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VIEW FROM The Abbey Thursday 24 July 2026

Table of Contents Welcome

Life in Boarding

In The Classroom

Q&A with Mr

Residential House

News and Updates

Sporting News

School Community

Student

Dates for your Diary

Weekend Activities

Trips

Commendations

Brayshaw

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Welcome From... Mr Olufunwa

It is hard to believe we are already two and a half weeks into the new school year. What has struck me most is the energy around Milton Abbey and the way our pupils have embraced opportunities to get involved, try something new and look out for one another. This is my seventh year at Milton Abbey, but September has felt like a new beginning for me too. In my new role overseeing pastoral care across the school, I have had the privilege of seeing our community from a much wider perspective. Our Heads of School and Pilots have played an important role in welcoming new pupils and helping them settle into their Houses. Those small gestures, remembering a name, showing someone where to go or sitting with them at supper, can make all the difference in helping young people feel that they belong. There has been plenty happening beyond the classroom too. Our whole-school trip to Longleat was a great opportunity to spend time together, while Saturday afternoons have been filled with sport and activities. At the School Farm, Gardening Club has been harvesting home-grown produce, with plenty of help from Cheese and Chutney, our goats! Pupils preparing for our Zimbabwe trip have been developing coaching and leadership skills with the Tag Rugby Trust, while Sixth Form Hospitality students visited the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival for inspiration for their enterprise projects. Meanwhile, lessons have quickly found their rhythm, with pupils across the school embracing new challenges. Our Houses are now preparing for residential trips across Wales and the South of England. These experiences will provide opportunities to build friendships, take on challenges and strengthen the sense of belonging that is so important to school life. Belonging will remain a key theme throughout the year. We want every young person at Milton Abbey to feel known, valued and able to contribute. Next month, we will mark Black History Month with activities encouraging our community to learn, reflect and celebrate together. There is already much to be proud of, and much more to look forward to. Our role is to ensure every pupil has the relationships, support and opportunities they need to thrive.

Up The Abbey!

Mr Olufunwa | Director of Pastoral Care and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

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In and out the Classroom

KNOW THYSELF

Trip to BBC

Middle Sixth Film and TV students recently had the exciting opportunity to explore the world of multi-camera production as part of their Level 3 BTEC course, with a visit to BBC Cymru Wales. Students gained an insight into the world of live broadcasting and studio-based productions, including sitcoms and game shows. They enjoyed a tour of some of the BBC’s most technologically advanced studios, while discovering the wide range of roles, skills and cutting-edge technology involved in delivering 24 hour broadcasting.

Animal Care Our Fourth Form students have been getting hands-on with animal care and learning how to support our goats’ needs. Out in the field, students have been cutting down apple tree branches and placing them into a feeder for the goats to browse. This encourages their natural browsing behaviour while giving them an enriching and enjoyable activity. A fantastic example of practical learning, teamwork and caring for our animals.

Science Microscopy

Third Form Science got hands-on with microscopy. Students prepared their own onion skin slides, carefully placed them under the microscope, and explored the cells up close. They then put their observation skills to the test by drawing what they could see, paying close attention to the shape, structure, and arrangement of the cells. A fantastic opportunity to develop practical laboratory skills, scientific observation, and accurate scientific drawing!

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The Cheese Festival Students from Lower Sixth and Middle Sixth Hospitality recently visited the Sturminster Newton Cheese Festival, gaining valuable industry insight to support their upcoming units of work.The event gave students the opportunity to explore local artisan food producers and commodities. Middle Sixth students also gathered inspiration for packaging, branding and product ideas for their Business Enterprise unit, which they will develop and sell at the School’s Christmas Carol Service. The visit provided plenty of real-world inspiration to inform their upcoming work.

Watch the vlog on our Instagram here

Photography Spotlight Ben B, Middle Sixth, has developed a keen interest in photography alongside his A-level Art studies. He has a particularly good eye for composition, detail and capturing interesting moments, demonstrating a natural sensitivity to visual media. This is evident in the photographs he took during the House Weekend trip to Longleat Safari Park, where he showed an ability to observe his surroundings creatively and capture engaging images.

Music Lessons

Third Form have been enjoying getting creative in their music lessons with our Head of Music, Mr Sampler. They are currently working on a group cover version of John Newman's "Love me again", which we hope may be performed later in the year. Playing musical instruments, especially in a group is one of the most rewarding and stress releasing activities and has a number of cognitive benefits.

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House Resi denti al s

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CHARACTER EDUCATION

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SPORTING HOCKEY Well done to our Junior Girls’ Hockey team, who represented Milton Abbey at the Super 6’s Hockey Festival at Bryanston. With each fixture lasting 20 minutes, the girls enjoyed a fantastic opportunity to play a series of short, competitive matches against Monkton Combe, KES Southampton and Bryanston.

NEWS!

Our U18 girls also enjoyed a special fixture against Colegio Esquiu, who were visiting the UK as part of their tour. The friendly provided a wonderful opportunity for both teams to enjoy some competitive hockey while sharing the experience of playing sport internationally. It was a pleasure to welcome the Colegio Esquiu team to Milton Abbey, and we look forward to welcoming them back next year. Milton Abbey’s senior girls made an excellent start to their season, earning a well-deserved 1–1 draw against Bryanston. Nia W, Middle Sixth, was outstanding in defence, while Lucy T, Middle Sixth, impressed in attack with her energy and determination. The highlight came with the very last touch of the game, when Luisa L, also in Middle Sixth, who scored a fantastic equaliser to cap off a spirited team performance.

GOLF

It has been wonderful to see so many new and familiar faces enjoying our golf course, both during Sport Afternoon and in the evenings as students make the most of their recreational time. Our first golf match of the year was a closely contested fixture against Sherborne U16s, ending in a well-earned 3–1 victory for Milton Abbey. Zach J, Lower Sixth, and Pablo J, Middle Sixth, got us off to a strong start with a 2&1 win, before Jake E and Harry B, Third Form, and Ben B and Harry C, Middle Sixth, both halved their respective matches. This left the result resting on the final four-ball, where Graeme H and Oscar L, Middle Sixth, held their nerve to secure another 2&1 victory and seal the overall win for Milton Abbey!

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FOOTBALL

SPORT EVERY DAY

The First Team made an excellent start to the season with a 3–1 away victory over Sherborne in the Wessex Independent Schools League. After going behind to an early penalty, Milton Abbey responded impressively. Phanuel A, Middle Sixth restored parity with a well-taken equaliser before Zach A, Middle Sixth, put the visitors ahead. Phanuel then completed his brace with a composed finish to secure a deserved three points. It was a strong all-round team performance, with plenty of encouraging signs to build on as the season progresses. Special mention goes to Keenan P, Fifth Form, who was named Man of the Match for an outstanding contribution. The 1st XI team started strongly in their match against Bryanston and were rewarded with the opening goal, before Bryanston responded from a penalty shot. What followed was a competitive, hard-fought match, with both sides pushing for the advantage and the score reaching 2–2.

RUGBY

It has been a busy and exciting start to the rugby season, both on and off the pitch. Well done to Middle Sixth students Gus C, Seth B, Rory S and Ollie B, along with Lower Sixth student Ollie B, who represented DRFC in a warm-up fixture ahead of the new season. The team made an excellent start with an impressive 67–7 victory over Yobourne, providing plenty of encouragement for the season ahead.

The U16A team also enjoyed a good competitive friendly against Colegio Esquiu. It was an enjoyable game and provided a valuable opportunity for the team to gain match experience and continue developing ahead of their upcoming fixtures.

Our students have also been preparing for an exciting rugby-related opportunity beyond the school. We were delighted to welcome Martin from Tag Rugby Trust to Milton Abbey for a coaching session ahead of our trip to Zimbabwe during October half-term. With just over five weeks until departure, the session gave our students a valuable opportunity to develop their coaching skills while also building the leadership, confidence and sense of responsibility they will need during the trip.

CROSS-COUNTRY We have been delighted to welcome some new keen runners to our running club. Mr Treadaway and Mr Anderson have enjoyed taking the group out into the beautiful Dorset countryside, making the most of the fresh air, scenic surroundings and, of course, a good run!

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Alfie C, Fifth Form Page - 10

Student

KNOW THYSELF

Commendations Joni B | Art Joni B, Third Form, has really stood out through her excellent observational skills and natural talent for drawing. She has taken inspiration from Benjamin Rothery’s intricate animal studies and translated this into work that is distinctly her own. Her ability to capture fine details, textures and characteristics, combined with her creative understanding, gives her work a real sense of life and makes it particularly memorable.

Ben B and Zach G | Tregonwell Ben B and Zach G, both in Middle Sixth, have been absolutely fantastic in their roles as Head and Deputy Head of House. They have been incredibly helpful and welcoming, particularly in supporting our new students as they settle in and find their feet. Their kindness, enthusiasm and willingness to help others have made a real difference to the House community.

Ferdinand R | Design Technology Ferdinand has demonstrated an outstanding approach to 3D Design, combining ambitious ideas with excellent practical skills, creativity and a real willingness to experiment. His work showcases an impressive range of digital and traditional manufacturing techniques, and he consistently responds to challenges with resilience, adapting and refining his ideas when things do not go to plan. Ferdinand is a thoughtful and determined designer whose willingness to experiment, problem-solve and learn from the making process makes him a fantastic example of a pupil of praise in Design & Technology.

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WEEKEND Longleat Safari

ACTIV

Students had the exciting opportunity to experience Longleat’s special ‘Icons of the Sky’ hot air balloon event, where they enjoyed seeing a spectacular variety of colourful balloons. They also had the chance to drive through the safari, spotting the playful monkeys and a range of other animals along the way. For some of our braver students, the adventure didn’t stop there, they even had the chance to hold a large stick insects and tarantulas, as part of their Tiny Titans handling experience.

A cosy evening for our Sixth Form at Smith’s Kitchen,

Sixth Form Meal

Langham, lit by soft lanterns and filled with good food and plenty of conversation. Students enjoyed fresh pizza, nachos and mac and cheese, followed by chocolate brownies and ice cream, a great opportunity to relax, catch up and spend time together away from the usual school routine. A lovely evening and a great way to bring the Sixth Form together.

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VITIES! House Weekend! The first week of term is always reserved for House Weekend, giving our new and returning students the opportunity to settle into their new surroundings, get to know one another, and build connections with their House staff. Damer and Hughie’s House enjoyed a relaxed film night, complete with pizza and a delicious grazing board. It has been wonderful to see all the girls settling in so naturally and forming such strong bonds under one roof. Tregonwell House enjoyed a similarly cosy evening, with football on the big screen and a buffet of food to enjoy. It was lovely to see everyone coming together and getting behind the game. Meanwhile, Athelstan and Hambro made the most of our fantastic on-site facilities, enjoying a 5-a-side football match, pool and darts competitions, swimming, and plenty of snacks back in House. It’s wonderful to see our students making the most of the opportunities available to them and, most importantly, enjoying time together as they begin the new term.

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Life in Boarding

FULL BOARDING

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

With the start of a new year comes new, exciting activities for our students to get involved with. The Summer Term brings pop and rock vlub, dodgeball, 5-a-side football, history club, water polo, book club and enterprise competition, just to name a few alongside our returning classics. Evening Activities

Art Club

Rock C l

Choir

aft Club Cr

ater Polo W

Football

ama Club Dr

Golf

dgeball Do

o yg

ok Club Bo

ble Mu em s ns

n shio Skills Fa

ard Games Bo

story Club Hi

ce Practic an

n Technol sig

Gym

terprise En

We celebrated Rosh Hashanah - Jewish New Year with a sweet treat for everyone in House.

Our Lower School students enjoyed a trip out bowling with their peers as part of their weekend activities.

Seb S, Middle Sixth, is a member of our Gardening Club and recently brought some of the club’s homegrown produce back to his House, Tregonwell, to share with his fellow pupils. Everyone enjoyed the fresh watermelon and cantaloupe, a delicious taste of the club’s hard work!

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Q&A W I T H M R B R AY S H AW Who are you, what do you teach and

Q how long have you been here?

Hello, my name is Mr Brayshaw, and I’m the Events Officer here at Milton Abbey. I look after some of our School Events, as well as our Commercial Events Programme from Residential Lettings, Small Festivals to Weddings, generating valuable additional income for the School to reinvest in our stunning facilities.

Q Favourite memory of Milton Abbey? I’d have to say Speech Day, it’s such a fun day both to organise and to see come to life on the day, allowing students, parents and teachers to celebrate together the end of the School year. Another great achievement would be organising the Subud Festival held here last summer holidays, where we welcomed 450+ guests staying across the site, within boarding houses and campsite for a six night spiritual festival. This was something brand new for Milton Abbey and it was amazing to see so many guests enjoying our beautiful grounds outside of term time.

Q Best and worst subjects when you were at school?

My best subjects were Business Studies and ICT, which, looking back, were the perfect foundation for my career in Events, Sales & Marketing. Over the last 10 years, they’ve helped me develop a strong commercial mindset, stay tech-savvy and, most importantly, understand how to turn ideas into something that delivers real results. My worst subject? Languages, I just couldn’t get my head around it and realised quite quickly that languages wasn’t for me.

Q What advice do you give to our students?

Have confidence in your ideas! You might get things wrong, or occasionally look a bit silly, but that’s absolutely fine! Everything you do is a learning experience.

What book, play or film would you

Q recommend on every student’s bucket list?

An all time favourite, The Devil Wears Prada! It’s entertaining, but also a surprisingly good introduction to the realities of the corporate world! It’s a great reminder that working life can be fast paced, challenging and sometimes a little intimidating, but there’s so much to learn from the people and experiences you encounter along the way.

Q What don’t we know about you? I love to travel, and although I’m very organised in my day job, my holidays couldn’t be more different! I’m very much a ‘wing it’ and see what happens traveller. Each year I tend to take some time off to explore somewhere new and embrace a bit of adventure, from Bali and Sri Lanka to my most recent trip to Australia. I love the freedom of having a rough plan, but leaving plenty of room for the unexpected along the way! I’m also a big fan of music festivals and will of course, be trying my luck for Glastonbury tickets! So, if you need me at 9am on Sunday 4 October, I’ll be otherwise engaged!

Mr Brayshaw

Events Officer

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Damer and Hughie’s girls ran up and down Pen y Fan in an hour and twenty minutes!

Mr Treadaway

Immy

Feli Vira

Coco

Mr Barnes

Clara Carmen

Juliet

Lucinda

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News & Updates

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

OLD MILTONIAN KITCHEN We are delighted to announce that our brand-new hospitality kitchen, generously funded by the MAA, will officially open on Monday 28 September with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony. We are excited to see our students making the most of this fantastic new space as they develop their culinary skills and continue their hospitality education.

After

Before

OPEN DAY Join our Open Morning on Saturday 10 October at 10:00am and discover life at Milton Abbey School. We'll start with a short presentation from the Headmaster and our Student Leadership Team, followed by tours in small groups with Third Form and Sixth Form students. You'll be free to visit subjects, activities and facilities that you want to see. After the tour, you'll be able to meet with Heads of Departments over a light lunch. We will also show you our Abbey and give you the chance to visit the School Farm and Stables. To register your interest, please scan the QR code here:

SIXTH FORM EXPERIENCE DAY Students in Year 11 are invited to our Sixth Form Experience Day on Saturday 7 November where they can discover what life and learning at Milton Abbey School could be like. You will not only study your subjects in depth, but get to understand yourself and others better, in and beyond the classroom. You will leave us ready for the adult world of work and study. With a huge choice of activities to get involved in, and leadership opportunities, your Sixth Form years will be busy, fun and challenging. To register your interest, please scan the QR code here:

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School Community

SMALL BY CHOICE

Treat Tuesday

As a little treat for our school community, we’ve launched Treat Tuesday, a new initiative where our students can look forward to something special at the end of their school day! To mark the launch last week, we were delighted to welcome Wafflicious from Weymouth, who treated our students to delicious bubble waffles, ice cream and milkshakes.

Fundraising Over the summer holidays, Ted W, Fourth Form, along with his Dad, Ben, took on an incredible challenge: completing all Three Peaks to raise money for the Tag Rugby Trust. Ted is fundraising ahead of his trip to Zimbabwe with the school in October, where he will be teaching tag rugby to local children and helping to build connections within the community. Ted has already raised an amazing £885 of his £1,000 target. Get involved! Milton Abbey really does

Advice to New Students

have something for everyone. From cooking clubs to Model UN and numerous

Rahel and Rachel K, Lower Sixth, have written some advice to all our new students, both day and boarding. Here’s what they have to say.

sports, you’re sure to find something you

When we first joined Milton Abbey School, like most new students, we felt anxious and nervous about a new school; especially having never boarded before. Any new experience can be challenging; however, Milton Abbey’s numerous activities and social events helped us to find something we love, integrate quickly and make new friends.

house, regardless of year group, because

Here are three bits of advice we recommend to new students at Milton Abbey School:

help teachers and students to understand

love. Don’t be afraid to talk to everyone in no one gives better advice than people who have been in your position before. Finally, be yourself. There is no better way to make lifelong friends and have a comfortable time being yourself. This will you better and shape your learning experience to suit you.

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DATES FOR diary YOUR The Milton Abbey Story

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

Sunday 27 September

Boarders return 17:00-19:30

Monday 28 September

Hospitality Kitchen Opening Ceremony/Middle Sixth Parent Consultations Online

Wednesday 30 September | | Saturday 10 October

U13 Boys and Girls Football Tournament Open Morning

Thursday 15 October

Zimbabwe Tag Rugby Trip

Friday 16 October

Half-Term 12:30/Third Form Parent Consultations in person

Keep up to date with our school news by following our social media channels

www.miltonabbey.co.uk

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