Welcome to the Autumn Term edition of The Dove, bringing you news from the Wycombe Abbey community.
It was an exciting start to the academic year as we hosted two UK events in September and two more in October, one in Singapore and one in Hong Kong. The stories and photos from these gatherings will be featured in the Seniors Supplement, to be mailed in January. Please make sure your contact details are updated so that you receive your copy. If you have any news or life updates that we can share in the Seniors Supplement, please email seniors@wycombeabbey.com, as we would love to include it in future publications.
We now look forward to further engagement throughout the year, including the Seniors Carol Service on Sunday 8 December 2024 and Seniors Day, now taking place on Dove Day, on Saturday 21 June 2025. We hope that you will join us and continue to stay in touch.
With best wishes
The Development and Seniors Office
Introducing Wycombe Abbey’s new Chaplain, Padre Paul
We warmly welcome Padre Paul Stanaway to Wycombe Abbey in his role of Chaplain. Padre Paul joins us from New Zealand where he served as an Army Chaplain for 12 years. The Chaplain plays a central role in life at Wycombe Abbey overseeing the spiritual life of the School, leading charity work and offering pastoral support to pupils and staff.
Dear Seniors
I am the new Chaplain at Wycombe Abbey and I am delighted to introduce myself to the Seniors community. Revd Penny clearly put a lot of care and passion into the role of Chaplain and I, along with the entire School, thank her very much for her time here. She left a deep imprint.
I am the Revd Paul Stanaway and, like many of our new pupils, I am still getting a little lost about the Abbey whilst also trying to remember everyone’s names. Despite being new, it is already apparent to me that Wycombe Abbey provides excellence in all areas of life, academic and wellbeing.
I am a dual national – British and New Zealander – and have most recently been a Chaplain to the New Zealand Army. Army Chaplains in the Commonwealth are referred to simply as ‘Padre’, a title which the School appears to have happily adopted for me, making me known at the School as ‘Padre Paul’. I have served overseas in a variety of missions both in peace and conflict. My hope is that my time in uniform has prepared me for the life of being a Chaplain to an all-girls boarding school. I am not yet entirely sure who is more intimidating to work with, soldiers in the field or more than 600 teenage girls! Fortunately, judging by the warm welcome from both staff and pupils, Wycombe Abbey is a strong, professional and receptive community of very good people. It helps that the girls are about as warm and friendly as anybody could be. It is a privilege to be here.
I am married to Julia, and we have two boys aged nine and seven. They currently remain in New Zealand whilst I settle a home here. We live in quite a rural coastal area in New Zealand, and for those of you who come from warmer climates than the British Isles, I very much understand needing to adjust to a somewhat cooler environment. Julia and the boys will join me later in the year as the boys need to finish their academic year in New Zealand.
Regarding Chaplaincy, my military life has taught me certain truths, and chief amongst them is the attitude that both the Chapel and the Chaplain are available for all people, regardless of any or no faith. Chapel is a Christian place and has such an identity, but I am well used to many people from different backgrounds finding meaning and support from this place and from my role. My general motto for this position is ‘anybody can see any Chaplain, at any time, about anything’ and as such, I am here to support and encourage pupils, staff and their families. Family is vital to School life as well as the spiritual life and wellbeing of the girls. That said, I also consider Seniors to be equally important to the School. Having moved on from Wycombe Abbey and into your current lives, your experiences and extra knowledge could prove to be very valuable to current pupils. I would like to encourage you to stay in touch with School life and activities and even to offer your own wisdom where it could be helpful.
I am available to staff and pupils 24/7, either when they catch me in person or through their Housemistresses and teachers. I want to also extend a level of support to you. The army has the motto ‘once a soldier, always a soldier’ and to my thinking, with a school like Wycombe Abbey, once you had a life here, part of you remains rooted here. If ever you would seek support, this Chapel and my own care are yours. If you have need, thoughts or concerns, I can be an avenue of support and I included my email address should it ever be useful.
I understand that many Seniors return for the Carol Service on 8 December. It would be wonderful to meet those of you who can attend. I would be delighted to talk more, and for those Seniors who have a faith, I would also be very glad to start an online (via MS Teams, for example) fellowship or prayer group. Equally, if you want to know a bit more about me or how you can remain supportive of Wycombe Abbey, feel free to ask away.
I look forward to becoming more and more immersed in this community and equally look forward to meeting you as the opportunity arises.
Yours sincerely
Padre Paul Stanaway Stanawayp@wycombeabbey.com
Seniors London Drinks Reception
We were delighted to see so many attend the Seniors London Drinks reception in Covent Garden on Thursday 19 September. It was a wonderful evening where Seniors of all ages enjoyed the chance to reconnect with School friends and meet new ones.
Photos from the evening are available on Seniors Connect and a story about the event will be featured in the next Seniors Supplement
SENIORS CONNECT
Dove-Bowerman Society Afternoon Tea
Wycombe Abbey’s Dove-Bowerman Society recognises those who demonstrate the ultimate commitment to the School by leaving a legacy gift. The Society is named after two of Wycombe Abbey’s original philanthropists, Dame Frances Dove and Elsie Bowerman. Both were pioneers in women’s education and laid the foundation for supporting the continued education of young women at Wycombe Abbey.
To honour the commitment of the Dove-Bowerman Society members, Headmistress Jo Duncan hosted an afternoon tea at the Corinthia Hotel on Thursday 19 September. Attendees comprised of members of the Society (including current parents and Seniors), members of the Seniors Consultative Committee, and current staff. Jo spoke on the importance of philanthropic investment in girls’ education and the impact it has on current and future pupils. She also presented excerpts
from archival materials from Elsie Bowerman’s time at Wycombe Abbey, which included writings from Dame Frances Dove. Everyone enjoyed sharing stories about their time at Wycombe Abbey and describing memories of traditions that still hold true today.
We plan to make this an annual event, so please contact the Development Office if you would like to learn more.
LEGACY PLEDGE FORM
Charlotte’s summer intern experience
Charlotte Gowers (C353, Rubens, 2022)
Whilst going to school at Wycombe Abbey every day was something that used to be second nature, by the age of 20 it had become a warm memory rather than a daily reality. However, as I drove through the gates this summer, I felt very much like the little 11-yearold that joined Junior House in 2015. A new set of peers, new things to learn, and new habits and routines to set, all taking place on the very campus I called home for seven years. The only difference was that this time I was set to join the staff and not the pupils!
As the new Summer Intern for the Development and Seniors Office, I was quickly reassured that the vertigolike feeling of returning to School as a supposed ‘adult’ would in fact be useful research, helping reach alumnae and better understand what they want from the School after graduation. This enabled me to jump straight into the projects that the team were working on, which ranged from organising visits to helping with the planning of alumnae-favourite events such as the Seniors Drinks and the Carol Service. Seeing all the hard work that goes in to fostering connections for graduates and maintaining a flourishing alumnae community made me realise how lucky the Seniors of Wycombe Abbey are. The team I was part of works constantly to grow and expand this network. I assisted in this mission by continuing the process of reaching out to alumnae of all ages and life experiences to ensure that we could keep every single Leaver up to date on
School news and events. Whilst some out-of-date contact information led to some misdirected phone calls with parents and partners of alumnae rather than the alumna, I nevertheless enjoyed hearing about all the possibilities open to Wycombe Abbey graduates and the wide-ranging successes that alumnae have achieved.
I was really pleased to be able to use my experience at Wycombe Abbey to become fully involved in my time working for the School. One of my favourite parts of the summer was running my own tour of the campus for the Admissions team, providing them with anecdotal information from the pupil’s perspective. This also meant I could revisit places that hold great memories for me – a big side benefit! Another highlight of my internship was helping the team to organise the visit from Natalie Simpson (C257, Airlie, 2008), an actress and fellow alumna who will be featured in our next Seniors Supplement. Whilst I gained invaluable experience in event organisation, it was equally interesting from a personal perspective to compare our time at
Wycombe Abbey and find common ground as well as hear stories of her time working in the film and theatre industry.
I cannot speak highly enough of the team in the Development and Seniors Office, and all the staff who were so kind during my time as part of the wider community. It was such a supportive atmosphere where I was encouraged to ask questions, give my opinion and come up with my own ideas concerning the expansion and connection of the alumnae community. I was tasked with running my own projects and the level of trust that the team placed in my abilities truly helped me to grow personally and professionally. As I move into my year abroad studying at the Sorbonne in Paris, and then finishing my education back at Durham University, I will certainly remember their encouraging words and look forward to returning to Wycombe Abbey for a Seniors event sometime soon.
Although I hope your main takeaway from my writing is that working at Wycombe Abbey is a fantastic opportunity and one that I really recommend, I also hope you are encouraged to update your contact information (to avoid future interns having awkward chats with your mum and dad) and sign up to Seniors events with your friends!
Seniors Carol Service
'I was really pleased to be able to use my experience at Wycombe Abbey to become fully involved in my time working for the School.'
We warmly invite you to attend the 2024 Seniors Carol Service on Sunday 8 December, 4:00pm – 7:30pm at School.
The evening starts with Afternoon Tea in Big School, followed by the Carol Service in Chapel led by our new Chaplain, Padre Paul, then mulled wine and mince pies with pupils and staff.
Upper Fourth Design Technology Project
The Design and Technology (DT) department at Wycombe Abbey has always been active in extracurricular activities with a steady stream of enthusiastic girls participating in Green Power and various individual and group projects. These activities take place in the evenings and over the weekends, utilising the excellent facilities and the expertise of the DT staff.
Four years ago, amidst the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, I joined the DT Department. During this period, we introduced a full-year DT course as an option for UIV pupils. This
initiative, along with the addition of a new graphics room and 3D printers in September 2021, has significantly increased the number of girls studying the subject.
This is an exciting time for the Department. With the new Innovation and Design Centre (IDC) on the horizon, I am reaching out for your support as Seniors to help in further developing our UIV course. Your ideas, time, and expertise are invaluable in helping us inspire and promote the next generation of engineers, product designers and creative thinkers.
'The girls responded enthusiastically to this real-world project, and it quickly became evident that they thrive in competitive environments...'
Design Ideas Initial design ideas for Black and Blum Project Lunchbox Design Ideas:
The first sketch: Waterbottle
I liked geometric either
In the spring of 2021, with the School closed and online teaching taking place, our UIV pupils had the opportunity to participate in a competition run by Oakham School and the company Black+Blum. The competition challenged pupils to design a lunch box that would fit the company’s range of products and also appeal to teenagers. The pupils used their DT skills to carry out comprehensive research, design ideas and models leading to final designs. The girls responded enthusiastically to this realworld project, and it quickly became evident that they thrive in competitive environments.
Wycombe Abbey was only allowed to submit three projects, and the quality was so high that selecting only three was a challenge. We were then thrilled when two of our entries won top prizes. However, the true victory was the remarkable improvement in the standard of work when we returned to School. The girls were so inspired that they wanted to restart the project we had begun before the lockdown.
Looking ahead, I want to incorporate our own product-based project into the UIV DT course, to be completed each Summer Term. If you are interested in getting involved, I seek
your ideas, time and expertise to help us continue to enthuse and promote the next generation of talented individuals in the field of design and technology.
Thank you for your continued support and please get in touch if you would like to get involved.
Miss Lucy Crampton Housemistress of Junior House, Teacher of DT and Computer Science
Senior Visits
Pavida Charoen-Rajapark (C269, Airlie, 2010)
Since I left Wycombe Abbey in 2010, I have not visited the School until this year when I brought my husband to see it. From sprinting to the dining room during lunch to avoid long queues, to doing my A level Chemistry exam in Big School, I began to recall these memories as we walked around. It felt like no time had passed, yet so much has! My biggest takeaway from the visit was realising yet again how fortunate I was to be a pupil here. As I see more of the world, I have a better understanding of how much work is required to run a place like Wycombe Abbey. I wish I could tell my younger self to appreciate my life at School more and just have more fun! I will always be grateful to my parents, teachers and friends who contributed massively to my education and personal development.
'My biggest takeaway from the visit was realising yet again how fortunate I was to be a pupil here.'
Shivani Singhal (C258, Butler, 2008)
On 20 September, Shivani Singhal, spoke to the Sixth Form about her time working with Dharohar, an organisation that creates and manages innovative educational sites in India. She spoke about what skills her degree in Classics had given her and how her career unfolded after leaving university. She gave some fascinating insights into leading a team and the importance of developing new skills for the workplace.
Mr Olly Murphy Deputy Head of Sixth Form
Muddy Stilettos’ Prepared For Life Award
We are thrilled to announce that we have been awarded the Muddy Stilettos’ Prepared for Life Award for our commitment to ensuring that all girls leave Wycombe Abbey ‘future-ready’.
Wycombe Abbey’s Sixth Form provides a supportive environment where young women achieve academic excellence, explore their personal passions and prepare for life beyond school. More than just fostering academic success, the School focuses on developing independent, confident and intellectually curious learners who are ready to thrive at university and in their future careers.
Key to this approach is the University Preparation Programme and the Carrington Programme. These initiatives go beyond A level study, encouraging pupils to explore intellectual interests, develop key skills such as determination and critical thinking, and experience university-style learning. Pupils receive personalised guidance through one-onone coaching sessions, tailoring their academic paths with A level choices and independent projects like the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ).
The Carrington Programme also provides enrichment through study skills workshops, lectures and personal development courses. It equips pupils with practical skills such as CV writing, research techniques and critical analysis, ensuring they are well-prepared for higher education and the evolving job market. Pupils also take on roles in School societies, participate in leadership conferences and engage in local community placements, fulfilling the School’s value of Service.
A unique aspect of Sixth Form life is the transition to Clarence House in UVI, where pupils live more independently, managing their own budgets and responsibilities. This
experience helps prepare them for life at university and beyond.
Each year, Wycombe Abbey leavers secure places at prestigious universities worldwide, with increasing numbers exploring diverse academic pathways. Wycombe Abbey is committed to empowering young women to be future-ready, confident and well-prepared for the challenges ahead.
Congratulations to Director of Sixth Form, Jacky Tidbury, and the Sixth Form team. This award is testament to your hard work and dedication to ensuring all girls in the Sixth Form unlock their true potential.
'A
unique aspect of Sixth Form life is the transition to Clarence House in the UVI, where pupils live more independently, managing their own budgets and responsibilities.'
First Few Weeks for UIII Pupils
From navigating their way around the campus, to settling into Junior House, it was a busy first few weeks for the new UIIIs. Pupils enjoyed getting to know their teachers and peers while discovering new subjects.
From mastering the art of using a microscope in Biology to bringing Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein to life in English, it has been great to see their boundless enthusiasm, energy, and desire to excel in the classroom.
Head of Lower School, Mrs Sally Harbour said, ‘The UIIIs had a spectacular start to their secondary education, and it’s been nothing short of impressive. The year group is starting to embrace our School’s academic qualities, particularly Risk-taking and Determination – not being afraid to make mistakes and never giving up without giving it a good go!’
‘The girls have taken to boarding life remarkably well, quickly learning to manage their time and responsibilities.'
Outside of the classroom, during the first closed weekend of the year, pupils enjoyed swinging through the trees at Go Ape!, cheering each other on, conquering some nerves, riding a variety of rides and playing games at a visiting funfair onsite. They have also thoroughly enjoyed in-House activities, including swing ball and bracelet making, encouraging the girls to bond as a cohort.
Deputy Housemistress of Junior House, Miss Isabella Wilson said, ‘The girls have taken to boarding life remarkably well, quickly learning to manage their time and responsibilities. Whether it is keeping their dorms tidy, staying organised with schoolwork, or helping out around the House, they have shown they are ready to thrive in this environment. They are eager to learn, asking thoughtful questions and engaging in lessons and activities with a genuine sense of curiosity. Seeing them settle in so well and embrace all the School has to offer has been wonderful – they are already becoming a valued part of the boarding community.’
First Impressions
As the girls continue to settle into life at Wycombe Abbey, they have taken time to reflect on their initial experiences. Starting a new school can often feel daunting, but we’re thrilled to hear that our new pupils have had a fantastic start. From posters to poems and diary entries, pupils were encouraged to get creative!
We would like to congratulate our UIII pupils for such a great start to the term, their enthusiasm and positive attitudes have made for a seamless transition. They have taken to boarding life remarkably well, quickly learning to manage their time and responsibilities. It is clear they are eager to learn, always asking thoughtful questions and engaging in both lessons and activities with a genuine sense of curiosity, and we are excited to witness their growth and development in the coming months.
‘Settling in wasn’t as hard as I thought and organising my bed was actually quite fun!’
JESSIE, UIII
‘When I first arrived at Wycombe Abbey, I felt a bit of anxiety mixed with happiness and excitement. It felt like a whole new start for me. The school buildings were giants, so grand just like castles. Even though I didn’t know the school well at first, I got a lot of help. Everyone was supportive and aided me whenever I needed’ ELSA, UIII
‘Meeting new people was quite hard, but I made some good friends who will always have my back’ MATILDA, UIII
'Out came the duvet, then all the toys, (I was glad not to be with a bunch of smelly boys!). I put up my photos, pompoms and lights. When I had finished, it was all a delight. Then the night came bringing tuck galore. Games at the table new friends at the door. I love it at Wycombe, I can’t wait for more!!!’
MILLY, UIII
Send us your School Shop memories
Many of you will be familiar with the wonderful women in the School Shop: Mrs Godsoe, Mrs Nisbet, Mrs Bowyer and Mrs Waters. After nearly 20 years, we would like to celebrate their outstanding dedication to the School as they move on from Wycombe Abbey. Please share your memories of the School Shop or messages for the Shop staff for the next Seniors Supplement
Email your stories to seniors@wycombeabbey.com with your stories and any photos by 11 November.
Keep in Touch
Update your contact details on our Seniors Update Form.
Visit the House blogs to learn what current pupils were up to this past term.
Register on Seniors Connect to network with fellow Seniors or mentor a current pupil.
For all School news, visit the website.