spaces and offices. Over the next few pages, you will see a selection of wonderful pieces girls from UIII to UVI have produced.

Fruit-themed work using photography, collage, textiles and painting. The photography is inspired by photographer Julie Powell, who uses a light box to allow the light to shine through fruit slices.

Artwork

Wendy

Jemima

Alison

Amberley

Natural forms, still life observation, experimenting with mixed media.

Lilibet

Matilda

Cathy

Zsofi

Elsa

Hannah

Artwork

Exploring self-portraiture using digital photography and mixed drawing with mixed media.

Elizabeth

Chloe

Savannah

Martha

Lita

Annelie

Carolina

Lucy

Graphic Design Packaging

Charlotte

Alyssa

Amelia

Frances

Victoria

Silk paintings, reduction lino printing and ultra-violet digital photography.

Artwork

Gracie

Cressy

Sophie

Yichen

Group artworks

Amalia

Artwork

Amelie

Alice

Emma

Ashvini

Eloise

Carlota

Freya

Isavella

Hayat

Grace

Freya

Lucy

Izzy

Kayta

Maddie

Liuqing

Grace

Helen

Tallulah

Stella Vanessa

Victoria

Artwork

Cara Izzy

Bella

Izzy

Dana

Dana

Cara

Bella

Alicia

Alicia

Capture the Moment Photography Competition

The annual photography competition gave girls another chance to show their creativity outside of art lessons. Well done to all the girls who took part!

Elise (UIV) First Prize

Melody (LVI) Second Prize

Lea (UIV) Third Prize

Charlotte (UIV) Highly Commended

Annabelle (UV) Highly Commended

Aryana (UIV) Highly Commended

Amalia (UV) Highly Commended

Sky (LVI) Highly Commended

Sisi (UIV) Highly Commended

Lizzie (LIV) Highly Commended Sky (LVI) Highly Commended

Creative Writing

School Poetry Competition

This year, the theme of the annual School Poetry Competition run by the English Department was ‘Ekphrastic poetry’, which means poems inspired by a work of art. As always, this prompted a variety of engaging and creative entries. Polly (UVI), our Poet Laureate, was the judge for the junior category, and poet Mariah Whelan judged the intermediate and senior categories.

Winners

Junior Winner

Alison (UIII) - Metamorphosing

Runner-up

Dorcas (UIII) - With a little hope

Highly Commended

Anjola (LIV) - Late night beach experience

Wendy (UIII) – Jacketwhistle

Intermediate

Winner

Catherine (UV) – At the Foot of the Diamond Cliffs

Runner-up

Annika (UV) – After Dark

Highly Commended

Victoria (UIV) – Awakening Rosa (UV) – Icarus’ Flight

Senior Winner

Cice (LVI) – The sun did not drown with you

Runner-up

Jessica (UVI) – Viewer Experience (Yellow over Purple)

Highly Commended

Eden (LVI) – Make your eyes roll Helena (LVI) – The Persistence of Memory

Metamorphosing

By Alison (UIII)

In Turner’s ‘Death of Actaeon’, a stream winds down Montjovet, trickling lazily through hazy valleys and the gentle breeze moves olive-green trees to a rustle (for trees will rustle, regardless of chaos).

But from the excruciating twist of sinewy, faceless flesh comes no sound.

As clouds unravel languidly amongst vast hills, yielding to aureolin light, Actaeon fades slowly.

Form becomes molten. Sheer umber.

Spear and bow merge now with rows and rows of twisted trees to compose a golden tunnel, an intangible lair that hides a chaste immortal. Does she follow his disintegration?

The entirety is muted. No bellowing hounds, no screams of agony, no cries for a lost friend –

just formless swirls of pigment: catastrophe framed in serenity.

At The Foot Of The Diamond Cliffs

By Catherine (UV)

Part 1: (Fu Baoshi’s Diary, Midnight, February 6th, Year of the Metal Dragon)

Brush poised, ink weaves into paper, strokes bending like wind over stone. Mountains rise in pools of ebony, sky leaning languidly against earth. Mist-murmuring, shifting, tugging incessantly at memory’s loose threads.

Stygian rivers spill from my brush, and I work as if time is slipping through my fingers, as if the Diamond Cliffs might recede if I do not pin them to the page. These cliffs have swallowed centuries— even as time gnaws at their bones, even as I press them into permanence.

But the World is ravenous. A great, gaping maw, devouring the voices of the lost, englutting names whole, grinding memory to dust between its teeth. It feasts on silence, quaffs absence, leaving only the hollowed carcass of history behind.

And so I listen. I paint. I remember. Because someone must.

The rivers will keep their tongues. The mountains will hold their names. But the women— The women will dissipate like fog.

Part 2: (My Diary, Afternoon, March 10th, Year of the Water Rabbit)

Their names have unravelled, unthreaded from history’s loom. Only the winds, only the mountains shield them, folded into their fissures, sequestered in the hollows of stone.

We have forgotten the names of the mountains, my people, the more we prostrated before the gods of gold and graves, the city’s insatiable hunger. Gods with jaguar eyes, their pupils inkwells, bleeding into the air, staining our lungs— black lace on medical glass, Rorschach ghosts waiting for diagnosis.

what do you see? my Death, certainly. but still no names.

Not of the women before me, nor the rivers and ridgelines, nor the marrow-deep promises my ancestors bartered for exile.

Land traded for land. Roots severed for wind.

I implore the past, but it does not answer. I pray to the Delphic Elder, but it does not answer.

what was her name? detachment. where did she come from? silence.

Then that must be it— she came from air. From wind.

From earth, stilling to quiet.

Yet, in the alpenglow hush, when light stretches thin over water, when no one is near to silence the past, when I see the mountains breaking the sky wide open, I hear them.

The women in my blood, the ones who remember.

Their names roll through the valleys, compress against the cliffs, whisper into my ear— as if waiting to be written.

The sun did not drown with you

By Cice (LVI)

The sun did not drown with you. It pours its gold down the ploughman’s neck still, gilds the fleece of sheep that would not startle.

I carved those wings to outrace gods, built a labyrinth to hold a beast, but the real monster is the sea- how it opens, slurps you down, leaves no scream to bury. Only a sandal, salt-stiff.

‘Master of flight’, they’ll write, as if my wax weren’t clotting the tide— white scabs on the blackened water. ‘Genius’, they’ll say. ‘He gave his boy the sky’. But the sky was always a liar. It let you graze its blue flank, then spat you out: two pale legs kicking in the nothingness.

The ship’s sail is stitched tight against your thrashing, puckered like a cheek blowing a kiss to the horizon. Look how the shepherd counts his sheep, Look how the earth swells with wheat.

The ignorant fisherman guts his catch, silver entrails coiled like the warnings I had choked back. Only the gulls seem to scream with me.

What is a father without his son?

A loom with its threads cut.

A hammer ringing in an empty room.

I charted stars, but not this: the calculus of indifference. The world grinds on, jaw set, chewing your wings into chaff.

Highlights 2025

Our annual Highlights dance show was a roaring success in March, showcasing incredible performances from pupils across all year groups. From contemporary to classical, the talent and passion on stage were truly exceptional.

‘Choreographing pieces has taught me a lot about adaptability and how to change choreography at the last minute! This entire experience, especially the weekend, has been unforgettable!’

Maya (UVI), Modern Dance Captain

‘Performing at Highlights this year was one of my favourite memories at Wycombe Abbey. I always looked forward to rehearsals and enjoyed choreographing my ballet piece, which was both exciting and daunting. Seeing it all come together on stage with amazing lighting and costumes was special.’

Suzette (UVI), Ballet Captain

The entire street dance experience has been amazing and is one of my favourite Wycombe Abbey moments. Leading the team, making new friends, and working together through spontaneous rehearsals was unforgettable. It’s been a memorable journey, and I’ll cherish it forever.’

Astrid (UVI), Dance Captain

Treading the Boards at the Shakespeare Schools Festival 2024

Wycombe Abbey has been participating in the Coram Shakespeare Schools Festival for many years and is proud to have achieved ‘gold medal’ status, reflecting our commitment to the foundation. Shakespeare Schools is a cultural education charity that builds youth confidence and life skills through the performance of Shakespeare. Its annual UK-wide youth drama festival, the world’s largest, engages thousands of pupils from diverse backgrounds.

‘For our production of Twelfth Night, we took the classic comedy and infused it with our own modern twists and interpretations, making it uniquely our own. A memorable highlight was our workshop with a Shakespeare Schools professional who helped refine our scenes. He offered valuable insights, taught us engaging theatre games, and helped us discover new ways to bring Shakespeare’s characters to life. We had the amazing opportunity to perform for three different audiences: at School, at Cressex Community School and at a theatre in Rickmansworth. Experimenting with the text and bringing our vision to the stage was exhilarating, I highly recommend this experience to all pupils!’ Sophia, LV

Sixth Form Play: A Servant to Two Masters

To start 2025, Goldoni’s comedic masterpiece, A Servant to Two Masters, was brought to life with exceptional flair by a strong cast of ten talented Sixth Form pupils. Set amidst the backstreets of Venice, the intricate plot follows the antics of Truffaldino Battochio, as played by the incredibly talented Maddie (UVI). During rehearsals, the cast quickly formed a tight-knit group with great companionship. Together, they mastered the intricate slapstick routines that Goldoni’s text demands and with ad-libbed dialogue and choreography often appearing unexpectedly – it made an enjoyable play to watch and perform.

Mr James Harrington Head of Drama

During rehearsals, the cast quickly formed a tight-knit group.

Fifth Form Production: Alice

The biannual Fifth Form play this year was Alice by Laura Wade, and was one of the most exciting and unique experiences I’ve had in Drama to date. Unlike the traditional Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland , Wade’s version has a darker twist – Alice, struggling with the loss of her brother, Joe, creates Wonderland as a way to process her grief. Each character she encounters helps her in some way, guiding her toward acceptance and recovery. Rehearsals were full of energy as we worked to bring the chaos of Wonderland to life. Embodying such unpredictable and eccentric characters was a challenge, but in the end, everything came together. With immersive sound and technical effects (a specially installed revolving stage!), it became something entirely otherworldly. Performing to a live audience was incredibly rewarding, seeing them laugh at the play’s bizarre humour and fall silent in its more emotional moments made all the hard work worth it.

Rehearsals were full of energy as we worked to bring the chaos of Wonderland to life.

Fourth Form Takes on Shakespeare in The Revengers

I

n June, pupils in LIV and UIV took part in the Fourth Form play, The Revengers. The play revolved around the three witches from Macbeth rebelling against Shakespeare and travelling through his most famous plays, including our favourites Hamlet and Richard III. The script cleverly blended Shakespearean dialogue with modern ideas, which kept the scenes interesting and moving at a lively pace.

We really loved everything about this production, from the never-ending humour and the energetic atmosphere created by the Minstrels’ hit songs to the impressive technical elements, such as the pyrotechnics and dazzling lighting that brought the show to life.

This was truly a memorable experience which was full of laughter, creativity and unforgettable moments which we will always cherish.

Staged prop mishaps, a cleverly comic twist which suggests that Shakespeare isn’t the literary genius he’s believed to be, and frequent breaks of the fourth wall to capture the audience all contributed to a meticulously crafted storyline. We particularly enjoyed the vibrant costumes which cleverly embodied every character perfectly as well as the rehearsal process which encouraged us to dive deeply into the personality of our characters and explore bold, dramatic choices.

Some of the hardest scenes included long and intense monologues and dense passages of verse from the original plays which the cast tackled with clarity and confidence. However, these challenges were easily overcome by the exciting scenes which included the witches playfully tormenting the narrators, teaming up against Shakespeare and casting spells in witch-like voices which added to the dramatic mood of the show.

This was truly a memorable experience which was full of laughter, creativity and unforgettable moments which we will always cherish. We would really encourage other pupils to take part as we truly enjoyed every minute on and off stage, the whole process is incredibly fun. Thank you to the Drama Department, particularly Mr Harrington, playwright of the fabulous script, who has supported us throughout the six months of rehearsals and expertly kept the show together.

Sanvi, Izzy and Yichen UIV

UIII Play – Victorian World

Victorian World is a hysterical, lively play written by our very own Head of Drama, Mr Harrington. The story starts at a place very close to home, Wycombe Abbey. What begins as an ordinary school day soon turns into a nerve-racking, wild adventure back in time. It all begins with a mysterious typewriter…

The day before a school trip to a historical museum, a group of pupils happen to find a typewriter that transports them back to the Victorian era! There’s only one way to get back to the present day: complete a series of super fun drama challenges and other sorts of weird, wacky history-related tasks.

From discovering historical breakthroughs, such as the telephone, to performing musical numbers, the girls sing, dance and act their way through the Victorian era.

One of my favourite and most memorable moments of the play is our class’s fabulous rendition of Kate Bush’s, Wuthering Heights! Another highlight of the show was Arnold, the dog – who played Sammy. The audience loved him, and he brought lots of laughter and excitement to the stage!

We would like to give a huge thank you to the fabulous Drama Department for their hard work, encouragement, and outstanding ideas.

One of my favourite and most memorable moments of the play is our class’s fabulous rendition of Wuthering Heights by Kate Bush!

Orchestral Concert 2025

Members of the Chamber Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra and Sinfonia, along with our four Clarence soloists, travelled to St Mary’s Church in Marylebone for the 2025 Orchestral Concert. The Chamber Orchestra opened the concert with a homage to Mozart which included ‘Alleluia’ from Exsultate, jubilate, followed by Divertimento in B-flat. The section concluded with Astrid’s (UVI) beautiful and sophisticated rendition of ‘O zittre nicht, mein lieber Sohn’ from one of Mozart’s most famous operas, Die Zauberflöte. The Chamber Orchestra then transported us forward to the 20th century with Gershwin’s Lullaby for String Orchestra, which provided a calming contrast. To conclude the concert’s first half, Sinfonia delivered a gripping performance of the first movement of Beethoven’s Symphony No I

The second half opened with our Combined Orchestra performing Prokofiev’s famous ‘Dance of the Knights’ from Romeo and Juliet. Following this, Sophia S (UVI) began the Symphony Orchestra’s section with her solo ‘Wishing You Were Somehow Here Again’ from Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Phantom of the Opera. The Symphony Orchestra continued with Fauré’s Berceuse from the Dolly Suite. Sophia B (UVI) then captivated the audience with her poignant performance of the second movement of Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 in C Minor

The Symphony Orchestra performed Smetana’s ‘Dance of the Comedians’ from The Bartered Bride to bring the Orchestral Concert to an exuberant end.

Francesca UVI

Wycombe Abbey Piano Trio Triumphs at Chamber Music Finals

Competing against 65 groups representing various schools, the Piano Trio of Judy (LVI), Allegra (UV) and Chloe (LVI) delivered a fantastic performance, securing First Prize in the Senior category of the South East Schools Chamber Music Competition Finals. This is the fourth consecutive year that Wycombe Abbey has won first place in this increasingly popular competition. This trio has been together for four years, winning in three of those four years. As the trio tuned up, they kept the audience poised for the mysterious opening of Mendelssohn’s Piano Trio No. 1 in D Minor

The girls were fully focused, drawing the audience into the journey of this remarkable piece. As an accomplished group of musicians, their performance felt effortless. A rousing finish was met with a rapturous response from the listeners. Over the past four years, this group has grown together, embodying their shared passion for music, a passion that everyone in attendance undoubtedly felt.

Mr

Gonzalo Acosta

Head of Strings

There was useful feedback for the girls and marvellous demonstrations, both providing growth opportunities for our performers.

Villiers Quartet Masterclass

We had a wonderful day of music-making at Wycombe Abbey on Sunday 2 March where we were very fortunate to have the Villiers Quartet as our guests. They are a UK-based professional string quartet (in-residence at the University of Oxford) with an international reputation, hailed as ‘champions of British music’ by The Observer.

We began in the morning with many girls playing solo items for each quartet member. There was useful feedback for the girls and marvellous demonstrations, both providing growth opportunities for our performers. In the afternoon, our chamber groups played to the professionals. This proved very useful as a dress rehearsal for the Chamber Music Competition, with the Quartet’s comments drawing new ideas from the musicians. To close the day, our musicians sat amongst the Villiers Quartet and observed them while they performed music by Haydn and Schubert. Pupils were enthralled as they followed the score and watched the musicians’ fingers from close up. Pupils were also able to pick up the intense chemistry between the players as they communicated the music to each other. The final notes of the day came from an ensemble of all the Wycombe Abbey girls led by the quartet in a work where everyone could use their chamber music skills.

It was an inspiring day for all, and as an audience member, it was wonderful to hear individuals, groups, and finally everyone playing together.

Mr Gonzalo Acosta Head of Strings

Musicians Light Up All Saints Church in High Wycombe

On an afternoon in February, Natalie (LV), Allegra (UV), Catherine (UV), Jody (LVI) and Chloe (LVI) performed in a lunchtime concert held at All Saints Church, High Wycombe. Each pupil played with poise and confidence, engaging the audience with their skill and stage presence. With 80 local residents in attendance, the concert provided a wonderful opportunity for pupils to share their musical talents beyond the school community. One audience member shared, ‘How fortunate I was to attend the lunchtime concert where the Wycombe Abbey girls were performing. I cannot praise them highly enough. Many thanks for brightening a dull Monday lunchtime.’ The concert was a brilliant display of talent and composure, well done to all pupils involved!

Miss Gracie Caine Communications and Digital Content Officer

How fortunate I was to attend the lunchtime concert where the Wycombe Abbey girls were performing. I cannot praise them highly enough. Many thanks for brightening a dull Monday lunchtime.

- Audience Member

Archer Concert 2024

This year’s Archer Concert was the first large-scale public event in our newly refurbished Archer Recital Hall. The concert was live streamed into the new Music Atrium for the performers waiting in the wings. As always, the concert was held on Remembrance Sunday and featured a varied programme. It opened with Symphony Orchestra playing Ravel’s beautiful Pavane pour une Infante Défunte before Judea (UVI) took to the stage to sing Mozart’s aria ‘Porgi amor’ from Le Nozze di Figaro – a powerful performance of a challenging work. Their set closed with the fireworks of Rossini’s overture to L’Italiana in Algeri. Chapel Choir sang a programme of pieces reflecting the Remembrance theme including Fauré’s Ave Verum, to mark the centenary of the composer’s death, along with Tarik O’Regan’s We Remember Them and a stunning Veni Sancte Spiritus by contemporary composer, Sarah Quartel. Chamber Orchestra, in fine form as ever under the baton of Mr Acosta, gave us Sibelius’ Impromptu as well as John Ireland’s exciting, Toccata. They accompanied another Clarence soloist, Sophia, in her lyric performance of the slow movement from Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto in A. Holst Singers sang two works, Listen, by the Indian-American composer Reena Esmail and a traditional Irish folksong, Carrickfergus. Judy (Campbell LVI) gave a bravura performance of Prokofiev’s Piano Sonata No 3 in A Minor. The concert closed with Junior Concert Band, conducted by Mr Ledingham, making their first appearance in an Archer Concert. They raised the roof with two classic songs, God Only Knows by Brian Wilson and James Horner’s My Heart Will Go On, featuring wonderful solos from Genevieve (LVI Pitt), Francesca (UVI) and Sophia (UVI).

Mr Stefan Reid Director of Music

What a Year!

Our annual summer music festival, GlastonAbbey, took place on the last Sunday of term. It featured bands, soloists and even a special appearance from the Head Girl Team. This year’s GlastonAbbey was one of the best we’ve seen, with the standard of the soloists getting higher every year.

After an introduction from the hosts, the Head Girl Team, we got off to a great start with one of our experienced LVI bands. This year, six bands performed. They’ve been working so hard throughout the year to put together their sets and they really blew us away. We even had two bands making their debut this year! We also had performances from solo singers, who ranged from UIII to LVI. The talent at auditions was so high and it was lovely to see so many younger girls enthusiastic about performing. Halfway through, after some heavy rain and a break to don our ponchos, we had an incredible guitar solo from Sofia in UIV. For the first time ever, the heads of RockSoc – Zyva, Frida and I – performed a combined song on the GlastonAbbey stage. The highlight of the evening, however, was the surprise flashmob from the LVI and Head Girl Team!

Despite the rain, the atmosphere was great, and it was definitely a night to remember. We are so proud of all of the performers for all their hard work and amazing performances, and want to say a big thank you to Miss McClure and the tech team for making it all happen!

Tess LVI

This year, six bands performed. They’ve been working so hard throughout the year to put together their sets and they really blew us away.

A Celebration of Black Musical Heritage and Jazz Excellence

In a powerful evening of collaboration and tribute, the African Society, led by Morade (LVI) and Tess (LVI), and the Jazz Band, led by Mr Ledingham, honoured the legacy and influence of Black musicians. The concert opened with Eden’s (LVI) commanding performance of Crazy in Love, her stage presence setting the tone for the night. Genevieve (LVI) followed with a soulful rendition of You Bring Me Joy, while Nadia’s (UVI) smooth vocals in What a Difference a Day Makes, supported by Mr Parkes on piano and punctuated by Mr Ledingham on tenor saxophone, all captivated the audience.

Frida (LVI) brought charisma and commitment to No Scrubs, before Phire Choir, led by Nadia (UVI), delivered a fiery Respect. Judea (UVI), Ava (UVI), and Abbey (UV) lit up the stage with infectious energy, and the choir’s harmonies in Say a Little Prayer closed the African Society’s set with elegance.

Then it was time to fill the hall with the sounds of the 58-piece Jazz Band, featuring a cohort of talented pupils, a few staff members and professional musicians, entertaining the wonderful audience. Our pianist, Francesca (UVI), opened by singing Night and Day to then return to the role of pianist and then harpist on Embraceable You sung by Sasha (LVI). Nadia (UVI) returned to sing Fascinating Rhythm, which, with Alice’s (LVI) animated They All Laughed, led on to surprise the audience with opportunities for participation. Phire educated everyone on the use of Toot Sweets/Melody Pops for a special performance sung by Genevieve (LVI) of the Julie London version of Fly Me to the Moon, adding a playful twist. This was followed by a change of pace with Maddie (UVI) singing another Ella classic, Every Time We Say Goodbye and Nell (LVI) wowing the crowd with the powerful Blues in the Night.

The concert drew a diverse crowd, including a film/TV director, an Emmy-winning screenwriter and a Wycombe Abbey Senior, now a film agent, who praised the pupils’ talent and professionalism. A special mention to Sophia (UVI), who, in addition to playing lead alto saxophone, recreated the mastery of Ella Fitzgerald and Etta James with At Last, Dream a Little Dream, All the Things You Are, Cheek to Cheek and closing the concert with a message, to Accentuate the Positive.

This amazing concert showcased everyone’s versatility, bringing the golden age of jazz to life in a night of unity, artistry, and unforgettable performances.

Kate and Alice LVI

This amazing concert showcased everyone’s versatility, bringing the golden age of jazz to life in a night of unity, artistry, and unforgettable performances.

Physical Endeavour

The Sporting Year

It has been another dynamic and rewarding year for Sport at Wycombe Abbey. With the exciting addition of new team members, Mr Josh Wall, Miss Sophie Tebbs, Miss Helen Turley, and Miss Grace Caldwell, we’ve continued to expand and enhance our sports programme, further embedding our philosophy that participation drives performance.

This year’s highlights have been truly inspiring. We reached the National Finals in Cross-Country, secured spots in the SnS National Final Four with both our U12 and U19 Netball teams, competed in the Junior ESSA Swimming Finals and the ESAA Track and Field Cup National Final. Our swimmers also achieved impressive fourth and fifth place finishes in the prestigious Bath and Otter Cup. In the snow, we were proud to be named the best unregistered team at the British Schoolgirls’ Ski Races in Flaine. Meanwhile, our Fencing athletes continued to shine with multiple national accolades. These achievements reflect the thriving performance culture within our school sport, supported by ongoing enhancements to our Performance Athlete Programme and the continued development of our Fitness Suite and Gym.

We are excited to launch our new PE Strategic Direction for 2025–2030, which aims to foster a culture where every pupil embraces a healthy, active lifestyle and discovers a lifelong passion for sport and physical activity.

Alongside these successes, we’ve taken time to reflect and refine our approach. We are excited to launch our new PE Strategic Direction for 2025–2030, which aims to foster a culture where every pupil embraces a healthy, active lifestyle and discovers a lifelong passion for sport and physical activity. Key initiatives include expanded support for athletes beyond school sport through improvements to the strength and conditioning programmes and external club partnerships, as well as a renewed focus on balancing and supporting academic excellence with sustained sporting participation.

Our co-curricular offering has continued to flourish, with memorable trips such as the ski trip to Canada and our annual tennis tour to Portugal. These experiences offer invaluable learning and social opportunities for our pupils and looking ahead, we are already eagerly anticipating next summer’s lacrosse tour to the USA.

Mrs Sophie Bryett-Windle Director of Sport

Performance Athlete Programme

Having joined Wycombe Abbey in January, it has been a pleasure to get to know the outstanding young athletes in our community and to support their development throughout the year. The Performance Athlete Programme continues to go from strength to strength, now supporting over 100 pupil-athletes across 20 different sports, highlighting the impressive breadth and depth of talent at the school. One of the most inspiring aspects of the programme has been the pupils’ commitment to their training. Their energy, effort, and focus in each session has been exemplary, and I’m excited to see how this continues to evolve in the coming terms.

A key development this year has been the upgrade to the Strength and Conditioning Gym, completed over the Easter break. The new layout and equipment allow for a higher standard of training and improved session flow. This has greatly enhanced our ability to focus on the development of quality movement patterns and foundational strength, both critical to long-term athletic performance and injury resilience.

Beyond the gym, we were thrilled to welcome current GB Hockey Olympian Amy Costello to speak to our athletes. Amy shared her journey from school sport to preparing for Paris 2024, discussing the highs and lows of elite sport, including injury setbacks, non-selection, and the perseverance required to overcome them.

Her insights struck a powerful chord with the pupils and served as a fantastic example of resilience and ambition.

This year has seen some exceptional individual achievements including:

Emily (UVI) represented England U20 lacrosse at the Home Internationals, remaining unbeaten against Scotland, Wales, and the Czech Republic.

India (LVI) and Pippa (LV) had further sailing success at the Inland Championships Regatta, with India named top U19 girl and Pippa top U17 girl.

Serena (LVI) placed 15th out of 140 golf competitors at the Scottish Girls’ Open Championship and recently competed in the prestigious St. Rule Women’s Trophy at St. Andrews.

Maria (LVI) recorded a personal best of 11.56m in the triple jump, placing her fifth in the UK U20 rankings.

And Imogen (LVI) with her successful return to sport following a year-long ACL rehabilitation.

While these are just a few headline performances, I want to commend the whole PAP cohort for their effort and consistency, particularly the S&C Consistency Champions, who completed over 70% of available sessions this term, no small feat given the academic, sporting, and co-curricular demands on their time.

Well done to:

• LIV: Mia, Cara, Madeleine, Neeva, Isabella

• UIV: Linzi, Ayomide, Youyi, Georgie, Annelise, Ella, Elizabeth-Anne

• UV: Zoe, Xinrui, Natalie, Pippa, Mati, Annika, Annabel

• LVI: Imogen, Genevieve, Anna

• UVI: Emily

I look forward to building on this momentum next year as we continue to support our pupil-athletes in balancing academic excellence with sporting ambition.

Mr Josh Wall

Director of Performance and Athletic Wellbeing

Sports Awards 2025

To honour the sports stars of the year, the PE Department hosted Wycombe Abbey’s annual Sports Awards at the start of the Summer Term. The evening celebrated all aspects of sport, including performance, participation, teamwork, sportsmanship, and commitment across a wide variety of disciplines over the past year.

To begin proceedings, following a brief introduction, we heard from our guest speaker, Alex Aljoe. Alex, a renowned British TV presenter and reporter, currently presents and reports for Premier League Productions on Sky Sports and has established a strong reputation as a bilingual football journalist. In her speech, she shared her experiences of interviewing David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo, as well as her ground-breaking interview with Luis Díaz, during which she translated live on television. Her career journey through a male-dominated industry was both fascinating and inspiring.

Before the event, pupils were nominated in the main sports played at school over the past year. The PE staff and coaches then shortlisted the nominees before selecting the winners. Prizes were awarded in various categories, including Player of the Season, Unsung Hero, Most Improved, Outstanding Performance of the Year, Team of the Year, and Lifetime Achievement.

Mrs Sophie Bryett-Windle Director of Sport

Milly Runs the London Landmarks Half Marathon for Samaritans

On Sunday 6 April I took part in the London Landmarks Half Marathon to raise money for Samaritans. I had never run further than six miles before training for this event, so the idea of 13.1 miles was quite daunting! The weather was gorgeous, and although this made it warmer than I was used to running in, I managed to complete the race in 2 hours, 11 minutes and 30 seconds, raising an incredible £2,302 for a very important cause. I’m so grateful to everyone who donated, and I am already looking for the next challenge to take part in!

Milly UVI

Tennis Tour to Portugal

With the help of the amazing tennis coaches from 5 Star Tennis Holidays, Pat, and all the staff on this trip, we had a fantastic time in Portugal. Over the week, we focused on improving our technique and developing new shots and skills, both on and off the court. Everybody was so excited to be in Portugal; this enthusiasm made the sessions much more enjoyable. The coaches provided us with technical sessions in the morning and match play or games in the afternoon. While some of our matches were cancelled due to very rainy weather, it did not stop us from having a padel tournament and using the indoor pool at the hotel. To end the tour, we had a very early session on the last day to recognise the standout players. Thank you to everyone for making this trip possible!

Poppy and Lilly UIV

Ski Racing in Flaine

Our LIV ski team had an incredible week of ski racing in Flaine at the British Schoolgirls’ Races 2025, training hard with expert coaches before taking on the competition! Despite challenging weather and race cancellations, the team delivered outstanding performances and made the most of every moment on the slopes!

Highlights:

• Alix: first in the U14 Giant Slalom (unregistered) and second in the U14 Slalom (unregistered)

• Elizabeth: third in the U16 Giant Slalom (unregistered)

• A Team (Izzy, Alix, Elizabeth): best unregistered team, second in the Giant Slalom and third in the Slalom.

Evie LIV

There was a buzz of excitement on the final Thursday of term as we held our annual Sports Day. Although a brief rain shower paused proceedings for an hour, prompting an early lunch and a reshuffle of the schedule, it didn’t dampen spirits or stop us from enjoying a fantastic day of track and field events.

The sun made a timely return, and the Houses competed with energy and determination. From thrillingly close sprint finishes to hurdles, high jump, middle-distance races, relays, and throwing events, every event was met with enthusiastic cheers, vibrant house colours, and plenty of face paint and banners.

On the day, there were some outstanding performances, and we were thrilled to see three sports day records broken! Congratulations to all of the competitors for their incredible effort and energy, and thank you to the many families who came along to support. A special well done to Pitt House, who were crowned overall winners once again!

Miss Ruby Smith Assistant Director of Sport

A special well done to Pitt House, who were crowned overall winners once again!

Sport Captains’ Reports

Lacrosse

We have thoroughly enjoyed lacrosse this year, with there being many excellent performances across all age groups. From U12s to 1sts, there have been great games and brilliant results! One of the biggest highlights was the Tri-County Tournament, where all teams from U12 to seniors participated. Every age group played incredible lacrosse, and the U15s were

games, and triangular fixtures – gave the Seniors, as well as the A, B, and C teams, many chances to play competitively. The Spring Term was as fast paced as ever, and before we knew it, the teams were preparing for National Schools in March. As Nationals arrived, players and coaches had a busy few days ahead. With some amazing weather, our 1st and 2nd teams started the

they narrowly missed out on a quarter-final spot. The U14s and U13s also made it to the last 16, and our 3rd team successfully made it to the quarter finals. Our U15s missed out on progressing to the championship but were crowned Division One champions! We want to congratulate everyone for all the effort they put in this year, and we can’t wait for the next season!

Netball

This season, we have seen a promising range of matches with successes across all year groups. It was fantastic to see players of all ages come together during pre-season at the start of the year to get back into the swing of things, and we’ve had excellent results in our matches and tournaments throughout the rest of the season. Returning this year were the District Tournaments, and after facing some tough opponents, all teams placed within the top four, with many teams placing first overall. Later in the season, the U19As qualified for the National Schools tournament after winning the county round in October. They placed fourth in their group at Regionals after close matches and impressive performances, including a narrow loss to the overall champions. There were also great successes with the Sisters N Sport National Competition. Both teams played extremely well, as the U12 team placed fourth in the finals of the Shield competition and the U19A team placed first in the finals of the Bowl competition. Additionally, throughout the year, the mixed-year training sessions took place weekly, which greatly improved the quality of training and brought great enthusiasm and energy from everyone involved.

A special congratulations to Issy (UV), who not only played for London Mavericks in the National Performance League but also represented Scotland at the U17 Europe Netball Championships – an outstanding achievement! Following on from another successful season, we begin our summer netball training sessions and look forward to the continued development of all our teams. It was amazing to see everyone’s improvement and passion on the court this year, and we are looking forward to seeing everyone back in action in September to start the next season!

Anna Netball Captain

Cricket

This year, cricket at Wycombe has continued to improve and we were able to have teams from U12C’s all the way to Seniors emphasising the growing popularity of the sport amongst the pupils.

Both the U15s and U13s competed in the ECB Indoor Cricket Competition and whilst the results varied, it was amazing to see all the hard work pupils put in, particularly during early morning training sessions and I’m sure that the skills they have developed have helped them during the season. All teams have been victorious at different points in league and cup competitions, and it has been enjoyable to watch pupils develop; especially as many were new to hard ball this year. It has also been very impressive seeing many girls step outside of their comfort zones and play up against older and often more experienced opposition and they should all be really proud of themselves.

In House Games, the final was held between Campbell and Barry with Barry coming out triumphant. Unfortunately, owing to bad weather the highly anticipated Staff vs First XI match got cancelled but we are already looking forward to next year’s game. Cricket at Wycombe would not be possible without all the staff who have given up their time to help whether that be running training sessions or umpiring and scoring matches, but special thanks to Miss Millard and Mr Greenall for all their efforts in helping to organise all the fixtures for the season. It has been great to see so many pupils getting involved and I look forward to seeing many girls come to winter nets and taking part in the indoor competitions during the coming months.

Annabel Cricket Captain

Squash

Squash is a sport enjoyed by many at Wycombe Abbey. Squash club runs on a Monday and Friday after school, and all year groups are encouraged to attend. The inter-year participation encourages a sense of school spirit and adds to the strong squash community. Players of all levels are welcome which allows pupils to stretch their abilities. In November, a number of teams from across the year groups entered the England Squash National Schools competition and all teams advanced through to either the cup or shield tournament. These achievements could not have been accomplished

without the support and encouragement of our coach, Mr Handley, who guided the teams through the competition. In the annual Sports Awards ceremony, the players of the season were Elsa and Claire, who have both demonstrated and maintained an excellent standard of squash throughout the year. I feel incredibly fortunate to be this year’s Squash Captain, and I am looking forward to the coming season.

Henrietta Squash Captain

Swimming

This year has been an incredible one for Wycombe Abbey swimming. A record number of pupils competed in the Wycombe Abbey league, with six teams taking part across the A and B leagues. For the second year running, we won the Independent Schools Relay Gala, and our Junior team made it to the ESSA finals again, finishing eighth and tenth in the freestyle and medley relays. Impressing at the Bath and Otter Cup, our swimmers further secured fourth and fifth place in the freestyle and medley relays – all four swimmers breaking the 30-second mark in their 50m freestyle, a fantastic achievement! This success earned the Bath and Otter team the WA Sports Team of the Year in our Sports Awards. Individual excellence was also celebrated, with Isabella (Junior), Summer (Intermediate), and Annabelle (Senior) receiving Swimmer of the Year awards, and Annabelle and Isabella breaking two school records. We are also pleased to say that we have hosted a higher number of ‘friendly’ competitions this year and we won the majority of them. This has given our B and C team swimmers more

Rowing

Rowing participation levels remain healthy and stable, with several pupils trying the sport for the first time this year. We had record numbers of pupils try out for the British Indoor Rowing Championships, with 52 pupils trialling on the rowing machines and 18 pupils going on to compete in the event in December. We had a fantastic, fun-filled day at the Championships, which was held as part of the FitFest Convention in Birmingham, and we witnessed some inspiring displays of women leading the way in the fitness industry. We have also invested in our own rowing blades, also known as oars, which will be painted in our club colours. Indoor rowing was added to the House Games schedule for the first time ever this year. It was a huge success, giving many pupils the opportunity to experience indoor rowing racing, with all the machines wired up and linked to a big screen where the virtual boats raced. It was an electric atmosphere with each of the Houses cheering on their crewmates, and it is certainly going to be a permanent fixture in House Games going forward.

Miss Lettie Tay Teacher of PE

competitive opportunities to put training into practice, and to feed the competitive Wycombe Abbey team spirit (especially against regular competitors such as Downe House). The number of girls involved and the incredible standard in swimming this year reflects our constant push for improvement and performance, with external training and connections with Wycombe District Swimming Club remaining strong. Thanks to Mr Evans and

Mr Gee for their dedicated coaching throughout the school days! On a personal note, I am thrilled to be representing GB at the European Juniors in Slovakia this July. I am incredibly grateful for the support from Wycombe Abbey and look forward to another exciting year with this talented group of swimmers. Bring it on! (Annabelle)

Abila and Annabelle Swimming Captains

Fencing

We have continued to make substantial headway in fencing this year. Many fencers have competed in high-level competitions, such as the annual series of British Youth Championships (BYC) events, with a multitude qualifying after some tough matches to fence for the southern region: Anetta, Nell and Abila for épée; Sissie, Youyi, Elizabeth Anne and Jennifer for foil, with Elizabeth Anne and Abila winning silver medals and Youyi and Jennifer winning bronze in their respective categories. The ensuing renowned BYC Nationals event in Sheffield yielded further victory for our fencers, even when faced with strong headwinds of the plethora of team GBR fencers also battling it out amongst them, ending ultimately with Elizabeth Anne placing 18th nationally and Abila placing 16th. At the annual Public School Fencing Championships, with a record number of entrants, Kendra and Elizabeth Anne achieved a top eight plaque overall against our rival schools, putting us, once again, at the top of the game. We have celebrated fencers’ achievements in the Wycombe Abbey Sports Awards with Fencers of the Year awarded to Elizabeth Anne and Abila for Junior and Senior awards, respectively. Other successes include Elizabeth Anne’s bronze medal at the U18 Eastern Foil Open, Abila’s gold medal at the London Winter Regional Open, and Jennifer’s bronze medal at Metro-land Fencers’ Championships.

We were also excited to participate in practice matches with John Hampden School and Wycombe High School. I would like to say that fencing is the new and upcoming sport, but I am, of course, biased, nevertheless these achievements bode well for future fixtures.

Abila Fencing Captain

Football

It has been a fantastic year of football at Wycombe Abbey, as the U12 and U13 teams have shown remarkable dedication and skill on the field. A significant rise in the number of players joining training has strengthened teams and fostered a supportive community and joy for the game. Our current teams have participated in numerous fixtures that have tested their abilities and teamwork, and for the first time this year, we have entered a U13 team into a competitive cup. Although we were knocked out, players showed remarkable resilience and determination, with some success stories along the way. The journey continued through the Summer Term, as players attended training and prepared for their chance to win the plate. The future looks bright for our football teams; players are eager to build on their skill level and knowledge of the game as they move into next season.

Miss Gemma Ketley Teacher of PE

Athletics

This year has been an exceptional one for both athletics and cross country, with incredible achievements across all age groups.

The cross-country season was success. The Junior Team qualified for the National Final of the Cross-Country Cup for the first time after dominating the County and Regional Rounds. Aura (UIII) qualified for the Cross-Country Primary National Finals, while Nell and Alice (both LIV) qualified for the ESAA XC National Finals.

This athletics season has seen continued success. The weekly league held at school has continued to show some fantastic results each week, providing an amazing opportunity for girls across all years to get involved. Both the Inter and Juniors qualified for the regional final of the Track and Field Cup and went through to the national Final in July! At the Buckinghamshire County Champs we won 17 medals: five Gold, six Silver and six Bronze. 13 personal bests and eight season bests were achieved by a team of 12 athletes. Both Adaobi (LIV) and Maria (LVI) have been nominated for the ESAA Finals in July and Aura (UIII) has been selected for the County team.

Two school records have been broken this year, with Adaobi (LIV) improving her own record in the 100m to 12.52s, and Charlotte (LIV) setting a 300m record of 47.28s. Other highlights include some exciting personal bests, including Anissa (LV) with 10.57m in triple jump, Ameera (LV) with 9.41m in shot put, Nell (LIV) with 5.08mins and Aura (UIII) with 5.17mins in the 1500m, Flo (LV) with 26.60m in the javelin and the LV relay team running 58s in the 4x100m. All the girls should be so proud of all the hard work they have put in this term in athletics.

A massive thank you goes to all the teachers who have been involved in athletics, and to Miss Stevens, who always does such an amazing job of organising the events and motivating the girls.

Maria Athletics Captain

In June the U16 School Sport Magazine Team of Annika, Mia, Angel and Elizabeth were crowned U16 Girls National Champions.

Tennis

This year has been a memorable one for tennis at Wycombe Abbey, marked by competitive success, team development, and valuable experiences. During the Easter holidays, a number of girls were fortunate to take part in a training trip to Portugal. This provided an excellent opportunity to refine technical skills and match play, while also fostering team spirit.

A particular season highlight was our outstanding performance at the prestigious National Schoolgirls’ Doubles Championships, where we secured victories in both the U16 and U19 categories. These achievements reflect the strength and depth of talent within the squad, as well as the dedication and commitment shown by all players throughout the year. We also reached the knockout stages of the Senior Students Winter Competition, demonstrating resilience and consistency during a demanding and competitive season.

In addition, we enjoyed a series of friendly fixtures including mixed doubles fixtures against Eton College and the Royal Grammar School. All of these matches offered beneficial competitive experience in a more relaxed setting and were thoroughly enjoyed by all who participated. Overall, this season has been a great success and a testament to the hard work and dedication of every player. I look forward to seeing how the team progresses and develops in the year ahead.

Esme Tennis Captain

Skiing

It has been another amazing year for skiing at Wycombe Abbey; we saw our girls come away from the British Schoolgirls’ Races with several individual and team medals and we took a fantastic recreational trip to Jasper in Canada.

The competitive race season kicked off with the indoor races in Milton Keynes in September, where four teams represented the School in Slalom and Parallel races. We then progressed onto the outdoor races in Flaine, where the girls picked up several individual gold and silver medals in the non-registered categories for Slalom and Giant Slalom and team medals for the combined results. They also collected the new trophy for the best non-registered parallel team.

At the end of the Spring Term, 37 pupils went on a five-day trip to Jasper, where amazing sights, slopes and skiing enabled our pupils to have a wonderful trip. We look forward to the next season!

Dance

It has been another exciting year for dance at Wycombe Abbey, with a wide range of events displaying our dancers’ creativity, dedication, and talent. From Lower School to Sixth Form, pupils have had countless opportunities to perform, choreograph, and support one another throughout an unforgettable season of dance. One standout event was the UIV House Dance Competition, with the theme of Musical Theatre. Each house brought well-known musicals to life with imaginative routines full of storytelling and character. Congratulations to Wendover, who were crowned the winners. The biennial Highlights dance show also returned (page 58) – our biggest yet, featuring over 100 dancers from UIII to UVI. Various styles were performed, including ballet, tap, lyrical, jazz, and musical

theatre. The show also featured outstanding routines by the winners of the Choreography Competition, showcasing originality and technical skill. Beyond performances, many pupils have taken part in dance exams this year, achieving fantastic results across a variety of styles and levels – a true testament to their hard work and dedication. Huge thanks must go to the dance teachers, captains and all those working behind the scenes who made these events such a success. Congratulations to everyone involved – we now look forward to Senior and Junior Spotlights next year with great anticipation!

Kate, Sula and Marisa Dance Captains

Developing Confidence

Co-curricular Activities and Trips 2024/2025:

A year full of opportunities and fun

Our co-curricular programme has always been full of fun and gives pupils opportunities to experience new things, develop talents and build friendships. We recognise the power skills that are developed through co-curricular activities and this is an area we continue to focus on to complement the academic side of school life. This year we have enjoyed numerous enriching trips at home and abroad, vibrant societies which foster intellectual curiosity as well as personal interest, and the Weekend Activities Programme continues to provide valuable opportunities for girls to unwind and connect with friends.

Pupils embarked on a diverse range of residential trips, exploring both cultural and academic themes across various destinations from France to Florence. Each journey brought back a wealth of experiences, treasured memories, and engaging stories, reinforcing the value of learning beyond the classroom. Closer to home, over 150 trips have taken place, offering unique learning experiences across different fields. Highlights include UIII pupils attending the musical Mrs Doubtfire, LIV pupils exploring the historical significance of Bletchley Park, and UIV completing their practice expedition for the Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. Lower Fifth pupils participated in an enterprise event at Twickenham Stadium, while UV-UVI girls enhanced their academic pursuits through activities such as a French debating competition, a politics conference, and medical lectures at Eton College.

Nearly 40 societies were showcased at the Societies’ Fair during the September Closed Weekend, providing pupils with a wide array of choices. Regular meetings have been held by each society, culminating in a successful Society Sunday during the January Closed Weekend, where pupils could engage in 30 different activities. Some standout events included lino printing with the Art Society

Our Weekends at Wycombe Programme continues to thrive with much-loved activities returning to School, including the funfair, an inflatables day, a multi-activity day, and a lively Silent Disco during Closed Weekends. Pupils embraced adventure at Go Ape and Airsoft, tested their speed on go-kart tracks, tackled problemsolving at Monopoly Lifesized, and took on physical challenges inspired by The Cube. Thrill-seekers ventured to Thorpe Park and Oxford Wet’n’Wild, while theatre enthusiasts enjoyed productions such as Guys and Dolls , Percy Jackson the Musical, and Wicked. Social events also played a vital role in the weekend calendar, fostering connections with pupils from other schools, including Eton, Harrow, Cothill, Sunningdale, Davenies, and the Royal Grammar School High Wycombe. These events featured roller discos, ceilidhs, and a summer ball complemented by garden games, further enriching pupils’ social experiences.

Mrs Fiona Gee Head of Activities and Trips

From Classroom to Cockpit: Pupils Earn Prestigious Flying Scholarship

Last year, Masha (UVI) and Avalon (UVI) were awarded the prestigious Adrian Swire Flying Scholarship. Sponsored by the Adrian Swire Charitable Trust, this scholarship provides recipients with £2,500 to fund flying lessons, with the ultimate goal of flying solo. We are incredibly proud of both girls and excited to see their aviation journeys take flight.

‘I cannot even begin to express how excited I was when I first received this incredible scholarship. Six months later, I can confidently say that the experience has exceeded my expectations. I felt apprehensive upon arriving for my first lesson, but the enthusiasm and encouragement of those around me instantly put me at ease. Upon reflection, learning a process from start to finish has been rewarding, and the opportunity has really boosted my confidence; whenever I have a moment of doubt, I think to myself, ‘Stop fussing about it; you can fly a plane!’

Avalon (UVI)

‘Learning to fly a Cessna aircraft has been an incredible experience, and I am extremely grateful to the Flying Scholarship for giving me this opportunity. So far, I have practised take-offs, landings, and basic navigation, becoming more comfortable with the controls each time I fly. Take-offs were tricky at first – balancing the throttle, keeping the nose up at the right angle, and handling crosswinds – but after a few sessions, it started to feel more natural. For navigation, I have been learning to follow flight paths using visual landmarks and basic instruments, which has been especially exciting when flying along the Barcelona coastline. Every flight presents a new challenge but also marks a significant step forward in building my confidence as a pilot!’ Masha (UVI)

Lilibet Takes to the Mic

Lilibet (UIII) played the role of Lucy Loo in series two of BBC Radio 4 comedy Hennikay, starring Bill Bailey, this year. In series two, Bill Bailey returned as Guy Starling, a man whose life is unexpectedly turned upside down by someone he hasn’t seen for 45 years – his imaginary childhood friend, Hennikay.

Lilibet gave her thoughts about the experience: ‘Both my brother and I did a self-tape for Hennikay, and Liz Anstee (the Director for the series) chose us both to be involved. Although I had auditioned for other roles before, this was the first role I actually got. I was a little bit nervous but mostly excited! It took two days to record my part, and it was cool to meet Bill Bailey; he is just as funny in real life as he is on TV. It was also fun to see the inside of the recording studio; it was much smaller than I expected. I am excited about future projects and plan to continue with my LAMDA lessons at School, which will help prepare me for future roles. Although I enjoyed voice acting, I would really like to land some screen-acting roles, and I feel that this experience has helped prepare me for that.’

I am delighted that Lilibet had the opportunity to take part in this show, She is so passionate about Drama’. – Mrs Sally Harbour, Head of Lower School

Wycombe Abbey Team Awarded Runner-up Prize at Tycoon Enterprise Awards

Tycoon is a unique national enterprise competition open to pupils aged 6–18 years. Teams create a business plan, receive a loan to launch and run their business, and compete with peers on a kickstarter-style platform in a secure and supervised setting. The Peter Jones Foundation offers start-up funding, which is repaid only once the businesses break even.

In November, our Enterprise Team, Bag-ette, comprising Bea, Ahana, Masha, and myself, had the privilege of attending the finalists’ award ceremony. The event provided us with a platform to present our business, showcase our stand, and deliver a pitch

to Peter Jones himself. Our business produces customisable and sustainable pouches designed to serve a variety of purposes, from pencil cases to cosmetic bags. Over the course of our trading period, we successfully sold more than 100 pouches, reaching customers in the UK as well as internationally. We donated 20% of our profits to the Peter Jones Foundation to support their goal of empowering young people through this competition. We were delighted that Bag-ette was awarded the runner-up prize in our age category.

Cara UVI

The Buzz about Beekeeping

The Beekeeping Society at Wycombe Abbey is a much-loved club that welcomes new members each year. With the advantage of having our own hives on-site, pupils have the unique opportunity to learn about the inner workings of a bee colony and the honey-making process. Fiona (LVI) shares her journey to becoming a passionate beekeeper.

How long have you been beekeeping for?

Since UIII, which makes this my sixth year. The Society has a history spanning over ten years!

What is your favourite part of beekeeping?

I love seeing the younger girls join the Beekeeping Society; they’re always buzzing with excitement! It’s such a rewarding way to connect with nature and give back to our planet. Harvesting the honey is always a highlight.

What skills are required to be successful at beekeeping?

Good planning is essential when beekeeping. You need to ensure that all your equipment is ready before opening the hive and check the weather beforehand. Bees are less co-operative in cold or windy conditions, which can make them agitated. Patience is also crucial; you must remain calm around the bees. If you become anxious, the bees may sense it and become more likely to sting. Attention to detail is vital to spot any signs of disease early, preventing it from spreading. Empathy also plays a key role; understanding that a bee’s behaviour can change based on its mood helps you handle them more effectively.

How do you look after the beehives in the colder months?

We secure the hives to withstand harsh wind and rain, ensuring they remain warm and cosy for the bees. Regular health checks help us monitor their wellbeing. While we usually use queen excluders to keep the queen within certain sections of the hive, we remove them in winter so she can move freely and stay warm with the rest of the colony. We limit hive inspections to once every two weeks during colder months to avoid unnecessary disruption. We supplement food with sugar syrup or fondant if food supplies run low. Beyond that, it’s up to the bees to endure the winter.

How do you fit beekeeping into your busy schedule?

I love beekeeping, both in School and during the holidays. I find it very relaxing, so although my schedule is busy, I always try to find time. I usually spend an afternoon during the weekend at the beehives. Spending time in nature, in general, helps me to unwind.

What advice would you share with someone who wants to start beekeeping?

If you love bees, just go for it! Beekeeping is often a life-long passion. It’s always a good idea to join a beginner’s course, there are lots of local beekeeping associations. The beekeeping community is very welcoming and always willing to help newcomers.

Evie’s Singing Success

For many girls, music is a central part of their experience at Wycombe Abbey. With a wide range of co-curricular musical opportunities, there’s something to support every musical talent. Singing has long been a popular pursuit at School, with a variety of choirs to choose from. Evie’s (LV) musical journey took her to the National Youth Choir (NYC) this year.

How long have you been singing and what part do you sing?

I started lessons when I was seven years old, but I loved singing long before then. I am a Soprano 1.

What was the process to join the National Youth Choir?

I first had an online audition, answering some questions, and then I had to sing an unaccompanied song. They also asked me to do lots of oral and musical tests. I practised my unaccompanied song with my music teacher ahead of the competition and did a lot of vocal warm-up exercises on the day.

What are you most looking forward to in terms of the National Youth Choir?

I have enjoyed the musical courses I have taken so far with the National Schools Symphony Orchestra, and I look forward to participating in more of these with NYC.

Have you sung at any famous venues?

I have sung at St Paul’s Cathedral, and when I was an Ely Cathedral Chorister, I sang for a BBC Radio 4 broadcast.

How has Wycombe Abbey helped you with your singing?

I get a lot of time to practise and can use our wonderful music facilities for my lessons. I’m also a part of the Chapel Choir, which I love. I look forward to joining more groups as I progress through the School.

Who is your biggest musical influence? My mum, she teaches music and plays lots of different instruments.

Do you play any musical instruments? I play the French horn, and I used to play cello and piano. I would love to learn how to play the saxophone one day.

What are your plans for the future? Although I am unsure if singing will be a part of my future career, I will always continue to sing for enjoyment.

Ski Trip to Jasper, Canada

This year’s ski trip was a great success!

Once we’d touched down in Calgary, and had a beautiful pit-stop at Lake Louise, we arrived at the hotel, ready to get a good night’s sleep. The next morning, we headed to the slopes, where we met our instructors. After an afternoon of skiing, we returned to the hotel and spent the evening shopping in the nearest town. The following days were filled with fantastic ski conditions, quiet, wide-open slopes and a lot of fun with our ski instructors. We explored the whole of Marmot Basin and went down most of the runs between us. The evenings were filled with fun activities, including ice skating, swimming, and a trip to the planetarium, where we were starstruck by the range of telescopes and their specimens, which really rocked our world. We even saw elk crossing a lake next to the hotel!

Mr Nigel Greenall Teacher of PE

IDebating and Public Speaking Successes

t has been a highly successful year for Debating and Public Speaking. At the regional round of the Oxford Schools 2025 Debating Competition, Anna (LV) and Lea (UIV) impressed judges with their articulate and thoughtful arguments on motions such as private versus public healthcare. Their efforts earned them a welldeserved place in the final.

In the Cambridge Schools 2025 Competition, eight pupils represented the school with distinction. Every team placed first in at least one of their debates, tackling challenging motions including whether post-colonial states should decentralise power to tribal authorities and whether states should tolerate gangs that help meet basic social needs.

Special congratulations go to Mable (UV) and Catherine L (UV) who reached the final and competed at Cambridge.

We also celebrate the achievements of Alice (LVI), Todi (LVI) and Daisy (LVI), who progressed to the national round of the prestigious ESU Mace competition, a testament to their critical thinking and teamwork.

A huge thank you to Maya (UVI) and Alicia (UVI) for their exceptional leadership and commitment as Debating Prefects. A particular highlight has been the enthusiasm and creativity they have brought to our weekly Junior debating sessions.

Mr Kam Puwar

Teacher i/c of Debating and Public Speaking

TEDx comes to Wycombe Abbey

Wycombe Abbey recently held a TEDx event, providing a platform for eight pupils to share their ideas, experiences, and thought-provoking insights on topics of their choice, from the psychology of progress to the hidden intelligence of pigeons. The event was designed to encourage fresh perspectives within the School community and was a resounding success. Each speaker tackled a unique theme, prompting the audience to reflect on modern society, history, science, and personal identity.

Among the standout talks was Why Progress Needs a New Story by Annika (UV), who explored how societal expectations and fear shape human purpose. Meanwhile, Sky (LVI) captivated the audience with a light-hearted yet informative speech on pigeons, challenging common misconceptions and revealing the surprising ways these birds contribute to humanity. Delving into historical patterns, Neda (LVI) examined cancel culture through the lens of ancient human cycles,

while Cindy (LV) questioned the reliability of MBTI personality tests in The MBTI: You Are More Than Four Letters, exploring the impact of labels on self-perception. Tia (UVI) took a global perspective in Microcredit and Poverty: Can Small Loans Make a Big Difference? discussing the successes and limitations of microcredit as a tool for breaking the cycle of poverty. Similarly, Vivienne (UV) tackled the hidden dangers of internet overuse in The 21st Century’s Digital Pacifier, likening social media’s comforting presence to a pacifier that numbs rather than nurtures.

Technology and artificial intelligence were also on the agenda, with Bea (UVI) presenting Good Bias in Artificial Intelligence, exploring how intentional biases in AI can improve efficiency, particularly in radiology tools. Finally, Laeticia (UVI) delivered a heartfelt talk titled Where Is Home?, reflecting on how home is less about geography and more about the people and memories that shape our sense of belonging.

The evening was an undeniable success, leaving the audience with fresh perspectives and plenty of food for thought. With its engaging and dynamic line-up, Wycombe Abbey’s TEDx night proved to be an inspiring success, one that will hopefully pave the way for many more in the future.

Mr Kam Puwar Teacher i/c of Debating and Public Speaking

Model United Nations

Honourable readers and fellow delegates, my name is Ava, and I have had the incredible honour to have been the Secretary General for Wycombe Abbey’s Model United Nations (WA MUN) 2024/2025! From the moment my name was read out in Big School, it has been a fantastic whirlwind which I am hugely proud of.

In the Autumn Term, the training began. My team, consisting of Maya, Ahana, Ambika, and Issy, made presentations on the set-up of the United Nations, how a conference would run, current affairs, resolution and key lingo such as Points of Information (POI). The delegates picked it all up quickly, which meant we could start to debate early. We ran through how to write policy statements introducing our individual states, then went straight into introducing core speeches. After a few impromptu ones from the secretariat team, the delegates grew slowly more confident in making POIs, then eventually making full speeches. It was incredible to be able to watch them all grow and develop quickly with the new lingo and structures in place. Before someone could say ‘point of personal privilege’, we had our first conference at Benenden School in December. A group of excited girls went to the school, including the whole secretariat team. Despite being the first conference for many, we started with a bang with a great number of delegates receiving commended and highly commended. That was when I knew we had a good year incoming!

The Spring Term saw the much-anticipated WA MUN conference in January. We welcomed over 15 schools from all around the country as well as an international school from Spain, which really demonstrates the international outreach and inclusion that MUN brings. Being able to do the Secretary General opening speech after watching my forerunners before me was a remarkable experience. Speaking to an auditorium full of knowledgeable delegates was something I will never forget! On the bang of the mallet, the conference was up and running. The conference days were filled with fruitful debate, with 111 resolutions submitted, which is remarkable. History was also made when the Security Council passed two resolutions, something which has not happened for several years. Of course, who could forget our Scottish reeling on the first night? This is where everyone had the opportunity to dress up and bring their dancing skills to the floor. It was bittersweet for all those in the UVI having their first taste of WA MUN only to

be their last! All too quickly, the conference came to an end with speeches from all chairs, prizes awarded, and then my final speech. Seeing all the smiling faces in the crowd, alongside those looking utterly exhausted, was the mark of an eventful two days.

But it didn’t stop there, we still had the Bath MUN and Haileybury MUN conferences to attend. Bath is excellent for our intermediate delegates, whereas Haileybury is a great opportunity to stretch our more seasoned experts. As such, Haileybury brought its own challenges, with one of our member states being the US, which was pertinent as it followed the recent policies published by the new president. The delegates spoke on how this allowed them to appreciate a different perspective on resolutions brought forward, particularly as a P5 with veto power; and the delegation received a team award! We had great representation from our other delegations, who spoke of their experiences in the different committees with high praise, saying it included debate of a high standard, even on nuclear smuggling. We had great successes and awards given across the board.

We welcomed over 15 schools from all around the country and an international school from Spain, which really goes to show the international outreach and inclusion that MUN brings.

The Summer Term meant handing over our roles. Having many pupils come up to me or write that conferences were some of the best weekends at School has helped them become more confident, or even speak publicly for the first time. I just want to say how incredibly proud I am of each and every one of the MUN girls who tried just a little better than the last time. It has been an honour to see them all grow into strong, assertive and confident speakers and I wish them all the best for their next conference and sessions in the club.

I must thank the staff involved in MUN: Miss Jones and Mrs Monteil, who do so much work behind the scenes to make the club and conferences run smoothly. I’d like to thank them for giving me this incredible opportunity that has taught me so much and helped me develop into the person I am today. Thank you all once again for everything and remember MUN is FUN!

Ava UVI, Secretary General 2024/2025

The Carrington Programme

We had another exciting year of talks as part of our bespoke Sixth Form Enrichment provision, the Carrington Programme. The LVI attended three courses as part of the University Preparation Programme, which exposes them to university-level material ahead of their applications in Clarence. The UVI took the opportunity to explore academic areas outside of their A levels with the Carrington Electives Programme. This year, we offered courses on topics such as Paradise Lost, the ethics of AI, and

Communications Conference

In September, we hosted the ever-popular Communications Conference and once again were fortunate to have journalists from Media First who began the day by teaching the LVI tips about managing a crisis. Following their highly engaging talks, the year group split into 11 teams who each took on the roles of PR managers of a fictional ice cream company, The Happy Cow. However, this was far from a serene first day on the job, with various crises hitting at particularly inopportune moments. Throughout this online simulation, our visiting journalists conducted hard-hitting interviews, some of which were then played back at the end of the day. It was a hugely rewarding event, with the important skills of communication and teamwork at the forefront; these will prove invaluable to all our pupils, whichever career pathway they end up taking.

Mr Olly Murphy Deputy Head of Sixth Form

Academic Forum

The start of a new academic year is always a busy time, but this is particularly true for the UVI who make their university applications in the Autumn Term. To help prepare them for this process we hold the Academic Forum in September, an event designed to expose them to universitylevel ideas and ways of working. We were delighted to welcome pupils from RGS High Wycombe, Dr Challoner’s Grammar School and Wallingford School to work collaboratively with our pupils. Throughout the day activities included an Object Discussion task, where groups were required to consider an inanimate object, such as a pair of rubber gloves,

from the perspective of their different specialities and then formally present on this. Each department hosted an academic seminar, mimicking the university environment and challenging pupils to think beyond the normal confines of their A level course. The day ended with an exhilarating academic quiz where interdisciplinary teams solved problems and answered unusual questions to see which team could best adapt their knowledge and work together to emerge as champions!

Ms Emma

Bowen

Head of Higher

Education

Wycombe Management Conference

As part of the Carrington Programme, Lower Sixth took part in the Management Conference with RGS High Wycombe. In teams of six, we participated in a business simulation, managing a phone company with the goal of generating £1 million in total revenue. It was an unforgettable experience that enabled us to immerse ourselves in the world of business and gain first-hand insight into the challenges, strategic decision-making, and fast-paced thinking required to thrive in a competitive market.

Across the two days, we had the invaluable opportunity to engage with global executives in business through a series of keynote speeches. Peter Higgins, co-founder of Charles Tyrwhitt and ME+EM, emphasised the power of unique creativity and innovation in entrepreneurship. Lord Bilimoria, founder of the global beer brand Cobra Beer, spoke compellingly about the importance of resilience and teamwork in confronting the inevitable challenges of building a successful brand – critically, reminding us that with crisis comes opportunity, and with challenge comes progress. Helen Steel, founder and managing director of Streamlion Consulting, offered an honest reflection on the hard work and perseverance required to launch a business. Perhaps the most meaningful takeaway came from my team mentor, who reminded me that both life and business are

Seniors Networking

In January, UVI attended a Careers and Networking Event with 14 Wycombe Abbey Seniors from a broad range of sectors. They offered us lots of advice, and we were free to get to know each of them and ask any questions that came to mind. It was a brilliant opportunity to understand better life after secondary school, both career-wise and in terms of higher education choices. We left feeling more confident about our futures, with new role models and connections to inspire us.

Beatrice UVI

unpredictable – nevertheless, when guided with passion and purpose, you’ll always find yourself exactly where you’re meant to be.

There is so much more to entrepreneurship than management, financial statistics, and market trends.

I came to realise that starting a business is also a journey of self-discovery – one that teaches you valuable lessons and shapes your character in the process.

The conference was a fascinating experience and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity, but above all, for my team, the teachers, the speakers, and the mentors whose support and dedication made the conference possible.

Daisy LVI

A Distinguished Year for the Wycombe Abbey Chess Society

‘Chess is a game by its form, an art by its content and a science by the difficulty of gaining mastery in it’, exclaimed Soviet Grand Master Tigran Petrosian. This is the philosophy the Wycombe Abbey Chess Society has adopted this academic year.

The highlight for our chess team was playing in the architectural edifice of Stowe School, ‘The Pantheon’. We trounced Stowe’s second team, but were bested by a much older first team; however, we did manage to qualify for the subsequent round.

Competition aside, we have also run a volunteering programme with Wycombe Abbey pupils teaching local primary school children the game they love. This occurs three evenings a term and shows the kindness and service of our pupils.

It would be remiss not to mention our Founder and Chair of Chess Society at Wycombe Abbey, Emma (UV). She is organised and passionate about developing Chess at School, as well as being one of the strongest players. The interest and growth of the ‘sport’ at Wycombe Abbey would not be the same without her hard work and enthusiasm.

Mr James Graham Teacher of Mathematics

Project Dialogues

We like to empower pupils to pursue their passions beyond the curriculum. Budding philosopher Emma (UV) has recently started a new initiative called Project Dialogues, where she interviews various people, debating how to disagree well through a philosophical lens. Below, Emma shares what inspired her to embark on this exciting project.

What made you want to start Project Dialogues, and why did you decide to make ‘disagreeing well’ a central talking point?

I was inspired by my passion for philosophy; disagreement is central to philosophy. Learning to tackle counterarguments, think critically, and disagree respectfully is so important. Disagreement isn’t about forming your own opinions and arguing for them relentlessly. It’s important to consider the possibility that you may be wrong.

Who have you most enjoyed interviewing to date?

I’ve interviewed so many interesting people. Most recently, Olympic diver, Guo Jingjing, though my favourite interview was one of my first with Peter Worley, Philosopher-inChief of The Philosophy Foundation.

If you could interview anyone (alive or dead), who would it be?

Coming from my philosophical background, I’d most probably pick Plato. Plato’s Dialogues were the inspiration for Project Dialogues. Lots of his work is written in dialogue form, which allows you to see how the debate of ideas can come to life.

What are your future goals for Project Dialogues?

I’ve got some exciting stuff coming up in terms of a project where I hope to collaborate with the Philosophy Foundation to develop resources and research. I hope to be able to share teaching resources across schools in the UK and internationally. I’m really looking forward to seeing what the future holds!

Future Ready Days

The recent LVI Future Ready Days were designed to equip pupils with the skills and insights needed for life after Wycombe Abbey. In addition to the Leadership Summit, a Mock Graduate Assessment Centre, and departmental sessions focused on university applications, we were thrilled to welcome back several recent Seniors currently studying at university.

Seniors Chloe Syn (2024), Pia Mathur (2023), Anouska Berenzweig (2024), Ariel

Chan (2024), Erica Gong (2022), Georgia Gray (2023) and Morenike Fasinro (2022) generously shared their experiences of higher education, offering honest and enlightening reflections. From candid thoughts on Oxbridge to tips on choosing societies – and even a few entertaining tales of broken washing machines and questionable student cooking – their advice was both practical and inspiring.

It was heartening to hear how much they valued their time in Clarence, crediting it

Mock Graduate Assessment Day

The third day of Future Ready Week in May began with an engaging talk by James Darley (from Transform Society) about the current UK job market for undergraduates. We then enjoyed trying online assessment games, which offered a valuable way to experience real recruitment tools used by employers. Next, we participated in a group exercise where we created a business proposal, fostering both our teamwork and strategic thinking skills. The afternoon ended with mock interviews with parents, which we all thoroughly enjoyed. This experience allowed us to practise articulating our strengths in

with helping them feel well-prepared for student life. They also emphasised the importance of thoroughly researching courses to find the right fit.

We look forward to welcoming the current LVI back in a few years to share their own journeys at a future Seniors Forum!

You can read more about the Future Ready Days below.

Ms Emma Bowen Head of Higher Education

a realistic interview setting. We are grateful for the specific and constructive feedback we received, which will undoubtedly guide us in our future careers. Overall, the day was a fantastic conclusion to such an inspiring week; all of us in Lower Sixth are incredibly thankful to the Sixth Form team and everyone involved in the organisation of Future Ready Week for a well-structured and enriching experience.

Todi LVI

Leadership Summit

Together with 40 visiting pupils from John Hampden Grammar School, we enjoyed a sunny day at the LVI Leadership Summit on Tuesday 20 May as part of our Future Ready week. After kicking off with keynote speaker Vicky Ellis sharing her experience as a novice skipper who led her crew to a yacht race victory, we moved on to various activities that pushed us to think outside the box, such as Astronaut Training (simulating group activities used to filter NASA astronaut candidates), and Island Hopping (crossing a ‘river’ with planks of wood under timed conditions). Other highlights on offer were Archery Rampage, blindfolded tent-building, and a

fiendish escape room which proved to be quite challenging. The numerous activities gave each of us the opportunity to learn to lead and to step up into the spotlight.

We were so thankful to the Sixth Form team for organising the summit, to tutors for being such helpful group mentors, and to the wonderful RTs for setting the games up, as well as Vicky and the John Hampden pupils for being such great company.

Chloe Y LVI

UIII Year Group Trip to Wales

In June, towards the end of term, UIII set off to the St Fagans National Museum of History near Cardiff. It is an open-air museum featuring more than 40 historic buildings from various parts of Wales. We enjoyed looking at the various buildings, touring the village, and stopping at the traditional sweet shop we had all been looking forward to. After lunch we headed off to Rock UK Summit Centre near Trelewis in South Wales where we took part in team-building activities. From caving to canoeing, everybody had so much fun and I think some of the activities definitely pushed us out of our comfort zones. Thank you to all of the staff who made this amazing trip possible.

Hattie UIII

Global Exchanges for LV Pupils

The Global Exchange Programme has continued to be a sought-after opportunity in the Lower Fifth. This year, the programme expanded to include St Margaret’s Anglican Girls School in Brisbane for the first time, adding to our existing partnerships with St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School in Perth and Tara Anglican School for Girls in Sydney. Wycombe Abbey sent two girls to Brisbane, a further two to Perth and three to Sydney. Everyone was delighted to welcome their exchange partners to Wycombe Abbey and to share the incredible opportunities the school provides.

The programme offers a multitude of benefits. Not only does it provide our pupils with the opportunity to experience different educational environments, but through immersing themselves in these diverse settings, girls gain an understanding of new perspectives on learning and develop a more adaptable mindset. It encourages them to be more open-minded

and respectful towards people from different backgrounds, which is an invaluable skill in today’s globalised world. Those who take part also learn valuable life skills such as curiosity and building self-esteem, which are essential for their future academic and professional endeavours.

Another significant benefit is the development of social and interpersonal skills. Living away from home and interacting with new peers and teachers can be challenging, but it also helps pupils build resilience, independence, and confidence. They learn to navigate new social situations, make new friends, and adapt to different social norms. Additionally, the friendships and connections made during an exchange programme can last a lifetime, providing pupils with a supportive network that extends beyond their immediate community.

Mrs Margot Wood Pupil Exchange Lead

TThe Greenpower Car Club

As always, the year started off strong, with the team qualifying for the International Finals 2024! It was amazing to meet some of the teams from all over Europe at Goodwood circuit for the event. Both cars, Phoenix and Sprocket Rocket, raced in F24+, with Sprocket Rocket also racing in two other F24 endurance races. Very impressive lap times were achieved across the races. The day was a wonderful and adrenaline-packed event, and qualifying to race in the Finals was a fantastic opportunity.

At the beginning of the Spring Term, we took part in Societies Sunday which saw many up-and-coming Greenpower drivers taking numerous practice laps up on Daws Hill. The frosty cold and snow certainly gave the cars some trouble that day, but Phoenix and Sprocket Rocket continued to power on, and girls had a lot of fun practising, nonetheless.

Thank you to all the staff who have supported us with Greenpower Car Club.

Shelley LVI

he Parenting the Teenager Programme this academic year has seen some excellent speakers talk to parents to help them learn more about living with and raising teenagers, as well as techniques to aid their children’s learning.

In October, our first talk of the academic year was led by our Head of PSHE, Miss Ella Calder, and Director of Safeguarding and Pupil Welfare, Mrs Sophie Blunt, as they guided parents through the Wellbeing curriculum at School, including the resources used, pupils’ feedback and how it has shaped the curriculum, and what the learning environment is like. They also addressed some parental feedback received during the Parent Consultation on PSHE and RSE.

Our second talk was with Consultant Teachers, Mr Tom Startup and Miss Tara Strange, as they reflected on the science of learning, the development of revision techniques and how pupils can best use artificial intelligence to aid their studies. This talk gave many examples of how the girls can use various systems to aid with their learning outside of the classroom.

In the Spring Term, we welcomed Satveer Nijar, who led a talk on self-harm awareness. This interactive session supported parents with how to approach difficult conversations regarding self-harm, what self-harm behaviours can look like, and where they can go to access further support.

The final talk of the 2025 Parenting the Teenager series was by Karl Hopwood, who spoke about online safety. This session was hosted by Mrs Sophie Blunt, who leads on online safety in her capacity as Designated Safeguarding Lead. Karl focused on the risks associated with an online presence and ways in which parents can support their children in navigating the online world safely.

I am very grateful to the speakers who gave up their time to share their expertise and experiences, and to the large number of parents who engaged positively with the different talks.

Mrs Vicky Fawkes Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Life Beyond School

It has been another busy year in the Careers Department as we continue to provide opportunities for our pupils to look beyond life at School and consider the variety of roles and career sectors that lie ahead of them.

In November, we hosted the annual Wycombe Abbey Careers Seminar, welcoming 25 speakers from a huge variety of professions to join us for dinner and talks. This year, the evening was attended by pupils from LV – LVI inclusive (optional for UVI). A wealth of career sectors were represented, ranging from medicine to engineering, marketing to law, journalism to the diplomatic service, music production to fashion and all sorts of other things in between. Pupils had the opportunity to choose two talks and enjoy hearing about their speakers’ career journeys to date – the highs and the lows!

The talks took place in small groups, enabling a more intimate and informal feel to the evening and giving the opportunity to ask lots of questions. We trust that the evening inspires and informs our pupils as they consider future options.

In January, we were delighted to welcome back to School a group of Seniors from the Classes of 2012, 2013 and 2014. They kindly gave up their time (in return for supper, a tour, and a trip down memory lane) to facilitate a networking evening for our UVI pupils, enabling them to chat about careers and different pathways and opportunities over drinks and canapés. Prior to the evening, we ran an ‘introduction to networking’ session for pupils with an external facilitator, and the evening itself gave the girls a great opportunity to put into practice their new-found skills. One pupil commented:

‘It was easy to start a conversation based on shared experiences at Wycombe Abbey, and particularly helpful to hear about how their time here has shaped their professional lives. It was also much easier approaching and talking to the Seniors when I was in a group of my friends than it would have been at a networking event where I didn’t know anyone, but I feel more confident now than I did about potentially being in that situation.’ We are hugely grateful to the Seniors for giving up their time, and we hope to repeat this event next year!

Over the year, we welcomed a wide variety of speakers as part of our Career Spotlight Programme focusing on different sectors: Electronic Engineering, Economics, Storytelling and Classics. Following presentations from our speakers (a mixture of parents, friends, Seniors and

Work experience opportunities are vitally important for our pupils as they consider their options and consider what they would – and equally wouldn’t –like to do when they start work.

local professionals), there is time for Q&A and discussion. The girls always have plenty of questions, and it is a wonderful opportunity to find out what it’s like to work in a certain career area. We enjoy opening these talks up to pupils from local schools, including from our five closest schools (St Michael’s Catholic School, John Hampden, Wycombe High, RGS High Wycombe and Highcrest), who have been able to join us at various evenings across the year.

Work experience opportunities are vitally important for our pupils as they consider their options and consider what they would – and equally wouldn’t – like to do when they start work. During October Long Leave, six of our LVI pupils were fortunate to experience a short internship with Euronext in central London. They had the opportunity to learn first-hand about

career opportunities in financial services and enjoyed time in different departments, visiting a trading floor and attending a panel discussion with women in various leadership roles in the sector. Our pupils said it was an ‘honour to be able to ask them questions and hear their invaluable advice’ and that the ‘experience has made [them] aware of the diversity of jobs in finance’. Closer to home, 12 of our LVI pupils aspiring to study Medicine have been involved in regular, local work experience placements in High Wycombe. Pupils have attended weekly sessions with two care homes, Growing Hope High Wycombe, Wycombe Hospital (via the Bucks NHS Trust Young Volunteer Scheme), Bowerdean Nursery School and Marlow Opportunity Playgroup (the only special needs playgroup provision in Buckinghamshire). Our pupils are very fortunate to have access to work

experience regularly, and we know that these formative experiences will shape their future careers in Medicine. We are very grateful to all the hosts and supervisors who give their time to support our pupils.

We are always keen to hear from people willing to come along and speak at a careers event or host pupils for a workplace visit. If you think you might be able to help or would like to discuss what might be involved, please contact Mrs Becky Scott, Careers Administrator by email scottb@wycombeabbey.com.

Mrs Alison Kiln Head of Careers

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme

Iam delighted to be writing my first report as the new Duke of Edinburgh Award Manager. It has been a great year for our Bronze and Gold Award Programmes, and it has been wonderful to see the girls enjoy themselves while trying out a new sport, pushing themselves outside of their comfort zones or finding ways around school to support staff and pupils while completing their hours for the volunteering section.

This year, we are proud to report that everyone in LV signed up for the Bronze Award – a testament to the spirit of adventure and commitment among our pupils. Their assessed expedition was a true test of resilience, taking place in what staff have described as ‘the wettest weather conditions ever experienced on a Wycombe Abbey expedition.’ Despite the challenges, the pupils showed remarkable determination and teamwork, and we are incredibly proud of their achievement.

In contrast, our Gold practice expedition in the Lake District was blessed with glorious weather, allowing for a truly memorable and rewarding experience for our group of LVI pupils.

These expeditions would not be possible without the unwavering support of our staff, and I am very grateful for their help during the expeditions this year. Special thanks go to Mr Ka Ho Wong, our Bronze Award Co-ordinator, and Mrs Clare Wong, our DofE Kit Manager, for their invaluable contributions to the success of the programme.

We look forward to another exciting year of adventure and achievement!

Despite the challenges, the pupils showed remarkable determination and teamwork, and we are incredibly proud of their achievement.

Miss Steffi Clarke Duke of Edinburgh Manager

Bronze Award

During our activity days in September, we set out on our Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition in the Chilterns. Over the two days of walking and one night of camping, we navigated our own route, carrying everything we needed on our backs. We cooked our own meals on portable stoves, set up our tents, and worked as a team to complete the challenge. From getting slightly lost and having to retrace our steps to the relief of reaching the campsite after a long day, the experience was filled with so much fun and really tested our teamwork as a group. Cooking our own meals after hours of walking made even the simplest food taste amazing. On the second day, we packed up camp and walked all the way back to School, pushing

Gold Award

During the first week of the Easter holidays, LVI embarked on their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award practice expedition. A dedicated group of seven pupils, accompanied by five members of staff, undertook the journey to the picturesque Lake District, specifically to an area just outside Keswick. The expedition commenced with an overnight stay at YHA Borrowdale, where the group took the opportunity to refine their navigation skills and finalise their packing, all while contending with the only bout of inclement weather encountered during the trip.

The following morning, after a hearty breakfast, the group set off on a four-day hiking expedition. Their circular route encompassed the stunning landscapes around Thirlmere and Derwent Water. The journey included challenging ascents over The Dodds and Great How, offering breath-taking views of the lakes and the town of Keswick. The first afternoon’s trek introduced the group to an area aptly named ‘The Bog’, setting the tone for the memorable experiences that lay ahead.

through tired legs and wet weather. Although it rained for most of the expedition, we all agreed it only added to the adventure and made the experience even more memorable. Ironically, the moment we arrived back at School, the skies cleared, and the sun came out! By the end of the expedition, we had developed resilience, independence, and stronger friendships. Completing Bronze DofE was a huge achievement, and while we were exhausted, we were also incredibly proud of ourselves. I would highly recommend the experience to anyone thinking about taking on the challenge.

Sophia LV

The expedition concluded with a climb up the renowned Catbells, ensuring that the adventure was both challenging and rewarding from start to finish.

Throughout the expedition, the group was fortunate to enjoy exceptional weather, which significantly enhanced the overall experience. The clear skies and warm temperatures provided perfect conditions for hiking and allowed the participants to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the Lake District. An unexpected highlight of the trip was witnessing fighter jets on their practice flights through the mountain peaks, adding an exhilarating element to the journey.

This practice expedition not only tested the participants’ endurance and navigation

skills but also fostered a strong sense of camaraderie and teamwork.

The pupils demonstrated resilience and determination, qualities that will undoubtedly serve them well in their final Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award expedition. I want to extend my gratitude to the staff members that supported the pupils on this trip, providing unwavering support and guidance throughout. This expedition will be remembered as a significant milestone in the participants’ Duke of Edinburgh Award journey, marked by stunning landscapes, personal growth, and unforgettable experiences.

Miss Steffi Clarke Duke of Edinburgh Manager

Getting Creative in Cookery

We have had a very exciting year teaching Lower School, Lower Fifth and Sixth Form.

LV pupils engage in practical sessions as part of the Wellbeing programme, enjoying our focus on healthy planning, energy, comfort and brain food recipes. We have explored protein-filled cupcakes, ramen, smoothies and seeded granola.

Our LVI Leiths programme covers a wide range of meal planning with very accomplished presentation skills. We have discovered chicken paella, glazed salmon fillet and created tomato soup with olive bread. The end of course assessment this year was mushroom risotto and Viennese shortbread biscuits.

The Lower School lessons progressively teach the basic skills of mastering the correct knife techniques, braising, shallow

frying, roasting, sauteing and blanching. Cultural dishes are explored such as gyozas, sushi, quesadillas and chicken in a mustard sauce. There’s always strong competition when it comes to end-oflesson presentation skills and cleaning stations on time.

In addition to the curriculum, the evening Cookery Clubs and weekend baking sessions are always popular. Pupils request the menus and continue to be inspired to improve presentation skills. Our highlight this year was mille-feuille with crème pâtissière and fresh fruit, absolutely mouth-wateringly good.

Our girls exceed expectations, delight staff and continue to put our excellent facilities to good use.

Miss Kay Williams Head of Art and Cookery

Faith and Service

From the Chaplain

Chapel remains at the centre of much of the life at the School. Staff and pupils gather several times a week for short services and time together. I have been especially surprised by the singing volume, particularly some hymns. The passion the girls apply to singing Shine Jesus Shine is very endearing!

‘Women of the Bible’ was our theme for the Autumn Term. Each year group had the chance to lead their own Chapel service, and we had some very interesting guest speakers, including representation from Mary’s Meals. Many of our senior staff also spoke with encouraging messages. We honoured our nation’s fallen during Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day and celebrated Christmas in usual splendour with services for current pupils, parents and Seniors.

Spring Term’s theme was ‘Think upon good things’ with one of our School readings from Philippians 4 being the inspiration, ‘Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable – if anything is excellent or praiseworthy – think about

such things.’ Many of the Houses were able to flex their thoughts and prayers by developing a service on this theme, and once again, we had a wonderful selection of guest speakers, including a Colonel from the Army speaking on servant leadership.

We also had the pleasure of hosting a wonderful service for Roman Catholic Confirmations early in 2025. Congratulations to Dr Fernandez who led our group of girls through preparation and confirmation by the Bishop.

‘The Parables’ were our final theme for the year, and we were excited to hear from Central Aid as well as staff and House teams to deliver talks.

The Chapel is a place for every member of Wycombe Abbey and is available not just for services but also as a place of quiet and prayer throughout the whole of the year. Our heritage remains strong in honouring the current times and our foundational history.

Padre Paul Chaplain

Catholic Confirmations

On Sunday 2 March the following girls were confirmed by Bishop David of Northampton.

Charlotte (UIV)

Lara (UIV)

Sophia (UIV)

Alice (UIV)

Cosima (UIV)

Emma (UIV)

Marta (UV)

Talia (UIV)

Madeleine (UIV)

Chloe (UIV)

Aryana (UIV)

Hemen (UIV)

Our highlights of the day were spending time with our loved ones, reading in the mass and eating our delicious cake. UIV pupil

Charity Report

Wycombe Abbey has had another exciting year of charitable events. The charity work by both teams and individuals has been superb and a very pleasant part of my role. This, of course, was the year that I was being broken in as the new Chaplain, and I am full of admiration and thanks to colleagues and girls who have shown grace, adaptability and a passion for charitable work.

There are several charities that have been supported by Wycombe Abbey in 2025. The enduring relationship with our Dove Charities, the Melanesian Mission and Central Aid has been ongoing, with updates from both charities being presented to the School in Chapel Evensong Services. Both organisations have faced some particular challenges recently, including a significant earthquake in Vanuatu in December 2024, something the Melanesian Mission responded to.

Our Elected Charities for the last two years have been Mary’s Meals and The Wycombe Refugee Partnership. Both have been inspirations for considerable energy for the School and some significant sums of money have been raised. Bonfire Night raised nearly £5,000 to share between these charities, and the 12km

challenge run raised over £3,000 for Mary’s Meals. This event was created and wonderfully planned by three of our girls, and over 100 pupils and staff took part.

Several Houses have hosted House Dinners and bake sales, which have kept fundraising going throughout the year, and there have been several pupil-led initiatives such as making Christmas cards for the elderly at a local retirement home, gathering food for One Can Trust and entertaining the School with a performing arts medley. The School has remained dedicated to its care for other people, both near and far.

I particularly want to acknowledge four girls – Grace and Riana, our former Charity Prefects, and Alexandra and Romy, our new ones. Each pair of prefects builds on the work of their predecessors as well as bringing new ideas and energy to the role. Alongside the House Charity Representatives, this team of charity-enabling pupils keeps the rest of us on our toes.

Padre Paul Chaplain

Books for Ecuador

Several years ago, I started working with three schools in the Amazonian region of Ecuador. The schools’ educational resources were very scarce, with very few books, leaving the pupils with very little opportunity to learn to read and to further their education. When I returned to the UK, I reached out to various schools and asked that they encourage pupils to collect books they no longer wanted so that I could collect them to donate to the schools in Ecuador. A month later, a total of over 500 English books were collected and sent to the schools in Ecuador. The books were distributed amongst three schools, benefitting over 230 pupils aged 7–12 years. After a few years, many of the children are now at a similar age as most of us here at Wycombe Abbey, meaning we can donate books which the children may relate to. I continue to work to encourage as many of my fellow pupils as possible to donate to this amazing cause.

Natalia LVI

Ahana Receives the Diana Award

Upper Sixth pupil Ahana has been honoured with prestigious Diana Award for going above and beyond in her daily life to create and sustain positive change. The Award is one of the highest accolades a young person can achieve for social action or humanitarian efforts. Ahana received the Award for her social initiative and menstrual underwear brand, Saathi, dedicated to eradicating period poverty worldwide.

Ahana’s journey from authoring a book at nine years old to founding Saathi age 16, reflects her unwavering dedication to social impact. Recognising the pervasive issue of period poverty, she developed Saathi to provide reusable period underwear using a sustainable buy-one-give-one model. Since its inception, Saathi has donated over 5,000 units across India, Uganda, and Burkina Faso, improving the lives of over 1,000 girls and reducing reliance on disposable menstrual products. Ahana’s efforts extend beyond donations; she actively educates communities about menstrual health and destigmatising periods through workshops and partnerships while reducing environmental harm with biodegradable packaging.

Established in memory of Diana, Princess of Wales, the Award is given out by the charity of the same name and has the support of both her sons, HRH The Prince of Wales and Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex. Diana Award recipients were nominated by adults who know the young people in a professional capacity and want to recognise their efforts to make a positive contribution to society.

Winning the Diana Award for my work with Saathi, is an honour and testament to its impact in addressing this highly stigmatised issue. Saathi’s mission to provide reusable menstrual underwear through a sustainable buy-one-giveone model has reached communities in India, Uganda, and Burkina Faso, empowering young girls with dignity, health, and confidence. I would like to thank Wycombe Abbey and the KCS Foundation for their unwavering support throughout this journey

Empowering the Elderly through Health Education

For over six years, Gloria (UVI) has been actively volunteering at the Councillor’s Office in Yau Tang District, one of the most in-need areas of Hong Kong. Through her work, Gloria noticed a lack of medical resources and healthcare knowledge among the elderly population. Determined to address this gap, she took the initiative to organise the district’s first-ever medical lecture and free health consultation.

Gloria invited Dr Jane Chan Chun-Kwong, President of the Medical Association of Hong Kong, to deliver a keynote lecture on ‘Respiratory System Rehabilitation Following the Covid-19 Pandemic’ and to provide free medical consultations for the elderly attendees. Gloria also took the opportunity to educate the attendees on dementia prevention, which further enriched the session. After the lecture, Gloria distributed healthcare brochures and relevant medical materials that she had designed, further empowering the elderly with essential information. In addition to her efforts in healthcare education, Gloria also took steps to promote physical fitness. Using funds she raised independently, she donated table tennis equipment to the community, offering them free exercise opportunities to prevent dementia. The positive feedback from these initiatives motivated Gloria, inspiring her to expand her efforts to other low-income districts in Hong Kong.

Gloria organised another round of free health check-ups and medical lectures during the summer holiday, this time in Sham Shui Po, another of Hong Kong’s lowincome districts. She initiated discussions with District Councillors from both Sham Shui Po and Yau Tang, as well as representatives from the Hong Kong Medical Association Council, exploring ways to make these charitable activities a regular fixture.

A Christmas Charity Initiative

I’m already thinking about fun ideas for next Christmas – maybe I’ll even have my own stall at Bonfire Night! Since Horizon is one of Wycombe Abbey’s partner charities, I’m excited to keep helping them as I go through School. I am proud to model our School’s value of service by supporting charities like Horizon and helping them to make a difference through their amazing work.

Zsófi , UIII

To help raise money for a much loved charity, Horizon, Zsófi (UIII) set herself a task to make Christmas Cards to sell. Horizon means a lot to Zsófi as her brother, who has a disability, really enjoys their swimming sessions, which are held at Wycombe Abbey. It is a charity that’s very close to her heart.

Community Engagement

Headmistress’ Christmas Lecture 2024: Victoria Prentis

We were delighted to hold our annual Headmistress’ Christmas Lecture at the end of November. This year, former MP for Banbury and Attorney General, Victoria Prentis delivered a highly engaging talk on the topic of human rights. Drawing

on her extensive experience in government, Victoria offered a compelling exploration of the ethical and legal challenges encountered during her career. From the outset, Victoria stressed the importance of justice in navigating today’s complex world. Lawyers are middlemen, she explained, the go-between for politicians and their policies. As Attorney General, Victoria’s role was to uphold the rule of law, even if it made her unpopular with her party. Law bridges gaps, and those who practise it play a vital role in upholding its integrity. Difficult but essential decisions must be made. Victoria explained how lawyers play a critical role as intermediaries during times of geopolitical conflict, ensuring justice is served for victims regardless of their nationality. She highlighted the poignant example of addressing war crimes in the Russo-Ukrainian War. A particularly

Caledonian Society Ball 2025

We believe in fostering a well-rounded educational experience that extends beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, we host a variety of social events and collaborations with different boys’ schools, providing our girls with opportunities to develop social skills, build meaningful connections and participate in exciting, shared experiences.

The Caledonian Society Ball, held in March, was a delightful evening that brought together our pupils and those from Eton College. Guests enjoyed a traditional address to the haggis, followed by a buffet and lively ceilidh dancing to the music of the Craigievar Ceilidh Band. Both staff and pupils had a fantastic time, with highlights including spirited performances of Dashing White Sergeant, The Eightsome Reel, and The Gay Gordons . The evening concluded with everyone joining hands to sing Auld Lang Syne, marking a memorable end to a wonderful event.

compelling moment was when Victoria shared an anecdote about Ukrainian lawyers representing Russian soldiers, despite the destruction they had witnessed. This powerful example highlighted the importance of legal impartiality in ensuring that everyone, regardless of circumstances, receives a fair hearing. The universality of human rights highlights a core principle of the legal profession: the need for balance and nuance. Victoria’s message extends beyond the law. She first encouraged us to place our hope in international dialogue and co-operation as vital tools for alleviating both social and political conflict. Most importantly, she urged us to approach the contemporary issues around us through an essential lens: that of critical thinking and tolerance.

Annika (UV) and Sasha (UVI)

Special thanks to Felicity (UVI), Nancy (UVI) and Margot (LVI) for their leadership of the society this year.

Mrs Antonia McNeill Caledonian Society Co-ordinator

Bonfire Night 2024

Wycombe Abbey’s Bonfire Night 2024 was truly a night to remember, attracting over 2,000 guests, making it the largest Bonfire Night event in the School’s history! The evening was filled with excitement, laughter, and a palpable sense of community as pupils, parents, staff, and their families gathered to celebrate in grand style.

As always, the traditional LIV Guy competition was an exciting pupil highlight in the build-up to the event. After a rigorous judging process, Rubens emerged as the winner with their Barbie House Guy, followed by Barry in second place with their Stitch Guy, and Pitt in third with their race car Guy. The friendly competition added to the fun and excitement, contributing to the overall success of the event.

A vibrant selection of pupil-run charity stalls was on display to keep everyone entertained as they awaited the fireworks. These stalls raised over £5,000 split between a number of worthwhile causes, including Mary’s Meals and the Wycombe Refugee Partnership. Special congratulations go to Barry House, who raised just over £2,000 – an outstanding achievement. The success of the stalls and fundraising efforts is a testament to the generosity and enthusiasm of the Wycombe Abbey community.

The fireworks display was the crowning moment of the evening. It was heartwarming to see so many people gathered together to watch the fireworks light up the sky in a dazzling array of colours.

Mr Nick

Woods

Deputy Head (Strategy and Operations)

Building Confidence in the Pool: LV Sports Leaders Support Local Swim Galas

As part of our ongoing partnership work, we host several swimming galas for local schools, providing pupils of all abilities with the opportunity to engage in both competitive and recreational swimming in an inclusive and supportive environment.

The gala for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) brought together pupils from three different schools: Great Marlow School, Alfriston School, and Egerton-Rothesay School. Everyone showcased their swimming skills with enthusiasm. The event featured a variety of races and activities tailored to ensure everyone could participate and enjoy the experience. This ranged from individual races and freestyle relays to fun pool races. The gala was filled with smiles, laughter, and a strong sense of community. This event would not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of my fellow sports leaders: Alessia (LV), Ashley (LV), Hope (LV), and Kaitlyn (LV). We worked closely with Miss Ketley, who provided invaluable guidance and support throughout the planning process. I’d like to express a big thank you to all the staff and participants who made the day so special.

Xinrui LV

The Primary Schools’ Swim Gala was a huge success, and this would not have been possible without the teamwork and dedication of everyone involved. From timekeeping and co-ordinating races to encouraging the young swimmers from the poolside, the Sports Leaders played a key role in ensuring the day ran smoothly. It was incredible to see the participants’ excitement and determination; we were proud to create a fun, supportive atmosphere in which they could shine. A huge thank you to everyone who took part; your energy and enthusiasm made the event truly special!

Natalie LV

A Year in the Library

The Wycombe Abbey Libraries have had a fantastic year of literary events, reading challenges, quizzes, cosy reading days, author visits and a vast array of new books. We enjoyed our annual Reading Week in the Autumn Term (page 18) and World Book Day in the Spring Term (page 134). The Carnegie Shadowing Scheme was launched for another year this Summer Term, fostering a nurturing environment for pupils to read and discuss a range of new fiction with our wonderful Librarian, Miss Smith. It is a thoroughly enjoyable annual book club and enables pupils from all year groups to sit down together to indulge in new, celebrated literature from a variety of genres.

The joy of reading has certainly been showcased this year and we hope that the Libraries Department has further inspired the pupils to read more in their free time!

Mrs Susannah Morrisby Head of Libraries (Maternity Cover)

In Honour of Lady Cynthia Hall: Wycombe Abbey Library Renamed

At the end of the Spring Term, Wycombe Abbey welcomed back former Headmistress, Lady Cynthia Hall, to inaugurate the newly christened ‘Hall Library’ and to join Mrs Duncan for an ‘In Conversation’ event.

At the library’s dedication, Lady Hall reflected on her time as Headmistress, emphasising her contact with Junior House through

English lessons. Her passion for both literature and teaching shone through, making it clear why her legacy at Wycombe Abbey has been cemented in such a manner. She commented on the novels she chose to be painted in her portrait, which hangs in the library, one of which was J. R. R. Tolkien’s The Hobbit . Drawing on Bilbo’s ‘unexpected journey’, she also highlighted the importance of courage in the face of adversity, reflecting our academic values of risk-tasking and determination.

In her conversation with Mrs Duncan in front of the Lower School, Lady Hall expanded upon these messages through the medium of children’s literature. Using works by Enid Blyton and Anna Sewell, the former headmistress encouraged pupils to be unafraid of tenaciously defending their beliefs, something which she herself experienced on several occasions whilst teaching the UIII!

On behalf of all pupils, we are grateful to Lady Hall for her visit and for sharing her memories and unique insight into life at Wycombe Abbey.

Sasha UVI

At the beginning of March, we had a fantastic time celebrating World Book Day with a variety of activities taking place across the School. The purpose of the celebrations is to continue to promote a love of reading at Wycombe Abbey, encouraging pupils to prioritise this important habit in their everyday lives to enrich their knowledge and understanding of the world around them.

To begin the celebrations, the Scholastic Book Fair was open from Tuesday to Thursday during the week, enabling pupils to browse a range of books and stationery. The commission from the book fair is given to one of our local primary schools in High Wycombe, and so it was wonderful to see so many pupils purchasing books that will enable a local school library to enhance their own collection.

On the day itself, the whole School got involved by dressing up to celebrate books. The costumes were superb this year, ranging from the Executive Leadership Team dressed as Jane Austen characters to UIV pupils bringing The Three Little Pigs to life. Once again, UV dressed up as a year group and chose The Hundred and One Dalmatians, with Mr Wildgoose dressed as Cruella de Vil! The costume competition ran in Fisher Library during break and lunch. Due to the large volume of fantastic

The costumes were superb this year, ranging from the Executive Leadership Team dressed as Jane Austen characters to UIV pupils bringing The Three Little Pigs to life.

entries, there was a group and individual winner selected for each section. The Lower School group winning entry was Eleni, Sara, Vivian, Matilda, Freya and Laura dressed as Beatrix Potter and The Tale of Peter Rabbit , and the individual winning entry was Amelia dressed as Little Red Riding Hood. The Upper School group winning entry was Naomi, Madeleine, Yichen, May and Alice dressed as Lord of the Flies characters. Finally, the Sixth Form group winning entry was Alice, Chloe, Linda, Sophia, Sasha and Marisa dressed as The Wizard of Oz characters, and the individual winning entry was Nell dressed as Dracula

It was not all about dressing up; a spoken word artist, Christian Foley, delivered writing workshops to LIV and LVI classes, enabling the pupils to write poetry under the guidance of an expert in the field. Christian then delivered an evening performance to UIII and LIV, which was a joy-filled evening celebrating the power of words and reading. Alongside this, we had a range of competitions and quizzes taking place throughout the week.

The joy of reading was certainly demonstrated throughout the week, and we hope that it has further inspired the pupils to read more in their free time.

Mrs Susannah Morrisby Head of Libraries (Maternity Cover)

Development and Alumnae Relations

Iam delighted to report that we have had a very busy and successful year in the Development and Seniors Office. I am incredibly proud of our accomplishments; our engagement with Seniors, parents, staff, and, most importantly, our pupils continues to grow. Our inaugural Giving Day, celebrating World Book Day and Wycombe Abbey’s libraries, was a resounding success, raising more than £112,000 from over 400 donors. It demonstrated the incredible impact we can make as a community when we work together and embody the School’s cherished values. The philanthropic funds we received across the year raised £711,000 in support of the Innovation and Design Centre, bursaries, and our libraries and came not only from our parents and Seniors but also from 79 staff members who made School a philanthropic priority.

Our Seniors’ 40th Reunion in November was a tremendous success, as were the alumnae gatherings in Bangkok, Singapore, Hong Kong, and London.

Mrs Duncan and I visited eight of the top boarding schools in the north-eastern United States, including two girls’ schools:

Miss Porter’s and Emma Willard. We were deeply grateful for the warm welcome we received at all the schools and for the invaluable advice and insights we gathered from their Heads, leadership teams, alumni, and development offices. We noticed many of the people we met were alumni working at their alma mater. This sparked our reflection on the benefits of having alumni employed at a school; they are already part of the community, deeply understand the school’s traditions and campus, and can speak passionately about their experiences. I am thrilled to announce that Kate Thomas (Murrell) (1999, C210, Butler) has joined us as Wycombe Abbey’s Assistant Director of Development (Alumnae Relations). Kate’s role will include overseeing the publication of our alumnae magazine, Circles, and The Dove newsletter, as well as leading the establishment of a recurring reunion programme and university gatherings. We are confident that having a Senior like Kate on our team will be a tremendous asset to the School and its alumnae programmes.

The Dove Bowerman Society recognises those who have included Wycombe Abbey in their wills. This year’s Dove Bowerman event was an Afternoon Tea at the Corinthia Hotel, attended by five Society

members, Mrs Duncan, Miss Boswell, two members of the Seniors Consultative Committee (SCC), and the Development team. It was a delightful occasion, and I encourage anyone who has made legacy provisions for Wycombe Abbey to reach out so we can include you in our next event.

Leading the Seniors and Development office this year has been a pleasure and one of the most rewarding opportunities in my 25-year career in alumni relations and philanthropy. I have had the privilege of experiencing first-hand the School’s mission and values, which are embodied not only in our pupils but also in our parents and Seniors through their commitment to this wonderful school. There are many benefits to being part of this community, but one of the most rewarding is witnessing the embodiment of our values through the gifts of time and treasure. Thank you to everyone who supported us this year, especially our pupils, teachers and house staff who worked tirelessly on World Book Day to make our Giving Day a success.

Ms Robin Sharp Director of Development

OneYear On

This time last year I was struggling to imagine what my life would be like beyond Wycombe Abbey, so it’s crazy to say that it has been a year since I left the school gates after my last A level (Religious Studies).

Living in Clarence was a real full-circle moment for me, having joined the school in UIII, but it also prepared me wonderfully for what living at university would be like. Being prepped with certain life skills in the last year of Wycombe Abbey undoubtedly made the transition to university feel a lot easier than I was expecting, and knowing I had such a brilliant support system from school friends – not only from my year but also from years below, and above me – helped ease my nerves in the first few weeks.

My first year studying Philosophy at University College London has ended, and it has been one of the best years of my life. I’ve been lucky to make incredible new friends, but I also regularly see my old School friends who attend universities nearby. One of the highlights has been joining UCL Lightning Cheerleading in a bid to try a new sport. I’ve met the most brilliant people through this

team, and we even came third in our first national competition! I cannot wait for second year, in which I can study a few elective modules in English Literature and Political Science to explore my interests outside of Philosophy.

I frequently think back to my time at Wycombe Abbey with the utmost fondness, looking upon and cherishing the memories I made with lifelong friends. I appreciate the opportunities I was granted at this school and can’t stress enough to all current pupils – make the most of it! It’s a cliché, but you truly don’t realise how quickly time passes until you’re at the end of your school journey. I wish any pupils or staff leaving school the best of luck for the future, and to everyone enjoying more years at Wycombe Abbey – I’m jealous!

Laila Hall Head of School

2023/2024

Humans of Wycombe

Rachel Keens previously Head of PE and Deputy Head (Operations)

I wasn’t actively looking to move, but when the role of Head of PE at Wycombe Abbey became available, I knew it was the one job I couldn’t pass up, and I was fortunate enough to be offered the position! I spent 24 incredibly happy years at Wycombe Abbey, with standout moments including the opening of the Sports Centre in 2004, coaching the 1st XII lacrosse team to victory at National Schools and leading the first British school lacrosse tour to Japan, as well as celebrating Wycombe Abbey’s 120th anniversary in Hong Kong and at the 125 Ball in July 2016. Now, I am happily living in the Cotswolds with my two-year-old Sproodle, Tilly. I play a lot of golf and am very involved in the organisation of the Women’s Section. While my life may look quite different now, I will always cherish my years at Wycombe Abbey and the wonderful memories I made along the way.

Eloise and Tracy UV, British Sign Language Society

The British Sign Language Society at Wycombe Abbey started in 2024. As we have taken over the society this year, we have decided to increase our efforts to boost attendance by both staff and pupils. Since we are both self-taught, we like to refresh our knowledge before each session to ensure we deliver the best learning experience. Each session is planned in advance and covers BSL basics, including the alphabet, introductions, dates, times, and common phrases. By the end of the course, we hope attendees feel inspired to continue their BSL journey using the online resources we share with them. Learning BSL is a valuable skill that allows communication without using your voice. For many, BSL is their only form of communication, and it’s important that we help foster an inclusive society where everyone feels welcome.

Iain

Wallwork

Head of Mathematics

I used to live in Croydon, and back in 2009, when my wife was pregnant with twins (our second and third children), we decided it was time for a change. We wanted to move somewhere that was close to London but offered more space for our growing family. Honestly, I didn’t think I’d get the position at Wycombe Abbey, but I was pleasantly surprised, and the rest is history! I initially joined as a Maths Teacher, and now, I’m proud to serve as Head of the Maths Department. Outside of School, my wife and I spend a lot of time acting as a taxi service for our children, especially for my twins, as they are quite sporty. If I could have any superpower, it would be the ability

A selection of stories about Wycombe Abbey people, past and present!

Sade Brown

ICT Helpdesk Administrator

I ended up applying to work at Wycombe Abbey about five years ago when my nan sent me the job advert. Previously, I was a help desk operator at a hospital; I used to put out emergency calls. I remember my interview at Wycombe Abbey with my colleagues in IT, Danny and Brian; it was quite fun, they offered me the job that same day! My favourite thing about working at School is the people, and I feel like there are lots of opportunities here. Outside of School, I am quite family-orientated and enjoy looking after my siblings. I have a younger sister who is one year old and a brother who is 14. I also work in a bar one day a week, and I’m starting a new job as a relief matron here at Wycombe Abbey on the weekends. I never stop, I’ve got too much energy! A funny story from the IT helpdesk that I can remember is someone once put in a ticket thanking me for their new laptop but complaining that they hadn’t received their new charger. However, in the picture they had attached, they were, in fact, holding the charger…

Nick Atkinson Examinations Officer

I’ve worked in exam offices in various places for nearly 30 years now. When I saw the job at Wycombe Abbey advertised, I thought it looked like a great place to work that wasn’t too far away from where I live. At my interview, I met Matt, Director of Curriculum Management, and Emily, Deputy Head (Academic), and the rest of the team. At 9:00 am the following morning, I received a phone call where I was offered the job. I feel as if I was meant to be here. My favourite thing about Wycombe Abbey is the people and the atmosphere; the whole place has a nice feel about it. Both the staff and the pupils always seem happy and to be enjoying what they’re doing. Outside of School, I enjoy reading and holidays to hot places, but my real passion is vintage cars. My dream car would be a Hispano-Suiza J12 T68 and a Rolls Royce Phantom 2 Continental. I’m an international conference judge for the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club in my spare time.

Sally Harbour Head of Lower School

One of my favourite things about teaching at Wycombe Abbey is going on trips and residentials. If there’s a trip, I’m on it! There was one point last summer when I didn’t bother unpacking my case! Trips are a great way to really get to know pupils. I also like going to Chapel and being part of the Wycombe Abbey community. Singing hymns together in the morning is a great joy. Whenever the girls say that they are too busy with revision and exams to go to Chapel, I remind them just how important it is to embrace the calmness of the morning service ahead of the busy day. I always wanted to be a teacher from the very first day of school. I loved school so much; I was always the first to arrive in the playground every day and never took a day off. I lined up my teddy bears and pretended to be their teacher.

Horizon Swimming Lessons

Horizon is a sports club operating across the High Wycombe area for young people and children with disabilities. We invite them to use our swimming pool in the Davies Sports Centre each Thursday during term time. Starting in LVI, our pupils volunteer to work with them in the pool and contribute to teaching the young people a life-saving skill. After meeting the Head Coach and being paired up with a participant, with whom our girls stay for the whole year, the sessions begin with structured lane swimming lessons tailored for each individual based on their ability. They end with 15 minutes of playtime, where everyone comes together to have fun in the pool.

The participants and pupils quickly get to know each other well during the sessions. It is lovely to see them building these relationships and chatting away together. Horizon parents attend and sit in the viewing area, enjoying a cup of tea or coffee, knowing their children are in very safe hands. We also provide Wycombe Abbey cookies for the swimmers as they come out of the water, and these go down very well! The year ends with a fun swim and BBQ, which we enjoy together.

Horizon is a wonderful organisation to be involved with, and it is a privilege to share our wonderful facilities with the children. Our pupils greatly value the time they spend volunteering, and these sessions are often the highlight of a very busy week.

Mrs Hazel Nugent Horizon Co-ordinator

Partnerships at Wycombe Abbey

Our partnerships are based on a philosophy that they should be local, mutually beneficial and impactful. Although we have several partnerships that are now well-established, we are always looking for other opportunities to further embed ourselves in the local community and we have significantly expanded the School’s provision in this area.

The Sixth Form primary placement programme, our Cressex literacy mentoring programme and our popular Cressex Summer School (now firmly embedded in our final week of term, with over 40 UV volunteers helping this year!) are core initiatives.

Our chess mentoring programme, which we launched in 2023/2024, has gone from strength to strength this year, with the superb organisation of Emma (UV, President of Chess Club). We have widened this to include Years 3–5, and we have run ten Chess Club sessions this year with the programme being oversubscribed. It also gives our UIIIs the opportunity to get involved with mentoring novice chess players.

Our very popular Sunday morning enrichment programme for local Year 5 primary pupils, taught by our very own LVI girls, moved into its second year this year, and is a firmly established part of our Partnerships provision. We continue to

offer Classics, Science, English and Maths for Year 5 pupils in the Spring and Summer Terms, and in autumn, when they move into Year 6, we also offer lessons in Coding and Sustainability.

In the Summer Term, there were new collaborations with High Wycombe C of E School and Castlefield School, with Maths and DT masterclasses. It brought really good interaction between our pupils and theirs.

Through careers events and greater collaboration at a departmental level, we are continuing to expand our partnerships work between Wycombe Abbey pupils and local state secondary schools, both selective and non-selective; this now includes St Michael’s Catholic School and Highcrest Academy, who are both very keen to develop ways for our pupils to work collaboratively.

Mr Sam Joyce Head of Partnerships

Dove Day 2025: A Celebration of Community and Tradition

Dove Day 2025 was a truly memorable occasion, bringing the entire Wycombe Abbey community together to celebrate everything that makes our School such a special place to live and learn. This year marked an exciting first: Seniors were warmly invited to join the festivities, adding a new layer of connection to the day.

As tradition dictates, the celebration began with chapel services led by our School Chaplain, Padre Paul. From then onwards, the School grounds buzzed with activity. Big School hosted vibrant displays, Fisher Library came alive with captivating LAMDA performances, and Mr Neill George, our Head of History, delivered a fascinating talk on the rich history of our grounds and gardens.

Among the many highlights were Barry House’s victory in the tug of war and Cloister’s triumphant raft race around the lake – both events full of laughter, cheers, and friendly competition.

Lunch brought everyone together under the House and Seniors Marquees. Parents, pupils, Seniors, and staff shared picnic baskets and warm conversation, accompanied by wonderful live music performed by our School’s talented musicians.

In the late afternoon, the community gathered once more for afternoon tea, followed by speeches from the Chairman of Council and the Headmistress. The day concluded on a high note with a dazzling Review Show, showcasing the creativity and enthusiasm of our pupils.

Dove Day 2025 was a perfect blend of energy and ease – a celebration of unity, tradition, and joy. Our heartfelt thanks go to the many staff members whose hard work and dedication made this cherished day possible.

Mrs Sian Rees-Evans Director of Communications and Marketing

Our heartfelt thanks go to the many staff members

HOUSE REPORTS

This year in Junior House, we have welcomed a new group of vibrant, bright and engaging pupils to Wycombe Abbey. We have spent a year involved in activities, experiencing lots of new and exciting things, and learned all we can about life at Wycombe Abbey, ready to transition to Senior Houses.

The year started with a trip to Wendover Woods and a chance to swing through the trees. An experience that allowed friendships to start to form. Each week, there have been fun and exciting activities, and some of our favourites were Scoobies and bracelet making. In the second half of the Autumn Term, the activities table was transformed into a Santa’s workshop with the girls helping to produce over 80 pompom penguins to go on our Christmas tree in the All Saints Church Christmas Tree Festival. With the help of some of our parents, the dining room had a mini makeover at the start of the Spring Term, when we were able to celebrate the Lunar New Year together.

World Book Day is always a favourite in Junior House with an amazing array of costumes. Group costumes continue to be very popular, including Ms Beatrix Potter complete with Rabbits!

Our weekends have been brimming with excitement, offering the girls a fantastic mix of fun, friendship, and unforgettable experiences. From whole-school

Junior House

celebrations like our Closed Weekend festivities – including an amazing funfair at the beginning of the year, a lively silent disco in the Spring Term, Dove Day and GlastonAbbey in the Summer Term. Highlights of our Open Weekends have included trips to Whipsnade Zoo, mini golf, and an adrenaline-filled trip to Ninja Warrior. Back on site, we had a cosy

campout and a number of different socials. The fun continued right until our final night with an outdoor cinema under the stars.

These weekends have not only been about entertainment – they have been a wonderful way for the girls to connect, create memories, and strengthen their sense of community. The Junior House girls have enjoyed performing on stage through the Music Department’s regular performances, the Highlights show was also hugely popular, where individuals and groups were able to show off their amazing skills in a whole host of different styles of dance from ballet to musical theatre. As a whole House the girls performed ‘We’re all in it Together’ from High School Musical in House Shout, and in the UIII play, Victorian World

Our end of term highlight was our residential trip to the Rock UK Summit Centre in Wales.

Miss Crampton and Miss Wilson Housemistress and Deputy Housemistress

Airlie has been a House full of kindness, laughter and endless toasties for another year. In September, we welcomed a wave of new girls into LIV, UIV and LVI, who quickly found their place within the Airlie community and have contributed massively to our House spirit and activities throughout the year.

We were also delighted to welcome Mrs Garcia as our new Housemistress; she has introduced dog walks with Coco, as well as the ever popular ‘beditation’! In the Autumn Term, we watched in awe at the UIV Greatest Showman -inspired dance at the House Dance Competition and enjoyed Family Tree game nights; a particular highlight was a very passionate round of House charades! In the Spring Term, our House Shout performance of Bruno Mars’ Grenade was praised for its fabulous choreography by Alison and Amalia, landing us in third place! We also launched House Cluedo, which was great fun for the whole

community, leading to some interesting plans in order for girls to reach their targets! We also enjoyed our House Chapel service, organised by Linda and Alison, focusing on Airlie friendships as well as highlighting our unity and sense of community. Although we might not have seen success in House Netball or House Lacrosse, our teams

Airlie

played with enthusiasm and unity across both terms, under the brilliant leadership of our sports captain Katie. All of the Mons have enjoyed reflecting on a year filled with fun and laughter, and we can’t wait to hear about Airlie’s success next year.

Sasha Head of House

All of the Mons have enjoyed reflecting on a year filled with fun and laughter, and we can’t wait to hear about Airlie’s success next year.

Having looked forward to being in Mons for five years, it’s difficult to believe how swiftly this year has passed. Although our final year in Barry feels all too brief, it has undeniably been our favourite at Wycombe Abbey. Being Heads of House has been both an incredible privilege and a rewarding challenge, we’ve genuinely loved every moment, from organising events and activities to nurturing the extraordinary Barry House spirit.

This responsibility has given us a greater appreciation for the behind-the-scenes effort that makes our House community thrive. Undoubtedly, planning and hosting the annual House party was one of the year’s highlights. Seeing everyone enthusiastically embrace the games and dress up in imaginative, memorable costumes was a joyous and unforgettable experience.

Winning House Shout was unquestionably our proudest achievement this year. Given that Barry had placed only once previously during our time here (much to Ms Hurribunce’s gentle disappointment!), we were determined to give it our all. Everyone’s dedication, energy, and growing

confidence were remarkable. When the results were finally announced, the excitement was electrifying – so much so that Ms Hurribunce’s phone dramatically flew out of her hand! Ending the Spring Term on such an exhilarating note was truly special.

Other treasured moments include Bonfire Night, where the entire House united to run stalls, craft friendship bracelets, and enthusiastically sell raffle

Barry

tickets. Witnessing everyone’s collaborative spirit and commitment to charity was incredibly inspiring, resulting in Barry raising the most funds of all the houses –a fantastic reflection of our House’s generosity and teamwork.

This year also saw the debut of the dorm karaoke competition, which featured spirited rounds of singing, vibrant dancing, and inventive costumes. The atmosphere

was contagious, encouraging even the most reserved among us to step confidently into the spotlight. Of course, our much-loved tradition of House Cluedo continued to keep everyone on their toes, generating endless laughter and memorable moments of friendly competition.

Barry House has been more than just a boarding house to us – it has been a true home, full of warmth, friendship, support, and encouragement. It has shaped us as individuals, strengthened our leadership skills, and provided an environment where everyone can flourish and feel valued.

We would especially like to thank the Lower Sixth Mons, the Barry staff, and Ms Hurribunce for supporting, trusting, and encouraging us throughout our tenure as Heads of House. As we look towards our next chapter in Clarence, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the incredible community we’ve been privileged to lead. The memories and friendships we’ve forged here will remain with us forever – we couldn’t be prouder to have been Heads of Barry.

Estelle and Chloe Heads of House

It’s hard to believe that my time in Butler has come to an end. I was definitely upset to leave the fun-filled and caring place that has been my home for the last five years. This last year has given me so many great memories, and it has been the perfect way to round off my time here.

We kicked off the year by warmly welcoming the new LIVs and UIVs into the House through a lively Just Dance competition in House families, and cosy hot chocolate evenings in Mons with each year group. In November, the UIV had success in the House Dance competition, securing second place due to their incredible performance of a mashup from the musical Six. Bonfire Night brought another moment of celebration, as Butler’s charity stall – featuring darts and ‘guess the teacher’ – claimed second place, raising lots of money for our School charities. We finished the term with the annual Butler Bop (where the teachers surprised us all, dressed as characters from Wicked), and a gingerbread house-making competition to get into the Christmas spirit. Admittedly, not all the creations resembled actual houses, but they added to the festive fun!

The Spring Term brought the return of the much-loved House Cluedo, where some of the murder plots were scarily well

thought out – proof of how competitive we can be! We also had our House Chapel service, led by Catherine, where we reflected on the importance of resilience in everyday school life. House Games this term focused on swimming, in which Butler did extremely well and managed to place first overall. We ended the term on a high with House Shout, where we sang Counting Stars by OneRepublic, and even though we didn’t place, everyone’s dedication and House spirit was inspiring.

Butler

The Summer Term was filled with many fun outdoor activities, including Butler vs Barry rounders (in which Butler beat Barry every time!) and a giant slip-andslide. However, we sadly had to say goodbye to our Housemistress, Mrs Monteil. Her constant dedication to making Butler a calm and supportive environment has been much appreciated, and we wish her all the best in your new role as Housemistress of Junior House.

Chloe Head of House

As another eventful year comes to a close, there is so much for us to appreciate and celebrate. I am so honoured to be able to reflect on a few of these as Head of House for Campbell.

Autumn Term picked up quickly as we welcomed new LIV, UIV and LVI joiners and saw them settle into the busy term ahead. We were excited to bring back Cooking with Mons, a weekly event where a couple of LVI pupils prepared food with a different year group each week. This was a huge success – we made delicious meals from fried rice and dumplings to fresh crêpes, while chatting with younger pupils in the House and getting to know them. The Mons also invited the new LIVs up to our kitchen for hot chocolate. We got to know how they were feeling stepping into a brand-new environment and answered any questions they had. Further into the term, UIV pupils performed their House Dance to Michael Jackson’s Thriller. They put on such a spectacular performance! This was a testament to their hard work and talent, which brought Campbell so much pride. Later in the term, Campbell’s musical talent was not overlooked with record-high participation in the Wycombe Abbey Competitive Music Festival and a creative rendition of the Jurassic Park

theme for House Ensemble. After our inflatable dinosaur appeared, we ended the evening with laughter throughout the School and a successful performance. We soon ended the term with an eventful Christmas at Campbell, marked by the excitement from the inter-dorm gingerbread house decorating competition as the LIVs carried on the tradition of decorating our Christmas tree.

Campbell

At the beginning of the Spring Term, we welcomed our new Deputy Housemistress, Mrs Liu and our new Resident Tutor, Mr Russell. The highlight of this term was our annual House Dinner. It was a wonderful evening filled with laughter and conversation, accompanied by a delicious meal. It was so heartwarming to see pupils, parents and staff bonding over salmon, risotto, and even some red wine. Our charity raffle after the dinner was very successful, and we were fortunate enough to raise hundreds of pounds for our school charities. Further along the year, Campbell saw much

sporting success with a well-deserved first place in House Netball and second place in House Swimming. We also took an outing to an escape room in Shoreditch during the last week of term. Though some parts of the room challenged our problemsolving skills, our teamwork and collaboration prevailed. Ultimately, it was a fun and rewarding experience that brought us closer together. We wrapped up the Spring Term with the House Singing Competition. In high spirits, we sang What Makes You Beautiful by One Direction and introduced our own take on the music video in the final chorus.

As we come to the end of our final term in Campbell, we were excited to see everyone participate in the muchanticipated end-of-term activities; GlastonAbbey, Dove Day, and Sports Day have consistently brought joy and laughter to the girls in Campbell. Watching LV prepare for their House Play was also a thrill, and they put on a show-stopping performance with guidance from our reigning champions in UV. Needless to say, it has been another successful year for Campbell, and we have all the brilliant staff and our wonderful community to thank.

Jane Head of House

Campbell saw much sporting success with a well-deserved first place in House Netball and second place in House Swimming.

Our year has been one of laughter and celebration, and I am confident this will only endure once I have handed over to the next Head of House.

This year has been filled with laughter, a few tears (shed after we were robbed and robbed again at the various House competitions!) and the warmth of our Cloister House community.

In the Autumn Term, Cloister faced our hectic Wycombe Abbey timetables with tenacity and a sense of humour unique to the relaxed mood of our House. This was gleefully showcased by the UIVs in their superb performance during House Dance to You Spin Me Round (Like a Record), packed with creativity and an impressive level of swagger. Cloister showed a softer side to our creative talent through the uncanny likeness of the ‘Duolingo’ bird, crafted for the LIV Guy competition. Unusually for the trying experience that is the guy-making competitions, it was sad to see this one burn!

We battled hard in the various House Games competitions, a fighting fit seventh place in House Lacrosse(!), a highlight being Alice’s (LIV) first place in the Junior category of House Cross Country.

Autumn Term also saw several ‘hot chocolate’ meetings between the LVIs and younger year groups, which is always an entertaining and slightly chaotic time (our microwave only fitting two cups at a time – spillages due to an overestimation of its capacity being a frequent occurrence...).

Cloister

Spring Term saw the launch of ‘House Cluedo’, whereby everyone is assigned someone in the House, and who they have to ‘kill’ with a certain object in a certain place. The House had tremendous fun plotting and scheming their murders, and I am delighted to crown Hayat (UV) as House Cluedo Champion. Spring Term also saw the launch of the Head of House election campaigns, Cloister’s unfailing sense of humour shining through in Tina’s

innovative spin on the ‘MAGA’ style. Our talent in public speaking was brilliantly showcased through our House Chapel Service, a dynamic demonstration with glue encapsulating metaphorically what Romans meant when they said to ‘cling to what is good’, expertly executed by Izzy in UIV. Our performances as a House did not end there, pulling off a performance with the highest entertainment value, by far, during House Shout with our rendition of Be a Man (from Mulan), complete with harmony parts and dance sequences. The House’s dedication during rehearsals brought alive the community spirit in Cloister, with Kelly and Vivienne (UV) taking an exemplary lead on the drums and piano. Our year has been one of laughter and celebration, and I am confident this will only endure once I have handed over to the next Head of House.

Alice

Head of House

Pitt has enjoyed another fantastic year filled with laughter, fun, and unforgettable memories.

UIV wowed us all in the Autumn Term with their well-rehearsed and exhilarating House Dance performance. Another highlight was seeing the UIV Guy displayed at bonfire night. After countless hours of hard work in the common room, they produced the ingenious creation of Brad Pitt in a Formula One car; luckily, their dedication paid off, and they were awarded third place! Furthermore, Pitt displayed sporting prowess by defending our title in House Lacrosse Funals. Finally, as we neared Christmas, the House celebrated our first ever ‘Pittmas’ organised by Mrs Madison and the LVI. We had a great time creating festive treats with our House families and showcasing our competitive edge with a Christmas trivia Kahoot to end the evening.

The Spring Term followed with just as much excitement. We all enjoyed the introduction of House family breakfasts, where we were able to chat and bond with fellow Pitt girls in the mornings, fostering strong inter-year group relationships. Furthermore, our annual

House Dinner was a roaring success. It was lovely to see the wider Pitt community come together for a fantastic evening with a musical performance, delicious food and a lively raffle. Thanks to the generosity of all contributors, we are proud to have raised a record-breaking £1,800 for our school charities: Mary’s Meals and Wycombe Refugee Crisis. At the end of the term, we ventured to

Pitt

Benihana in London for our House Outing, where we enjoyed an immersive culinary experience. It was truly an amazing night.

The Summer Term was a great success with the LVI getting off to an intense start with their exams first thing, they performed brilliantly all round, and we are all very proud of them. UV started their GCSEs next and handled themselves really well. The whole House was behind them and wishing them the best of luck. We were also extremely proud of Todi and

Genevieve, who were announced as Head Girl and Deputy Head Girl, respectively, at the end of the Spring Term. They are so deserving of this role, and we are so happy to have such great Pitt representation in the Head Girl Team! On the first weekend of term, many of the Pitt girls participated in the 12km charity run, raising money for Mary’s Meals. Deputy Housemistress, Mrs Maddison, put in a great effort and represented the Pitt staff in the run. Everyone enjoyed the Closed Weekend festivities, particularly the inflatables, it was a great start to term.

The Summer Term was filled with successes in music, sports, and academics from Pitt girls; we are so proud of all that has been achieved this year. We would like to thank the House staff and our tutors for their unfailing support this year; we are particularly grateful to Miss Allen, who, after 12 years, is stepping down as Pitt Housemistress. Words can’t describe how much she will be missed, and we will deeply cherish the time we spent with her over the past few years.

Margot Head of House

House Games brought out our famously high Rubens spirits, with girls cheering on their friends and the occasional sighting of our Percy Pig mascot.

Rubens is a truly special place, and this year our community and warmth have been as strong and inviting as ever. As Head of House and Deputy Head of House, our year began on a high with the House Dinner – a wonderful evening where parents, teachers, and Rubens girls came together to celebrate all of our pink sisters and family. The annual quiz was chaotic, but as always, lots of fun with parents competitively getting involved and of course, we simply had to transform Big School into a pink palace for the night.

Rubens really is a family with such a strong sense of friendship and support. This is encapsulated in our evening activities, ranging from Toastie Tuesdays to Fruity Fridays, and our new initiatives of bracelet making and colouring evenings in the Common Room. This has been a lovely way to relax and create new friends across year groups.

House Games brought out our famously high Rubens spirits, with girls cheering on their friends and the occasional sighting of our Percy Pig mascot. We came second in the Lacrosse House Finals, which really highlighted our strong teamwork. It is always a joy to see such unity and energy from every year group.

Rubens

Some of our standout moments this year were winning the House Ensemble competition. A big thank you to our fantastic House conductors Chloe and Millie. We also had great success at Bonfire Night. Our stall was brilliant, and we had lots of fun activities such as face glitter and

hair tinsel, thanks to the amazing work of our Charity Captains Lily and Sophia. We also won the Guy competition for the second year in a row with an incredible Barbie Dream House – a massive well done to all of LIV for their hard work!

As we prepare to leave the ‘pink palace’, I am sure that I will miss Rubens immensely. I am so grateful for all the support from the most incredible house staff for everything they do for our massive House. It will be tough to say goodbye; however, we are excited to see Rubens continue to thrive, and we have no doubt it will remain the warm, spirited and joyful place it has always been. Long live the sisterhood! Long live Rubens!

Maria (Head of House) and Sophia (Deputy Head of House)

As we approach the end of the academic year, it’s hard to believe how quickly our time has flown and what an incredible year it’s been for Shelburne. From unforgettable victories to happy moments, we couldn’t be prouder of everything the house has achieved together.

Starting with music, we had a strong performance of Uptown Girl in the House singing competition which earned us a well-deserved second place. It was complete with fun dance moves and impressive harmonies. We were thrilled to win the House Music Cup, a true reflection of the incredible talent and passion within our house over the course of the year. This achievement highlighted Henrietta and Frida’s dedication and leadership as House conductors.

Shelburne’s House spirit across various sports is always clear, whether it is supporting friends in House games from the sidelines or volunteering to try a new sport to fill numbers. These efforts led to a surprising but well-deserved first place in the Spring Term House Games rankings. Thank you to our sports captain, Eve, for leading another successful year in sport.

Shelburne’s academic success has once again been a highlight. Through everyone’s hard work, we have taken home two out of three Commendation Shields so far, making it the sixth term in a row for Shelburne. A special thank you to Nell for ensuring Shelburne is always well represented taking all our feedback to every food committee meeting!

Shelburne

Bonfire Night was brilliant, with Shelburne’s crêperie and card games being a huge hit. Although we did not place in the Guy competition, all the LIV had so much fun working together, especially with the help of our talented house artist Sophie. Overall, it was an enjoyable evening with spectacular fireworks and with Shelburne raising £412. Thank you to Kate and Cindy who organised such a memorable evening as our charity reps.

The UIV House Dance to Money, Money, Money was a dazzling showcase of energy, co-ordination and teamwork. Meanwhile, the

LVs have been putting in great effort preparing their House play and we can’t wait to see the final performances. Not to forget our UVs who have been smashing their GCSEs. It has been so nice to see them all grow in confidence, and we are so excited for them to be Shelburne’s future leaders.

As we reflect on everything this year has brought, we’re filled with gratitude. Shelburne has given us so much since we joined back in LIV. We’ve formed lasting friendships and so many memories which has made saying goodbye to the house incredibly bittersweet.

To our amazing house staff: Miss Phillips, Miss Tay, Mrs Wilson and Mrs Penfold, thank you for being the backbone of Shelburne. Your support, encouragement, and care have made all the difference, and we are endlessly thankful for everything you’ve done. We’ll carry the memories of this House with us always and you can be sure that we’ll be back to visit. We are so proud of everything Shelburne has achieved, and we have thoroughly enjoyed being your Head and Deputy Head of House for 2024/2025.

Radha (Head of House) and Kate (Deputy Head of House)

In September, we welcomed all of the new girls into our House, and I am so happy to say that they have settled in smoothly and have truly integrated themselves into our tight-knit community with ease.

It has been such an amazing year for Wendover! In September, we welcomed all of the new girls into our House, and I am so happy to say that they have settled in smoothly and have truly integrated themselves into our tight-knit community with ease. We kicked off the Autumn Term by smashing Bonfire Night and winning the prize for the best decorated stall, and (in my opinion) the stall with the most creative activity: beer-less pong! It was such a fun evening, filled with smiles and some serious competition and Wendover spirit. What a way to start the year!

House Dance quickly came around, and the UIV girls put on a lively and entertaining performance that showcased their hard work and dedication in choreographing and coordinating the dance. It could not have gone better; they didn’t put their toes out of place and won the competition!

However, Wendover’s creative talents don’t end on the dance floor, with our musicians taking the House Ensemble competition by storm. It was so heartwarming to see the group perform with

such emotion and talent; they really made the whole House proud and placed first!

In spring, we launched House Cluedo, my absolute favourite Wendover tradition. Strategies were being created, alliances made and it felt like the House ran on sheer adrenaline for the three weeks that the game ran! It is memories like this, where we all come together and

Wendover

have a lot of fun, that I am going to miss the most about Wendover. From Fruity Friday madness to Daws Hill Rounders, the Wendover community could not be tighter.

House Games may not have been our most successful time, but it is definitely the loudest. Whether it’s lacrosse, netball or tennis, there was always a crowd of girls in red cheering on the players. That is what I am most proud of as Head of House: how

we always show up for each other, no matter what.

This year in Wendover wouldn’t have been what it has been without our incredible House staff. It is only Mrs Woodward’s first year, but she has been the most supportive, welcoming and kind Housemistress, and we couldn’t be more pleased that she has joined us. To all the staff, thank you so much for everything you do for us; you are superwomen!

I can’t quite believe that my time in Wendover has come to an end. I can confidently say that I have taken every opportunity that this House has given me, and the friendships that I have made are invaluable. I know that although I am leaving the House, I will always have this community supporting me in everything that I do, and I couldn’t be more grateful for that. I hope that Wendover continues to be winners in every aspect of school life, but whatever happens, I am the luckiest girl to have been able to grow up in this House with these amazing young women.

Kitty Head of House

Like those before us, the Clarence Class of 2025 has certainly had an interesting year full of laughter, tears, and, in full Wycombe Abbey style, success. The Autumn Term started off strong with our trip to Monopoly Lifesized in London, where our future business graduates got their first taste of real estate, while the rest of us were peacefully bankrupted. As the rest of the term unfolded, we worked our way through UCAS and international university applications, admissions tests, and weekend arrangement forms. Our shared years at School have taught us how to learn together; Clarence, however, has taught us to live together, in every sense of the word.

The rest of the year was equally busy. As offers came in and A levels grew dangerously closer, we balanced study with trips to France and Italy and attendance at a wide variety of Carrington sessions. Life in Clarence hasn’t always gone to plan. I think back fondly to our last House outing, when

we watched Bridget Jones and someone stole my pizza, twice. Among our cohort, there are aspiring chefs, instant noodle fiends, and those whose microwaved bagels famously do not get along with the fire alarm. There are future playwrights (Players was a huge hit) and English students who have yet to read their set texts (guilty as charged). In conclusion, Clarence has been quite the journey.

Clarence

First and foremost, eternal thanks must go to Mrs Sparks, Miss Hamilton, Miss Suto and Mrs Waghorn, who helped organise all the trips and events that will now remain forever within our core memories. Also to Aga, Teresa, Karen, Jo, Marzena, and Antionette, thank you

for helping us keep our rooms presentable and our lives in order. This year would not have been possible without the extra dose of positivity you brought into each of our Houses.

Finally, to the Class of 2025: this year has been a lot, most of which I can’t quite put into words. Besides the obvious, the memories we will take with us are boundless, through the highs (Eden Centre trips, dubious deep and meaningfuls, dogs in CCR!) and the lows (dishes and mid-shower fire alarms). In Clarence, we have done it all in a single day. Now that we’ve reached the end, I can safely say that I am very proud of all the incredible achievements and personal successes that we have garnered throughout the course of this tumultuous school year. There will never be another year group like ours.

Here’s to the rest of our lives! See you all at the reunion!

Chung Yu Chairman of

Clarence

Staff Leavers

Sarah Coen Teacher of Psychology

Sarah joined Wycombe Abbey in September 2022 as Teacher of Psychology and quickly made her mark on the department and the girls’ hearts. From spending hours giving extra tuition to pupils to hand-brewing matcha coffees from scratch for the whole class in her Saturday lessons, Sarah has been utterly committed to providing every girl with the very best experience possible.

She has been unswervingly dedicated to championing individuals in their achievements, boosting girls who needed confidence, and guiding them when they required support. She has injected so much warmth into the department and truly cares about helping pupils reach their full potential in her classroom. As the master of sage advice, Sarah’s contributions have been far-reaching, from delivering outstanding teaching to

Xiaoli Pan Teacher of Chinese

Xsupporting colleagues with generosity and good humour. Her creativity and enthusiasm have brought fresh ideas and a positive energy that will be sorely missed. She leaves to develop her own business and we wish her all the very best with this new venture.

Mrs Lauren Monteil Head of Psychology

iaoli has been an invaluable member of our Chinese Department, and her departure is deeply felt by all. She has demonstrated exceptional dedication and a passion for teaching, inspiring countless pupils to embrace the Chinese language and culture.

Her innovative teaching methods and engaging lessons have made a lasting impact on both her pupils and colleagues. Xiaoli’s ability to bring the richness of Chinese history and literature to life in the classroom has been truly remarkable. She has always been willing to go the extra mile, whether it was through facilitating cultural events, providing personalised support to pupils, or sharing her extensive knowledge with fellow teachers.

Outside the classroom, Xiaoli played a pivotal role in various school initiatives,

including the annual Chinese New Year celebrations and the Anthea Prize competitions. Her contributions have significantly enriched our School’s cultural diversity and fostered a deeper understanding of Chinese traditions.

We will miss Xiaoli’s warmth, enthusiasm, and unwavering commitment to education. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours and thank her for the lasting legacy she leaves behind.

Mrs Xiaoyan Wan Head of Chinese

Sophie Dubois Teacher of Languages and Deputy Head of Lower School

When Sophie joined the Modern Languages Department in September 2019, a newly qualified NQT, she was thrown in at the deep end and immediately demonstrated her natural professionalism, adaptability, pedagogical skills, and esprit d’équipe.

Sophie excels in teaching every year group at every level, switching effortlessly from leading with rigour and exactitude a UVI class debate on electoral apathy issues to explaining patiently and lucidly the perfect tense to the LIV. Her kindness and warmth with pupils and colleagues are underpinned by an unerring commitment and diligent work ethic that have gained the respect of all her colleagues. Generous with her time and resources, Sophie has created and shared a wealth of material across all year groups in both French and Spanish that has been hugely appreciated and will remain just one part of the special legacy that she

leaves behind. For the past two years, in addition to her role as French and Spanish teacher, Sophie has also been a pillar of support and guidance for UIII and LIV pupils, both pastorally and academically, as the Deputy Head of Lower School.

Sophie has always been one of the first to volunteer for extra-curricular events, whether to accompany a trip to France, be a judge at a debating competition, or coordinate a club. Her resourcefulness, enthusiasm and generosity have meant that she has been a positive role model for pupils and colleagues. We shall miss her calm cheerfulness, can-do attitude,

high standards and loyal support for all her pupils, and dedication to the wider team and School. We are deeply grateful for her contributions and wish her all the best in her future endeavours.

Ms Lucy Nott Head of Modern Languages

Hannah Killow Teacher of English and Economics

Hannah has made a magnificent contribution to Wycombe Abbey, teaching English and Economics, while enthusiastically embracing every possible opportunity to contribute to the wider life of the school, whether through organising theatre trips, serving as a house tutor in Butler or playing in the orchestra – a clever way indeed to secure a place on the recent tour of Europe!

Hailing from Australia, Hannah’s interview lesson was conducted remotely and it was immediately clear that we were in luck, swiftly appointing someone who was cool, calm, composed and highly competent. Although she was only due to be with us for one year as a maternity cover, a second baby in the department in the space of two years meant that we could keep Hannah on for an additional year, an outcome which was universally celebrated. The Economics Department were delighted to discover that she was not only capable but willing to teach an A level class

alongside her English groups, impressively balancing two markedly different disciplines. Beyond the classroom, Hannah played a pivotal role in leading Christian Society and she will be fondly remembered for her honest and profound Chapel talk.

A warm, friendly and approachable colleague, Hannah will be dearly missed throughout the School community and we wish her all the very best with her move to London.

Mr Sam Lenton Head of English

Lucy Smith

Deputy Housemistress of Campbell and Teacher of PE

Lucy joined Wycombe Abbey in 2017 as a member of the PE Department and transitioned from House Tutor to Deputy Housemistress of Campbell in 2021. Her enthusiasm, kindness, and extensive knowledge made her an indispensable part of the boarding team. Lucy consistently went above and beyond to care for the girls and ensure her colleagues felt supported. Her calm and encouraging demeanour has left a lasting impact, and she will be greatly missed as she embarks on the next stage of her career.

In the PE Department, Lucy demonstrated exceptional dedication, leading netball teams and ensuring the weekly House Games provision was both varied and engaging, brightening the girls’ Monday afternoons. Her expertise in PE seamlessly integrated into the boarding house, where the Campbell girls could always count on her support, especially during House Funals and Sports Day. The girls were particularly fortunate to benefit from her expertise and were thrilled to share their victory in House Netball this year.

Helen Allen

Housemistress of Pitt and Teacher of Design Technology

Helen joined Wycombe Abbey in September 2013 as Housemistress of Pitt and Teacher of Design Technology and quickly made her mark on Wycombe Abbey. Calm, measured and passionate about pastoral care, Helen quickly became known as a reassuring presence within the pastoral life of the School, resulting in her appointment as Senior Boarding Housemistress in January 2023.

Throughout her time at Wycombe Abbey, Helen has demonstrated an unwavering dedication to the pupils in her care. Whether it was speaking to pupils about future career or course aspirations, or cooking nachos with them in the Pitt House kitchen, Helen fostered very positive relationships with pupils and families alike, and the Pitt House Dinners have proved an enormously popular date in the Pitt social calendar. She has also been seen as an enormous support for her

fellow Housemistresses, making sure that School Trunk operations run like clockwork and creating many of the lists and forms that exist across the Senior boarding houses. She has provided invaluable support to those pupils studying Design Technology at all levels, but particularly for those who have studied the subject for GCSE or A level.

Helen has been an excellent colleague, and an outstanding Housemistress.

Lucy also enhanced her pastoral skills while working in the House, completing qualifications that have prepared her for her new role.

Lucy leaves Wycombe Abbey to take up the position of Housemistress at St Swithun’s School, and we extend our heartfelt best wishes for her continued success in this new chapter.

Miss Charlotte Dorme Housemistress of Campbell

Although she will be missed greatly by all at Wycombe Abbey, we wish her every success for the future and for her next adventure.”

Mrs Vicky Fawkes Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Amar Sidhu Teacher of Mathematics

Amar joined the Mathematics Department in September 2022, bringing with him a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm as a Maths graduate from The University of Manchester.

During his time with us, he taught across the full age range, from UIII to UVI A level, inspiring pupils with his energy and dedication. Amar also brought a wonderful sense of fun to the department and staff room, leaving a lasting impression on

Lucy Nott Head of Modern Languages

Leveryone he worked with. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours and know he will succeed in whatever path he chooses.

Dr Iain Wallwork Head of Mathematics

ucy joined the Languages team in 2020, first as Head of French, and later taking on the role of Head of Modern Languages. She led the Department with exceptional dedication and vision. Meticulous in all she undertook and unwavering in her passion for language education, she consistently went the extra mile.

She set a strong strategy for the Department at the start of each academic year, with clear and ambitious expectations. She made some significant innovations to the curriculum during her time here, including increasing the number of overseas language trips, and the successful introduction of DELF and DELE courses to the Sixth Form provision, in addition to the HSK qualification for Chinese. A great believer in the importance of actually speaking the language, she also fought for the introduction of weekly conversation lessons in LV. All these initiatives have greatly enriched the language learning experience at Wycombe Abbey.

Above all, Lucy aimed to make learning languages fun. She showed endless enthusiasm for putting on competitions and events to promote language learning. As part of one such evening to celebrate languages for the UIIIs, she memorably led a great chorus of Heads, shoulders, knees

and toes , in multiple languages, on her own in front of the entire cohort of UIII completely out of the blue. She also drove forward the Poetry Declamation Competition, and it was always a highlight to attend the final of this, and to hear timid LIVs declaiming their chosen piece with great confidence and skill. At the top end of the School, she stretched the brightest pupils, relishing helping pupils to prepare for Oxbridge, and sharing her passion for French literature. Her utter delight in the dullest and trickiest parts of French grammar never failed to impress her department! She also led a memorable trip to Paris for Sixth Form pupils and the photos demonstrated the group’s full immersion in French culture, both theatrical and gastronomical.

She will be very much missed by the Languages Department. Her brilliant organisational skills, remarkable enthusiasm and generous management of people have been second to none. In the words of one

member of her team, ‘She has the work ethic of a German, the attention to detail of the Chinese, bags of French sophistication and all the joy and gusto of the Spanish in her heart.’ She leaves behind her a strong legacy for the next Head of Modern Languages. We are most grateful for all that she has done; we wish her well as she embarks on new ventures.

Miss Emily Boswell Deputy Head (Academic)

Tom Startup Teacher of Economics and Consultant Teacher

Since joining Wycombe Abbey in 2018 as maternity cover in the Economics department, Tom has left a lasting impact on both colleagues and pupils. His transition to a permanent role as Teacher of Economics was marked by consistently thought-provoking lessons that challenged students and ignited their curiosity— earning him great admiration within the classroom.

More recently, Tom took on the additional of Consultant Teacher, where his dedication to pedagogical excellence truly shone. He was a generous sharer of ideas, supporting departments across the school and constantly seeking to refine his own practice. Notably, his training on the art of classroom questioning was both insightful and impactful.

Beyond the classroom, Tom played a pivotal role in guiding pupils through the university application process and served

We say farewell to Hannah Hanks (Teacher of PE), Marion Gladman and Charmaine Moore (School Nurses), Emma Spurrell (Science Technician), Harriet Godfrey-White (Art Technician), Joan Stoute (Matron, 14 years’ service), Judy Shaw (Resident Matron), and Margaret Tarpey (Matron, 14 years’ service) and Marilyn Izzard (Matron, 15 years’ service).

We also say goodbye to our amazing School Shop team led ably by School Shop Manager, Julie Godsoe. All the best to Julie, Kim, Janet and Debbie and thank you for your dedication to world class customer service to girls, staff, parents and new joiners. We wish Howard Haughton all the best as he retires after supporting the teaching of DT, Greenpower Club and DoE expeditions across 14 years at the School.

The Support and Boarding staff are an important part of the Wycombe Abbey community and we wish all our leavers the very best as they move on to pastures new.

as a committed Fifth Form tutor, offering steadfast support and mentorship. His contributions to the school’s Academic Spotlights—delivering engaging talks that wove together philosophy and economics—further exemplified his intellectual curiosity and desire to inspire.

Tom leaves Wycombe Abbey with our deep gratitude and warmest wishes for the future.

Mrs Alison Kiln Head of Economics and Enterprise