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Welcome From... Mr Treadaway

The weather over the past few weeks in this capable valley in Dorset has reflected the Milton Abbey colours perfectly! After what felt like 40 days and 40 nights of dark skies and rain, we finally had sunshine, and what a treat it was While no teacher takes enjoyment from reminding students about uniform expectations, having to ask them to put their blazers on, rather than carry them over their arm, signals one thing summer is fast approaching!

The past week has been an energetic one, with a number of sporting fixtures taking centre stage The Staff vs Students Netball and the Staff vs Boys First XI Hockey matches were particular highlights, played with great enthusiasm and light hearted competitiveness on both sides.

Yet the standout event, truly capturing the essence of life at Milton Abbey, was the House Drama competition Watching around 25 members of our community step onto the stage and perform with such confidence, creativity and passion was inspiring. The rapturous applause that followed each performance reflected the hard work and courage of everyone involved. The only thing missing was an interval ice cream, though one House did manage to sneak in a late night Wagamama to celebrate!

The Lent Term always brings with it a mixture of excitement and anticipation For our Fifth Form and Middle Sixth students, it marks the completion of most of their course content, a significant milestone It also brings the uncertainty of the summer examination season ahead We wish all students the very best as they prepare, and we know they will continue to work with determination toward the goals they have set for themselves

Bring on the Summer Term!

In The Classroom

TriptoParis

A school trip to Paris has its own rhythm, early starts, travel buzz, and that moment you realise you ’ ve arrived somewhere special

From St Pancras to the Eurostar and on to the base in Maisons-Laffitte, the adventure for our Fashion, Photography and French Sixth Form students began smoothly (with an excellent salmon dinner to match). They explored iconic sights like the Arc de Triomphe and Champs-Élysées, visited the Musée Dior, and enjoyed a golden sunset boat ride along the Seine Rainy weather didn’t stop them, galleries, photography exhibitions, and the Musée des Arts Décoratifs kept spirits high There were highlights everywhere: Art Deco design, vintage shopping, Montmartre views from Sacré-Cœur, and plenty of memorable meals

A brilliant mix of culture, curiosity, and shared moments, Paris at its best! Read the full blog, written by Mr Lynn, on our website here.

‘DJ’Opportunities

Two of our students, Ells R, Third Form, and Charlie H, Middle Sixth, have been exploring a new side of music through DJ lessons with Mr Emerson, one of our Music Peripatetic teachers

Learning on the decks, they’ve been developing skills in beatmatching, mixing, and creating their own sound, bringing a fresh, hands on approach to music-making beyond traditional instruments

If you ’ re interested in trying something new and getting creative on the decks, DJ lessons can be arranged by contacting our Head of Music, Ms Oliphant

InvestigatingTrees

Third Form Geographers have been exploring how trees provide value to our environment, focusing on their role in storing carbon. As part of this work, they carried out field measurements on a temperate deciduous tree, recording data such as trunk diameter and height Using these observations, they estimated how much carbon the tree stores, gaining a practical understanding of trees as vital carbon sinks

NeurodiversityWeek

The Learning and Development department marked Neurodiversity Week by actively promoting awareness, inclusion, and appreciation of different ways of thinking and learning Throughout the week, they organised a range of activities and initiatives designed to educate everyone about neurodiversity, challenge common misconceptions, and highlight the strengths that neurodivergent individuals bring to the workplace These efforts included workshops, informative sessions, and shared resources that encouraged open conversations and greater understanding By creating opportunities for reflection and discussion, the department helped foster a more inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are recognised and valued

PinholePhotography

Tessa MW, Middle Sixth, is exploring pinhole photography, showing strong engagement with both technical experimentation and conceptual development in her A-Level project Using a lensless camera and long exposures, she creates soft-focus images with motion blur, embracing an unpredictable, process-led approach beyond digital precision Conceptually, this supports her theme of change and transition as she looks ahead to the next stage of education

ProjectandResearch

Third Form began the term in Project and Research by mind mapping ideas for future projects. They split into two groups: one explored the pros and cons of AI in education and the workplace, while the other examined the importance of marketing and branding

Students conducted independent research and collaborated in lessons to create presentation boards They presented their findings to the Headmaster in the final lesson, with some students also designing logos as an extension

SocialEnterprise

Middle Sixth Enterprise students have worked in teams to plan and deliver social enterprise projects aligned with core principles

Social enterprises aim to address social or environmental needs, often by reinvesting profits into a meaningful cause or running activities that directly support their mission This term, students have supported mental health charities, Save the Children, and primary school breakfast clubs, while also creating opportunities for students to connect and build friendships

Their initiatives have ranged from selling homemade brownies and mocktails to organising an Easter egg hunt

VintageIndianBlockPrinting

As part of her Personal Investigation in Critical and Contextual Studies, Ila K, Lower Sixth, experimented with block printing onto different surfaces using vintage Indian block

The results were fabulous and will provide the inspiration for Ila to develop her own designs to be able create her own relief prints on a variety of materials

We welcome Martin from Tag Rugby Trust, to talk to our students attending the Zimbabwe trip in October This exciting opportunity is designed to offer our students a unique experience, focused on cultural exchange, community service, and personal development The trip will involve working with local schools and communities in Zimbabwe, delivering sports outreach programmes and participating in meaningful service projects Students will gain valuable insights into a different culture while developing leadership, teamwork, and resilience

Boardof‘RollsRoyce’

Middle Sixth Hospitality students created and pitched two Rolls Royce event proposals for Milton Abbey and a location of their choice. Students then presented their proposals to a panel of judges that included Mrs Forster, Mrs Monaghan, and Milton Abbey’s Events Officer, Mr Brayshaw Everyone did a superb job, with Mr Brayshaw offering valuable expertise to support students in refining their event plans This unit proved to be an excellent foundation for some of our hospitality students who have secured offers to study Event Management and Hospitality at Oxford Brookes University, The Edge Hotel School, and Les Roches in Switzerland and Marbella.

‘Artificial’DesignTechnology

Max C, Middle Sixth, has created an exceptional response to the ‘Artificial’ theme, demonstrating strong creativity, technical skill, and design thinking His 3D lamp, made from copper piping and repurposed blue glass bottles, has a refined industrial aesthetic

The composition is balanced and dynamic, with angled bottles adding visual rhythm and stability, supported by a crafted wooden base He showed clear planning and high-quality construction throughout, including precise assembly and finishing

Attention to detail, such as the neatly installed toggle switch, gives a professional finish Overall, Max produced a functional, visually striking piece that shows excellent understanding of materials and processes, an outstanding achievement

FAR

This Lent term has welcomed a fresh group of students eager to experience learning at the farm and stables. For many, it is their very first time working closely with large animals, whether it’s meeting our three sheep, saying hello to Oswald the alpaca, or getting to know Amber and Lexi, our Shetland ponies.

As part of their machinery unit, the Sixth Form students had the opportunity to operate a mini digger This complex piece of equipment challenged their skills in movement, loading, and spatial awareness It provided them with a valuable new skill set while also offering an enjoyable and engaging experience.

Charlie S and Henry B , Fourth Form, have been carrying out routine health checks on the sheep to ensure their wellbeing and to identify any signs of illness early. M

William C, Third Form, with one of the farm chickens

MGrace L, Middle Sixth, has been working diligently on her coaching unit assessment. She has shown great commitment in supporting younger students, helping to build their confidence and skills while riding.

The BTEC Level 3 Equine course is designed for students ready to take the next step toward a career in the equine industry. In their first year, students work toward achieving industry recognised standards, including the BHS Silver Challenge Award.

Fifth Form students have been working on their Level 2 Animal Care course.

Maggie H-G and Zach J, have been responsible for the care of Lexi and Amber, our Shetland ponies, as part of their equine animal care studies

Ted W, Third Form, has become increasingly confident with the daily farm routine, including feeding the animals, releasing the chickens, and carrying out animal welfare checks. By the end of term, they require very little guidance and approach their responsibilities with enthusiasm, taking initiative in the tasks they have learned

SPORTING NEWS!

HOCKEY

First XI:

The First XI continued their outstanding run of form with a dominant 9–2 win over Corfe Hills, making it four consecutive victories, scoring 28 goals and conceding just five during this period Goals came from: Phanuel A, Lower Sixth, Theo S, Middle Sixth, a spectacular 30-yard strike from Sean U, Fifth Form and hat-tricks from Khalid A, Lower Sixth and Zach A, Lower Sixth

2nd XI:

In extremely windy conditions, the 2nd XI showed real character against Clayesmore. After going 2–0 up, including a brilliant solo goal from Oscar H, Lower Sixth, the match became a battle of resilience in the second half. Clayesmore fought back to level the game, but our team defended courageously throughout A special mention goes to Oliver M, Middle Sixth, who stepped in as goalkeeper after an early injury

Juniors:

Milton Abbey School won 4-1 against Wellington School, playing in high spirit throughout Goals from Leonard K, Fourth Form, Arthur H, Fifth Form, Freddie H, Fifth Form, and Freddie S, Fourth Form.

DANCE

Our pioneering group of dancers at Milton Abbey School have worked tirelessly throughout the winter, playing a key role in launching our brand-new Dance Programme this year Their dedication, energy, and creativity have been truly outstanding

They recently presented original performances and choreography at Pavilion Dance South West in Bournemouth, proudly showcasing the next generation of dance talent.

The day was full from start to finish: a workshop with a professional dancer, an inspiring talk exploring the science behind dance, focused studio rehearsals, and technical and dress runs, all building towards a fantastic final performance

An incredible achievement by all involved, we couldn’t be prouder

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Milton Abbey School won Milton Abbey School won ‘Best News Article’ ‘Best News Article’ in the School Stories in the School Stories 2026 Awards, for our Michaelmas Term reflection on football success 2026 Awards, for our Michaelmas Term reflection on football success

NETB

FOOTBALL

The first Milton Abbey 7-a-Side Tournament was a success, featuring Millfield, Bryanston, Warminster, Champion, and hosts, Milton Abbey High-quality football across U18 and U15 levels made for an exciting day

The Inter-House Netball tournament began with a strong opening match between Damer and Hughie’s, with Hughie’s securing a 24–14 victory

Players of the Match:

Middle Sixth students, Phoebe K and Estée V.

In the boys’ competition, results were as follows:

Athelstan defeated Hambro 2–1 Hambro drew 1–1 with Tregonwell Tregonwell drew 1–1 with Athelstan

Players of the Match:

Max H, Middle Sixth, Gus C, Lower Sixth, Olly S, Middle Sixth, Zac A Lower Sixth, Euan J, Middle Sixth, Sammy OC, Middle Sixth, Conor B Middle Sixth, Gabe DB, Fourth Form, and Rafa RVD, Middle Sixth.

Congratulations to Athelstan for winning the boys’ tournament, and to Hughie’s for their victory in the girls’ competition

I h U18 Plate Final, Milton Abbey B beat Warminster A ic fashion, with Sammy OC, Middle Sixth, scoring ond overhead kick to secure the school’s first ophy

y Pigeon Shooting Teams recently attend the inaugural on at the Purdey Shooting Ground

in, they showed superb teamwork and supported each other ut the afternoon Despite some challenging conditions, and up 0 other teams, Team A managed to secure an extremely 7th place overall

ws the size of the school does not limit the ability to compete me of the much larger schools

END OF TERM SPORTS AWARDS

Hockey

1st XI Player of the Season – Gaëtan B, Middle Sixth

1st XI Most Improved Player of the Season – Gio M, Middle Sixth

Junior Player of the Season– Freddie S, Fourth Form

Junior Most Improved Player of the Season– Henry L, Third Form

Colours – Gaëtan B, Neo T, Gio M, Egor S and Rathani M

Football

1st XI Player of the Season– Hannibal FVC, Middle Sixth

Most improved 1st XI Player of the Season – Sihle M, Middle Sixth

2nd XI Player of the Season – Harry C, Lower Sixth

Most improved 2nd XI Player of the Season - Yuya Y, Lower Sixth

3 XI Player of the Season - Oliver M, Middle Sixth rd

3 XI Most Improved Player of the Season - Tunde A, Lower Sixth rd

Junior Player of the Season – Alfie C, Fourth Form

Most improved Junior Player of the Season – Emanuel W-Z, Fourth Form

Colours – Hannibal FVC, Sihle M, Theo S, Sammy OC, Oli W, Euan J, Aziz A, Aleksei D and Sam M-A

Netball

1st VII Player of the Season - Phoebe K, Middle Sixth

1st VII Most Improved Player of the Season - Elena T, Middle Sixth

U15 Player of the Season - Gemma M, Fifth Form

U15 Most Improved Player of the Season - Rahel K, Fifth Form

Colours - Elena T, Phoebe K, Estée V and Fran P

Cross-Country

Runner of the Season - Immy C, Lower Sixth

Most improved Runner of the Season - Alizé E-K, Lower Sixth

Swimming

Swimmer of the Season – Sebastian S, Lower Sixth

Colours - Leila P and Olivia B

Cycling

Biker of the Season – Luke B-G, Fifth Form

Most Improved Biker of the Season – Henry H, Lower Sixth

Golf

Golfer of the Season – Pablo J, Lower Sixth

Most improved Golfer of the Term – Archie F, Third Form

Equestrian

Horse Rider of the Term – Maggie H-G, Fifth Form

Most Improved Horse Rider of the Term – Lissy A, Fifth Form

Basketball

Player of the Term - Yuya Y, Lower Sixth

Clay Pigeon Shooting

Shooter of the Term – Gus C, Lower Sixth

Photo Credit: Ferdi R, Lower Sixth

Estée V, Middle Sixth, was voted ‘Player of the Match’ for her outstanding centre of the court movement.

Student Commendations

Clara R | French

Clara R, Lower Sixth, consistently meets expectations and approaches her learning with maturity and focus. She shows strong dedication in her preparation for the B1 DELF certificate, always putting in her best effort.

She confidently delivered a presentation on the Eiffel Tower entirely in French, demonstrating both her commitment and growing proficiency

Fin G | Design and Technology

Fin G, Fifth Form, has shown notable improvement in Design Technology recently and is now approaching his HEA with greater focus and purpose He has demonstrated growing confidence and interest in using TechSoft 2D Design software, applying it effectively to prepare files for the laser cutter As a result, he has been able to independently produce the various components required for his chosen design His increased engagement and willingness to develop his digital manufacturing skills are clearly developing well

Lucy T, Lower Sixth, continues to make a valued and positive contribution to the Hughie’s House community. She takes an active role in representing the house in competitions such as house rugby, and contributes to the smooth running of chapel and assemblies

In addition, Lucy offers consistent support to both staff and fellow students in the day-to-day life of the boarding house, demonstrating reliability and a strong sense of community.

Lucy T | Hughie’s

ACTIV WEEKEND

HOUSEDRAMA

With an exciting new format introduced this year, House Drama was met with a degree of anticipation, and some understandable trepidation. For the first time, each House was given its own five-minute script, spanning a wide range of genres Athelstan found themselves cast adrift on the ocean, grappling with a cursed pirate map, while Hambro took to the stars as a group of hopelessly incompetent space travellers who somehow managed to misplace planet Earth. In Hughie’s, five strangers met on a deserted station platform, gradually discovering unexpected connections between them Meanwhile, Damer delivered a powerful performance as a band of survivors struggling to endure in a postapocalyptic world.

All Houses performed with energy and commitment, though the audience particularly relished the comic chaos of Zac A, Lower Sixth, attempts to direct his hapless Tregonwell team as they struggled to escape a mysteriously locked room In the end, it was an exceptionally close contest By a single point, Hughie’s edged ahead of Hambro to claim victory, perhaps because Hambro were still a little too preoccupied with locating their missing plant!

VITIES!

PAINTBALLING

Hambro House spent the last Sunday of the Lent Term paintballing Mr Strong, Assistant Housemaster, bravely and single-handily represented the staff team as the boys battled their way through the woodland of nearby Gorcombe Park It was good to get offsite and to connect as a full house

TENTORS

n Tors Challenge is a demanding expedition Dartmoor, where teams must navigate a 45ute over two days, visiting ten designated tors hilltops). Organised annually by the Army, the ttracts around 2,000 young people from he South West

ants must be entirely self-sufficient, carrying everything they need for the journey, including food, tents, cooking equipment, and sleeping gear itions on Dartmoor are notoriously edictable, with heavy rainfall, dense fog, and the possibility of snow in May, making the nge as much about resilience and teamwork as about endurance. To prepare, we run three ng weekends on Dartmoor and Exmoor. The main event takes place on 9 and 10 May.

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Life in Boarding

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

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

The Lent Term brings Craft Club, 5-a-side football, Model United Nations, indoor hockey, as well as our much loved classics

The Blandford Park Run was a real success, with every student completing the 5k route, and many of whom achieved a new personal best! All the students stayed on to cheer on the final runners, which created such a supportive atmosphere, and showed the Milton Abbey community

A Friday evening treat for the Hughie’s girls after a full afternoon of Round Square activities... hot cross buns, straight from the oven!

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Athelstan House enjoyed a morning run with Mr Bonner, before starting their day! It was wonderful to see students across all year groups run together in the Spring sunshine.

Q &

W I T H M R L U KOS I US

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

Hi, I’m Mr Lukosius I teach Art and Creative Media, I’m a Hambro tutor, and I co-manage the 2 XI football team I’m relatively new to Milton Abbey as this is my first year teaching here nd

Q Favourite memory of Milton Abbey?

Although I’ve only been here a short time, I’ve already made some great memories Highlights include the Lower Sixth Haunted Dorset filming day, the London art trip, Playing Fifa with the Hambro boys on Friday's and Go Ape with the Third Form However, my favourite moment has to be this past weekend, watching Sammy OC, Middle Sixth, score a stoppage time bicycle kick to win the game for Milton Abbey Seconds in the 7-a-side tournament

Q Best and worst subjects when you were at school?

I always loved Art; I’ve been creative for as long as I can remember I also really enjoyed sport, especially football, as some of the students will know Maths, however, was not my favourite, if I’m being honest

Q What advice do you give to our students?

Relax and enjoy your school experience. Make the most of every opportunity and moment, because it all goes much faster than you think

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

I’d recommend the graphic novel Black Hole by Charles Burns It's creepy and surreal coming of age story, and in my opinion a true epic in the context of comics folklore It really encapsulates the trials of adolescence and inspired my imagination when I was at school It continues to be an all time favourite

Q What don’t we know about you?

Something that people don't know is that in a previous life, long before teaching, I was an illustrator and I worked on many interesting projects, with many interesting people!

Teacher of Art and Creative Media

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News & Updates

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

SCHOLARSHIPASSESSMENTDAY

Dorset Scholars who live locally in the county and will contribute as an all-rounder to the life of the school, while benefitting from our educational approach

Academic Scholars who show passion and determination in specific subjects – including Performing Arts, Music and Drama – or across the curriculum

Sport Scholars who exhibit exceptional skill, leadership and commitment in one or more team sports including Rugby, Football, Cricket, Netball or Hockey With sport every day there is no better school for children who excel in sport

Our upcoming Sport and Dorset assessment days is Saturday 16 May. To register, please scan the QR code here

EASTERHOLIDAYWORK

Alongside well-earned rest and relaxation, it is important that the students maintain momentum over the Easter break. There will be relevant holiday work for all students posted on their subject Teams and clearly labeled as Easter holiday work. Students should check on the Assignments tab on the left hand side of Teams when they log in to get a full list of everything that has been set.

This is especially important for the exam year groups who will have focused work to complete as well as wider revision across all their subjects The Easter work will give them guidance and direction and we would strongly recommend that all Middle Sixth and Fifth Form students set up a regular revision timetable to ensure that they use their time wisely and that they cover all the relevant material

An example revision planner, and some different revision techniques, can be found in the Revision Guide sent out previously with a focus on the sense that regularity and self-assessment is the key to success The work they put in now will have a powerful impact on their final outcomes and I would encourage them all to give it their very best shot so that they can head into the summer feeling confident and ready to go

Milton Abbey School features in Spear’s School Index 2026 as a Top Recommended School!

School Community

As a small by choice school, we take time to make sure that every student is known, noticed and nurtured.

Cross-Country

We welcomed six senior schools to our annual senior cross-country event, where students tackled our very muddy course around the school grounds and hills

Well done to Immy C, Lower Sixth, who finished 9 in the Senior Girl’s Race, and to Wilf W, Middle Sixth who finished 15th

Third

Form Enterprise

This term, our Third Form students split into two teams to develop creative ideas for a product to sell at the tuck shop as part of their Festival Stall Enterprise project

They began by exploring what enterprise means and learning how entrepreneurs design successful products with profit in mind By identifying their target market, considering customer needs, and thinking carefully about how pricing might influence their success, the groups approached the challenge with real maturity

Throughout the process, they demonstrated excellent teamwork, listening skills, and clear communication Their hard work concluded with some very purposeful products sold and a highly successful festival stall as a team.

The girls in Damer House enjoyed a wonderful weekend, starting with a trip to Wagamama’s and followed by a relaxing Sunday spent baking and enjoying afternoon tea out on the lawn in the sunshine.

Senior

Afternoon Tea

DATES F YOUR

The Milton Abbey Story

diary

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

Monday 20 April

Tuesday 21 April

Thursday 23 April

Saturday 25 April

Sunday 26 April

Monday 27 April

Tuesday 28 April

Thursday 30 April

Friday 1 May

Saturday 2 May