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GAZETTE 2 02 5 -2 026

From the Headmistress

elcome to the 2025/2026 edition of The Gazette. While the independent sector in the UK has undoubtedly faced challenges over the past year, we are in the fortunate position of being able to reflect on a period of confident progress and purposeful ambition at Wycombe Abbey. I hope you will agree that the pages that follow capture the vibrancy of our School community and showcase the many ways in which our pupils continue to flourish intellectually, creatively and personally. They readily display energy, resourcefulness and determination, qualities that remain at the heart of a Wycombe Abbey education, all whilst having a lot of fun! We introduced Wycombe 130, our new Strategic Direction (2025–2030), in September. It looks ahead with clarity and optimism and reaffirms our vision to ‘be at the forefront of girls’ boarding education and to be recognised globally as a world class school’. It is a framework grounded in our values yet firmly oriented towards the future, ensuring that our pupils are exceptionally well prepared for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead. As we prepare to celebrate our 130th anniversary next academic year, to mark Dame Frances Dove’s founding of Wycombe Abbey in 1896, plans are well underway for a series of events that will honour our heritage while celebrating the modern, dynamic School we are today. Philanthropy and community spirit have been particularly evident this year. Giving Day, which raised over £200,000, focused on two

key priorities: reinforcing our bursary provision, ensuring that exceptional young women can access a Wycombe Abbey education regardless of financial circumstance, and supporting the development of a new Sixth Form suite. This is being designed to provide contemporary spaces for study, collaboration and community in the East Wing of the Abbey and we are excited about seeing it become a reality in next academic year. The Headmistress’ Christmas Lecture, delivered by Demetra Pinsent, CEO of Charlotte Tilbury, offered thoughtprovoking insights into leadership, resilience and building a global brand. We have welcomed a dedicated Head of Careers as we broaden and strengthen our programme of signature events, workplace visits and engagement with Seniors and professionals from a wide

range of industries. Our Global Links programme has gone from strength to strength, with successful exchanges to Australia and the United States and new links established with schools in India. We have also announced the opening of two new Wycombe Abbey schools in Bangkok and Singapore, further enriching our international presence. Alongside this, the School has seen continued investment in its wider physical environment, including a new front entrance, enhancing both the arrival experience and site safety. It remains my privilege to lead such a remarkable School and I hope you enjoy reading about the past year in this edition of The Gazette. Mrs Jo Duncan Headmistress

For more from the Headmistress, follow on Instagram @WA_Headmistress

Gazette 2025-2026

Contents 7

School Awards and Achievements Academic Excellence

Creative Vision 4

Contents

Physical Endeavour

Developing Confidence

Faith and Service

Community Engagement

119

131

Gazette 2025-2026

School Awards and Achievements

School Awards and Achievements School Positions 2025/2026

Scholarships 2026

Our School Values

Gazette 2025-2026

School Positions

2025/2026

HEAD GIRL TEAM Head of School

Todi Bamisaye

Deputy Heads of School

Estelle D’Souza Genevieve Donald

DEPUTY HEADS OF HOUSES

HEADS OF HOUSES Airlie

Chloe Wong

Airlie

Isabella Ling

Pitt

Mia Lee

Pitt

Annabel Spalton

Barry

Eva Ostrovskaya

Barry

Emily Shi

Rubens

Emma Lee

Rubens

Mati La Magna

Butler

Tallulah Gallagher

Butler

Tracy Hang

Shelburne

Zara McCallum

Shelburne

Victoria Collins

Campbell

Marta Ohler

Campbell

Isla Preston

Wendover

Maddie Chu

Wendover

Sula Ma

Cloister

Rosa Butler

Cloister

Freya Laville

Junior

Lucia Sanfelice di Monteforte Sia Kalirai

SCHOOL OFFICERS

Chairmen of Clarence

Sophie Di Vito Gabriella Harle Morade Oduntan Sophie Worrow

SCHOOL PREFECTS School Sports Captain

Clemmie Halle

Charity Prefects

Alexandra Chunilal Romy Robertson

Heads of Orchestra

Fiona Li Chloe Ng

School Pianist

Judy Li

Head of Choir

Genevieve Donald

School Organist

Henrietta Finlayson-Brown

Head of Chamber Music

Chloe Jones

MUN Secretary General

Sophie Worrow

MUN Deputy Secretary General

Elizabeth Unachukwu

MUN Secretariats

Morade Oduntan Leanna Li Daphne Xuan Abila Bian Daisy Zhou Neda Aryan

Music Prefect

Judy Li

Drama Prefect

Penelope Stallworthy

School Artists

Melody Zhou Maria McMullan

Debating Officers

School Almoners

Dara Adewole Cate Evans

Digital Officers

Lower School Prefects

Ashvini Aruleesan Georgina Emmanuel Annamaria Kort Price Abbey Lee Catherine Li Rahi Radia Eloise Schlotterbeck

Anna Olugbodi Daphne Xuan

Diversity and Inclusion Officers

Celina Mann Linda Cai

Poet Laureate

Eden Amakoh

Sustainability Officers

Shelley Weng Fiona Li

School Librarians

Helena Mou Leanna Li

DofE Award Scheme Officer

Marisa Whitehurst

School Photographer

Sky Phisuthikul

Wellbeing Officers

Maya Joshi Katie Harris

Upper School Prefects

Lower Sixth Prefects

Zi Tong Chao Maya Fell Navika Mehta Hayat Osseiran Pistecky Jemima Seymour Annika Shenoy Louise de Maeyer Lucy Liu Isabella Pritchard

School Awards and Achievements

Learning Enhancement Ambassadors Tess Ebert Max-Lino Alice Moser

Scholarships

2026

Wycombe Abbey is pleased to announce the award of the following Scholarships and Exhibitions for September 2026: 11+ AND 12+ ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS AND EXHIBITIONS Megumi Cadwallader (Francis Holland Preparatory School) Catherine Chen (Crosfields School) Myla Derry (Wycombe Abbey Open Scholarship) (Maltman’s Green School) Daisy Gao (Crosthwaite Scholarship) (Brighton College Preparatory School) Charlotte Leung (Godstowe Preparatory School) Zikora Nzelu (Dove Scholarship) (Thomas’s Fulham) (12+) Aerin Wong (Goodland Scholarship) (St Paul’s Co-Educational School, Hong Kong)

11+ MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS Elizabeth Xu (Piano) (Dumpton School)

13+ ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS AND EXHIBITIONS Aria Bhushan (Brighton College, Dubai) Bini Elworthy (Dragon School) Rita Jiang (Wycombe Abbey) Alison Kwong (Johnston Yapp Scholarship) (Wycombe Abbey) Sienna Tan (Barnes Scholarship) (Lambrook School) Wendy Wu (Wycombe Abbey Open Scholarship) (Wycombe Abbey)

13+ MUSIC SCHOLARSHIPS Remi Bianchi (Choral Scholarship) (Wycombe Abbey) Alexandra Chwu (Flute and Piano) (Diocesan Girls’ Junior School) Anastasia Davies (Piano and Voice) (St Paul’s Cathedral School) Kaelyn Hsu (Piano and Violin) (Godstowe Preparatory School) Hedy Lu (Cello and Piano) (Wellington College International, Shanghai) Angela Lim (Cello and Piano) (Pate’s Grammar School) Emily Norris-Jones (Choral Scholarship) (Wycombe Abbey)

16+ MUSIC EXHIBITION Elly Gu (Violin) (Wycombe Abbey)

Gazette 2025-2026

Our School Values A

t Wycombe Abbey, our School Values sit at the very core of who we are. They ensure that our holistic approach to education remains true to the vision of our founder, Dame Frances Dove, while giving pupils and staff a shared language and purpose. This year, we have taken time to reflect on how these values are lived each day and how they shape the community, character and interactions that define life at the School.

School Awards and Achievements

Balance

Trust

Wycombe Abbey pupils are skilled at regulating their emotions. They experience moments of pure joy and hysterical laughter, yet they also know how to be still, reflective, and appropriate. They are mature enough to act as strong support systems for one another, offering genuine care when friends are in need.

Trust… As a value it is difficult to express its significance. Much of life at Wycombe Abbey, indeed the world, rests upon the stability of how we regard one another, what we do, what we say and how we say it. It’s not just the big-ticket items but in little, everyday things. Padre Paul Stanaway Chaplain

Miss Ella Calder Head of PSHE

Innovation Dynamism To me, a dynamic pupil is one who is energised to learn. You see their dynamism in the way they arrive at your classroom ready to learn with their books open; the way they sit up straight and watch and listen intently to your explanations; and the way they approach and grasp new concepts with eagerness and enthusiasm. Miss Charlie Pemberton Teacher of Classics

Service We place a real emphasis on the value of Service at Wycombe Abbey, particularly for our Sixth Formers, who all undertake voluntary service in the local community. This fulfils the original aims of our founder, Dame Frances Dove, who believed that our girls need to be out in the local community, giving back and contributing to the wider society to become fully rounded individuals. Mr Sam Joyce Head of Partnerships

Pupils are encouraged to question assumptions, test ideas and refine their thinking. They learn that innovation is rarely instantaneous; it is the product of persistence, reflection and intellectual courage. Mr John Doherty Director of Digital Learning

Mutual Respect I find an enormous amount of joy when walking around the corridors and listening to the conversations that are taking place. Whilst these interactions seem different superficially, they are all rooted within mutual respect. Mrs Vicky Fawkes Deputy Head (Pastoral)

Encouragement It has been easy to sit and reflect on what a vital part encouragement has to play in building our school community. It can be seen in both the big moments and those that feel more ordinary. There are moments of magic that arise when those who live and work in a community that has encouragement at its core. I think it is safe to say that Encouragement is at the very heart of the Wycombe Abbey community and can easily be found. Mrs Sophie Blunt Director of Safeguarding and Pupil Welfare

Excellence Excellence continues to shape how we as a community approach our learning, relationships, and personal growth: it isn’t simply about achieving perfection, but rather consistently striving to give of one’s best across all aspects of School life. Mrs Jacky Tidbury Director of Sixth Form

Gazette 2025-2026

Academic Excellence

Academic Excellence Welcome Abbey Recognised as a Microsoft Showcase School

UKMT Olympiad Success

LIV Dove Award

Inaugural Classics Conference

LVI Politics Conference

Kathleen Wilkes Essay Competition

Poetry Declamation Competition

Model United Nations

LVI Brain Day with Dr Guy Sutton

Reading Week 2025

Stepping Stones: Law Society Launches a New Podcast 23

A Year in Careers

UIV Trip to the Swaminarayan Mandir

UV Trenches Trip

The Importance of Being Earnest Drama Trip

Exploring Biodiversity in the Amazon Rainforest

Salamanca 2025

LIV Trip to Normandy

French Trip to Montpellier

Geography and Art Trip to Sweden and Denmark

UK Higher Education Success

Regular Decision Applications to US Universities

Gazette 2025-2026

cademic life at Wycombe Abbey this year has been both purposeful and enriching. Pupils have explored subjects in depth, asked challenging questions and developed confidence in their own ideas. Our five Academic Qualities remain central to this, shaping an approach to learning that values depth, curiosity and balance. In this section, we celebrate some of the many ways in which pupils have engaged with, and enjoyed, their academic work. Miss Emily Boswell Deputy Head (Academic)

Academic Excellence

Wycombe Abbey Recognised as a Microsoft Showcase School

his year we were delighted to announce that we have been recognised as a Microsoft Showcase School for 2025/2026, a proud milestone in our digital learning development. The School embarked on this journey in September 2023 by applying for Incubator School status, demonstrating a clear commitment to embedding Microsoft technologies across teaching and learning. During the 2023/2024 academic year, a comprehensive three-year digital strategy was established, beginning in September 2024 and running through to August 2027. This strategy was designed not only to meet the criteria for Showcase School status, but also to set out a long-term vision for digital innovation at Wycombe Abbey. A key element of this work included the development of policy on

artificial intelligence, with particular attention to the responsible integration of Microsoft Copilot. The following year saw a deliberate focus on achieving Showcase recognition. This involved the introduction of a digital accessibility strategy to ensure technology benefits every learner, alongside the development of a digital skills programme for the Lower School, structured around eight principles. Wycombe Abbey has a well-established one-to-one device scheme, ensuring every pupil has a Windows-based machine. This provision allows technology to be fully embedded across the curriculum, supporting collaboration, creativity, and enriched learning experiences. Staff development has been central to this progress, with colleagues across a range

of departments achieving recognition as Microsoft Innovative Educator Experts. Becoming a Microsoft Showcase School places Wycombe Abbey within a global community of forward-thinking schools recognised for their innovation, vision, and excellence in digital learning. It also provides exclusive opportunities for collaboration and professional growth, enabling staff to exchange expertise and best practice globally. Most importantly, it strengthens our culture of continuous improvement, ensuring that the pupils of Wycombe Abbey are equipped with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital world. Mr John Doherty Director of Digital Learning

Gazette 2025-2026

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UKMT Olympiad Success T he UKMT Olympiads are designed to challenge highly able mathematicians with demanding problems that require creativity, logical reasoning and perseverance.

There was excellent success in this year’s British Mathematical Olympiad (BMO), with pupils achieving a number of impressive distinctions, merits and medals in one of the UK’s most challenging mathematics competitions. Congratulations go to Judy (UVI), who achieved a Distinction in the British Mathematical Olympiad. Congratulations also to Leila (UV), Elsa (LVI) and Cice (UVI), who achieved Merits. An especially notable achievement was the success of Judy (UVI) and Cice (UVI), both of whom participated in BMO2, one of the most demanding competitions in the UKMT programme and were awarded Merits.

Academic Excellence

Further success followed in March in the Intermediate Mathematical Olympiads, where pupils achieved a number of outstanding results across the Maclaurin, Hamilton and Cayley papers.

competition and achieved outstanding results. Particular congratulations go to Mia (UIII), who achieved a remarkable score of 49 marks, earning a Silver Medal and a Distinction.

Particular congratulations go to Leila (LVI), who earned a Silver Medal and Distinction in the Maclaurin Olympiad, and Iris (UIV), who achieved a Bronze Medal and Distinction in the Cayley Olympiad.

Among the LIV competitors, there were further excellent performances, with Elsa achieving a Silver Medal and Distinction, Rita earning a Bronze Medal and Distinction, Dorcas receiving a Distinction, and Aria awarded a Merit.

There were many other strong performances, with Aiza (UV) and Sissie (UV) both receiving Merits in the Maclaurin Olympiad, Eva (LV) earning a Merit in the Hamilton Olympiad, and Shianne (UIV) achieving a Merit in the Cayley Olympiad. Congratulations to the UIII and LIV pupils who took part in this year’s UKMT Junior Mathematical Olympiad. Following their excellent performances in the Junior Mathematical Challenge, several pupils qualified for this prestigious follow-on

Achieving a Distinction or Merit in the Junior Mathematical Olympiad is a significant accomplishment, as the paper challenges students to apply mathematical reasoning in unfamiliar and demanding contexts. Their achievements are a testament to their hard work and dedication, and we look forward to seeing their continued success in future mathematical competitions. Mrs Geraldene Compton Second in Maths

LIV Dove Award The Dove Award, named in honour of our founder Dame Frances Dove, is a unique programme designed for all LIV pupils. It encourages reflection, independence and personal growth through its three core pillars: Community, Flourishing and the Learner. Through a variety of activities in tutor time, alongside a self-directed project, pupils develop valuable skills that will support them both throughout their time at school and in the years beyond. On Friday 5 June, we were delighted to host our annual Dove Award Celebration Evening. The year group began the evening with a special pizza supper, enjoyed together with their tutors and House staff, before the presentation of awards. Every pupil received their Dove Award pin badge, marking their commitment and achievements throughout the year. Prizes were then awarded to those nominated within each of the three pillar categories. A special recognition award was presented to Astrid (LIV), who was uniquely nominated across all three categories, an exceptional accomplishment. We are incredibly proud of everything the LIV cohort has achieved this year. It was wonderful to see such genuine enthusiasm, with pupils wholeheartedly supporting and celebrating one another as awards were announced. One of the most rewarding aspects of the programme is the extended project, completed over several months. Below, three pupils share reflections on their individual projects. Mrs Sally Harbour Head of Lower School

The Dove Award was a wonderful opportunity for me to challenge myself by learning a completely new skill. I decided to learn the Moon Walk, a dance move made famous by Michael Jackson. Since I was young, I had wanted to learn how to do it, and the Dove Award gave me the perfect chance to finally dedicate time to achieving that goal. I am extremely proud of what I achieved during this project. It taught me the importance of resilience and showed me that with hard work and dedication, I can accomplish things that once seemed too difficult. The Dove Award has been a rewarding experience, and I am grateful for the opportunity to develop a new skill while building my confidence.

For my Dove Award, I chose to make a tote bag with doves and the School values written around them, which I thought was a creative way to represent our School. I used different types and colours of fabric for the birds to make them stand out, and I wrote the School values in pencil first before using the freehand sewing foot on the machine to carefully follow the pencil outline. My second project was a similar theme, but this time I painted doves and the School values onto a glass vase, which was quite challenging because it was a different material to work on. I used the House colours for the birds and a crafting knife to create the outlines, which made the design look neat and detailed. The experience taught me that good planning leads to good outcomes, and a lot of planning went into this project, which really helped everything turn out successfully in the end.

Stefania, LIV

Lilibet, LIV

Milly, LIV

For my Dove Award project, I chose to finger-knit a blanket throw for a single bed. This was a new challenge for me, and it was quite different from my usual activities. I wanted to step outside my comfort zone, test my patience, and develop new skills – since I’m more often on a netball court than working with yarn! Throughout the process, I learned valuable lessons aligned with the three pillars of the Dove Award: community, flourishing, and learner. These values broadened my horizons by encouraging me to reflect on different activities and cultures.

Gazette 2025-2026

Inaugural Classics Conference W

ycombe Senior Dorothy Lamb (Rubens, 1905) once wrote ‘the study of antiquity is not merely the study of objects, but of the lives and hopes of those who came before us.’

Wycombe Abbey’s inaugural Classics Conference, attended by over 200 pupils from 15 different schools, epitomised Lamb’s view of studying Classics: our five amazing speakers, all renowned academics from the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge, brought the ancient world back to life for us. The conference began with a deep dive into the interplays of genre in Latin literature with Professor Llewelyn Morgan. He brought together epic and elegy, Ovid’s Metamorphoses and Fasti, and with them, a profound lesson that humanity is ‘to see and appreciate the better course but not to follow it’; that we live not confined by logic, but spurred on by the peaks and troughs of raw emotion.

Professor Morgan’s lecture was followed by Dr Gail Trimble’s on the silliness, saltiness and softness of Catullus, another Roman poet. From Poem 64, where Ariadne generalises men, to Poem 70, where Catullus himself generalises women, his impassioned exploration of gender norms still has much to offer in today’s society. Next, Professor Caroline Vout’s lecture on art and religion palpably and masterfully described and unpacked the visual transition of ancient Greek gods beginning as otherworldly before becoming more and more human through time. A delicious lunch was followed by Dr Rosanna Omitowoju’s inspiring talk on the value of reading, what we can learn about women from Classical texts and the joys to be found in two underrated genres of ancient Greek literature, New Comedy and the Greek Novel.

Professor Andrew Wallace-Hadrill, a powerhouse in the field of Roman archaeology, ended our conference with aplomb by taking us step-by-step on his journey to find the villa from which Pliny observed the devastating AD79 eruption of Vesuvius. Overall, we were honoured to hear from internationally acclaimed experts who shared their knowledge and passion about the ancient world and left feeling closer than ever to understanding how the ancient Greeks and Romans lived, thought, felt, hoped and dreamed. Aubrey and Abila, UVI

LVI Politics Conference In November, Wycombe Abbey’s LVI Politics A level classes attended a major Politics Conference at Methodist Central Hall in Westminster, London.

Amalia (LVI) shared her experience from the trip: ‘The day offered a rare chance to hear directly from some of the most prominent and contrasting figures in modern British politics. Speakers ranged from Green Party leader Zack Polanski and Reform UK’s deputy leader Richard Tice to Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, Speaker of the House Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Liberal Democrat MP Sarah Olney, and Stephen Flynn of the SNP. Across the day’s presentations and question and answer sessions, pupils engaged with debates on issues such as the future of political parties and the evolving relationship between Parliament and the public. Discussions became particularly animated around the Equality Act and controversial topics like abortion. The rise of polarisation and heightened partisanship – key themes shaping the national conversation – was clear, with several speakers prompting passionate and, at times, sharply divided reactions from Sixth Formers nationwide.

Academic Excellence

Despite the ideological differences on display, the conference gave us a valuable opportunity to see thought-provoking and challenging political discourse in action, and all of us left Westminster feeling inspired and more informed on contemporary politics in the UK.’

la lo b

Kathleen Wilkes Essay Competition

his year saw the fifth annual running of the Kathleen Wilkes Essay Prize, a prize named in honour of a most impressive educationalist, philosopher and former member of Pitt House.

entries we received from the UIVs, who grappled with questions ranging from ‘Would the world be better if there was only one language?’ to ‘What was the most important book of the 20th century?’ and ‘Is education just a means of getting a job?’.

Kathleen Wilkes received a first-class degree from St Hugh’s, Oxford, and later in life worked tirelessly to bring analytical philosophy to Yugoslavia during the early 90s, and attended a series of secret philosophy seminars in the city of Dubrovnik. To mark her courage and assistance, following the fall of the Yugoslavian regime she was made an honorary member of the Croatian army, and an honorary citizen of Dubrovnik. Kathleen Wilkes was also an academic at St Hilda’s, Oxford, and would have been pleased with the quality of the 41 essay

This year, we were thrilled to secure the services of Senior Anna McMullan (2023, Rubens), who is currently studying PPE at Oxford, who said of the process: ‘I was highly impressed by the calibre of essays in the Kathleen Wilkes shortlist. This made my life rather difficult when it came to choosing the winners! Each essay engaged with its chosen topic deeply, and it was very clear that every pupil had gone into great detail in researching and addressing their questions head-on. There were some very interesting arguments

being made, and I thoroughly enjoyed reading through them. I learnt some new fun facts – especially about Esperanto, the global language, that I did not know much about at all!’ Maggie won second prize for her clearly argued piece on why The Communist Manifesto was the most important book of the 20th century. Olivia won first prize, and she established strong control over her essay, with clear analysis and evaluation of the benefits and downfalls of a single universal language. She clearly problematised the question of what a ‘better’ world would mean, debating with clarity and defending her position clearly. You can read the winning essay below: Mr Luke Wildgoose Head of Upper School

anguage, as defined by Oxford languages, is the “T he system of spoken or writt en communication used by a particular country, people, community…”. Innately, language’s ultimate purpose is the efficiency of its data transfer. Yet what if language’s primary contribution was not just communication, but instead the generation and preservation of culture and tradition? An argument could be formed that the world would be worse off with just one language, compared to our world today, as the loss of culture through loss of language easily outweighs the loss of efficiency during communication. T his essay will argue that while a single anguage could lead to some beneficial effects on the world, the cultural and social osses it would cost are more important. From a social perspective, culture can largely be defined as a set of shared values, beliefs, norms and behaviours between a group of people which defines their understanding of the world and their way of life. Henceforth, it can be easy to see how language not only contributes to but literally Scan the QR code to read the full essay

Gazette 2025-2026

Poetry Declamation Competition

n Thursday 15 January, the English Department were delighted to host the final of their annual Poetry Declamation competition. All pupils from UIII – UIV participated in the class rounds before Christmas, memorising and reciting a poem of their choice in front of their English classes. The winners from each class were then invited to the final. It was a special evening, and all the entries were of an exceptionally high standard – well done to everyone involved!

The LIV highly commended pupils are Layla, Julia, Heather and Remi. The winning recitation came from Adhya, who performed Gabrielle Calvocoressi’s Stacking Cistern My Bones On Top Of Your Bones with impressive clarity and sensitivity.

For UIII, highly commended are Alice, Paris, Vaani and Claudia. The winning recitation came from Iris, who performed The Witch by Mary Elizabeth Coleridge with perfect diction, vivid emotion and captivating expression.

It was lovely to spend an evening hearing young people bring powerful words to life through poetry.

Academic Excellence

The UIV highly commended pupils are Lucy, Serena, Ella, Charlotte and Neeva. The UIV winner, Alice, thrilled the audience with her powerfully dramatic rendition of The Clattering Train by Edwin J. Milliken.

Miss Marie Millwood Teacher of English

Model United Nations

n the Autumn Term, the secretariat began our term of leadership of MUN. My Deputy Secretary General, Elizabeth and our fellow secretariat members, Abila, Leanna, Daphne and Morade, carried out sessions every week, creating resources about MUN procedure and terminology as well as holding mock debates to help attendees build up confidence. During some of these sessions, our attendees were often pitted against members of the secretariat as we relived our days of being delegates, but they held up well and learned from the experience of the UVI. The delegates were all incredibly attentive and picked up skills quickly, just in time for our first conference of the year at Benenden School. Several pupils attended and I am happy to say they did splendidly and made Wycombe Abbey proud by receiving several awards for exceptional debates. As we entered the Spring Term, the delegates were all very excited for Wycombe Abbey MUN which came just a few weeks after the start of term. This year was our largest WAMUN conference so far. We hosted 15 schools, including

an international school, with around 300 delegates attending. Across the weekend, 138 resolutions were passed, over 100 countries were represented, and around 280 amendments were debated – an incredible achievement and a testament to the hard work of all the delegates who participated. One of the highlights outside of the fruitful debate was, yet again, the Scottish reeling, which tested our delegates on a slightly different form of cooperation! Also in the Spring Term, we hosted Societies Sunday and had the privilege of hearing from speakers working in international diplomacy. They spoke to us about careers in international relations, answered our questions on global affairs, and gave real insight into some of today’s most pressing geopolitical challenges. Our delegates also had a fantastic weekend at Bath MUN, where Wycombe Abbey managed to achieve several Commended and High Commended delegate awards, a massive achievement for such a large conference. Bath was an amazing opportunity for our intermediate and more advanced

delegates to hone their skills, showing how a range of skill levels are all challenged at MUN. I want to say a thank you to all the staff and my fellow secretariat, without whom MUN would not be able to function. Being able to watch individuals grow and develop into confident, charismatic and assertive debaters has been a true privilege. Thank you for everything and I hope MUN continues to be FUN! Sophie, UVI

Gazette 2025-2026

LVI Brain Day with Dr Guy Sutton

VI Psychology pupils took part in Brain Day, an interactive experience led by Dr Guy Sutton, a member of both the British Neuroscience Association and the Liverpool Neuroscience Group, and formerly the Honorary (Consultant) Assistant Professor in the Division of Psychiatry at the University of Nottingham. During the day he delivered highly engaging talks covering various aspects of the subject both outside of and in relation to the A level course. LVI pupil Dora shared her thoughts from the day: ‘Brain Day with Dr Guy Sutton was a wonderful, insightful and inspiring experience for all LVI Psychology pupils as we dived deep into the exploration of the human brain. The day began with an introduction to different brain sections and their specialised functions. Moving forward, brain maldevelopment, such as lissencephaly and schizencephaly, as well as the effects of sleep deprivation and genetic differences on the brain, were thoroughly discussed. LVI pupils were able to participate hands-on in the dissection of a sheep’s brain, leaving an impression of what it may be like to be a neuroscientist.

For me, the most enjoyable and fascinating topic was criminology. We explored various case studies demonstrating how mental disorders can lead to illusions and distorted perceptions. It opened new perspectives, showing how crimes associated with the complexity of mental disorder may raise challenging issues about responsibility and accountability.’

Reading Week 2025 T

Academic Excellence

o promote reading across the School, the Libraries Department planned a range of activities for pupils to enjoy for this year’s Reading Week. As is tradition, Fisher Library was transformed for our Cosy Day and pupils were encouraged to come along to read and savour a hot chocolate. We invited authors, Radhika Sanghani and Sue Wallman to the School, where Radhika delivered inspiring creative writing workshops to the UIII, while Sue taught UIV pupils how to craft a thriller. Both also gave talks, and pupils had the opportunity to purchase signed copies of their books.

hosting subject-related reading groups, discussing favourite books with pupils, giving talks and exhibiting wonderful book-related displays. Of course, the Boarding Houses also championed Reading Week by providing quiet time to read in the evenings, organising book discussions, encouraging older pupils to read to younger ones and running literary quizzes.

Departments across the School also participated by providing reading lists,

Mrs Hannah Rogers-Green Head of Libraries

Reading for pleasure has so many benefits and we hope that this wonderful week reminded our community of that, as well as allowing them some time to escape into a good book.

Stepping Stones: Law Society Launches a New Podcast

t Wycombe Abbey, where more than 50 societies nurture intellectual curiosity and leadership, the Law Society has added a compelling new initiative to its programme: a pupil-led podcast series, Stepping Stones. Conceived and produced by Co-Presidents Annika and Catherine, the podcast aims, in their words, ‘to make law feel real and reachable.’ The inaugural episode introduces the project through an interview with Natacha Blankenship (Airlie, 2025), now studying Law at Regent’s Park College, Oxford. She offers an honest account of the transition from Sixth Form to university, crediting Wycombe Abbey with instilling the discipline and independence required for rigorous legal study. Reflecting on the similarities between school and university life, she notes, ‘Both give you a foundation of friends and a support network. You’re never navigating it alone.’

Episode two shifts focus to the competitive realities of entering the legal profession. Featuring Kathleen Lai (Barry, 2022), an Oxford Jurisprudence graduate who has secured a training contract, the discussion explores the importance of commercial awareness and resilience in a market where success rates can be as low as 1%. Kathleen highlights the value of initiative, from reading the Financial Times to building networks early.

Our aim was to make law feel more accessible.

We wanted to highlight a range of career paths and share practical lessons, challenges and successes.

Reflecting on the series, Annika and Catherine remark, ‘We are incredibly proud… it’s been rewarding to see the seed of an idea develop into something that will benefit pupils for years to come.’

Our goal was to help demystify the legal profession for aspiring lawyers.

Gazette 2025-2026

A Year in Careers I

t is an exciting time for the Careers Department at Wycombe Abbey as we continue to expand our programme of events and support pupils in reflecting thoughtfully about opportunities to shape their futures. Alongside our established signature events, girls have enjoyed a wide range of opportunities to explore careers through workplace visits and hear directly from professionals across many industries. Our half-termly Careers Spotlights have introduced pupils to diverse pathways. Recent sessions have explored careers in the pharmaceutical industry, highlighting opportunities in business, research and regulatory affairs. Another spotlight demonstrated how strength in languages can lead to roles in international relations, law, business and defence. A third spotlight showcased the breadth of careers within art and design, with speakers including the Director of the Architectural Association, a graphic designer and an art director. We were also fortunate to hear from Dame Dr Emily Lawson, who shared valuable reflections on understanding where you thrive, taking time to pause and reassess values and preparing for a non-linear career journey. Speakers have included Seniors, parents and employer partners from both local and national networks, and we have been delighted to share these events with pupils from partner schools. This year we have broadened opportunities beyond a traditional week-long placement. Girls have visited offices at Aviva and Salesforce, Pinewood Studios and the Bucks Skills Show, gaining hands-on insight into sectors including insurance, technology, film, engineering, medicine and the creative industries. We also continued our flagship mini-internship with Euronext, where ten LVI pupils spent three days at their Canary Wharf offices including visiting clients in the city. This was a transformative experience, offering invaluable insight. Local work experience placements for aspiring medics and vets have also continued, with pupils developing communication, empathy, resilience and initiative through weekly volunteering and NHS placements. Listening to pupil voice remains central to our work, supported by a strong network of Careers Champions across the School. We are equally keen to showcase staff career journeys through informal discussions in the Careers Centre, helping pupils see a wide range of pathways. We always welcome new connections to support our programme. Please contact Mrs Becky Scott, Careers Administrator, at scottb@wycombeabbey.com if you feel you can help. Mrs Laura Manning Head of Careers

Academic Excellence

The Pinewood Studios Futures Festival

Careers Seminar ‘I attended a talk by Dr Jane Hood, a talented Paediatric Neuropsychologist. Through questions asked at the talk, we were able to hear a unique perspective on not only her career but also her journey after school which was especially interesting as she is a Wycombe Abbey Senior.’ Isla, LVI

Google Insight Trip ‘Four Wycombe Abbey pupils visited the Google Offices in Central London as part of an event organised by Women of the Future. This event showcased women working at Google in a wide range of roles and from a variety of different backgrounds. It was fascinating to learn how their individual journeys equipped them with the skills and experience to get a position at Google and each speaker had valuable advice for our pupils.’ Mrs Laura Manning Head of Careers

Pathways to the Profession: Highlights from the Women in Law Talk ‘This year, we attended Dr Challoner’s High School to take part in their Women in Law talk. Made up of barristers, solicitors, and trainees, the panel shared their experiences and introduced us to the diverse routes available for entering the profession. Meeting female professionals in the field was both inspiring and beneficial.’ Amelia, LVI and Anna, UV

Ashurst Law Visit ‘Our visit to Ashurst Law Firm began with a tour of their offices, providing a glimpse into the collaborative environment that underpins complex, cross-border legal work. This was followed by an insightful session with three trainees, who spoke candidly about their routes into law, the realities of securing a training contract and the intellectual and practical demands of life at a global firm.’ Mia, UV

Finance Work Experience at Euronext, Canary Wharf ‘During our work experience, we heard from a variety of professionals at Euronext who explained their roles within the company, and how a stock exchange like Euronext operates. It was very insightful to gain an overview of the vast financial industry and the various career paths within it.’ Lucy and Navika, LVI

Gazette 2025-2026

UIV Trip to the Swaminarayan Mandir

o enrich their Religious Studies learning, our UIV pupils recently visited the Swaminarayan Mandir in London, one of the largest and most intricately designed Hindu temples outside India. The visit offered pupils the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Hindu beliefs, worship and cultural traditions in an immersive setting.

UIV pupil Lita shared her thoughts from the trip: ‘Our visit to the Swaminarayan Mandir was a positive and memorable experience. When we arrived, we put on kilts to cover our legs as a sign of respect before entering the temple. One of the first things we saw was the beautiful gold statue of Pramukh Swami Maharaj, which immediately caught our attention. As we entered the exhibition, we learned a lot about Hinduism, the life of Bhagwan Swaminarayan, and the values that guide the community. The displays were interesting and helped us understand the religion more clearly. We then took part in a traditional Hindu ceremony. This included clapping, bell ringing, and the aarti ritual.

Afterwards, we had a question-and-answer session with a member of staff at the Mandir. He explained how the temple was built and talked to us about important Hindu beliefs such as karma and the cycle of reincarnation, which is called samsāra. His explanations helped deepen our understanding and made the trip much more interesting. Overall, we left with a much better understanding of Hindu culture, architecture, and beliefs, and it was an experience we will remember for a long time.’ Lita (UIV)

The displays were interesting and helped us understand the religion more clearly. We then took part in a traditional Hindu ceremony. This included clapping, bell ringing, and the aarti ritual.

Academic Excellence

UV Trenches Trip A

t the end of September, UV set off on a memorable trip to the historic trenches of Belgium and France to enhance their Historic understanding of the World Wars. Pupils Alessia and Verity shared their highlights from the trip: ‘Once we arrived in Ypres, we were guided through war cemeteries, reconstructed trenches and displays of authentic First World War equipment. One of the most moving moments of the trip was our visit to the Langemark German Military Cemetery. Here, we reflected on themes of reconciliation and remembrance, learning how mourning transcends borders and nationalities. That evening, we attended a military band parade and wreath laying at the Menin Gate, where a memorial ceremony has taken place every night since 1928. Our guides demonstrated their expansive military knowledge as they walked us through the events of the Battle of the Somme, visiting battlefields and following in the footsteps of British soldiers. A fascinating highlight was the vast crater at Lochnagar left behind by the largest explosion of the Great War. We concluded our visit at the Thiepval Memorial to the Missing of the Somme. After reading the names etched into the walls, we joined a memorial service that honoured the tens of thousands of soldiers who remain missing.’ Alessia and Verity, UV

The Importance of Being Earnest Drama Trip In October (on Oscar Wilde’s birthday) the Drama GCSE pupils enjoyed a farce-filled evening out in London at the Noël Coward Theatre, watching The Importance of Being Earnest. The pupils enjoyed picking out a host of familiar faces who feature in the show, including Olly Alexander (Algernon), Hugh Dennis (Reverend Chasuble), Shobna Gupta (Miss Prism) and Stephen Fry (Lady Bracknell). Predictably, Stephen Fry was a particular audience favourite with his highly acerbic, but hilarious, depiction of the snooty matriarch.

both created fictional altered egos called ‘Earnest’ to win the hearts of Cecily and Gwendolen. This production is a modern take on the classic, featuring period costume but interweaving modern references, choreography and music – including Cyndi Lauper and Bruno Mars.

The night was even finished off with everyone on stage and in the audience singing Happy Birthday to Mr Wilde as the ‘encore’! Mr James Harrington Director of Drama

The far-fetched story follows the duplicitous Algernon and Jack as they try to maintain their double lives, after they have

Gazette 2025-2026

Exploring Biodiversity in the Amazon Rainforest

t the end of July 2025, 11 intrepid UV–UVI pupils met Miss Rowley and me at Heathrow Airport for the start of an epic 30-hour journey to Iquitos in the Peruvian Amazon.

After our first night in the hotel, we travelled towards our destination, a boat moored in a channel off the Amazon River. On the way, we visited several museums to learn about the region’s history and the lives of the indigenous communities we would be visiting and working with. A boat was our home for the next 12 nights, which was surprisingly comfortable for a jungle expedition, with solar power, en-suite showers and a choice of how you would like your eggs in the morning! The aim of the project was to collect data on the local biodiversity. This helps monitor the recovery of the ecosystem and is shared with local communities to help them to continue their traditional lifestyles in a sustainable manner. With this in mind, we monitored the local birdlife and spotted some sloths. A favourite survey was fishing, where you pitted your wits with a rod against the elusive fish population, everyone felt elated when catching their first piranha! Other flagship species which were always a delight to see were the pink and grey river dolphins. We monitored their numbers at communal nurseries found in areas where there is a weaker river current. Towards the end of the trip, we set out on a six-kilometre trek through the jungle where we saw squirrel, capuchin and night monkeys, as well as the pygmy marmoset, the world’s smallest monkey. Afterwards, we took the opportunity to visit three different communities, learning about their lives in the jungle, playing games with the children and buying craft gifts that they made, a highlight for many. We spent two nights in the city of Iquitos, allowing us to visit an animal rescue centre. This was a chance to see many of the animals up close that we had previously only seen at the top of trees or via a camera trap. Overall, it was a very rewarding trip, and I am immensely proud of what the pupils achieved. Mr Matthew Whiteley Teacher of Biology

Academic Excellence

Salamanca 2025 During Long Leave, 11 Sixth Form Spanish pupils visited Spain for an unforgettable cultural and linguistic immersion. Mati (LVI) tells us what they got up to while they were away: ‘We began with a day in Madrid, which allowed us to soak in the vibrant energy of the capital, before a visit to the historic city of Segovia the following day. Known for its stunning Roman aqueduct and ancient tales, it truly felt like walking through a medieval village. The heart of our adventure, however, was in Salamanca; a renowned university city where we stayed with Spanish host families. This homestay experience offered us a unique opportunity to engage with local customs and practise our Spanish in everyday settings, making the trip both educational and deeply personal.

Each morning, we attended language classes with Lola Languages, which both reinforced our A level studies and expanded our understanding of Spanish culture and communication. Outside the classroom, we embraced the local lifestyle by sampling traditional dishes, learning flamenco dancing with a professional, and exploring the city’s rich history and lively streets. Walking through Salamanca felt like stepping into a real student experience, surrounded by the buzz of university life. The experience was both enriching and inspiring, giving us a taste of independence and a deeper appreciation for the Spanish language and way of life. Mr Fuentes and Miss Hamilton, who accompanied us on the trip, made the experience unforgettable and we cannot thank them enough for the support and care they provided.’

Gazette 2025-2026

LIV Trip to Normandy Our first destination when we arrived in France was a traditional bakery. The owner of the shop was very kind and welcoming as he showed us around the kitchen. He taught us how to make bread, and we learnt many French baking words while taking turns rolling the dough and putting it into the oven. Our next stop was a snail farm. After learning many interesting facts about the snails, we got to hold them, and some people were even brave enough to put them on their faces! Before leaving, we had the opportunity to try some cooked snails with different sauces. In the evening, we checked into our rooms, enjoyed a lovely dinner, and played some French games before heading to bed. The next day, we headed to a traditional French market, something many of us were really looking forward to! The bus journey there was full of excitement. When we

Academic Excellence

arrived, we were told our task: to find a yummy filling for our baguettes. My group first did a big loop of the market, browsing the stalls before starting to buy some things. We bought our fillings and even managed a bit of bargaining! Once we had everything, we walked to a nearby park, where we sat down to eat. In the afternoon, we went to the beach for a short break, where we admired the beautiful scenery and collected shells, before travelling to a chocolaterie. We all loved Simon’s engaging tour and sampled some delicious praline, pistachio and white chocolates. It was truly enthralling to see how different types of chocolate were created. We all made so many wonderful memories and would like to thank all the teachers and staff who made this a truly fantastic trip. Xanthe, Alison, Gwen-Sofia, and Cathy, LIV

French Trip to Montpellier

t the start of the Easter break, a group of Fifth and Sixth Formers headed to Montpellier in the south of France for a five-day linguistic immersion trip. We stayed with different French host families in pairs or groups of three, where we had dinner with them each night and could practise our French conversation skills.

Each morning started with lessons at the Accent Français language school in central Montpellier, where we learned about a range of topics including the history of Montpellier, traditions and festivals, technology and voluntary work. For example, in the Sixth Form group, we each came up with our own political manifestos to present to the class and competed against each other to win the most votes. On our last day in Montpellier, the Sixth Form group enjoyed some karaoke to our favourite French songs, whilst the Fifth Form group choreographed their own dance to Aya Nakamura’s Copines. The afternoons were packed with activities, such as a guided tour around Montpellier, visiting the famous school of medicine and the Arc de Triomphe; a traditional Occitan dance workshop; and a cheese tasting session. On Thursday we travelled to Nîmes, where we saw the stunning Roman amphitheatre and the Maison Carrée, which is a heritage site listed by UNESCO. Finally, on Friday after saying goodbye to our host families in the morning, it was time to head back to the UK. We would like to say a massive thank you to Miss Figueira, Miss Hamilton and Miss McIvor for taking us and for making this such a memorable experience. Sula, Marta and Lucia, LVI

Gazette 2025-2026

Geography and Art Trip to Sweden and Denmark

ver May Long Leave, the Geography and Art departments combined to take 22 pupils on an expedition to Sweden and Denmark to explore natural environments, urban sustainability and how design is a key part of creating positive culture. Highlights included visiting Tyresta National Park to look at how natural areas are managed to maintain biodiversity and protect fragile ecosystems for future generations. Trips to Skansen, Stockholm’s century-old outdoor cultural museum, as well as the Vasa and ABBA museums, offered fascinating insights into cultural history and popular culture. At the IKEA Museum in Älmhult, pupils took part in a sustainability workshop, learning about design and circularity, and exploring how natural and recycled materials can be used to create everyday objects. The final adventure was taking a bike tour around Copenhagen to see what city planners are doing to make it the world’s most sustainable city by 2030, giving pupils valuable insight into forwardthinking urban design and environmentally conscious living. Mrs Margot Wood Teacher of Geography

UK Higher Education Success This year’s UK university applications cycle has delivered exceptional outcomes, with pupils securing an impressive range of offers from leading institutions. A total of 84 pupils applied, including 78 from the Upper Sixth and six post-qualification applicants from the previous cohort, and this resulted in an outstanding 297 offers. Pupils who have decided that they would like to study in the UK have now selected their firm and insurance choices and are on course to join a remarkable range of universities. The most popular firm choices include 15 pupils committing to the University of Oxford, 12 to University College London, seven each to the University of Cambridge and the London School of Economics and Political Science, six each to Durham University and the University of Edinburgh, and four to Imperial College London. The breadth of academic interests is equally notable. Pupils will go on to study a wide

Academic Excellence

range of courses, from vocational pathways, including seven in Medicine, three in Law and one in Architecture, to specialised STEM disciplines such as Neuroscience and Biomedical Technology Ventures. This is complemented by equally strong engagement in the humanities, social sciences and languages, with pupils pursuing subjects such as Classics, English and International Relations, alongside a wide variety of other intellectually demanding courses. Politics, Philosophy and Economics remains a particularly popular choice, with six pupils opting to study this highly competitive programme.

Several pupils have also secured places on highly regarded specialist courses, including History of Art at The Courtauld Institute of Art, Economics with a Professional Placement at the University of Bath, Aerospace Engineering at the University of Bristol, Art and Design at the University of Leeds, Economic Studies and Global Sustainable Development at the University of Warwick and Performance Arts at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts. The results of this year’s UCAS cycle stand as a testament not only to the pupils’ dedication, ambition, and resilience, but also to the strength of Wycombe’s preparation programme. We look forward to seeing this talented group thrive as they take the next step in their academic journeys, and we warmly congratulate them on their outstanding achievements. Miss Emma Bowen Head of Higher Education

Regular Decision Applications to US Universities F

ollowing Wycombe Abbey’s reporting of UVI pupils’ outstanding success in the early rounds of US university applications, where admissions rates at many institutions are already highly selective, I am delighted to share that this momentum has continued through the Regular Decision round. Our pupils have received an exceptional set of offers, marking the strongest US results in Wycombe Abbey’s history. Across 16 applicants, pupils have secured 45 Regular Decision offers from leading universities throughout the United States. This achievement is particularly significant given that Regular Decision typically attracts the largest and most competitive applicant pools, with universities offering a limited number of remaining places following the early rounds. Between both early and regular rounds, one in three applicants secured offers from Ivy League universities, representing offers received from all eight of the Ivy League universities – a remarkable achievement in the context of acceptance rates that sit in the low single digits. In addition to the fantastic offers already reported, pupils have been offered further places at a wide range of highly competitive and globally recognised universities in this latest round of applications, including Brown University, Colby College, Columbia University (three offers), Cornell University, Duke University, Georgetown University, Harvard University (two offers), Howard University, Johns Hopkins University, New York University, Rice University, Stanford University, Syracuse University, The California State University system (20 offers), The University of Pennsylvania, The University of Southern California, The University of Virginia, and Tufts University.

This continued success highlights our pupils’ growth mindsets, their ability to thrive in intellectually rigorous environments, and their eagerness to embrace new challenges in pursuit of making a meaningful impact, both within their local communities and across the wider world. Their applications have clearly resonated with leading US universities who value holistic admissions and place an emphasis on intellectual curiosity, leadership, and a demonstrated commitment to making an impact. In addition to these outstanding acceptances, pupils have been awarded generous scholarships ranging from $22,000 to $55,000, further recognising their academic excellence and personal achievements. To date, 15 pupils have confirmed their intention to enrol at US universities. Pupils plan to attend Columbia University (two attending), Dartmouth College, Emory University, Harvard University, Princeton University, Stanford University, University of California: Berkeley, University of California: LA (two attending), University of California: San Diego, University of Chicago, University of San Diego, University of Southern California, University of Washington Seattle, and Yale University (two attending). We could not be prouder of all that they have accomplished so far. We look forward with great excitement to seeing everything they will achieve at their universities and beyond. Mr Kenny Scupp Head of US and International Universities

Gazette 2025-2026

Creative Vision

Creative Vision Art

Drama Trip to New York

GCSE Artwork

Fourth Form Play Wendy and Peter

A Level Artwork

UIII Perform The Grimm Reader

A Glimpse of My World Photography Competition

Music in Numbers This Year

Creative Writing

Wycombe Abbey Competitive Music Festival

Dance Spotlights Dance Show

Spring Orchestral Concert

Drama in numbers this year

Archer Concert 2025

Guys and Dolls

Glaston Abbey 2026

Shakespeare Schools Festival

Gazette 2025-2026

Art Wycombe Abbey artists have enjoyed another productive year, creating vibrant work while exploring a wide variety of materials, from textiles to silk paintings. We are delighted to share their achievements across the school, where their artwork brightens corridors, communal areas and offices. In the following pages, you will find a selection of impressive pieces produced by pupils from UIII to UVI.

Creative Vision

Alice

Chloe

Ananya

Cushions influenced by Hawaiian quilting, following a visit to the Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford.

Artwork

Doris

Janelle

Melody

Elizabeth

Olivia

Gursimar

Gretel

Gazette 2025-2026

Paintings of sweets and cakes inspired by Sarah Graham and Wayne Thiebaud.

Gabriella

Isla

Jenny

Charlotte

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Aura

Artwork

Airah

Clay reliefs inspired by Jenny Saville, Florian Nicolle and Cubism.

Joyce

Sophia

Freya

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Floral felt pieces inspired by Jackie Cardy, using beading and embroidery.

Camilla

Sophie

Cathy

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Marina

Silk paintings inspired by Bridget Riley and Frank Stella, exploring 1960s natural forms, leading to lino printing using reduction technique and layered backgrounds.

Artwork

Raji

Group work

Gazette 2025-2026

Fashion designs inspired by Chanel, Vivienne Westwood, John Galliano and Pineda Covalin, showcasing pattern cutting, texture and colour.

Creative Vision

Emma Evelyn

Artwork

Elsa

Angela Gazette 2025-2026

Yihan

Zoe

Sophia O.

Sophia W.

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Iris

Sophie

Michelle Hope

Ottilie

Naomi Ashley

Gazette 2025-2026

Artwork

Melody

Maria

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Maria

Melody

Gazette 2025-2026

A Glimpse of My World Photography Competition

The annual Whole School Photography Competition gave girls a chance to show their creativity. Well done to all who took part!

FIRST

SECOND

1st prize Jasmine (LIV)

THIRD

2nd Prize Zoe (UV)

3rd Prize Isabella (LVI)

Creative Vision

Highly Commended – Jennifer (LV) Highly Commended – Runying (UIII)

Highly Commended – Hayat (LVI)

Amalia (UV)

Tallulah (LVI) Gazette 2025-2026

Creative Writing School Poetry Competition This year, the theme of the annual School Poetry Competition run by the English Department was Seasons. As always, this prompted a wide range of thoughtful, engaging and creative entries. Eden (UVI), our Poet Laureate, judged the Junior category, while poet Mariah Whelan judged the Intermediate and Senior categories.

Winners Junior Winner Dorcas (LIV) – An Endless Gaping Maw Runner-up Alison (LIV) – Metamorphosis: Life in Seasons Highly Commended Grace (UIII) – Seasons of Life

Intermediate Winner Victoria (LV) – When The Leaves Let Go Runner-up Mia (LV) – My World Highly Commended Lucy (UIV) – Our Last Walk

Senior Winner Rosa (LVI) – To Remember Runner-up Elisia (LVI) – Season Cycle Highly Commended Astrid (LVI) – a spring clean that feels like winter

Creative Vision

An Endless Gaping Maw By Dorcas (LIV) The year starts with spring. (Does it matter? Hardly.) Spring devours the earth; it Spreads and consumes and feeds. Bare soil turns into colour and Explosions of life. So much life. In summer The sky opens its jaw and the sun rises. The clouds are pink Pink like flesh, like gazing down a monstrous throat Earth is drowned in layers of rainwater That eats away That kills That renews.

Autumn approaches, accompanied by thunder. Leaves wilt and are scraped off harshly By a ravenous creature Not even a single morsel remains, Wind scours my face. Skin cracks and wounds are carved Deeply. The earth is weeping Nothing is allowed to heal, to flourish. The incessant drumbeat of life does not wait for us To catch up. Winter is silent, is quiet. Creatures sleep, oblivious to the despair of the season. The earth splits apart So that we may see The maw, never-ending, ever-present. One day, it will open for us too.

Gazette 2025-2026

When The Leaves Let Go By Victoria (LV) In spring, we were loud with beginnings: mud on our shoes, fresh as two dewdrops on a blade of grass. We believed in everything the way cherry blossoms bloom: naïve and proud, never taught how quickly they fall. You laughed like petals shaken loose by the wind, and I memorised its carefree sound before I knew just how easily it would slip away. By summer we stretched into languid days: sun-warmed and serene, our shadows side by side on pavements that never seemed to end. We spoke in half-sentences, certain the other would understand what hadn’t been said. But perhaps we were too blinded by the sun’s empyrean glare, or too suffocated by the stifling heat, or too exhausted by the endless days to notice our wilting garden. Autumn came in secrecy, foreboding clouds creeping behind us, threatening a downpour. It became difficult to ignore the slow surrender of green, the final dregs of dimming sunlight, and the remorseless, bitter cold. Your words grew crisp, snapping and breaking in two like the rotting twigs underfoot, all while the foliage flared into feuille morte. Mine fell too late, scattered where you wouldn’t care to look, buried by my paralysing guilt, and soaked by my torrent of tears.

Creative Vision

By winter, everything was numb enough that I didn’t feel the metal air turning my lips blue as I walked the frost-framed pavement that had once guided two pairs of footsteps. It had been inevitable: merely a passing storm that neither of us could control. And as the last thaw of desolate winter gave way to the first tiny crocus of spring, I wondered: had we always been this fragile? Or did we only realise when the leaves let go?

To Remember By Rosa (LVI)

With winter came the quiet, A hush upon the ground; The garden folded inward With no colour to be found.

Farewells I never voiced then Were taken by the air, Words frozen into silence, Too fragmented for repair.

Petals bent to silence, The frost pulled each one low; The earth held tight your absence Beneath a weight of snow.

The days became closed and heavy, Each settling cold and deep, Until the thaw began to stir What winter could not keep.

I still recall the summer. You breathed out living light, And daisies spun their laughter Through every softened night.

A drip, a breath, a softening, The frost undone at last; And there, a blade of living green Rose gently from the past.

The garden sang around us As if it somehow knew That the sunshine was unending, Because it came from you.

A sign you were not winter’s, But root beneath the snow, Enduring in the hidden dark Where only spring might go.

But branches bowed to seasons, To time’s most hurried call; Leaves loosened into whispers And drifted in their fall.

Now the garden wakes around me, Changed, yet somehow true; And in each fragile growing thing The world sings, remembering you.

Gazette 2025-2026

Spotlights Dance Show This year, the Spotlights Dance Show brought together performers from an impressive range of styles for an evening that celebrated our pupils’ talent and creativity. From the refined precision of ballet to the dynamic rhythms of street dance, the showcase revealed the depth of skill and imagination among our pupils.

'Since it is my last year of Wycombe Abbey, I think a lot is changing around me and I wanted to create a piece to remind myself to be present in the moment.’ Marisa, UVI – Tap Captain

Creative Vision

'Performing in Spotlights was one of my most treasured memories at Wycombe Abbey.’ Kate, UVI – Dance Captain and Ballet Captain

‘This year, being able to watch my own piece come together from choosing music initially to choreographing and picking a costume has been such a rewarding experience.’ Sula, LVI – Modern Captain

Gazette 2025-2026

PRODUCTIONS

STAGED LARGEST CAST

SET TEXTS STUDIED

DRAM 298

COSTUMES BROUGHT TO LIFE ON STAGE

STEPS WALKED ON THE NYC TRIP

285,000

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AUDIENCE MEMBERS REACHED

3,515

PUPILS ENTERED FOR LAMDA EXAMINATIONS

PRACTITIONERS EXPLORED:

AMA

GIRLS TOOK PART IN THE DRAMA TRIP TO

NEW YORK CITY

in numbers this year

124

HOURS OF REHEARSAL FOR THE WHOLE SCHOOL PRODUCTION OF

GUYS AND DOLLS

THEATRE TRIPS AND WORKSHOPS ATTENDED

Gazette 2025-2026

WHOLE SCHOOL MUSICAL:

ifty pupils took to the Lancaster Arts Centre stage to perform the much-anticipated 2026 School Musical, Guys and Dolls. On entering the auditorium, it was immediately clear the audience were in for something special. The stage had been transformed into an atmospheric New York street scene, brought even more vividly to life as the live orchestral band, featuring seven Wycombe Abbey pupils, struck up the opening overture. From the moment the first actor stepped on stage, the audience was captivated. The cast brilliantly evoked the energy of bustling New York, complete with gangsters, policemen, dancing girls, tourists and an array of wonderfully eccentric (and occasionally unsavoury!) characters weaving across the stage. The singing and choreography were outstanding throughout. Just when you thought the last song couldn’t be topped, it was soon followed up by an even more memorable number.

Creative Vision

Guys and Dolls, A Bushel and a Peck, Luck be a Lady and Sit Down, You’re Rocking the Boat were absolute showstoppers, but the lesserknown pieces also made a huge impact. I found myself humming I’ll Know, Marry the Man and Oldest Established for days after seeing the production… for the second time! Each actor delivered a memorable performance, bringing every character, whether a lead role, a passer-by or a newspaper seller, to life with authenticity and enthusiasm. It truly felt as though the cast had stepped into the streets of New York themselves. It was an extraordinary production, and the buzz from audiences continued well into the school week following the performances. The only lingering question is: how will the Music and Drama departments top this next time? Mr James Harrington Director of Drama

It truly felt as though the cast had stepped into the streets of New York themselves.

Gazette 2025-2026

Shakespeare Schools Festival O

n 4 November, the cast of The Comedy of Errors travelled to Rickmansworth to perform with other schools at Watersmeet Theatre as part of the Coram Shakespeare for Schools Festival. We were incredibly excited and even spent the journey practising our lines! When we arrived, we quickly changed into costume and completed a tech run before presenting our piece to the group from Beaconsfield High. Later, we met the group from John Colet School for dinner. Both groups were incredibly kind and supportive, and we thoroughly enjoyed getting to know them. That evening, we finally brought our Comedy of Errors to the stage for a live audience and watched the other groups perform their productions before returning to School, tired but proud of what we had achieved. A few days later, we shared our work with Cressex Community School. Our show was incredibly well-received, and the audience really enjoyed it. Our final appearance took place at Wycombe Abbey. Even though we were sad to perform it for the last time, we gave it our all and had a very fun and memorable show. Charlotte, LV

Our show was incredibly well-received, and the audience really enjoyed it.

Creative Vision

Gazette 2025-2026

ver the February Long Leave break, 19 of our Drama pupils travelled to New York City to broaden their understanding of the performing arts industry. It was an action-packed few days that brought their classroom learning vividly to life. After landing in the city, the group’s first official stop was the iconic Radio City Music Hall, home of the legendary Radio City Rockettes, currently celebrating their 100th anniversary. Pupils toured the vast auditorium, learned about its history and had the exciting opportunity to meet Nikki, a current Rockette, who spoke about her training and professional journey. The theatregoing began in earnest with a Broadway performance of Chess, starring Lea Michele, Aaron Tveit and Nicholas Christopher. Seeing such established performers live on stage was a real privilege and gave pupils much to reflect on in terms of vocal technique, characterisation and stage presence. One of the most inspiring moments of the trip was a question and answer session with actor, producer and writer Ben Edelman, who shared honest reflections on his career across Broadway and the West End. He encouraged pupils to embrace every performance opportunity, beginning with school productions, and to pursue their passion with resilience and joy.

Drama Trip to

Our final full day focused on the performing arts at the prestigious Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. Pupils were fortunate to observe rehearsals by the New York Philharmonic and the New York City Ballet, gaining rare insight into professional rehearsal processes. A tour of the Juilliard School offered a glimpse into life at one of the world’s leading conservatoires. Pupils also took part in a musical theatre workshop with Barnaby Reiter and Thayne Jasperson – an original cast member of Hamilton who continues to perform the role of Samuel Seabury. Learning choreography and musical material from the show was a true highlight. The trip concluded with a final Broadway performance of Death Becomes Her, before a visit to the High Line and Chelsea Market prior to our return home. The exceptional performances we witnessed, the behind-thescenes insights, and the opportunity to engage directly with industry professionals will undoubtedly provide rich material for pupils’ ongoing Drama studies. More importantly, the trip has fostered confidence, curiosity and a shared love of theatre – and a truly memorable experience! Ms Louise Maddison Teacher of Drama

NEW YORK 62

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After landing in the city, the group’s first official stop was the iconic Radio City Music Hall, home of the legendary Radio City Rockettes, currently celebrating their 100th anniversary.

Gazette 2025-2026

FOURTH FORM PLAY:

Wendy and Peter

n June, pupils from LIV and UIV took part in the Fourth Form play, Wendy and Peter. This play is based on the well-known novel Peter Pan. Throughout the play, you follow the Darling children's struggles to find their lost brother, and experience all the magic of Neverland. Upon arriving in Neverland the characters face multiple challenges such as the battles between the Pirates, Darling Children and the Lost Boys. There was so much to love about this show, from ongoing love stories to the realistic flying: the whole cast's energy and commitment allowed even the most difficult scenes to look flawless. The addition of bubbles showed a lively environment which portrayed the excitement of the Lost Boys. The clever shift in ambience suggested a new place every time a change of scene occurs, really adding to the magic and fantasy of the play. Overall, we think everyone would agree that this was a fun and eye-opening experience that provided lots of laughter and the chance to make new friends. Thank you to the Drama Department, especially to Miss Jones for directing us. Freya, LIV

Overall, we think everyone would agree that this was a fun and eyeopening experience that provided lots of laughter and the chance to make new friends.

Creative Vision

Gazette 2025-2026

UIII Perform

The Grimm Reader

n the Summer Term, UIII worked really hard to produce this year’s play, The Grimm Reader. It was a great opportunity for everyone to get involved and have a fun as a whole year group before the end of term. The play begins with a little boy and his mother, father and sister all waiting for their father to get back from work and bring home a new book for the little boy to read and enjoy. In the production, we present the little boy’s story through a boy called Jack and a girl named Gretel. Jack and Gretel go on all sorts of adventures, which each class performs, telling a different tale using physical theatre, split staging and more. In the story, Jack goes to a school run by the feared head teacher, Ms Gorgon. Their teacher, Mr Grovegrind, believes that ‘facts and figures’ are all you need to succeed in life. He refuses to listen to anyone who disagrees with his view, and if they do, he sends them straight to Ms Gorgon’s office. Unfortunately, Jack is caught reading his beloved storybook by Mr Grovegrind, who immediately confiscates it and sends innocent Wendla, who was found holding the book at the time, to Ms Gorgon’s office.

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There were multiple Jacks, Gretels, and families in each scene who made smooth, fun transitions between the characters they were playing. All the actors managed to stay in character and make the change-overs look effortless. An actor playing Gretel used her voice effectively by being a bit sarcastic at times to show they were fed up with Jack. Every class had a set of placards which, when ultraviolet light shone on them, created a beautiful, clear representation of objects and animals from each of the stories. Overall, the performance was very successful, with lots of laughs and cheers from the audience and many exciting moments. Everyone in UIII was determined to perform their sections perfectly and make it an exciting production for everyone to enjoy! Alice, UIII

Each class had a set of placards which, when ultraviolet light shone on them, created a beautiful, clear representation of objects and animals from each of the stories.

Gazette 2025-2026

NUMBER OF VISITING MUSIC TEACHERS

INDIVIDUAL MUSIC LESSONS DELIVERED EACH WEEK

613

DIFFERENT INSTRUMENTS TAUGHT WITHIN THE MUSIC DEPARTMENT

MUSIC in numbers this year

CONCERTS PERFORMED

A LARGEST ENSEMBLE OF PERFORMERS IN THE JOINT ORCHESTRA

66 68

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CLASS MUSIC LESSONS

DELIVERED EACH WEEK

159

PUPILS LEARNING TWO OR MORE MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

PRACTICE ROOMS AVAILABLE ACROSS THE SCHOOL

PIANO TUNINGS CARRIED OUT ACROSS THE SCHOOL

MUSIC EXAMINATIONS INSTRUMENTAL AND SINGING EXAMINATIONS TAKEN SINCE AUTUMN 2025

DISTINCTIONS AWARDED ACROSS AUTUMN 2025 AND SPRING 2026

Gazette 2025-2026

Wycombe Abbey

Competitive Music Festival

unday 12 October marked the finals of the Wycombe Abbey Competitive Music Festival (affectionately known as WACMF). On the two preceding evenings, the Music Staff faced the difficult task of shortlisting finalists from the largest number of entries in the competition’s history. It was wonderful to hear such a variety of instruments and music. We were truly blessed to hear such diversity and talent. The finals began early on Sunday morning in the Archer Recital Hall, but this did not deter our musicians who gave outstanding performances in the Junior Piano Class. The day was adjudicated by David Wallace, Head of Junior Music Courses at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama. With such a high standard of playing and singing, choosing Class winners was no easy task. As the competition progressed, Wallace’s summarising comments were both insightful and inspiring, offering our already talented musicians valuable food for thought. Woodwind, Brass, Strings and Piano were all beautifully represented, and the Open Class featured a vibrant mix of Electric Guitar, Guzheng, Guitar/Voice and Marimba. The adjudicator frequently praised not only the technical ability of our performers but also their engaging stage presence. There was fantastic support from parents, staff and fellow pupils. The final notes rang out at 5pm and the day had flown by. It was truly a collection of exciting and meaningful performances from all. It was uplifting to see so much music-making in our busy School, and it was clear how deeply music resonates with our pupils, something that was powerfully conveyed to the audience. From my perspective as a listener, they were all winners. Mr Gonzalo Acosta Head of Strings

Creative Vision

Spring Orchestral Concert

his year’s Orchestral Concert was held in the gilded splendour of Holy Trinity Church, Sloane Square. Described by Sir John Betjeman as the ‘cathedral of the Arts and Crafts movement’, it provided an inspiring backdrop to our concert showcasing Wycombe Abbey’s three orchestras and Clarence soloists. The evening opened with Chamber Orchestra, under the baton of our Head of Strings, Mr Acosta. The first piece featured Chloe’s (UVI) characterful performance of Weber’s Andante and Rondo ungarese, full of Hungarian style and rhythms. This was followed by a first for Wycombe Abbey, a glittering Concerto for Two Flutes by Franz Doppler, sparklingly delivered by Mille and Sophie (UVI). We then had another Wycombe Abbey first with Henrietta (UVI) delivering a dramatic performance of movements from Poulenc’s atmospheric Concerto for Organ, Strings and Timpani before Chamber Orchestra concluded their set with the first movement of Suk’s Serenade for Strings. Sinfonia, conducted by Miss McClure, closed the first half with a spirited performance of the last movement of Haydn’s Symphony No. 104 – his final symphony. The combined forces of all three orchestras, totalling more than 110 players, started the second half, performing Shostakovich’s popular Waltz. The massed forces sounded splendid in the resonant acoustic of Holy Trinity. Last to the stage were the Symphony Orchestra, conducted by Mr Reid. They were joined by our Music Prefect, Judy (UVI), giving an accomplished and impressive performance of the first movement of Schumann’s virtuosic Piano Concerto in A Minor. We were then transported to Scotland as Fiona (UVI) gave a lyrical interpretation of the third movement of Bruch’s Scottish Fantasy. Our final solo was another piece by Bruch, the atmospheric Kol Nidrei, a Jewish Prayer originally inspired by the Jewish Community in Liverpool. Chloe (UVI) delivered a compelling, emotional interpretation of this cello masterpiece. The concert culminated in the hedonist excitement of the ‘Danse Bacchanale’ from Saint-Saëns’ opera, Samson et Dalila. We are grateful to all the performers for their hard work and commitment during the year and to the audience members for supporting this special evening celebrating the achievements of Wycombe Abbey musicians. Mr Stefan Reid Director of Music

Gazette 2025-2026

Archer Concert 2025

his year’s Archer Concert was, as ever, held on Remembrance Sunday and showcased a rich and varied programme, bringing together ensembles and soloists from across the School. The concert opened with Symphony Orchestra in fine form, performing the second movement of Weber’s Clarinet Concerto No. 1, featuring a poised and expressive solo from Melody (UVI). They were then joined by soprano Sasha (UVI) for a moving rendition of Don’t Cry for Me, Argentina from Evita, before closing their set with the iconic soundscape of John Williams’ Jurassic Park. Chapel Choir offered a reflective set appropriate to the occasion, beginning with Bob Chilcott’s Remember Me. This was followed by Vaughan Williams’ O Taste and See, delivered with warmth and clarity, before concluding with another work by Chilcott, Evening Hymn, sung with great sensitivity and control. The Chamber Orchestra performed a varied programme spanning styles and moods. They accompanied Genevieve (UVI) in a graceful performance of Mozart’s ‘Zeffiretti lusinghieri’ from Idomeneo. This was followed by Barber’s much-loved Adagio, played with depth and intensity, before the orchestra brought a burst of energy to the stage with Copland’s lively ‘Hoe Down’ from Rodeo. Holst Singers contributed two contrasting arrangements, beginning with the traditional Water of Tyne, arranged by Neaum, and continuing with A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square, arranged by Manning Sherwin. A solo performance from Nell (UVI), accompanied by Martyn Parkes, brought a moment of theatre to the programme with Dancing Through Life from Wicked. The concert concluded with Jazz Band, who rounded off the evening in style. Sasha (UVI) returned to the stage for The Look of Love, bringing a smooth, expressive vocal to the piece, while Alice (UVI) followed with an engaging performance of You Stepped Out of a Dream. Together, these performances provided an uplifting and polished close to an enjoyable and wideranging concert. Mr Stefan Reid Director of Music

Creative Vision

The Chamber Orchestra performed a varied programme spanning styles and moods. They accompanied Genevieve (UVI) in a graceful performance of Mozart’s ‘Zeffiretti lusinghieri’ from Idomeneo.

Gazette 2025-2026

2026

n the last Sunday of the Summer Term, we held our highly anticipated annual music festival, GlastonAbbey – and this year’s show really was one of the best yet. The evening featured incredible performances from bands, soloists, and even a surprise dance from the prefect team. The night began with an introduction from the Head Girl Team, followed by our LVI band Daddy Longlegs, who opened the show with energy and confidence. In total, seven bands performed, spanning multiple year groups. Each band had worked to perfect their sets and stage presence, making their performances exceptional. We even had three debut bands this year – including one from UIII! Alongside the bands, we enjoyed stunning solo voice performances from UIII to LVI, covering a range of genres and languages. Every soloist put in immense effort from auditions to the final performance, and the response from the crowd made it all worth it.

Creative Vision

Halfway through the evening, the Head Girl Team and the prefects surprised everyone with a dance that absolutely stole the show – their enthusiasm and talent lit up the stage. Throughout the night, we had music ranging from 1970s classics like Rasputin to present-day hits, and even some original songs. The atmosphere was electric, full of excitement, talent, and School spirit. It was truly a night to remember. We are so proud of everyone who performed for all their hard work, dedication, and exceptional talent. A huge thank you to Miss McClure, the tech team and everyone else behind the scenes who helped organise and support the event – GlastonAbbey would not have been possible without you. Abbey, LVI

The atmosphere was electric, full of excitement, talent, and School spirit. It was truly a night to remember.

Gazette 2025-2026

Physical Endeavour

Physical Endeavour Sport in Number This Year

Cricket

Sports Report

Swimming

Performance Programme

Squash

Sports Awards

Dance

Portugal Tennis Tour

Rowing

Lacrosse

Fencing

Athletics

Football

Tennis

Badminton

Netball

Skiing

Gazette 2025-2026

THE MUDDIEST FIXTURE OF THE YEAR ON 31 JANUARY IN A TRIANGULAR AGAINST ST SWITHUN’S AND ST HELEN & ST KATHARINE

ATHLETES INVOLVED IN THE PERFORMANCE PROGRAMME

470

FIXTURES PLAYED ACROSS ALL SPORTS, WITH

310

WINS

SPORTS TOURS TO

FRANCE (SKIING) AND PORTUGAL (TENNIS), WITH A LACROSSE TOUR TO THE USA IN SUMMER 2026

Physical Endeavour

887 13,000

LACROSSE GOALS SCORED

OVER 13,000 ENTRIES TO THE GYM BY PUPILS AND STAFF

PE LESSONS DELIVERED

in numbers this year COMPETITIVE SPORTS OFFERED

116 MILES

LONGEST AWAY FIXTURE JOURNEY (FINBOROUGH SCHOOL)

Gazette 2025-2026

Sports Report

t has been another highly successful and progressive year for Sport at Wycombe Abbey. Building on strong foundations, we have continued to develop both participation and performance across the School, supported by a clear sense of direction and a shared commitment to providing an exceptional sporting experience for all pupils.

This year has seen a number of outstanding performances across our major sports. Lacrosse has once again been a significant strength, with multiple teams achieving success at county level and progressing deep into national competition. Netball has delivered an equally impressive season, with strong results in both league and tournament play, alongside representation at regional and international level. Across all age groups, the standard of play and commitment to training continues to rise. Swimming has remained an area of real strength, with pupils competing successfully in national-level events and demonstrating both depth and consistency across squads. Athletics and cross-country have also

Physical Endeavour

produced excellent results, with strong team performances and individual successes at regional and national level. These achievements are a reflection not only of talent, but also of the dedication and resilience shown by pupils throughout the year. Alongside performance sport, we have continued to emphasise the importance of developing well-rounded athletes. Through a growing programme of athlete education, pupils have engaged with key areas such as recovery, nutrition, and training management, helping them to balance the demands of School life with their sporting commitments. This has been supported by closer collaboration with our medical and physiotherapy provision, ensuring a well-managed approach to injury and return to sport. Opportunities beyond the performance pathway remain a key strength. Our Sports Leaders have made a valuable contribution to the life of the School, supporting lessons, leading activities, and developing confidence and leadership skills. House sport has remained vibrant and competitive throughout the year, offering

regular opportunities for pupils to represent their House and contribute to a strong sense of community. Our co-curricular provision has once again been a highlight. Trips and tours, including the tennis training camp to Portugal, have provided valuable opportunities for development, enjoyment, and team bonding, and continue to play an important role in fostering a lifelong enthusiasm for sport and physical activity. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue building on this momentum, further strengthening the links between Physical Education and School sport, and expanding the opportunities available to our pupils. Above all, it is the enthusiasm, commitment, and positivity of our pupils that defines sport at Wycombe Abbey. Their willingness to challenge themselves, support one another, and strive for improvement is evident across all areas of the programme, and we look forward to another exciting year ahead. Mrs Sophie Bryett-Windle Director of Sport

Performance Programme

aving now completed a full academic year at Wycombe Abbey, it has been a pleasure to continue developing the Performance Athlete Programme (PAP) and to work with such a committed and talented group of pupil-athletes. The programme has continued to grow, now supporting over 110 pupils from UIII to UVI across our Aspire, Perform, and Podium tiers, reflecting both the strength of sport at the School and the enthusiasm of pupils to develop their performance. A key focus this year has been enhancing the quality and individualisation of provision. Across all sessions, we have prioritised strong movement foundations, improved strength, and long-term athletic development within a positive and engaging environment. The introduction of profiling and monitoring systems, including jump testing, lower-body strength assessments, and the use of the VALD dynamometer, has provided valuable insight into pupil progress and allowed for more informed, individual support.

We have also expanded our educational provision through the introduction of Athlete Support sessions. These classroombased sessions for our top athletes have explored key sport science topics such as training load, recovery, and nutrition, helping pupils better understand how to manage their performance both in and out of the gym.

Most notably, throughout the year, the commitment and consistency of the PAP cohort has really stood out. Pupils have embraced the programme with enthusiasm and have balanced the demands of academic and sporting life impressively. I look forward to building on this momentum as we continue to support our pupil-athletes in reaching their potential.

This year has also seen the strengthening of our pathway at younger ages. In the Spring Term, UIII pupils were invited to join PAP, with 16 pupils beginning their introduction to strength and conditioning through fun, movement-focused sessions designed to build coordination, balance, and confidence.

Mr Josh Wall Director of Performance and Athletic Wellbeing

Alongside this, we have developed our wider support network for pupil-athletes. It was a pleasure to welcome our physio partner, Matt Murray-Downing from Elite Physical Medicine, whose work with staff and the Health Centre has enhanced our approach to injury management and return-to-sport, ensuring pupils receive coordinated, high-quality care.

Gazette 2025-2026

Sports Awards The PE Department were delighted to host this year’s Wycombe Abbey Sports Awards. The event honoured not only excellence in performance, but also participation, teamwork, commitment, leadership and sportsmanship over the course of the academic year. We were privileged to be joined by Laura Warren, whose career in elite sport highlighted the power of resilience, perseverance and passion. Drawing on personal experience at the highest levels of competition, she spoke compellingly about the challenges and rewards of a life in sport. Her message resonated strongly with pupils, reinforcing the idea that sport equips young people with skills and confidence that extend far beyond the playing field. Ahead of the event, pupils were nominated across all major sports played at the School, reflecting the inclusive nature of the programme and recognising athletes at different stages of their sporting journeys. Following careful consideration by PE staff and coaches, awards were presented across categories including Player of the Season, Unsung Hero, Most Improved, Outstanding Performance of the Year, Team of the Year and Lifetime Achievement, celebrating not only sporting success but also the dedication, resilience, humility and teamwork that define a positive sporting culture. Mrs Sophie Bryett-Windle Director of Sport

Scan the QR code to view the list of winners

Physical Endeavour

Portugal Tennis Tour

t the start of Easter holidays, pupils from LIV and UIV travelled to the Algarve, Portugal, for this year’s much anticipated Tennis Tour. Designed to bridge the gap between technical training and competitive match play, the tour began with some fun game-based sessions on the first afternoon, where players quickly shook off travel fatigue during an opening session in the Portuguese sunshine. The coaching staff structured the week to build tactical complexity. Early sessions focused on the fundamentals of groundstrokes before shifting toward more specialised net play. By mid-week, the athletes were practising volleys and serves with specific technical feedback,

followed by doubles matches that emphasised court positioning. These sessions were critical for the squad to adapt to the Portuguese conditions and prepare for the concluding tournament. Beyond the courts, the tour focused on the ‘complete athlete’ through a mix of active recovery and social engagement. Pupils spent their downtime playing padel or at the swimming pool. Evening activities, including a talent show, games night and a competitive quiz night, provided a fun mental reset between training blocks. The tour’s competitive highlight was a multi-school tournament against Brentwood and Bradfield. The results reflected the depth of the squad across

all levels of play. In the Tier 1 bracket, Astrid (LIV) and Elsa (LIV) delivered a commanding performance to reach the semi-finals. In Tier 2, Jessie (LIV) and Aura (LIV) demonstrated consistent form to secure a second-place finish overall. The most contested match of the week took place in the Tier 3 final, an all-school encounter between Lita (UIV) and Sienna (LIV) and Athena (UIV) and Olivia (UIV). It remained a very close game, but Lita and Sienna caught up in the final minutes to claim first place. The tour concluded as a successful international campaign, leaving the players with refined techniques and a stronger competitive edge for the upcoming season.

Gazette 2025-2026

Lacrosse Lacrosse started early this year with preseason training for all players as well as an introductory lacrosse day for the new UIIIs. One of the biggest highlights of the season was the Tri-County Lacrosse Tournament with the Seconds, U15Bs, U13Bs, U12As and U12Bs being crowned champions and the 1st and U14As placing second. As the season went on, it became clear that every team was making great progress, applying their skills learned in training for our weekly Saturday matches. A massive shoutout must go to the U12A team who were undefeated all season! As Nationals arrived, the 1st and 2nd teams headed to Aldershot for a jam-packed weekend of high-intensity lacrosse. Whilst the weather was not as glorious as prior years, team spirits were high and we played some of our best lacrosse of the season. Although both teams narrowly missed out on the championship, they made the most of Division 1 and 2. After an intense overtime last-sixteen match, followed by excellent Quarter and Semi Finals, the 1st team finished as Division 1 runners-up. The 2nds excelled in Division 2 and delivered a phenomenal performance to defeat Caterham 3–2 and become champions. The U15s and 3rds continued this momentum into the following week, with the U15s finishing in the top eight nationally – a superb reflection of their hard work. The Third team was incredibly strong, reaching the Semi Finals of the Championship competition and whilst they narrowly missed out on a place in the final, a top-four finish nationally is something they should all be proud of. On the Tuesday, the U14s progressed to the Championship but unfortunately fell short in their last-16 match. Whilst the U13s had a great first Nationals, finishing as runners-up in the Division 1 final. I want to thank everyone for their hard work and the teachers for their expert coaching throughout the year – we couldn’t have done it without you! Annabel Lacrosse Captain

Physical Endeavour

Athletics This year has been one of the strongest for Wycombe Abbey athletics and cross-country, with a consistent display of outstanding achievements across all age categories. Both our Junior and Inter teams competed in the first round of the ESAA Cross Country Cup, finishing in third and second place respectively. A brilliant set of results! This success secured both teams’ places in the Regional Finals where they finished sixth and ninth respectively. A special mention must go to Nell (UIV) who placed second overall in what was a highly competitive Inter category. Individual XC championships brought together a strong cohort of Wycombe Abbey athletes, producing excellent results across the board. Four UIII pupils (Iris, Isla, Alice V and Alice R) qualified for the National Primary and Year 7 Cross Country Finals. This group also secured second place overall. The success continued with Aura (LIV) and Nell (UIV) securing their places in the English Schools National Finals. Our Junior Team (ages 13–15) finished first overall, an outstanding achievement which is testament to the talent and dedication of the team. Athletics at Wycombe Abbey has taken several strides forward this year, despite a challenging season due to unpredictable

weather. Both Junior and Inter teams qualified for the Regional Finals of the Track and Field Cup, highlighting the determination and hard work of this season’s group of athletes. At the Buckinghamshire County Championships, the team of four athletes represented the School gracefully. Adaobi (UIV) claimed victory in the 100m, setting a new School record with an impressive time of 12.3s. Alice (UIV) excelled in the 800m, finishing joint first whilst breaking the School record with a superb 2:26.010. In the 1500m, both Nell (UIV) and Aura (LIV) ran excellent races, securing second and fourth place respectively. We are thrilled that Adaobi, Maria and Nell have been nominated for the English Schools’ National Championships, and we now look forward to the final selections. Our Junior Team also celebrated notable success, winning their District competition. Despite challenging weather conditions, they showed great resilience, achieving numerous personal bests and maintaining consistently high standards across all events. Monique Athletics and Cross Country Captain

Gazette 2025-2026

Tennis The 2025/2026 tennis season has been a busy and rewarding one. We were delighted to celebrate a major achievement last July, with our U16 team (Annika, Mia, Angel and Elizabeth) winning the prestigious School Sport Magazine National Finals. Their commitment, teamwork and determination throughout the competition made this a particularly memorable success for the School, setting a wonderful example. More recently, Easter Long Leave saw our annual tennis tour to Portugal. Combining technical training and competitive match play, the trip provided invaluable preparation for the busy summer season, with sunshine and camaraderie contributing to an excellent week both on and off the court. Building on this momentum, our teams enjoyed a variety of fixtures this term including some notable doubles matches at Eton, one of the regular highlights of our tennis calendar. Despite a

Physical Endeavour

characteristically rainy weekend, pupils benefitted from some excellent match experience while also relishing the chance to socialise and strengthen team spirit. As we look ahead, we are excited to extend our involvement beyond our own courts into the local community. Next year, several pupils from LV–UVI will have the opportunity to volunteer as tennis coaches for primary school pupils, sharing their love of the sport while helping to foster confidence, resilience, and a lasting enthusiasm in younger players. Building on our growing network of partnerships with local schools, this initiative seeks to create meaningful opportunities for shared learning, leadership and enjoyment, reflecting our belief that the value of sport is found not only in results, but in the positive and lasting impact it can have on character and community. Annika Tennis Captain

Netball The 2025/2026 season provided highs for Wycombe Abbey netball across all age groups. It has been inspiring to see so much involvement and enthusiasm for the sport, with participation allowing for up to eight teams to take part in regular netball in the U12 and U13 year groups. Throughout the year, all teams competed in local leagues and weekly fixtures, with the U19 squad remaining unbeaten against all local competition. There were outstanding performances in our home District Tournaments, with wins in several divisions. Early in the season, the County round of the England Netball National Schools tournament took place where the U19s finished first and the U16s placed second, securing qualification for the Regional Finals. Both teams were competitive within the group stages and there were close matches against some of the strongest opposition in the South region. It was particularly encouraging to see players stepping up to compete out of their age groups, demonstrating emerging talent and providing valuable experiences for future seasons. A major highlight this year was the Sisters n Sport competition, where squads had the opportunity to compete against schools from across the country. Following success in the Bowl competition last season, the current U19s participated in the Shield division, playing against a higher level of opposition. The team got through to the final stage, narrowly missing out on a place in the final. The U12 and U14 squads also performed well in the Sisters n Sport Shield competition, reaching the quarter finals, which is an excellent achievement. Overall, it has been a strong season for netball at Wycombe. We look forward to building on this success next year and encouraging both existing and new players to get involved. Isobel Netball Captain

Gazette 2025-2026

Cricket Cricket at Wycombe Abbey had another spectacular season this year. It was an absolute joy to work with both enthusiastic newcomers to the sport and veteran players in the 1st Team, and I found it very rewarding to see passion for my all-time favourite sport budding in players of all ages. It was another successful year in the ECB Indoor Cricket Competition for the U15 and U13 teams, with the U13s commendably reaching the county finals. It has been great to see their cricket develop throughout the season, a result of the hard work they put into trainings and early morning sessions. Friendly, league and cup matches took place across the Summer Term for all teams with a great variety of results. Captaining the 1st Team has been an undeniable highlight for me. I am proud of all the players who have really pushed themselves this season whether through batting that extra bit harder or having a go with the wicket-keeping gloves! A special shout out must be given to all the great coaches who have helped support the teams this season. Mr Greenall and Miss Reeder in particular dedicated a huge amount of time to organising fixtures and helping us improve our cricket, for which we are immensely grateful. The cricket season ended with a riveting day of House Funals: congratulations to Barry who have retained their title from last year after defeating Rubens in the final. I look forward to what the rest of the year offers with winter nets and indoor sessions, having had a thoroughly successful summer of cricket! Eletta Cricket Captain

Physical Endeavour

Swimming This has been another excellent year for Wycombe Abbey swimming, defined by strong performances, consistent commitment, and continued growth across all squads. Participation has remained high, with swimmers showing real dedication to training and a clear determination to keep improving.

A particular highlight has been the outstanding performance of the Junior C team. Not only did they qualify for the league final, but they went on to win their category. This is an excellent achievement and a clear reflection of their enthusiasm and talent.

Across the older age groups, both Senior and Intermediate teams delivered impressive results, qualifying for their respective league finals. Competing at a high level in the Bath and Otter Cup, they secured fourth and seventh place finishes, displaying a set of competitive results that reflect both depth and quality within the team.

Equally pleasing has been the commitment shown by our Active Wellbeing swimmers. Their consistency throughout the year, combined with excellent weekly mileage, has led to clear improvements and reflects a strong training culture across the programme.

Individually, swimmers have continued to excel at county and regional level, showcasing the strength of the School’s partnership with Wycombe District Swimming Club, which plays a key role in supporting swimmers’ development and progression.

Particular recognition must go to Annabelle (UVI), who has qualified for the European Junior Championships in Munich this July. This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to her hard work and determination.

Overall, this year has been one of real progress and achievement for Wycombe Abbey swimming. I am very much looking forward to the upcoming season and building on this momentum with such a motivated and talented group of swimmers! Monique Swim Captain

Squash It has been another very successful and enjoyable year for squash at Wycombe Abbey, with strong participation and success from pupils across all year groups. The sport brings together pupils of all ages and abilities through both recreational and competitive play. This season we have seen great achievements among the different teams, in weekly practices and fixtures. In the National Schools Competition our U14A and U18A teams gave impressive performances, finishing fifth and eighth respectively. These results reflect the consistent engagement and hard work shown by all players throughout the year. The club continues to provide a fun and supportive atmosphere brings, offering an important balance alongside academic life. This would not be possible without our coach, Mr Handley, whose dedication and encouragement plays an important role. Well done to all players for their commitment and contribution this season! It is an honour to be part of the squash community here and I cannot wait to see what the next season will bring. Hayat Squash Captain

Gazette 2025-2026

Dance Dance at Wycombe Abbey has enjoyed another highly successful year, filled with exciting events and performances across all year groups. We began the year with the annual UIV House Dance competition, where this year’s theme was Films. We were thoroughly impressed by the House spirit, teamwork and creativity shown by all the Houses throughout the process. Congratulations to Pitt House for their excellent choreography and energetic performance inspired by Madagascar. Throughout the academic year, many girls have also taken their RAD and ISTD dance exams, achieving excellent results across the board. These successes are a testament to their talent, perseverance and commitment to dance. After a packed term of auditions and rehearsals, everyone was excited to showcase their hard work in the Spotlights show on the first weekend back in the Spring Term. The performance featured an impressive range of styles, including ballet, tap, jazz and lyrical, as well as original pieces from the winners of the choreography competition. The show was a great success, and the chaos of quick changes backstage only added to the excitement. Well done to everyone involved – your dedication in weekly rehearsals truly paid off! Sula Dance Captain

Physical Endeavour

Rowing Since January, rowing training has taken off at Wycombe Abbey. With training four days a week on land, and Saturday water sessions at Dorney Lake, we have had much success and interest from pupils. Alongside returners from last year’s rowing programme, we have also had many new faces join in both land training and water sessions! Ingrid (UIV) and Domino (UIV) have competed at the Junior Sculling Regatta, under Marlow Rowing Club, coming third in their respective events. Looking to the future of Wycombe Abbey rowing, we hope to enter local head races over the next Autumn/Winter Term to build racing confidence, with plans for next summer to compete in local regattas with a squad of pupils. Miss Jemima Furness Visiting Rowing Coach

Fencing Fencing at Wycombe Abbey has continued to go from strength to strength this year. Many fencers have competed externally, including Youyi (LV), Alice (LV), Jennifer (LV), Elizabeth Anne (LV), Gwen-Sofia (LIV) and Alicia (LVI), who all successfully qualified for the British Youth Championships for the Southern Region in February; Elizabeth Anne won gold in the U16 foil, Alice placed seventh, and Gwen-Sofia and Alicia placed third in the U14 foil and U18 sabre respectively. In May, at the British Youth Championships in Sheffield, our fencers competed fantastically, all making it through the initial pools round to their respective direct elimination stages against many GBR fencers, with Elizabeth Anne placing 11th in the U16 foil. Internally, throughout the academic year, the fencing teams have fenced several School matches in preparation for the Public Schools Fencing competition. At the Public Schools Fencing Competition, Wycombe Abbey contributed representatives on all three days with many notable results. Elizabeth

Anne and Jennifer placed 11th and 15th respectively in the junior foil category. In the senior foil, Amy (UIV) placed 14th and in Mount Hayes, Allegra (UIII) placed 15th. In the senior épée Abila (UVI) placed 16th and Astrid (LVI) ninth, demonstrating Wycombe’s consistency and determination at this event. Elizabeth Anne has also entered the GB pathway, representing Team GB at the cadets level in Poland and other international competitions. She is ranked 17th in the Cadet Women’s Foil Rankings nationally. Alicia Fencing Captain

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Football This year, football at Wycombe Abbey has flourished. Across both the Autumn and Spring Terms, over 70 girls from UIII to LV have participated in weekly football training sessions and matches, improving in both confidence and technical ability each week. The U13 team in particular has excelled, winning two out of their three matches, and, alongside the U14 and U15 teams, they gained some valuable 11-a-side experience, which will undoubtedly benefit them this coming season. Off the pitch, nearly 50 pupils attended a trip to Wembley, supporting the Lionesses as they won 8–0 against China. The popularity of this excursion shows the enthusiasm that has grown for the sport over the past year. Moreover, Zoe (UIII) has successfully trialled and earned a well-deserved place on the Wycombe Wanderers Development Academy Squad for the 2026/2027 season. Finally, at our annual Sports Awards in April, both Zoe (UIII) and Victoria (UIV) were named, respectively, Junior and Inter Football Players of the Season. We extend heartfelt congratulations to them both for their hard work and commitment this year. Ava Football Captain

Badminton This has been another fantastic year for badminton, with participation increasing significantly compared to last year. It has been particularly encouraging to see so many pupils getting involved, from UIII all the way through to Sixth Form, creating a vibrant and inclusive environment across all age groups. The fixture list has been both varied and competitive, with matches played against a wide range of schools. There have been some excellent results, including notable victories over St George’s and Beaconsfield High, reflecting the hard work and commitment shown in training. The teams also delivered strong performances against the local boys’ school, competing with determination and resilience throughout. Individually, there have been several standout performances. Melody (UIII) has shown impressive promise at an early stage, while Linzi (LV) has competed

Physical Endeavour

consistently well across fixtures. Candice (LVI) has also been a key contributor, demonstrating both skill and leadership within the team. Beyond the competitive side, the supportive atmosphere within badminton has been a real highlight. Players have benefited from the friendly tips and guidance offered by me and Mr Liao, helping to build confidence, refine technique, and encourage continued improvement. Overall, it has been a highly successful and enjoyable season, with growing engagement, strong performances, and plenty of positives to build on for next year. Well done to all players involved for their growing proficiency, commitment and enthusiasm. Mr Gareth Cadman Teacher in charge of Badminton

Skiing Ski racing at Wycombe Abbey has continued to develop this year with weekly training sessions held at the Hemel Hempstead Snow Centre and time trials at Snozone Milton Keynes. Five teams entered the British Schoolgirls’ Indoor Races. After an exciting day of racing, four of the Wycombe Abbey teams finished in the top eight unregistered places. The highlight of the ski calendar is the British Schoolgirls’ Races in Flaine. The first (and one of the favourite competitions) for the girls is always the parallel team races. The A Team narrowly lost here in the second round, but the B and C Teams both progressed through to the third round. Unfortunately, the C Team missed a final gate and were disqualified in the quarter finals, and the B Team lost out to the eventual runners up. The next two days saw more fast-paced skiing in the Slalom and Giant Slalom events. After two days of racing, the B Team were awarded third place in the best B Team category and Isabella (UIV) was given a special mention for finishing 24th overall as an unregistered skier and achieving a top ten finish in one of her runs. Under 12s were included in this event for the first time. Athena (UIII) represented Wycombe Abbey and won both the Junior Parallel knockout and the Novice Giant Slalom, winning best overall mini skier. Athena has also gone on to have success in the Ambition Races, the British Alpine Championships, the British Interschool races and the Copper Horse GBR Series, where she moved up to U14s for the first time. We are all looking forward to next season and the continued development and success of skiing at Wycombe Abbey. Mr Nigel Greenall Teacher in charge of Skiing

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Developing Confidence Co-curricular Activities and Trips 2025/2026

UIV Activity Day: Exploring Space and Scaling New Heights

Carrington Speakers Insights from Francesca Lee and Jessica Howorth

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Future Ready Week

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From Lacrosse Sticks to T-Rexs – UIII’s First Activity Day Adventure

LVI Management Conference

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UIII Take on the Treetops at Go Ape

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Robotics Team Qualify for the FTC UK National Championship

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Parenting the Teenager

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Remi Performs at the Royal Opera House

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Maria and Radha Earn the Prestigious Adrian Swire Flying Scholarship

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Wycombe Abbey’s Got Talent 2026

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LV and UV Pupils Explore Northern Iceland

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Rock Society Delivers an Unforgettable Performance at Harrow Concert-Social

Getting Creative in Cookery

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Debating Event at Harrow School

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Global Exchanges – Supporting Our Girls to Become Global Citizens

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Mock Law Trial

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Australian Exchange Programme 2026

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Project Dialogues

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USA Exchange to Connecticut

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Sabre Success: Alicia’s Fencing Journey

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Exchange Pupils Visit Wycombe Abbey

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The Carrington Programme

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Duke of Edinburgh

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UIII Co-curricular Trip to Jersey

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his year, pupils have embraced an exceptional programme of 21 residential trips across 11 different countries, each opening the door to new cultures, fresh perspectives, and memorable shared experiences. Lower School pupils had the opportunity to immerse themselves in a conservation and cross-curricular visit to Jersey, or a joint Geography, DT and Art journey through Denmark and Sweden. Upper School pupils chose to deepen their linguistic confidence and cultural understanding during a French immersion trip to Montpellier, while the Sixth Form broadened their horizons still further through Spanish studies in Andalusia. Across all year groups, pupils also travelled further afield on a Drama trip to New York, as well as the Portugal Tennis Tour and the USA Lacrosse Tour. Together, these experiences have inspired curiosity, strengthened friendships, and brought learning vividly to life beyond the classroom. Beyond these residential visits, pupils have enjoyed a dynamic programme of trips closer to home, each carefully designed to extend learning, inspire curiosity and nurture growing independence. From outdoor challenge and environmental exploration to theatre, culture and personal development, these opportunities have offered pupils fresh ways to engage with the world around them. Highlights included UIII pupils visiting the Summit Centre in Wales, LIV pupils exploring the celebrated landscapes of Kew Gardens, UIV pupils attending a performance of Blood Brothers, and LV pupils successfully completing their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s Award assessed expedition. Meanwhile, UV to UVI pupils have benefited from enriching visits linked to future careers and higher education, broadening their aspirations as they look ahead to the next stage of their education and beyond.

Societies continue to hold a distinguished and dynamic place in School life, with more than 45 societies represented at the Societies’ Fair during the September Closed Weekend. That same spirit flourished during a vibrant Society Sunday in January, where pupils moved with ease between creative, practical and intellectually stimulating pursuits. These ranged from tie-dye clothing design and candle making, to scuba diving in the School pool, expert talks from members of the Singapore Ministry of Defence and a screen-writing workshop led by Senior, Lily Sandeberg (2021, Campbell). The Closed Weekend concluded with a pupil-written and pupil-led mock trial, a memorable finale that showcased both imagination and analytical rigour. Weekend activities continue to form a lively and valued part of School life, offering an exciting programme full of energy and variety. This year, Closed Weekends have featured an inflatables day, a multi-activity day and a vibrant silent disco. Pupils embraced adventure at Go Ape and Airsoft, tested their speed on the go-kart track, and sought out further excitement at Thorpe Park and Oxford Wet ‘n’ Wild. Meanwhile, our theatre enthusiasts enjoyed acclaimed productions of Oliver and The Lion King. Social events have also remained a much-anticipated feature of the weekend calendar, creating opportunities for pupils to build friendships and strengthen connections with pupils from other schools, including Eton, Harrow, Winchester College, Cothill, Davenies and the Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe. From roller discos and ceilidhs to a summer ball accompanied by garden games, these occasions have brought warmth, enjoyment and a strong sense of community to School life. Mrs Fiona Gee Director of School Operations

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UIV Activity Day: Exploring Space and Scaling New Heights O

n the first day of our Activity Day weekend, we visited the National Space Centre. As we approached the entrance, we were immediately struck by the impressive 42m-high Rocket Tower, home to the Blue Streak and Thor Able rockets, the Apollo Lunar Lander and even a piece of real moon rock.

After lunch, we headed over to the Nightline. Once blindfolded, we began our course. Using the rope, we navigated over, under and through a variety of obstacles. Teamwork and communication skills were key for this activity! Then, we did archery, where our instructors added challenges to our aiming to make it even more competitive!

To begin the day, we explored lots of galleries and exhibitions where our favourites included the life-size mock-up of the Columbus Module from the International Space Station and the quirky, gravity-simulating space toilet in the Into Space gallery. Inside the Rocket Tower, there were plenty of interactive experiences, such as the Gagarin Experience, which recreated what Yuri Gagarin, the first human in space, might have felt on his pioneering mission.

Mrs Hannah Thomas Teacher of Physics

In the afternoon, we began an immersive challenge set in a Marsbased laboratory. Working as a team, we had to solve complex problems under pressure, survive a fierce sandstorm and even discover potential signs of life on Mars. We also enjoyed a film in the UK’s largest planetarium, where we learned about astronaut training, daily life in space and the physical effects of space travel. The following day we visited Beaumanor Hall for a day full of outdoor activities. We started on the High Ropes, with an adventure course including rope climbing walls and balancing challenges. Then we moved onto the zipline, which was super exciting! Finally, we did the vertical challenge, climbing up ropes, tyres and poles!

Developing Confidence

From Lacrosse Sticks to T-rexes – UIII’s First Activity Day Adventure

or our first Activity Day at Wycombe Abbey, we were excited to get stuck into lacrosse. We had a bright and early start and were out on the pitches by 9:00am. To help us along our lacrosse journey, the day was filled with different stations such as shooting, passing, defending and attacking. After learning new skills and doing lots of drills, we used everything we’d been taught in a coached tournament which was definitely the highlight! It was a day packed with teamwork and fun, and by the time we got back, we headed straight to bed without a peep! The next morning, we set off for a trip to the Oxford Natural History Museum. At first, we thought it wouldn’t be as exciting as Lacrosse Day. We were wrong. It felt like stepping back in time! We got to hold real fossils, sharks’ jaws and teeth and even live Madagascan cockroaches, although some of us were a bit too scared to touch those. A big favourite was the colossal T-Rex, towering over us like a monarch, standing

on its powerful legs, with a massive tail swinging behind. Its mouth was filled with sharp, dagger-like teeth that glistened and gleamed under the lights. In the Pitt Rivers Museum, we saw tribal masks, incredible artefacts and hundreds of cool specimens. We continued to explore more of the museum whilst filling in fun worksheets about the animals and displays. We also did lots of sketches which, later this term, we’ll be using to turn into hand-sewn pillow designs during Art classes. Overall, both days were absolutely fantastic. The trip not only taught us things we cannot learn in the classroom, but also reminded us of the importance of curiosity and stepping out into the real world to explore. We learned so much, had loads of fun and grew even closer as a year group. Thank you so much to all the teachers who made our first Activity Days so special. We can’t wait for all the future adventures! Ava, Grace and Noor, UIII

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UIII Take on the Treetops at Go Ape D

uring their first weekend at Wycombe Abbey, UIII travelled to Wendover Woods for an action-packed trip to the Go Ape high ropes course. The group set off after morning lessons, with excitement running high from the start. Zoe (UIII) captured the mood of the day: ‘The coaches were buzzing with excitement on the way. When we got to the woods, we made our way to the picnic camp, where we enjoyed a delicious meal consisting of sandwiches, sausage rolls and brownies. Once we had eaten our lunch, we set off to our Go Ape sessions. Everyone was very excited, including Mrs Duncan, who many of us saw while on the ropes.’ The afternoon was spent tackling the Treetop Challenge twice before finishing with a thrilling zipline back down to the ground. The return journey was much quieter than the outward trip, with pupils happily worn out after their efforts. As Zoe reflected: ‘The coach drive back was certainly a different one to the way there, as everyone was considerably more tired after the awesome activities that we had completed. Everyone had loads of fun and we are all looking forward to the next trip!’

This year, we have had the pleasure of welcoming a number of world class speakers to our Parenting the Teenager series for our parent community, alongside two valuable presentations from staff on key aspects of School life. I began the Autumn Term with a session focusing on online safety, offering parents an insight into the current realities of teenagers’ digital worlds. The session provided practical guidance, including tips for securing home Wi-Fi systems, alongside strategies for having open, curious and impactful conversations with young people about how they create their online identities and the influence this can have on their mental health.

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Mr Cadman, our Head of Learning Enhancement, followed with a thoughtful and insightful talk on risk-taking behaviours and neurodiverse young people. Parents commented on the depth of understanding this session provided, leaving with greater confidence in supporting their daughters to navigate the complexities of the world around them. In the Spring Term, we were delighted to welcome Chloe Combi, who delivered a compelling talk on beauty and body image. Chloe is a British author, journalist and speaker who specialises in studying young people, particularly Generation Z and Generation Alpha, and how they are shaping society. Her talk combined large-scale research with real-world insights drawn directly from her work with young people, offering a powerful and evidence-informed exploration of the pressures facing teenage girls today.

Last, but by no means least, it was our pleasure to host Dr Maryhan, who spoke on her topic Becoming Me: Helping Teenage Girls Build Confidence, Identity and Resilience. A highly experienced psychologist, parenting expert, and host of the much-loved podcast How Not to Screw Up Your Kids, Dr Maryhan shared practical, accessible strategies to support parents in raising confident and resilient daughters. She focused on key areas such as communication, praise, and helping young people to broaden their perspectives during these formative years. Her warm, straight-talking and non-judgemental approach cut through the noise, offering advice that was both realistic and immediately usable. We very much look forward to building on this programme next year and continuing to support our parent community in navigating the challenges and opportunities of raising teenagers. Mrs Sophie Blunt Director of Safeguarding and Pupil Welfare

Remi Performs at the Royal Opera House LIV pupil, Remi, recently made her debut in Mozart’s The Magic Flute on one of the world’s most iconic stages, the Royal Opera House. Playing one of the three angels disguised as boys, Remi had the privilege of working with some incredible performers such as Kathryn Lewek and Huw Montague Rendall. She delivered both solo and harmony lines while acting, and even soared above the stage in a flying carriage!

Reflecting on the experience, Remi shared: ‘The biggest lesson I learned: perfection isn’t the goal. What truly matters is staying in the moment, performing with confidence, and giving the audience the best experience we can.’ Huge congratulations to Remi on this incredible achievement. We are so proud of you!

Wycombe Abbey’s Got Talent 2026 In February, LAC theatre was transformed into the stage for Wycombe Abbey’s Got Talent! We were treated to seven incredible performances; a dance by the 1st lacrosse team, a Spice Girls tribute act followed by a brilliant UIII dancing duo, a powerful rendition of 5SOS’ Teeth, then a heartfelt Bruno Mars ballad, an original pop song and, to close, a surprise chapel choir One Direction takeover. Our esteemed judging panel comprised Mrs Blunt, Mr Harrington and Mr Murphy, who provided us with witty commentary, lots of laughs throughout the night, and of course, fabulous outfits. This event was our biggest initiative as a Head Girl Team, and it was truly a joy to organise and host; we absolutely loved seeing everyone have so much fun both on stage and in the audience

Wycombe Abbey’s Got Talent was a true testament to our objective of enjoyment throughout the School community, encouraging the pupils and staff to take a break from their busy School lives and enjoy an hour of pure fun. We’d like to thank everyone who, despite their nerves, went on stage and truly blew us all away! In addition, this event wouldn’t have been possible without the support of Mr Grace, Mr Hams, Mrs Fisher and Mrs Tidbury, who ensured the night ran smoothly. Todi, Estelle and Genevieve Head Girl Team

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Rock Society Delivers an Unforgettable Performance at Harrow Concert-Social N

ine bands from Wycombe Abbey performed in a concertsocial with Harrow. It was really exciting to have so many bands attend this term, as well as having bands from a range of year groups (LV–UVI). Many bands made their RockSoc debut as well, which was lovely to see. Bands are a great opportunity for pupils to get involved in music at Wycombe Abbey, as girls can freely form bands without the need for instrumental lessons. In fact, many bands are completely self-taught. The social was a fun opportunity to meet other passionate musicians, and it felt just like a real concert. From thrilling crowd surfing to a diverse mix of music genres, it was truly a night to remember. Tess and Zyva Heads of Rock Society

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Debating Event at Harrow School

aving been introduced to our Harrovian counterparts upon arrival, the teams began diligently preparing for the first motion, addressing whether or not we should ban targeted political advertising on social media. Each round took the format of British Parliamentary debates. There were four rooms, with two Wycombe Abbey pairs and two Harrow pairs in each room. After the release of the motion, each team had 15 pressurized minutes to prepare five-minute speeches. These produced some fiery debates that pushed all teams to carefully analyse the repercussions on their side of the house, engaging with and rebutting other teams’ points with clarity and precision. All of our pairs showed an impressive grasp of the topic, speaking on the complex themes of online data protection, political radicalisation and cognitive biases with considerable acuity.

The second round took an abstract turn, positing that we should regret the demonisation of selfishness. Once again, our debaters approached the motion with analytical rigour, resulting in rooms that explored many distinct facets of the question with admirable skill and nuance. Throughout this round, the pairs continually challenged each other’s definitions of human nature and explored whether the causes and consequences of selfishness have led to an overall positive or negative impact on humanity. As co-head of our School’s Debating and Public Speaking Society, and judge of one of the rooms at Harrow, I was extremely pleased with the evident progress our debaters have made since the beginning of the academic year. Several participants, who only started debating from scratch in September, delivered fruitful, full-length

speeches in exacting conditions. Our advanced debaters were similarly successful, employing their refined skills to emerge victorious in their rooms. Many teams placed highly in one or both debates, and everyone benefitted from the opportunity to develop their abilities in a competitive context and enjoy the experience of debating with another school. The rounds were followed by a wonderful dinner in Harrow’s dining hall, allowing plenty of time to unwind and socialise with fellow debaters. Neda, UVI

Mock Law Trial

n October, Fisher Library was transformed into a courtroom for the fifth annual Wycombe Abbey mock trial. Pupils gathered to witness a high-stakes legal showdown, with Mati (LVI) in the dock, standing trial for an alleged arson offence. Jurors – comprising the audience – listened intently as the prosecution outlined its case. Central to their argument was a personal rivalry between the defendant, Mati, and the victim, Isla (also LVI), which they claimed provided a clear motive for the crime. The prosecution presented further evidence to bolster their case: ominous links between Mati and the purchase of petroleum, as well as footprints matching hers found near the scene, specifically, along the southern perimeter wall of the School grounds. However, despite the compelling narrative put forward, the defence successfully cast doubt over the strength of the evidence. Jurors ultimately found the case too circumstantial, with particular concern over the lack of clear forensic evidence directly tying Mati to the scene. In a dramatic conclusion, the jury voted to acquit her by a margin of 35–14. Reflecting on the event, Mr FitzGerald commented, ‘The mock trials are designed to promote public speaking, the systematic presentation of an argument, and agility under pressure. Everyone performed extremely well.’

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Project Dialogues

ver since partnering last year with The Philosophy Foundation (a charity that helps young people think well through philosophy), I’ve made exciting progress on my project, Dialogues. Through interviews and follow-up meetings with the charity’s specialists, I have begun developing and teaching resources on ‘how to disagree well’.

I’ve been piloting these resources with our UIII and LIV pupils as part of the School’s Wellbeing curriculum, and they have been very well received. A central part of this work has involved examining the connotations around ‘disagreement’ and exploring how we might reframe it in a more positive, constructive light. I’m very grateful to Miss Calder and Mrs Blunt for their support throughout this process. Looking ahead to the summer, I’m excited to be building on this work in a new context. Following meetings with Larry Kramer (President, LSE) and Charles Stafford (Head of Campus Relations, LSE), I was invited to collaborate with LSE LIFE, the EDI team, and Campus Relations to review and develop a module for the undergraduate course, Prepare to learn at LSE. I will research and develop new content, as well as evaluate the university’s recent events and activities in promoting dialogue across campus. I’m really looking forward to seeing how these ideas develop within a wider academic community! Emma, LVI

Sabre Success: Alicia’s Fencing Journey

n the world of competitive fencing, victory is often decided by the narrowest of margins, a fraction of a second or a single lapse in concentration. For Alicia (LVI), mastering these margins has led to a standout performance: a third-place finish in the U18 Sabre at the Southern Region qualifiers. Her success is a result of a deliberate blend of technical discipline and a psychological approach that is often described as ‘physical chess’. Alicia’s interest in the sport began when she arrived in UIII, drawn to what she viewed as a ‘skilled and technical sport’. Since then, she has transitioned from a curious beginner to a calculated competitor who thrives on outmanoeuvring her rivals.

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During the pressure of the Southern Region qualifiers, Alicia relied on a specific mental routine to stay focused. While many athletes turn to high-energy music, she prefers ‘softer music because it makes me feel calmer,’ which she finds essential in ‘fast-paced environments such as on the piste’. This calm allows her to enter a zone where she can silently watch her opponents and ‘analyse their attacks and determine what I can do to counter them’. Her internal focus during her best bouts remained simple: ‘To stay calm and for my technique not to get messy in the moment’. As she looks toward her goals for the next year, Alicia’s advice for those interested in the sport is straightforward: ‘Give it a go. 100%’. Miss Jessica Fores Communications and Marketing Officer

The Carrington Programme T

his year saw another exciting programme of talks, workshops, and conferences as part of our bespoke Sixth Form Enrichment provision, the Carrington Programme. The LVI have engaged in courses structured to prepare them for university applications with particular focus on admissions tests and interviews. The UVI chose three courses from a range of electives, such as the Art of Public Speaking, Creative Upcycling,

and a Rough Guide to becoming President of the USA. Our evening speakers included Seonaid Mackenzie and Rick Findler. Seonaid has a range of experience in diverse industries and spoke about the importance of having the right story when applying for jobs, while Rick engaged his audience with a series of photographs and stories from his career as a war photojournalist. We were also delighted to welcome Emma Reynolds, Member of Parliament for Wycombe, in February. She led an engaging Q and A session and took the time to speak with our Politics pupils about the challenges and opportunities a Cabinet Minister faces. We also invited speakers on a diverse range of topics such as financial education, modern slavery, and drug addiction. We held another highly successful Management Conference

with the Royal Grammar School High Wycombe, and enjoyed hearing from keynote speakers, such as Peter Higgins, former CEO of Charles Tyrwhitt. The Communication Conference and the Leadership Summit once again proved particular highlights, aimed at developing vital skills for careers. In our signature Academic Forum, we welcomed pupils from local schools to engage in discussions and an interdisciplinary quiz ahead of university interviews. Through its rich and diverse provision, the Carrington Programme seeks to inspire every pupil to become a lifelong learner, a responsible global citizen, and a confident leader ready to embrace the challenges ahead. Mr Olly Murphy Deputy Head of Sixth Form

Carrington Speakers: Insights from Francesca Lee and Jessica Haworth Every Friday, our pupils have the opportunity to attend a talk from a guest speaker as part of the Carrington Series. These sessions provide crucial perspectives on a wide range of careers, topics, and essential skills for their future. On 7 November, we welcomed Francesca Lee, CEO and founder of Social Value Architect, an organisation dedicated to improving corporate sustainability. Francesca, who also serves as a board member for the Sophie Hayes Foundation (a charity fighting modern slavery), spoke passionately about this challenging issue and what we, as consumers, can do to make a difference. Francesca has been a long-time supporter of the Management Conference and it was a pleasure to welcome her back. Her insights and messages truly resonated with our pupils.

The following week, Wycombe Abbey Senior, Jessica Haworth (2003), founder of Breakthe4thwall, returned to School to speak to the UVI about the importance of first impressions and how to present themselves with confidence and purpose during interviews. Using unique techniques designed to push pupils out of their comfort zones, Jessica delivered practical advice, particularly on what not to do in an interview! It was especially meaningful to welcome her back to the Performing Arts Centre, where she had acted many times as a pupil. Mr Olly Murphy Deputy Head of Sixth Form

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Future Ready Week

uture Ready Week is designed to give our LVI pupils the time, space and guidance to think carefully about life beyond School. Across the week, pupils explore key pathways, from university applications to the modern workplace, while developing the skills, confidence and self-awareness needed to make informed decisions about their future. Through a combination of expert speakers, practical workshops and opportunities to hear directly from recent leavers, the week encourages pupils to reflect on their strengths, ambitions and

Day One: Leadership Summit On the first day of Future Ready Week, the LVI took part in the Leadership Summit. Together with 40 pupils from John Hampden Grammar School, they listened to an inspirational keynote speech from endurance explorer, James Benson-King, before taking part in a range of outdoor activities designed to test their leadership qualities and team building. The Escape Room activity, with its range of cross-curricular puzzles, was particularly popular, and we were delighted that James stayed on to mentor pupils through the Island Hopping activity which proved quite the physical challenge! Despite the threat of rain, all the activities went ahead as planned, and everyone learnt invaluable lessons about leadership, collaboration, and resilience. It was a perfect start to a busy week for the LVI as they turned their thoughts to considering university applications and the world of work. Mr Olly Murphy Deputy Head of Sixth Form

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values. Whether developing vital transferable skills, considering competitive university applications, or gaining insight into the graduate job market, pupils are supported to approach the next stage with clarity and purpose. Above all, Future Ready Week aims to ensure that every pupil feels prepared, informed and confident as they begin to shape their individual pathway beyond Wycombe Abbey. Miss Emma Bowen Head of Higher Education

Days Two and Three: University Preparation Days One of the highlights of Future Ready Week was the hearing from a range of inspiring speakers. Mike Nicholson, Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Cambridge, gave advice on applying to competitive universities; Graham Waton from the University of Bath, helped us to think more carefully about choosing the right course and university; and Celia Higson from Art History Abroad spoke about what to consider when planning a gap year. Each speaker offered thought provoking insights into the different pathways available after school and how best to approach higher education. Joined by pupils from John Hampden Grammar School and RGS High Wycombe, the day provided a broad view of the opportunities open to us and encouraged us to think carefully about our future choices. The Wednesday of Future Ready Week also marked the beginning of our UCAS applications, giving us the chance to start considering personal statements and university options in greater detail. The day concluded with a Seniors Forum where we were joined in person by recent alumnae currently studying at a wide variety of universities, and online by two Seniors – one currently on her gap year (in South Korea) and one on her year abroad (in Barcelona)! After hearing about their

individual experiences, we participated in a Q and A session to ask more specific questions about university life, applications, and balancing academic and social commitments. This provided a valuable and personal perspective from those who had recently gone through the process. Thursday was dedicated to spending time with the relevant Department/s for our university application. Each Department offered a range of activities, from university-style seminars to advice on personal statements and talks from recent Wycombe Abbey Seniors studying the subject at university. The day gave us a deeper understanding of university courses and helped us consider which specific universities and courses might suit us best. For some, the day ended with mock university admissions tests, providing a taste of the challenge and time-pressured environment we may face later in the year. These days provided practical clarity on university life and an opportunity to explore future pathways, both of which helped us to feel better prepared for the decisions and applications ahead. Maya, LVI

Day Four: Graduate Day – Navigating the Modern Job Market On the final day of Future Ready Week, Wycombe Abbey had the pleasure of hosting James Darley from Transform Society for a careers day designed to prepare LVI pupils for the modern graduate job market. Pupils explored compelling evidence on the increasing competitiveness of graduate schemes, alongside wider trends in youth employment and the growing impact of AI on roles and recruitment. They experienced a range of selection methods used by employers, from online assessments and group exercises to mock interviews led by parent volunteers.

Overall, the day emphasised that success increasingly depends on a strong foundation of transferable skills, highlighting adaptability, resilience and proactive engagement, qualities that closely reflect Wycombe Abbey’s core values and academic ethos. Mrs Laura Manning Head of Careers

A key focus was the importance of developing and evidencing transferable skills through academic, co-curricular and personal experiences, and learning how to articulate these effectively. Pupils also considered the importance of personal branding, networking and early career planning. Reflection on values and organisational culture encouraged them to think beyond salary and prestige when choosing future pathways.

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LVI Management Conference

cornerstone of the Carrington Programme is the long-established Management Conference (ManCon), now in its 36th year. This year’s LVI pupils described it as ‘an enjoyable experience … one we will never forget.’ Across two days, alongside pupils from RGS High Wycombe, they gained valuable insights into enterprise, hearing how entrepreneurs identify market gaps, overcome setbacks, and grow successful businesses in competitive environments. Guest speakers included Peter Higgins from Charles Tyrwhitt, Katie Owen from Sargasso & Grey, and Carol Taylor from Little Spark Strategy, each offering practical advice about resilience, innovation, and leadership. A highlight of the conference was the return of Richard Lowton, who led a highly engaging business simulation. Pupils particularly valued his clear explanations of marketing strategies and new technical terminology. ‘We learned that every small decision might bring a big impact on the final consequences,’ pupils reflected, as they responded to quarterly feedback on their team branding, strategy, and performance. The simulation encouraged analytical thinking, creativity, and adaptability under pressure. Networking formed another valuable part of the event. Pupils were able to speak with mentors and visiting speakers, gaining real-world insight into a range of professional fields. Mr Olly Murphy Deputy Head of Sixth Form

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Robotics Team Qualify for the FTC UK National Championship We are proud to share that our School Robotics Team, ‘WCC’, recently competed in the FIRST Tech Challenge (FTC) Regional Qualifier held at Oxford High School. The FTC is an international STEM competition in which pupils design, build and programme robots to complete a themed game challenge. Since September, we worked non-stop through the full engineering cycle: analysing the game, devising driving strategies, prototyping mechanisms, testing designs, writing code for both autonomous and driver-controlled periods and documenting our progress through our portfolio. Alongside this, we have also engaged in various outreach, including two sponsorships and boba tea sales to raise money for our School charity: Build on Books. As a team, we ranked first overall, qualified for the UK National Championship this April at the Copper Box Arena in London and were honoured to receive the prestigious Inspire Award. The Inspire Award is the

highest accolade in the competition, awarded to teams that demonstrate excellence across all areas of engineering and teamwork. Receiving this award was especially meaningful to us as it reflects our technical efforts and our commitment to outreach. To quote our chaplain, Padre Paul: “In true style, our robotics team prepared, planned for and competed in the robotics competition. In true grace, they thought of others throughout and gave time also to charity.” In addition, we were selected for the Finalist Alliance, making the experience even more rewarding. After countless robot tweaks, the day of the National Championships finally arrived. We competed at the Copper Box Area to place sixth overall out of 50 teams. We were awarded the prestigious Design Award. Our robot also managed to score the most artefacts in a singular game in the whole competition! Vivienne, LVI

Maria and Radha Earn the Prestigious Adrian Swire Flying Scholarship Last year, Maria (UVI) and Radha (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’ve always been fascinated by the engineering and physics behind flight, and this programme gave me the chance to take what I’d learned in the classroom and experience it in the real world. From our very first lesson, we were given full control of the aircraft: an experience that was both freeing and empowering.

Training in a real aircraft has strengthened my ability to make fast, rational decisions and stay calm under pressure. Balancing altitude, communicating over the radio, and maintaining situational awareness all at once has taught me to trust myself in challenging environments. We hope this inspires more girls like us to take off with confidence in aviation.’ Maria (UVI) ‘My interest in aircraft and the mechanics of flight has now become a long-term passion. This flying experience confirmed that I want to work towards obtaining my Private Pilot Licence – something I have always dreamed of.’ Radha (UVI)

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LV and UV Pupils Explore Northern Iceland I n October, during Long Leave, LV and UV pupils went on an unforgettable trip to Northern Iceland. Accompanied by Mrs Wood, Miss Franks, Miss Durden, and Mr Wildgoose, the group flew into Reykjavík before taking a short internal flight to Akureyri, the capital of the north, where they were welcomed with a sudden, chilly snowfall!

Over the next three days, pupils explored the remote, snow-covered landscapes of northern Iceland with scenery so striking, pupils said it felt like ‘stepping into a postcard’. Highlights included visits to extraordinary geological sites shaped by Iceland’s position on a constructive plate boundary, such as the renowned Diamond Circle, home to dramatic waterfalls, pseudo-craters, lava fields and geyser areas. A big favourite, and one of the most magical moments, was relaxing in the Mývatn Nature Baths, while snowflakes drifted down from the sky. These baths are geothermal pools heated to around 40°C, and are naturally enriched with minerals like silica and sulphur that promote skin health and support respiratory wellness.

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On the third day, the group boarded a ferry to Hrísey Island, which is often referred to as the ‘pearl of the fjord.’ This tranquil island, Iceland’s second largest, sits in the middle of fjord Eyjafjörður, and stretches 7.5km in length and 2.5km at its widest point in the south. Home to just no more than 180 residents, Hrísey boasts a small school, serving only 15 pupils from reception to GCSE, which we had the opportunity to visit during our trip. Mrs Margot Wood Teacher of Geography

Getting Creative in Cookery We have enjoyed another outstanding year in the Cookery Department, making full use of our world-class facilities and aiming to inspire a joy of cooking throughout the School. The Lower School continue to develop their knife skills and build up their confidence by working safely in the kitchen, whilst becoming more aware of a nutritional and balanced diet. We have placed emphasis on exploring culturally diverse cuisines and seasonal ingredients, producing wonderful recipes such as carbonara, tteokbokki, gyoza, sushi, and quesadilla. We also deliver advice for the various methods that we can use to improve presentation to a restaurant standard, which adds a touch of finesse to the dishes produced.

enjoyed the chance to return to a timetabled carousel of lessons and refresh their Lower School skills. The Fruit Tart Flag competition in the Spring Term invited girls and parents to create a custard tart decorated with fruit to represent a flag of their choice. The recipe was followed perfectly, and entries were judged by our Leiths cohort and with over 30 flags to choose from, the deliberations were long! Well done to joint winners Chloe (UIV) and Eloise (LVI) for their representations of the Seychelles and United Kingdom flags. Miss Kay Williams (Head of Art and Cookery) and Mr Tom Dimmock (Teacher of Cookery)

The Sixth Form continue to enjoy the accredited Leiths Course, passing the online Level 2 Food Hygiene course before they can access the two-and-a-half-hour weekly lessons. The well-structured course includes menu planning, breakfast and brunch recipes, plant-based menus, world food menus, formal dinners and meals for special occasions. By the end of the course, all pupils will be able to show that they can produce specified dishes to the required Leiths standard, using professional methods in a timed examination. The final assessment is a two-and-a-half-hour practical exam marked by a visiting Leiths assessor in June, and the current cohort has produced some truly remarkable cooking. The Cookery Department has continued to run three wellstructured Wellbeing sessions for the LV, focusing on nutritional awareness and the importance of a balanced diet. Recipes have included ramen, acai bowls and crunchy granola. The pupils have

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Global Exchanges – Supporting Our Girls to Become Global Citizens

t Wycombe Abbey, we know that many of our pupils will live, study and work around the world. Our role is to support them in developing the confidence, curiosity and understanding they will need to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

into your home and our community challenges pupils to see their own school and family life through fresh eyes. Together, travelling and hosting help to build resilience, independence and lasting international friendships – and as pupils often tell us, they feel different afterwards.

Global exchange programmes play a key part in this. Through immersive experiences with partner schools and host families overseas, pupils are encouraged to step beyond familiar routines and ways of thinking.

This year, we have expanded our Global Exchange Programme and currently work with six partner schools, with more partnerships planned.

Equally important is the experience of hosting. Welcoming an exchange partner

Lower Fifth exchanges include opportunities with Greenwich Academy (Connecticut, USA), St Mary’s (Perth,

Australian Exchange Programme 2026 This year, six Wycombe Abbey pupils travelled to Australia to participate in a three-week long exchange programme, immersing themselves in the academic and cultural life of Perth and Sydney. By staying with host families and attending local schools, St Mary’s Anglican Girls’ School in Perth and Tara Anglican School for Girls in Sydney, the girls gained insightful perspectives on the Australian way of life. The West Coast: Perth In Western Australia, Nelly, Sophia and Phoebe balanced a rigorous academic schedule with the active, outdoor lifestyle typical of the region. Their school days included unique electives such as Marine Science and Textiles. Academic immersion was complemented by a visit to the Supreme Court of Western Australia, where the girls observed live proceedings. Outside the classroom, the girls embraced Perth’s coastal culture, often starting their days with surfing lessons or visits to Yochi, the local frozen-yoghurt shop. They also engaged with professional athletes, receiving a motivational talk from five-time Olympic medallist, Nat Cook.

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Wildlife encounters were frequent; the group visited Rottnest Island to see quokkas and Caversham Wildlife Park, where they held koalas and milked cows. Sophia shared a particularly memorable moment from a trip to a local golf course: ‘I saw a joey in its mum’s pouch! It was something I really wanted to see, it was so worth the wait’. The East Coast: Sydney In Sydney, Charlotte, Lara and Anni experienced a blend of metropolitan landmarks and the rugged Australian interior. Their time was spent visiting iconic sites like the Sydney Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, and Taronga Zoo. Charlotte had the opportunity to travel three hours inland to Dunedoo to stay on a working farm. Her weekend involved herding cattle and sheep, as well as a close encounter with a huntsman spider that emerged from a car’s glove box! Meanwhile, Anni and Lara immersed themselves in the performing arts and wider school community, taking part in the school’s Easter service. Anni also commented on the warmth and kindness of the local pupils.

Western Australia), St Margaret’s (Brisbane, Queensland) and TARA Anglican School (Sydney, NSW). Lower Sixth pupils can take part in exchanges with Welham Girls’ School (Dehradun) and Mussoorie International School (Mussoorie), India. These carefully supported exchanges offer our pupils’ memorable experiences that help shape them into thoughtful, outwardlooking global citizens. Mrs Claire Leong Director of Global Links

USA Exchange to Connecticut This year three LV pupils travelled to the United States to take part in an exchange programme with Greenwich Academy in Connecticut. Staying with host families, Vera, Emmy and Tiya experienced American school life and discovered how it differs from their own.

Here’s what they shared: ‘There was always something fun to do in and outside lessons, my favourite being our daily trip to get cookies from the cookery lab after Spanish. Time after school was also fun, as I made many trips to the local high street, Target and Trader Joe’s with my host mum. One night, I even had a tennis lesson at her local tennis club!’ - Vera (LV)

‘On the first weekend, I visited New York which was so much fun! We explored Bryant Park, the Rockefeller tree, Radio City and Times Square. It was amazing to be there at Christmas time as everything was festive and cheerful. On the final weekend, heavy snow made everything even more magical, I spent lots of time sledding and building snowmen with Elettra.’ - Tiya (LV)

At Greenwich Academy, I was able to try subjects I have never done before, such as Personal Finance, US History and Italian. I was also very grateful to get the chance to tour the hospital my host dad worked at, which was such an eye-opening and interesting experience. Emmy (LV)

Exchange Pupils Visit Wycombe Abbey ‘What I have most enjoyed about hosting Lyla is showing her into my life and introducing her to the people that are important to me… Overall, I have loved every aspect of this exchange and I will be so sad when Lyla leaves to go back to Perth, however I will have memories for life!’ - Phoebe (LV) ‘I’ve loved showing Alice around London… but mostly I’ve loved showing her what my day-to-day life looks like, like going to Portobello and Brick Lane or taking lime bikes through Hyde Park, which has definitely been a highlight.’ - Sophia (LV)

‘We’ve had such a terrific time together and can’t wait for this weekend where Angie and I will go see the The Phantom of the Opera and tour around London followed by Dove Day and GlastonAbbey the week after which she’s very excited for, too!’ - Charlotte (LV)

Elise and I have created many exciting memories and moments and can’t wait for more to come. Armenell (LV)

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Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award

n the Autumn Term, the LV took part in their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition. In the weeks leading up to the trip, we worked hard to plan our routes carefully, ensure we had the correct equipment, and prepare enough food for the twoday expedition. Our route took us through the Chilterns, with our final destination being Daws Hill. The first day was warm, and we walked through a variety of landscapes, including towns, farmland, and countryside. My group worked well together, using compasses, maps, and our own judgement to navigate between checkpoints and towards the campsite. Although we became lost after our final checkpoint, we informed a teacher of our delayed arrival and worked together to reorient ourselves. Eventually, we successfully reached the campsite.

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On the second day, we woke early, prepared breakfast, and packed our lunches for the journey ahead. By around 9:00am, we had packed up camp and set off. Spirits were high as we looked forward to completing the expedition. The weather was even warmer than the day before, but our group maintained a steady pace. After lunch, staff met us along the route to provide water and encouragement. As we entered High Wycombe, we began the final stretch of our journey, passing the familiar Eden Centre. We then made our way up Daws Hill and completed the expedition at the Expedition Hut, where we dropped off our equipment. Finally, we returned to our Houses for well-deserved hot showers! Audrey, LV

Gold Award J

ust after the end of Summer Term, pupils in Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth took part in their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expedition in the Brecon Beacons. Over several days, pupils demonstrated impressive resilience, teamwork and self-sufficiency as they navigated challenging routes, carried all their own equipment and camped in tents. A particular highlight of the expedition was the ascent of Pen y Fan, the highest peak in South Wales, which rewarded the group with spectacular views across the national park. Throughout the trip, pupils developed their navigational skills, worked collaboratively to overcome challenges and gained valuable experience in preparing for their qualifying expedition. The expedition proved to be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, with pupils embracing every challenge with determination and enthusiasm. Their independence, perseverance and positive attitude were a credit to the School and bode well for the next stage of their Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award journey. Miss Steffi Clarke DofE Manager and Gold Co-ordinator

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UIII Co-curricular Trip to Jersey UIII Pupils enjoyed a memorable five-day co-curricular trip to Jersey, combining engaging sessions at the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust with beach visits, bowling, a duck-boat trip to Elizabeth Castle, and an excursion exploring the island’s war tunnels.

Wednesday As soon as we arrived in Jersey, sadly without Dr Dawber’s suitcase, we went straight to the zoo for a fascinating keeper talk on cranes, where we learnt all about this endangered species. Then we visited a beautiful sandy beach and spent a few hours by the sea, swimming, paddling, playing games and eating ice cream, before returning to Durrell for a relaxing evening. Gursimar

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Thursday On the second day, we started with a talk on Gerald Durrell. We learned all about the amazing work that the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust carries out to save species around the world, and why zoos like Jersey play a really important role in this. We then got to eat real gelatos at Café Dodo. Then Dr Dawber’s suitcase finally arrived – hurrah! Ava

Friday On day three, we learned about orangutans and tested our strength with a grip strength trainer, to find out we were all feeble compared with an orangutan! In the afternoon, we visited the war tunnels. We learnt about what life would have been like and how people would have felt during the occupation. Akira

Saturday On Saturday, we caught the duck boat to Elizabeth Castle for our guided tour to learn all about Sir Walter Raleigh’s life and death and how the castle was built. Back on the mainland, we had free time in the zoo and then headed to Pizza Express for a lovely meal at a table with a sea view. Grace

Sunday After a dorm inspection by Dr Dawber and Ms Millar, we enjoyed our last moments at the zoo, exploring and having fun. We said goodbye to our animal friends before heading for the airport and back to School. Thank you for an amazing trip! Gursimar

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Faith and Service Chapel Report

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Anglican Confirmations

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Charity Report

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Anti-Bullying Week

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Tallulah Spreads Joy This Christmas through Operation Christmas Child

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Shirley Advocates for Girls’ Education through Charity Concert

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Mati Champions Service through English-Speaking Scheme in Sicily

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Maddy Empowers Neurodivergent Youth through Autism Initiative

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Tahlia Launches ‘Pair It Forward’ to Empower Young Tennis Players in Africa

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Emma’s Summer with Chess in Schools and Communities

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Genevieve Awarded Army Officer Scholarship

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Avyanna Wins Top Girl Trophy at UK Chess Challenge 129 12km Charity Run

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Chapel Report

his year, Chapel has focused on some key topics throughout each term. Heroes and Villains was the theme for autumn where we encountered some of the best and the worst characters in the Bible, their real stories, what drove them and how they can remain an inspiration or warning for us today. Spring moved into looking at some of the Miracles in the Bible, what happened and why. We considered the parallels with bravery in modern life and the hope that bad things can still be put right. The Summer Term had a slightly more personal vibe in which the theme was Covenant – the emphasis being on the importance of trusted relationships. Friendships, colleagues and family were laid alongside the Biblical framework of who God is to his people, and how much He cares for us. There were some truly excellent House Chapel services with girls weaving their own thoughts and styles into the mix. We also had some inspiring and fun talks from some of our connected charities throughout the year. Standout memories are a talk from Mary

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Fallon from Young Deaf Activities. She herself is deaf and gave her talk with the support of a translator which gave us all an insight into the reality of deafness. She received a sincere and spontaneous applause. The following week we had Lori Spragg from Build on Books who, alongside her infectious enthusiasm, was able share a more personal message from a nurse in Sierra Leone who sang and danced as an act of thanks to Wycombe Abbey and the donations that went to building a new toilet and shower block. The girls were inspired by this touching message and many of them have wanted to keep doing more as the reciprocity of relationship continues to build. It is always such a pleasure to spend time with the School in Chapel. As Chaplain, I am deeply proud of the girls; it is great to spend time with them as a community and to see how they have such heart to give to one another and the world. Padre Paul Stanaway Chaplain

Anglican Confirmations Alice C (LV) Alice M (UIV) Ayomide (LV) Carolina (UIV) Clara (UIV) Coco (LV) Cressida (LV) Cybella (LIV) Elizabeth (LV) Emma (UV) Essie (LV) Flora (UV) Freya (UIV) Hannah (LV) Heather (UIV) Isla (LVI) Lita (UIV) Octavia (LIV) Olaoluwaiyimika (LVI) Rosalie (LV) Tacita (UV) Theodora (UIV)

Charity Report

n the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus once remarked to his disciples that ‘the poor you will always have with you…’. It’s a confronting thought, probably because it has proven to be true the world over. Jesus was quoting a much older teaching from Deuteronomy, which commands people not to neglect those in need. It creates a connection across time, to see the need and to do something to fill it. This is not just about the financial gaps, but the emotional ones too. Wycombe Abbey is highly active, the pupils, the staff, the families; we are a busy people. It is a credit that there are so many initiatives that this School undertakes or is a part of, that engage with all the needs around us. Our two elected School charities – Build on Books and Young Deaf Activities – have both expressed their genuine affection for our partnership with them. The money we raise has already been making a huge difference to real people’s real lives, from Sierra Leone to High Wycombe and Amersham. The total reached this year is in the thousands of pounds. The money is important, but so is the commitment behind it. Pupils and staff make time, put the work in and bring charity to life, not as obligation but as a desire to be a part of the solution. Football boots for Nigeria, a video to schools in Malawi, postcards to a school in Vanuatu, House bake sales, robotics club, programming lessons, a House dinner, Bonfire Night stalls, the 12km charity run, and Dove Day are some of the highlights and there are many more initiatives in the works. The comments received from members of the public, parents, business owners, charity workers and the military all express admiration of what you do for others at this School. Thank you to pupils and staff, you are a part of something more than just ‘us’. See the need and fill it. See the people and speak. Padre Paul Stanaway Chaplain

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Anti-Bullying Week T

his year, we celebrated Anti-Bullying Week, an annual event promoting awareness, kindness, and a commitment to making our School a safe, welcoming place for all. This year’s theme, Power for Good, reminded us how positive actions can make a big difference We began with Odd Socks Day, where pupils and staff found their most colourful and mismatched socks. This simple but powerful initiative reminded us that it’s okay to be different and that our individuality is something to be celebrated. During one breaktime, members of the Wycombe Abbey community gathered in Courtyard Café to make their Power for Good pledges. Staff and pupils committed to actions they would take during Anti-Bullying Week and beyond, to contribute to a culture of kindness and inclusion. These pledges are now proudly displayed in the Wellbeing corridor. Midweek, we held an open feedback drop-in. This safe and supportive space gave pupils the chance to share ideas on how we can strengthen our anti-bullying efforts, as well as voice any concerns about our School community. These valuable insights help guide our ongoing work to ensure everyone feels respected and included.

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Throughout the week, pupils took part in our exciting competition: ‘£1 Million to Stop Bullying – What’s Your Plan?’ The challenge was simple yet thought-provoking, how would you use one million pounds to stop bullying and create a kinder world? Congratulations to Freya (UIV) and Ella-Rose (UIV) for their winning idea: KindMind, an innovative app designed to tackle online bullying. Their concept focuses on promoting kindness and awareness through technology. Here’s how they described it: ‘With our one million pounds, we decided to create an app called KindMind. It can be downloaded on any device and detects harmful keywords, such as ‘ugly’, that could lead to bullying. When triggered, the app sends an alert to make you pause and think before posting. It also provides daily notifications about kindness and anti-bullying, reminding users they are not alone and are loved. Our app aims to reduce both cyberbullying and physical bullying by encouraging positive behaviour. With 95% of teens owning a smartphone, widespread use of KindMind could make a real difference.’ What an inspiring idea, well done to Freya and Ella-Rose! Miss Ella Calder Head of Wellbeing

Tallulah Spreads Joy This Christmas through Operation Christmas Child

ower Sixth pupil, Tallulah, inspired the Wycombe Abbey community to take part in the Samaritan’s Purse project: Operation Christmas Child, a global initiative that delivers shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies and personal care items to children in need. It is the world’s largest Christmas project of its kind and, since 1993, it has delivered more than 220 million shoebox gifts to children in over 160 countries. For many recipients, these shoeboxes are the first gifts they have ever received, a gesture that carries far more meaning than the items inside.

Overall, the Wycombe Abbey community contributed 90 shoeboxes this year. Watching them accumulate, Tallulah shared how it was, ‘moving to see the enthusiasm with which staff and pupils have embraced this initiative.’ She also says that, ‘it is uplifting to know that Wycombe Abbey has made such a meaningful impact – each shoebox has the potential to transform a child’s Christmas.’ Well done to Tallulah for organising such a wonderful campaign and a big thank you to all those who donated.

Her motivation came from a simple conversation that sparked a deeper awareness of what giving truly means: ‘One lunchtime, I was talking with my friends about what we hoped to receive for Christmas. However, we could not help but reflect on the privileged position we were in, simply to be able to think about such things. We live in a world increasingly consumed by material possessions, so much so, we often forget to stop and consider those who may not share the same circumstances. Recognising this instilled a desire in me to ensure that more children can feel included in the true spirit of the season. So, I began to think about how I might involve the School in a hands-on charitable initiative, and after remembering previously taking part in Operation Christmas Child at my last school, I was inspired to introduce it to the Wycombe Abbey community.’

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Shirley Advocates for Girls’ Education through Charity Concert

t the beginning of the year, Wycombe Abbey pupil, Shirley (UV), a young musician with a growing sense of global responsibility, brought together an audience in Hong Kong for a charity concert.

On 3 January, the Methodist International Church hosted ‘Shirley and Friends – A New Year Charity Concert,’ an event Shirley initiated to raise funds for Girl Up, the United Nations Foundation programme that supports girls’ education, health and protection in underserved regions. Shirley performed ten pieces alongside more than a dozen musicians, including former music teachers, invited musicians and friends who came in support of a cause Shirley felt could no longer be ignored.

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The concert grew from her involvement with Girl Rise Global, the youth initiative she founded as a Girl Up affiliate after learning about the 129 million girls worldwide who are denied schooling. Recognising her own privilege, she set out to use music as a way to support others, ‘I have everything while girls my age were denied even basic education,’ Over the Christmas holiday, she organised the concert almost entirely herself, from planning to recruitment, ultimately raising an incredible £1,880, all donated directly to Girl Up. Well done, Shirley, we are so proud of you and look forward to seeing what you do next.

Mati Champions Service through English-Speaking Scheme in Sicily

ere at Wycombe Abbey, service remains one of our core values and continues to shape our School ethos. We take immense pride in seeing our pupils carry this spirit of service beyond the School gates. Over the summer, Mati (LVI) played a key role in establishing and running an English-teaching scheme in her home city of Catania, below she tells us about her experience. ‘I began brainstorming ideas and projects that could lead me to give back some of my summer. I am from a city called Catania in Sicily, where educational poverty is unfortunately very common. I feel as though I had a duty to share the knowledge and skills gained through the opportunities I have had at School and more broadly. My friend in New York and I, both from Catania, decided to set up an English-teaching scheme.

With our idea written up and carefully prescribed, I contacted the mayor of Catania and presented the project. Our aim was to create a collaborative teaching space for fun, outdoor games and group activities. We were met with immediate enthusiasm and were supported by the Council of Education who put us in contact with Save the Children. In the first lesson, we were pleased to have the mayor and various news reporters there to inaugurate and document the scheme. Each lesson contained a mixture of worksheets, group activities and games to keep the energy high. It was extremely rewarding seeing these children so enthusiastic and affectionate towards us. By our last lesson, some were already asking when we would be back to do more! It was a unique and wonderful experience that not only taught me a lot about

scenarios of poverty that we often don’t see, but also the value of the little things. Even just a hug or a ‘well done’ meant the world to these children and seeing their faces light up with smiles was an incomparable experience. Since finishing lessons we have been meeting with various council members to discuss next steps. I am very excited to see where this project may go and I am especially proud of its success so far!’

Maddy Empowers Neurodivergent Youth through Autism Initiative For many, a walk around London’s Capital Ring is a scenic weekend hobby; for LVI pupil, Maddy, it was a 126-kilometre mission to dismantle the barriers facing neurodivergent youth. Through sundrenched routes and miles of conversation, Maddy turned a personal revelation into a systemic solution, raising over £15,000 to help support and launch M.A.D.I. (Madeleine’s Autism Diagnosis Initiative). Driven by a mission to dismantle the financial and bureaucratic barriers to autism assessments, Maddy’s goal is as clear as it is urgent: ensuring that no child is left behind simply because they cannot afford the price of a diagnosis. The impetus for the initiative was deeply personal. Having received her own diagnosis, Maddy describes the experience as

‘genuinely life-changing,’ a turning point that allowed her to understand herself. With private assessments at high prices and NHS waitlists often stretching into years, Maddy saw a landscape where ‘autism can hugely impede a child’s ability to grow and thrive’ simply because they lack a formal roadmap. Transforming this vision into a functional charity required a blend of physical endurance and professional grit. While the fundraising walk, supported by family and her friends, with special thanks to Victoria and Billie, successfully raised over £15,000, the real work happened behind the scenes. Maddy describes the process of establishing the charity as a series of hurdles, from securing legal approval to finding psychiatrists willing to provide their expertise. Seeing this hard work come to fruition when the charity

was finally able to fund its first assessments was, for Maddy, a special moment that validated months of persistence. A critical component of M.A.D.I.’s operational success is its strategic partnership with Castlefield Primary School and the support of Wycombe Abbey’s Head of Partnerships, Mr Sam Joyce. Well done to Maddy on her amazing work.

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Tahlia Launches ‘Pair It Forward’ to Empower Young Tennis Players in Africa Lower Sixth pupil Tahlia has been on an extraordinary journey, one that combined competitive sport with a powerful act of kindness. While away from School, Tahlia competed in two ITF tournaments, first in Nairobi, Kenya, and then in Lagos, Nigeria. She reached the Second Round in singles and doubles in Kenya, and in Lagos advanced to the singles Second Round and doubles Quarterfinals. During the summer tournament in Kenya, Tahlia noticed a striking reality: despite their incredible talent and passion, many local players were competing in worn-out or borrowed trainers. Determined to change this, Tahlia launched Pair It Forward, a simple yet powerful initiative: ‘If I can help just one young player feel confident and equipped on court, that’s a start – and if others join in, we can reach many more.’ Kenya: First Shoe Drop (32 pairs delivered) - While competing in Nairobi for the ITF J30, Tahlia partnered with the Tennis Kenya Federation to distribute 32 pairs of trainers to junior players. During her visit, she met with the Secretary General of Tennis Kenya, head coaches and administrators, and several junior players, including Kenya’s number one Under-16 girl and Kenya’s number one Under-18 boy. Nigeria: Second Shoe Drop (40 pairs delivered) - In Lagos, the impact of Pair It Forward grew even bigger. Tahlia handed out 40 pairs of trainers to young players, many of whom were competing in severely worn shoes. The initiative captured national attention, being featured on National Nigerian Television and Lagos State TV, covered by two national newspapers and online publications, and praised by officials from the Nigeria Tennis Federation and the Parents’ Tennis Association. Tahlia returned home inspired and determined to continue her mission. She has already promised to send additional shoes to players she couldn’t reach and hopes to expand Pair It Forward further.

If I can help just one young player feel confident and equipped on court, that’s a start – and if others join in, we can reach many more.

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Emma’s Summer with Chess in Schools and Communities I

n summer, I had the wonderful opportunity to undertake work experience with the charity Chess in Schools and Communities (CSC), which supports over 2,800 state schools across the UK by providing chess lessons, clubs, equipment and training. From the first day, I was introduced to a variety of tasks and learning experiences. One highlight was the Newham Schools Chess Tournament at Stratford Town Hall, an event which hosted around 120 primary school pupils. As the next large event, ChessFest, approached, preparations and activities began in earnest. Preparations included a three-day school event that welcomed over 400 children from 45 schools across the UK, with participants coming from Manchester, Leeds, and Hull. During this time, I taught and supervised three schools, met several of England’s top players and even got to play a few games with them! I also had the chance to meet Chancellor Rachel Reeves and various other MPs who came along to give their support. These experiences culminated in the official ChessFest 2025, a large-scale event in Trafalgar Square that attracted over 20,000 attendees. I assisted the CEO in managing the event and its various activities, this included guiding the Mayor of Westminster on a tour.

During my three weeks at CSC, I received so much guidance from the amazing Head Office team and I’m extremely appreciative of their support and encouragement to take on different responsibilities. At the end of my work experience, I was presented with a demonstration board, which I am now using for our Wycombe Abbey Chess Club and the ongoing volunteering programme with our partner schools. I look forward to sharing my experiences with the Chess Club throughout this exciting year! Emma, LVI

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Genevieve Awarded Army Officer Scholarship W

How do you feel Wycombe Abbey has prepared you for the application process?

Have you always known that you wanted to go into the Army?

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have such a strong support network at Wycombe Abbey. Padre Paul has been amazing, always willing to talk through what military life is really like. Alongside him, my tutor, Mrs Try, guided me through the planning exercises and helped me practise the speed, distance, and time equations, something I was a bit nervous about since I don’t take Mathematics A level. Mr Wall, our S&C coach, went above and beyond to help me prepare physically. I was determined to be as fit as possible ahead of the selection board.

e’re very proud to share that Genevieve has been awarded an Army Officer Scholarship. Read on to hear about her experience, what inspired her to apply, and her advice for others considering a career in the Army.

I only decided to consider a career in the Army in September of LVI. I’d always been aware of the University Officers’ Training Corps, where you can train to be an officer at university without being obligated to join the Army afterwards. Excited by this prospect, I began exploring the Officer Scholarship scheme in more detail. Emily Warrack (2025), who was in the year above me, proved to be a huge inspiration.

Was there a part of the process you found particularly challenging – or rewarding? The interviews were intense but quickly became engaging conversations, giving me insight into Army life. The most nervewracking part was the planning exercise: you have an hour to develop a plan from a scenario pack, then present it to a panel of captains and colonels, answering questions entirely from memory. Despite the pressure, I stayed composed, taking comfort in my preparation, as the Officers had advised.

What would be your top tip for younger girls who wish to apply for the Army Officer Scholarship? My number one recommendation is to focus on your fitness. There are three physical tests, and the required standards are provided beforehand. Your fitness is one of the few things you can control. It’s also important to practise your speed, distance and time calculations. Ultimately, just be yourself. If you’re not authentic, the selection board will see straight through it. Make sure you enjoy the process, the assault course and evenings in the mess were so fun. You’re surrounded by like-minded people, many of whom could become friends for life!

What are you most looking forward to about joining the Army? I would like to work in an organisation where service is at the core. Being in a team of people and having the honour to lead a group will be tough at times but an amazing privilege, nonetheless. For me, the Army offers the perfect blend of physical and intellectual challenge.

I’ve been incredibly lucky to have such a strong support network at Wycombe Abbey. Padre Paul has been amazing, always willing to talk through what military life is really like.

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Avyanna Wins Top Girl Trophy at UK Chess Challenge We are delighted to share the recent success of UIV pupil, Avyanna, at the UK Chess Challenge ‘Challengers’ tournament.

qualifying for the Terafinals, she delivered an exceptional performance, finishing as the top girl in her category and proudly bringing home the Top Girl Trophy.

Since being established in 1996, the UK Chess Challenge has grown into one of the largest junior chess tournaments in the world, offering young players a prestigious platform to showcase their talent.

Avyanna’s success at the UK Chess Challenge is a reflection not only of her talent, but also of her dedication and passion for the game. Balancing her academic commitments with her love of chess highlights her discipline, strategic mindset and resilience – qualities that shone through during the tournament. Her achievement is a wonderful example of the excellence and ambition we nurture at Wycombe Abbey.

In the highly competitive U14 category, featuring approximately 40 skilled players, Avyanna demonstrated remarkable talent and composure throughout the demanding tournament. Though she narrowly missed

12km Charity Run

n the first Closed Weekend of the Summer Term, a 12km charity run was hosted in support of our School charities, Build On Books and Young Deaf Activities. This marks the second year of the event, following last year’s successful run in aid of Mary’s Meals. Build On Books is a UK charity that works mainly in Sierra Leone, improving education and living conditions by building schools, providing books and learning resources, and supporting access to clean water. Young Deaf Activities is a local charity that supports deaf young people through social events, trips, and activities where they can communicate freely and feel included. It helps to build confidence and friendships, while also raising awareness of deaf culture and reducing isolation. The aim was to complete a 12km run, either individually or as part of a group. Some runners took on the full distance themselves, while others shared it between friends. In the lead-up to the event, participants gathered sponsorship from family and friends, turning their efforts into valuable support for the charities. Throughout the afternoon, runners completed laps around the School, keeping track of their distance and encouraging each other as they worked towards the 12km goal. An excellent total of £1,235 was raised for the two charities. Thank you to all the pupils and staff who took part and made the event happen. A special mention goes to Alice (UIV), who finished first in the 12km run. With strong participation again this year, it is hoped that the charity run will continue to take place in the years ahead. Cherry, LVI

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Community Engagement Headmistresses’ Christmas Lecture: Demetra Pinsent, CEO of Charlotte Tilbury 132 Horizon Sports Club and Wycombe Abbey – A Wonderful Partnership

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Bonfire Night

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CalSoc with Eton

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Global Celebration Week

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World Book Day

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Dove Day 2026

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Foundation Office Report

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One Year On …

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Surprise Staff Pantomime!

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House Reports

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Junior House

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Airlie

147

Barry

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Butler

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Campbell

152

Cloister

155

Pitt

156

Rubens

159

Shelburne

160

Wendover

163

Clarence

164

Staff Leavers

166

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Headmistresses’ Christmas Lecture: Demetra Pinsent, CEO of Charlotte Tilbury

n Friday 29 November, we were delighted to welcome Demetra Pinsent, CEO of beauty brand Charlotte Tilbury, as this year’s speaker for our annual Headmistress’ Christmas Lecture. UVI pupils, Todi and Eliza, shared their thoughts on the evening: ‘The whole auditorium was captivated by Demetra’s inspiring speech, as she reflected on her teenage aspirations to become a surgeon, her work as a management consultant and finally her leadership of Charlotte Tilbury since its inception in 2012. From finding a niche in the highly competitive beauty market to navigating day-to-day challenges, it was enlightening to gain insights from such an accomplished and ambitious businesswoman. With energy and eloquence, Demetra demonstrated the importance of unapologetically pursuing one’s passions and finding the courage to take risks in the face of uncertainty.

We came away from the talk with a profound sense of admiration for the dedication that goes into creating the beauty products that many of us know and love. But more importantly, we were encouraged to embrace opportunities with curiosity, openness and confidence – advice that we’ll carry into our professional lives. In all, it was a remarkable evening, and we are truly grateful to Demetra Pinsent and the Wycombe Abbey staff who organised it.’ Following her talk, pupils had the opportunity to ask Demetra questions and engage in discussion. The talk made a significant impression, inspiring reflections on ambition, resilience and leadership.

Horizon Sports Club and Wycombe Abbey – A Wonderful Partnership

he partnership between Horizon Sports Club and Wycombe Abbey provides valuable support for local families, offering a safe and inclusive space for children and families. The swimming sessions, hosted at the School, are specifically designed to provide a welcoming space for children and young adults who might otherwise struggle in loud or busy environments. For many participants, this programme has become a ‘lifeline’ for families who had previously lost hope that their children would ever be able to enjoy the water or learn to swim. By providing a supportive environment, Horizon allows children with a variety of needs to learn a lifesaving skill while having fun. One parent shared: ‘Sebastian’s been a member of Horizon for the last six years and swims once a week at

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Wycombe Abbey. His fitness has improved 100% and he loves his swimming. This is a vital fitness activity that we hope he will continue to pursue for the rest of his life.’ Beyond the physical benefits of swimming, the programme focuses heavily on social connection. One Horizon parent shared a touching tribute to the programme’s impact on her daughter, who often finds it difficult to connect with peers her own age: ‘It’s not just the achievement of doing something new or becoming better at something, it is the friendship that makes the time so important to her,’ the parent explained, adding that the experience, ‘teaches her that people enjoy being with her. That connection is priceless.’ The success of these sessions relies on a dedicated team of supporters. Pupil volunteers from Wycombe Abbey play

a crucial role by providing support in the pool, which gives members the opportunity to meet new people and practise new communication skills. The organisation also extended a special thank you to Hazel, described as ‘truly amazing,’ whose hard work and constant smile are credited with making the classes possible for every family.

Bonfire Night

n 5 November, the Wycombe Abbey grounds came alive as family, friends, and pupils gathered for our much-anticipated Bonfire Night. The event was a wonderful opportunity for the School community to come together and enjoy one of the most spectacular traditions of the season, with over 2,000 guests attending to celebrate together. Festivities began with the eagerly awaited Guy competition, where LIV pupils showcased their creativity with an array of imaginative designs. This year’s entries were outstanding, but Cloister House led the way with their brilliant Mike from Monsters Inc. Guy, earning them first place. Airlie claimed second with a charming Gruffalo Guy, while Barry and Pitt shared third place with their impressive Megamind and Lego Man creations. Inside Big School, the atmosphere was vibrant, as visitors explored House charity stalls, offering raffles, face painting and even handmade Christmas decorations, all in support of worthy causes. Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, we raised an impressive amount for charity, reflecting the spirit of Wycombe Abbey. The total figure raised for our elected charities this year was in excess of £7,250.

As darkness fell, everyone assembled outside the Abbey for an incredible fireworks display that really was the highlight of the night. The spectacular show was met with cheers and smiles and provided a breath-taking conclusion to an unforgettable evening. A massive thank you to everyone who attended and to all who contributed to make the evening a success. Your support and participation truly embody the spirit of our community. We hope everyone had a brilliant time and look forward to welcoming you to future celebrations. Mr Nick Woods Deputy Head (Strategy and International)

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CalSoc with Eton I

n the heart of January, our Caledonian Society hosted its much anticipated Burns Night Ball with Eton College.

With around a hundred Sixth Formers filling Big School, the evening commenced with the iconic address to the haggis, carried ceremoniously to the evocative sound of bagpipes. Pupils reflected that the moment ‘kicked the evening off with a lively tone and got us into the spirit for the dances to come.’ From there, dance cards were filled at speed, before pupils and their visiting peers from Eton took to the floor. Accompanied by the superb Craigievar Ceilidh Band, guests moved through an impressive repertoire of traditional dances: The Dashing White Sergeant, Eightsome Reel, Duke of Perth, Gay Gordons, the Reel of the 51st, and the always electrifying Strip the Willow. As two sixth formers, Mati and Louise, shared, the evening was ‘filled with laughs and some mal-coordinated moves,’ adding that spending time with their Eton partners proved ‘extremely enjoyable and entertaining.’ Mrs Antonia McNeill Caledonian Society Coordinator

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Global Celebration Week

lobal Celebration Week was an opportunity for us to celebrate the wonderful diversity that shapes our School community. From the International Fair to themed lessons, pupils and staff enjoyed learning about different cultures and traditions from around the world.

‘Global citizenship means having a group of people who feel like family to me, even though we aren’t related, and experiencing a real sense of belonging within a community. Mine is Wycombe Abbey. It also reflects how the kindness shown by others brings us closer together until those friends feel like sisters.’ Fifi (UIII)

Throughout the week, interactive displays encouraged everyone to reflect on their global connections. A map of the world, located in the Glass Box, Health and Wellbeing Centre and Staffroom, invited pupils and staff to place a sticker on a location that holds personal significance. Alongside this, graffiti boards provided spaces for creative expression, where individuals could draw, write and answer the question: ‘What does global citizenship mean to you?’

‘Global citizenship means showing responsibility and kindness to others and helping to create a fairer world. It involves recognising that everyone needs to feel part of a community and taking action on global issues such as inequality and human rights, so that we can build stronger relationships with the people around us.’ Martha (UIII)

UIII pupils shared what global citizenship means to them:

At the International Fair, pupils representing 17 different nations set up beautifully crafted stands in Big School, each offering a taste of their culture through traditional foods, games and quizzes. Stalls included: India, where pupils offered beautiful mehndi designs; France, where visitors tackled a

language quiz and French tonguetwisters to win handmade pastries; and Thailand where Thai tea was on offer! Another highlight was the House Doorway Decoration Competition, where each House designed a piece of artwork to represent the diversity and shared identity found within their community. The results were: 1st Place – Cloister 2nd Place – Butler 3rd Place – Pitt Well done to everyone who contributed to these creative and meaningful displays. A huge thank you to the staff and pupil EDI Committees for organising such a successful and enriching week of activities. Global Celebration Week was a wonderful reminder of the international links that shape our community and the cultures that enrich our School life.

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e had a wonderful week of celebrations for World Book Day! While many of our pupils regularly spend time reading for pleasure, it is always important to celebrate our reading culture and promote the joy of reading.

As always, it was fantastic to see so many pupils and staff dressed up on World Book Day. The costumes were all amazing and it was lovely to see the effort that everyone had made. The UV year group costume seems to be becoming an annual event and I enjoyed seeing many of Clarence dressed up as Where’s Wally characters as well.

Our celebrations began with the everpopular Scholastic Book Fair. Whole classes of pupils visited during their English lessons and the Book Fair was popular at break and tea too! This year, we will again be donating our commission to a local primary school to enable them to buy new books for their school library. We are thrilled that so many of our pupils have bought books and have therefore helped us to give back to the local community.

The School’s enthusiasm was wonderful to see and it has reminded us all again of the true power of a good book. Mrs Hannah Rogers-Green Head of Libraries

On World Book Day itself, I spoke in Chapel about my own reading journey, the joy I find in reading and the ways in which books shape our lives. I hope my talk inspired some of our pupils to read some of the many books that I mentioned. Cosy Day was back in Fisher Library by popular demand and it was delightful to see so many pupils enjoying some quiet time to read, with a hot chocolate in hand!

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With a wonderful programme of events and a palpable sense of excitement throughout the day, it was a fitting way to end another School year.

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Dove Day 2026:

Celebrating an excellent year at Wycombe Abbey

ove Day 2026 yet again proved a joyful occasion, celebrating all that makes the School such a vibrant and supportive place. With a wonderful programme of events and a palpable sense of excitement throughout the day, it was a fitting way to end another School year. Guests enjoyed exploring a wide range of displays in Big School, from the DT exhibition and Duke of Edinburgh Award stand to the fascinating archival collection. The Performing Arts Centre hosted the GCSE and A level Art Exhibition, where pupils’ work demonstrated exceptional talent and originality. Meanwhile, Fisher Library provided an intimate setting for pupils to perform a selection of LAMDA pieces that reflected their dedication and confidence.

One of the day’s most eagerly anticipated events was the raft racing on the lake. Following its successful return to Dove Day last year, it was wonderful to see House teams competing with their characteristic enthusiasm in their House rafts, drawing cheers and laughter from spectators lining the banks. Congratulations to Rubens who took the win! The ever-popular Charity Dog Show added further charm, welcoming a delightful array of canine participants while raising funds for the School’s chosen charities. At lunchtime, families, pupils and staff gathered in House marquees to enjoy picnics accompanied by lively music from the Stage Band ahead of their Music Tour to Belgium in the summer. The afternoon continued with much-loved sibling races,

where younger visitors eagerly took part, followed by the fiercely contested tug-ofwar, which brought out both determination and humour in equal measure. The day concluded with the 2026 Review Show, a vibrant showcase of highlights from this year’s Music, Dance and Drama performances. It was a fitting finale, celebrating the creativity, talent and enthusiasm of Wycombe Abbey pupils, and a true celebration of community spirit. Our sincere thanks go to all those whose dedication and hard work made the day such a success. Mr Nick Woods Director of Strategy and International

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Foundation Office Report T

his year marked an important milestone for the School with the launch of the Wycombe Abbey Foundation Office. Bringing together the Seniors community and philanthropic fundraising under one function, the Foundation Office has been established to develop and grow our philanthropic efforts, deepening relationships across the Wycombe Abbey community and securing the support that will enable the School to flourish for generations to come. It has been a tremendously encouraging year on the philanthropic front. Our second Giving Day on 12–13 March raised over £200,000 from more than 300 donors across our community, a remarkable show of generosity that will make a real difference. Funds raised will support bursaries for talented pupils who could not otherwise attend Wycombe Abbey, and contribute to the renovation of the East Wing of the Abbey, which will house a new suite of spaces for our Sixth Form girls.

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It has also been a busy year for our Seniors. Alumnae gathered for Seniors Drinks and for milestone reunions marking forty and ten years since leaving School. The beloved Seniors lacrosse match was reinstated in March, and we were delighted to host a brand-new Carols event in Hong Kong, extending our community’s reach across the world. If you would like to find out more about the School’s philanthropic priorities, or are interested in supporting Wycombe Abbey, whether through giving, volunteering your time, or simply reconnecting with the School, we would love to hear from you. You can contact us at foundation@wycombeabbey.com. Every act of support truly matters. Mrs Alice Edwards (Foundation Director – Philanthropy) and Mrs Kate Thomas (Foundation Director – Alumnae Relations)

One Year On …

ooking back for the last time at the Abbey and the marquees bustling with activity during Dove Day, I found myself overwhelmed with emotion. Suddenly, it became all too real that I would not be coming back in September for First Morning and starting a whole new year. I’d be somewhere entirely different, starting all over again with new routines, new people, and a new city to discover. And what a wonderful journey it has been. Edinburgh has made it easy for me to settle in with its old, cobbled streets, breath-taking craigs, and the incredible company I have been fortunate enough to find along the way. From the moment I asked directions upon arriving at Waverley station, a friendly local gave me a welcoming feeling, and I felt a cosy ambience which would continue to comfort me throughout the year. My first Sunday morning I decided to head for Arthur’s Seat, an ancient hill clearly visible from my window. Scaling the steep path, almost in tears to the sound of the Braveheart music, I reached the summit and its panoramic view of the whole city. It was a seminal moment as I gazed over locations that would soon become so familiar, and I felt I had another home.

Upon reflection, I have a lot to thank my time at Wycombe Abbey for and all that it has given me. Cherished friendships from School, also maintained in Edinburgh, have continued to support me and values not just stated on a shield, but lived day to day, year by year as we grew, have stuck with me. On that last Dove Day, I just couldn’t picture life could continue in such a way. But it did! Frances Balkan-White Head of School 2024/2025

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Surprise Staff Pantomime!

ecember 2025 saw the return of the Surprise Staff Pantomime for the pupils of Wycombe Abbey to enjoy. For our fourth production, we presented the tale of Mary Poppins: The Panto, which was performed with a cast of nearly 80 members of staff. Mrs Tidbury took on the lead role as Mary Poppins and was indeed practically perfect in every way. Mr George was the perfect foil to her whimsy with his inspired performance as Mr Banks, a fractious and short-tempered father to Jane (Mrs Woodward) and Michael (Mrs Blunt), a memorable dynamic duo. The story of Mary Poppins is about reuniting a fractured family. Mary Poppins, and Bert, the charming cockney chimney sweep (Mr Harrington), work together to remind Mr and Mrs Banks (the brilliant Mrs Maddison) that there is joy and purpose to be found within their family, if only they take the time to stop and look, or maybe even fly a kite together. Thank you to the entire cast and crew who made this panto particularly spellbinding. Miss Cat Hoyle (Director) Housemistress – Rubens

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Thank you to the entire cast and crew who made this panto particularly spellbinding.

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HOUSE REPORTS A

s their first year at Wycombe Abbey comes to a close and we reflect on all the lovely memories we have created, we must also take this time to celebrate how well the Junior House girls have settled in. It is often underestimated how scary moving into a whole new environment is, and we are immensely proud of how far these amazing girls have come. We have got to know the year group well and enjoyed organising activities aimed at creating an environment where UIIIs could socialise and relax. One of the three main aims of the outgoing Head Girl Team was kindness, and we strove to embed this into every activity we hosted, fostering an environment that allowed the girls to feel confident approaching us whenever they needed a helping hand. We hosted fashion shows, games, and other fun activities to help the girls settle in. Our first Takeover Thursday activity was a Quiz Night where all the girls joined together with their dorm to engage in some friendly competition as they answered questions ranging from ‘How many Senior Houses does Wycombe Abbey have?’ to ‘Who is the most listened

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to singer on Spotify?’ During Halloween, the Lower School prefects joined in decorating pumpkins with Junior House girls, coming up with intricate spooky designs to display around the House. As the Summer Term approached and the evenings became longer, one of the highlights was playing outside on the swings and enjoying ice lollies as a post-dinner treat. The Junior House girls have accomplished so much this year outside of the classroom; they have created so many new friendships.

Junior House Junior House has always known how to rise to an occasion, and this year has been filled with special moments that demonstrate just this. It all began at the Wendover Woods picnic, but those tentative first conversations have grown into the flowing laughter that fills Junior House every day. The Carol Service felt equally special this year, a beautifully orchestrated event that

brought together both the girls and their families. The Lower School Quiz, brilliantly organised by the Lower School prefects, was another highlight of the year. The event was fast-paced and fun, allowing collaboration between UIII and LIV. As well as this, the girls have grown in confidence when taking to the stage for both the UIII play and House Singing, which were particularly memorable moments. However, most of all, it has been wonderful to see Junior House connect with the wider School through the Senior House suppers and picnics. These events have given girls the opportunity to integrate with staff and pupils who will be by their side as they transition to their Senior Houses. As Heads of Junior House this year, we feel so grateful for all these moments. We are proud of the way the girls have grown to support each other and the confidence with which they throw themselves into every opportunity. Junior House has truly thrived this year and we cannot wait to see this year group step into their Senior Houses in September. Sia and Lucia Heads of Junior House

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Collaborating with the Heads of Campbell (Marta and Isla), we’ve introduced an exciting ongoing competition between the two sister Houses

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he past five years in Airlie have been unforgettable for our LVI. Having lived together side by side since LIV, Airlie has felt like our second family. Our nightly movie marathons and the array of foods we’ve pioneered in our common room will be dearly missed by all of us and are some things all the younger girls can look forward to.

Our roles as Heads of House have been extremely rewarding and we are so grateful for this opportunity. Working alongside Mrs Garcia and Miss Calder, we have learnt lots about collaboration and teamwork. We now recognise how much hard work goes on behind the scenes, giving us a greater appreciation for the House staff. This year has been full of memorable activities and events for Airlie: from our Glitter and Gold themed House Dinner, where we connected with the wider Airlie community, to going to slightly terrifying escape rooms, where we tested our logical thinking. There is always something

going on in Airlie: whether it’s Greek salad on Tuesdays, Nacho Fridays, or House Mafia. The true highlight through it all, however, is the undoubting smiles of the younger girls.

colour). Another mark we have left is a scrapbook documenting all the fun we have had this year, hopefully something that we can look back on in later years. A special part of the scrapbook goes to the birth of Dr Tsaknaki’s daughter, Ismene, our newest Airlie girl.

Airlie

Collaborating with the Heads of Campbell (Marta and Isla), we’ve introduced an exciting ongoing competition between the two sister Houses. This included a series of activities such as dodgeball, a general knowledge quiz, a football tournament, and an upcoming game of rounders.

Something that we are extremely proud of is how our year group has stepped up in our roles in Mons. Just to name a few, our Charity Captain, Elaine, ran our bake sale and Bonfire Night stall very smoothly, and our amazing House Conductor, Georgie, led us through House Shout and House Ensemble. We’ve also welcomed our new mascot, Bearlie, this year. Airlie’s mascot was in need of a rebrand seeing as our last one was a cockroach (which was probably not the best choice despite also being brown in

We would especially like to thank our other Mons, all the House staff, and every single Airlie girl for making our last year and our time in this House everything we could have asked for and more. We want to thank you for trusting us as Heads of House and we are immensely grateful for the friendships and memories we have made in Airlie! Chloe (Head of House) and Isabella (Deputy Head of House)

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s we round off the year, it feels like the right moment to reflect on what has been an incredible year for Barry. The final term has brought everything together, giving us the chance to celebrate the effort and spirit shown across the House. Barry has shown some real improvement in Sport, with this year’s achievements in House Games speaking for themselves: first in netball and first in tennis. These successes reflect the determination, teamwork and commitment shown by everyone involved. None of this would have been possible without the dedication and encouragement of our Sports Captains, Lucia and Rahi, who have played a huge role in bringing the House together and driving us forward in Sport this year. We were so excited for one last House Shout performance: Budapest by George Ezra, complete with a mini orchestra. Winning again genuinely came as a surprise, although that does not take away from the huge amount of hard work and enthusiasm shown by the whole House, brilliantly led by our Conductors, Abbey, Tiwonge, and Emily. It perfectly captured the spirit of Barry: enthusiastic, slightly chaotic at times, and always full of love and support for one another. Bringing home the House Music Cup was a proud moment and a testament to the commitment shown across all areas of School life, from House Ensemble to WACMF. It has also provided some much-needed company for the trophy shelf. Barry’s successes this year have certainly not been limited to music and sport. Victories in House Quiz and House Debating proved that, if nothing else, Barry girls will always have something to say and usually say it very convincingly. Whether on the stage, the sports field, or behind a buzzer, there has been an unmistakable sense of determination and togetherness in everything the House has done. We are so grateful to everyone who made Barry so lively this year. From hearing the piano drifting down the stairs to unexpected flute solos coming from the basement, you have all made Barry a bright and entertaining place to live.

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What we treasure most, though, is Barry’s sense of community, which runs through everything we do. New traditions such as Kindness Notes, House Mafia, and the Fashion Show brought everyone together and strengthened what has truly become a family atmosphere. Karaoke once again proved to be one of the highlights of the year, showcasing not only hidden musical talents (some more hidden than others), but also the genuine camaraderie within each dorm. The creativity on display never failed to impress and we certainly did not know some of you possessed such fierce catwalk walks, but what stood out most was the unwavering support behind every

Barry performance, cheer, and round of raucous applause. The same spirit appears everywhere: at debates, quizzes, and competitions, there is always a cluster of Barry girls sitting in the front row, cheering until they practically lose their voices. Bonfire Night remains one of the biggest highlights of the year. Barry’s generosity and House Spirit were evident throughout, as everyone contributed, whether through selling raffle tickets, making bracelets, or helping behind the scenes, to create a hugely successful evening that raised over £2,000, the highest total of any House.

Over the years, something else has quietly become part of Barry too: the unmistakable ‘Hurribunce DNA’. It is difficult to define exactly, but somehow everyone in Barry knows it when they feel it – the belief that kindness matters, that people should be looked after, that laughter is essential, and that House Spirit should be loud, loyal, and wholehearted. It is woven into the everyday moments that make Barry is what it is. It has also been wonderful to witness everyone’s growth this year, whether through achievements such as moving up lacrosse teams or excelling in music exams, or through quieter moments of personal development: growing confidence in chapel speeches, House Shout rehearsals, or simply becoming more comfortable in themselves. For the past five years, Barry has been our home away from home: a place filled with friendship, support, warmth, and laughter. As we prepare to move on to Clarence, we are incredibly grateful to have spent such an important part of our lives in this community. We would especially like to thank the LVI Mons – from little lights to Tuesday Takeovers, everyone has played their part – as well as the staff for their constant support and care. It has been such a privilege and joy to lead this House, and we will miss Barry dearly. Eva (Head of House) and Emily (Deputy Head of House)

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ver the past year, I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to know all of the younger girls, as it has allowed me to truly understand just how the renowned Butler House spirit is created. Every conversation, laugh and memory we share forms a strong sense of camaraderie that supports our journeys and makes Butler House a place of belonging. The fun commenced in September when the LVI welcomed each year group for hot chocolate in Mons, as a chance to catch up after the summer holidays and to meet the new LIV members of the family. November brought the highly anticipated House Dance competition, where the UIV excellently represented Butler with a Barbie-themed routine. Later in the term, our autumn-themed photo-booth on Bonfire Night successfully raised money for our School charities, and to celebrate Christmas, we concluded the term with the famous Butler BOP. Each year group was assigned a film for their costume

theme, and the staff delighted us with their Harry Potter costumes. For reference, Mrs Sunil was Professor Snape, Ms Millar was Dolores Umbridge and Ms Flavin won the prize for her impressive impersonation of Professor Trelawney. Our Spring Term began with great excitement surrounding Mrs Sunil’s baby shower, where we came together to

Butler celebrate with a baby bib decorating competition. Whilst this competitive spirit also came to light during the inaugural House Cluedo, we represented Butler in our House Chapel service, reflecting on the wonderful opportunities that we have. I am so proud to say that we ended the term on a high note in singing I Will

Survive by Gloria Gaynor for the House Shout competition, which showcased the House’s spirit and the dedication the girls so consistently give to the House. Summer Term saw fun evenings filled with activities such as bracelet making, a Just Dance competition, and a memorable visit from the Head Girl Team. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Butler staff for everything they do and for making the House such a wonderful community that we are proud to call ourselves part of. To the younger girls, on behalf of the Lower Sixth, it has been such a privilege watching each of you grow in confidence and friendship over the course of our time in Butler. It is such a special House to all of us because of each and every one of you, and we know that you will continue to uphold the extraordinary warmth of the community. Here’s to many more wonderful years ahead! Tallulah Head of House

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ampbell has always been a community full of love, laughter and creativity. This year has been no exception, and I am so grateful to be given the chance to reflect on some of the most special moments as Head of House for Campbell. Amidst the chaos of Autumn Term, brought about by new timetables and the usual scramble to readapt to the School routines, Campbell welcomed the LIVs, as well as new joiners in the UIV and LVI, who quickly settled in and integrated with the rest of the House. Motivated by the prestigious Campbell Champ Award, a weekly prize in which Campbell girls are nominated by staff or peers for notable participation in sport, music or demonstrating kindness around the House, we faced every opportunity with real enthusiasm, giving our all and earning a series of hard-won successes. Notable were, a roaring rendition of the theme tune from the film How to Train Your Dragon in the House Ensemble Competition led by our fantastic House Conductor Mia, and an amazing performance of Eye of the Tiger by the UIVs in their House Dance. That same energy continued in sport, where we fought valiantly in the House Swimming Competition and returned the

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winning cup to Campbell once again. This term also saw the introduction of termly friendly fixtures with Airlie House, the first of which was a spirited indoor dodgeball competition. As Halloween approached, we organised a pumpkin-carving competition in House families and Bonfire Night brought even more excitement, with an arcade-style stall complete with bowling and basketball-hoop

Campbell challenges. The prizes very quickly ran out as the stall proved hugely popular with pupils, parents and staff alike. Thank you to our amazing Charity Representative, Eletta, without whom the event would not have run so smoothly! Spring Term saw the return of the muchanticipated House Dinner, with performances from girls, beautiful handpainted table numbers by our House Artist, Freya, and an exclusive performance of our House Shout song Uptown Funk by Bruno

Mars, a performance which we can gladly say was nowhere near as good as our actual one on the competition day. Driven by the steely determination of our Sports Captain, Yimika, our sporting achievements this term were equally impressive. Campbell was placed second in the House Netball Competition after a very close final against Barry, and third in Lacrosse, secured after a dramatic, one-goal triumph over Pitt in the last few minutes. As our final House outing of the year, we headed to Laser Quest for an evening packed with laser tag, slushies, pizza, video games and a winning performance from Mrs Foster and Mr Russell, who ruthlessly targeted anyone brave enough to cross their path. We also led our House Chapel Service, bringing the Creation of the Universe to life in a dramatic retelling. As I near the end of my time in Campbell, I can’t help but look back on the amazing friendships, memories, victories and laughter that have made this House feel like my home for the past five years. The unmistakable resilience and energy of Campbell make me so proud to belong to this House. Marta Head of House

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The final term saw LV working hard to prepare for their House play with an amazing display of collaboration right from the very beginning of the process.

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aving looked forward to being in LVI since UIII, it’s very bittersweet to be moving on to Clarence, especially given how amazing this last year has been. Being Head and Deputy Head of House has been a huge privilege for us; we’ve witnessed first-hand the incredible spirit and community of all the girls in Cloister. The Autumn Term was full of memorable highlights. At Bonfire Night, our LIV cohort achieved first place in the Guy competition, with an innovative recreation of Monsters Inc.’s Mike Wazowski, and the House, working together, raised an impressive £1,028 selling chocolate strawberries. The success did not stop there – Vivienne, our LVI House Conductor, led Cloister to triumph, achieving first place in House Ensemble with a stirring rendition of Mystery of Love. The UIV Dance Competition also deserves a special mention, with each girl working

incredibly hard and showcasing real dedication to the performance. The Spring Term followed with just as much excitement and fun. We had an exciting House Lacrosse Funals, with Cloister reaching the final against Rubens.

Cloister Though we came second, the determination and teamwork displayed were excellent. Another favourite moment of this year was House Shout; we performed Wait for It from Hamilton, and each girl demonstrated unparalleled enthusiasm, with LIV Remi’s solo and the UV’s choreography being real highlights of the performance.

The final term saw LV working hard to prepare for their House play with an amazing display of collaboration right from the very beginning of the process. Dove Day was also a highlight, particularly the raft race after last year’s victory! Reflecting on our time in House, we are filled with so much gratitude. Cloister has been a second home for us all, providing friendship and amazing experiences. To our incredible House staff, we are so thankful for your support throughout School life. Truly, without your guidance, our time would not have been so special. We are so proud of everything Cloister has achieved this year, and we are sure that the next Head and Deputy will bring even more laughter and success to the House next year. Rosa (Head of House) and Freya (Deputy Head of House)

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he year began with the highly anticipated UIV House Dance competition, in which the UIV won a well-deserved first place with a rousing compilation from the Penguins of Madagascar. Another highlight from the Autumn Term was the LIV Guy competition, in which Pitt placed third with a very impressive, realistic Lego man – a true credit to the hours of hard work they put in. The LVI hosted the whole House in Mons for Pitt’s first-ever Halloween party, which was transformed into our very own haunted house, complete with spooky music, cobwebs and scarily dressed sixth formers. The party involved lots of treats, year group costumes and spooky party games, which everybody enjoyed! To celebrate the end of the Autumn Term, we joined together in our House families for a Christmas talent show, which was a great opportunity to showcase the many hidden talents Pitt has to offer. The Spring Term followed with just as much excitement and enthusiasm. We have really enjoyed the LVI Mons Takeover Thursday tradition, including crêpe nights, s’mores making and games nights. These are a great way to unwind after a busy day and help the whole House connect. Our annual House

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Dinner was a lovely evening, and it was great to come together as a whole community, eat delicious food and raise money for our elected School charities: Build on Books and Young Deaf Activities. Throughout the Spring Term, many nights were spent rehearsing for the annual House Singing competition. We delivered a delightful rendition of Black Magic by Little Mix,

impressed with the way the UVs have taken their first public exams in their stride. Despite every year group having its own set of summer exams, the fun in Pitt did not stop. Summer badminton proved to be extremely popular, competitive and a great way to exercise. As a House, we are super proud of Mia who was announced in Mark Reading as one of the Deputy Head Girls. This is an amazing achievement, and we are excited to see what she brings to the role.

Pitt

We would like to extend a huge thank you to all the House staff for everything they do for us, from arranging activities to all the behind-the-scenes work that ensures the House runs as smoothly as possible. Special thanks must go to Mrs Biddle, who joined Wycombe Abbey this year and has had an excellent debut as our biggest cheerleader and supporter.

featuring harmonies, choreography, and a beautiful solo from Lizzie (UIV). Despite the high standards of competition from the other Houses, we came out once again on the podium (third place) and a huge thank you must go to Allegra, our music conductor, for all her efforts in pulling this off. To round off the Spring Term, the whole House visited Carnival in High Wycombe for some highly competitive mini-golf and darts, which was thoroughly enjoyed. The Summer Term saw the LVI perform excellently in their mock examinations. As the term has gone on, we have all been so

As the LVI leave their home of five years behind, we wanted to express from the bottom of our hearts how much we have enjoyed our time here. We hope that all of the new girls love their time in Pitt as much as we have, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Annabel (Head of House) and Jocy (Deputy Head of House).

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As we enter our final year at Wycombe Abbey, leaving Rubens for Clarence, we wanted to share just how special Rubens House has been for us.

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ubens has had yet another fantastic year, with our sisterhood coloured by laughter, Percy Pigs, outstanding achievements and, of course, House spirit. We started the year with a bang, kicking off with our annual House Dinner, welcoming all our pink families to come together for a night to remember. Highlights included the traditional House Quiz and a beautiful performance of Love is an Open Door that we had prepared as a surprise. A few other highlights for Rubens this year have included winning the Lacrosse House Funals, the Halloween party, our termly dorm entertainment show and our bowling trip for House Outing. There’s also been the ever-popular weekly traditions in full swing, including Motivation Monday, Sister of the Week, Toastie Tuesdays and Fruity Fridays. These have all been lovely opportunities for the House to come together, not only to celebrate each other but also to unwind after a long day. Our House Conductors, Elisia (LVI) and Liuqing (LVI), also deserve congratulations for their musical efforts conducting our

71-person choir in a memorable recital of Madonna’s Like a Prayer. Rubens came second in House Shout, and even though we think we should have won, we are so proud of our sisters! Our Sports Captains, Ava (LVI) and Annamaria (LVI), also led the House through another year of sporting successes, especially in lacrosse. And finally, our Charity Officers, Cherry (LVI) and Amelie (LVI), deserve congratulations for collecting 1,000 tins of canned vegetables for donation to Mary’s Meals.

Rubens Rubens is also very proud to boast that our Head of Rubens, Emma (LVI), has been appointed as Deputy Head of School. Rubens can clearly claim that success runs in the fabric of our House, with Mati (LVI) being appointed as Head Girl for the School. Congratulations! Huge congratulations also go to our new Head

of House, Amelie (LVI) and Deputy Head of House, Dottie (LVI), for a spectacular way to round off their Rubens journey. As we enter our final year at Wycombe Abbey, leaving Rubens for Clarence, we wanted to share just how special Rubens House has been for us, not only over the past 12 months, but throughout the five years we have had the privilege of calling this Senior House ‘home’. Rubens has really become a pillar in our lives, and whilst it is always bittersweet to say goodbye, we’ll forever cherish the friendships and memories we’ve made here. So, on behalf of the entire House, we wanted to say a huge thank you to all of the Rubens staff. We’ve genuinely loved every single moment, and it would not have been possible without the care, time, and effort that they all put into making every moment special. We are so incredibly proud of our House and our bright pink community of amazing people. We are also so proud to be Miss Hoyle’s ‘precious piglets’. Amelie (Head of House) and Dottie (Deputy Head of House)

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he Shelburne girls have continued to be victorious in work and play this year. We have consistently placed in the top three for the Commendation Shield and reached the semi-finals for the Inter-House Quiz. Congratulations to our talented team for their determination! We were delighted to win the Sports Cup at the end of the Spring Term and hope to maintain our top position. Thank you to our Sports Captain, Stella, for all her organisation and hard work.

artistic skills during our face-painting stall at Bonfire Night, and raised £360 – a fantastic result. A special thanks to our Charity Representatives, Stella and Ivanka.

In music, we performed The Winner Takes It All by ABBA for House Ensemble in the Autumn Term. Everyone truly put their all into our House Singing this year, where we performed Candy by Robbie Williams. A massive thank you to Viki and Prim, our House Conductors, for their talent and effort.

Shelburne

At the start of the Summer Term, we had our House Chapel Service, thoughtfully written by our Sacristan and School Almoner, Dara. It was a delightful service with so many of our girls volunteering to speak to the School. We also had a wonderful time this year practising our

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This year, each year group has made us proud at the various Inter-House events: our LIVs created Tom from Tom and Jerry for the House Guy competition, complete with a frying pan! UIV choreographed a dance inspired by the movie Rio in the

House Dance competition, and LV retold Toy Story from the perspective of Sid for their House Play. LVI hosted each year group in our Mons common room for a hot chocolate and chat with the younger years. We also greatly enjoyed organising the traditional activities after Christmas Lunch, including Guess the Song and the Fourth Form mini play. Well done to UV, who have handled their GCSEs so well!

The ever-popular Trü Frü activity has remained strong this year, along with Daws Hill Rounders and Flippin’ Friday crêpes. As Heads of House, Viki and I introduced a time capsule, where every girl wrote a letter to her future self and filled a box with photos and memories. This will be returned to them once they reach LVI. In the Summer Term, we’ve been holding Day Boarder teas at School on a halftermly basis as an opportunity for the whole House to gather and spend time together with our Day Boarders. We’ve also introduced a House Scrapbook to be passed around the dorms and decorated by the girls, showcasing life and the memorable events we will look back on fondly. We were also very excited for our House Dinner, which included a traditional BBQ and family rounders. An enormous thank you to our House staff, Mrs Phillips, Miss Tay, Mrs Penfold, Mrs Wilson, and Miss Jones, for their time and effort supporting us both academically and during activities they hold for us; you truly make Shelburne a home to love. Zara Head of House

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The Spring Term was equally exciting and successful for Wendover. A major highlight was House Singing, where everyone showed tremendous enthusiasm, spirit, and dedication.

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endover has had an exceptionally splendid and eventful School year, filled with memorable activities and achievements. We began the Autumn Term with our weekly Takeover Thursdays where Lower Sixth pupils organised fun activities such as pancake making and Mario Kart tournaments, helping to strengthen relationships across year groups. We also created a House Scrapbook to capture all the special memories made along the way. We had great success at Bonfire Night, where Wendover raised the secondhighest amount of money and won the Best Charity Stall award, reflecting the incredible teamwork and effort of everyone involved. Another memorable highlight was House Dance. With the theme of movies, the UIVs chose Trolls, perfectly capturing the film’s exuberant spirit with their bright red, pointy wigs and energetic performance. One of the standout moments of the term was the annual House Ensemble competition, where we performed Halo by Beyoncé. The rehearsals and performance were

incredibly enjoyable and brought the House together. To round off the term, we held our much-anticipated Christmas traditions, including the LIVs decorating the Christmas tree and our delicious Christmas lunch.

Wendover The Spring Term was equally exciting and successful for Wendover. A major highlight was House Singing, where everyone showed tremendous enthusiasm, spirit, and dedication. We were also incredibly proud to win the House Commendation Shield, recognising the hard work and excellence of Wendover pupils throughout the term! Alongside these, the House continued to host fun activities, continuing our Takeover Thursday activities with special Galentine’s and Chinese New Year celebrations. We ended the term with House innings where we took part in a sushi-making class. We all had so much fun

spending time with each other and unwinding after a hectic, but exciting, term. As we moved into the Summer Term, the energy and House spirit continued. Takeover Thursday was replaced with weekly rounders in the Daws Hill courtyard. This always brings out everyone’s competitive side, with pupils from across all three Houses participating and enthusiastically supporting one another. We also enjoyed end-of-year activities and celebrations, such as Dove Day, making the most of our final term together. Our House Outing laser tag trip added even more excitement and laughter to an already unforgettable year. It is hard to believe that this is the Lower Sixth’s last term in Wendover. The memories we have made and the community in Wendover have been nothing short of extraordinary. We will undoubtedly miss the staff and pupils in Wendover and will continue to extend our unwavering support for them from Clarence! Madeleine Head of House

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s UVI pupils have progressed through this academic year, everyone has consistently demonstrated a mix of commitment, independence, and resilience, all the while sharing many laughs along the way! The transition into our new living arrangements in Clarence brought its own challenges back in September, yet everyone quickly adapted; learning how to cook together, sharing meals, and even navigating the realities of doing our own laundry (with the occasional ‘grey-ish’ sock). These manageable, everyday responsibilities have played a key role in preparing us all for life beyond Wycombe. The Autumn Term was filled with a wide range of exciting experiences. One early highlight was the annual tradition of Treat or Treat with the UIII pupils, which brought energy and laughter, and sparked new inter-year connections. Movie nights in the Clarence Common Room and Sixth Form cafés on Friday nights continued to be a staple of UVI life, offering a muchneeded break from academic work. Our Christmas afternoon tea and evening House Party were other standout

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moments, filled with festive spirit which was only enhanced by the return of the surprise Staff Panto. However, our extreme enthusiasm at our final carol practice resulted in many lost voices by the end: a testament to our energy, commitment and volume en masse!

Clarence Whilst mock examinations lurked on the horizon as we entered the Spring Term, there was still plenty of fun to be had. The Clarence Chairs organised hampers to keep spirits up, including the special Galentines edition featuring chocolatecovered strawberries and fake champagne, which brought a sense of fun and warmth at just the right time of the year. Our mock examinations demonstrated the determination and maturity within the year group, with us all supporting one another through revision. The hard work was worth it for our Après-Mocks party, which was filled with some questionable karaoke

and provided a well-earned opportunity for everyone to unwind, laugh, and enjoy time together. We rounded off a busy term with our final House Outing to the Everyman Cinema where we saw How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days: a classic film! One of the most emotional moments of the year came during our last House Singing event, where we sang When I Grow Up from the musical Matilda. It marked not only the end of our participation in a much-loved Wycombe Abbey tradition, but also the closing of a chapter that has meant so much to us all. Clarence Leavers’ brought both the year and our journey at Wycombe Abbey to a close in true UVI fashion – full of laughter, dancing, and more tears than expected. It was a celebration not only of our achievements, but of friendships, growth, and shared memories. Our year in Clarence has been our best yet. What has stood out most is how consistently everyone has supported one another, demonstrating compassion, resilience, and a sense of community and friendship that will remain long after we leave Wycombe Abbey. Gabriella Chairman of Clarence

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Staff Leavers Gema Christian Teacher of Modern Languages

ema joined Wycombe Abbey in 2001 and leaves us after an impressive quarter-century of service. She has seen many changes in her time here, but has remained a constant presence in the Modern Languages department, beloved by several generations of Wycombe Abbey pupils who have been inspired by her high expectations. When Seniors return to School, they love to catch up with Señora Christian, and they treat her like a celebrity. Gema cares profoundly about her pupils’ learning and encourages them to strive for excellence. She takes great pride in upholding the School’s values and rules but also knows how to share a joke with the class. She is an extremely caring, knowledgeable and genuine teacher, who knows and understands her girls well as individuals, whilst also being able to deliver an appropriate reality check when needed to set them on the right path. Her high standards ensure that no pupil is left behind, and they leave achieving their full potential.

Her contribution extends far beyond the classroom, and she must have attended more School trips than any other member of staff, many of which have been to Spain and France. She also joined in willingly with Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, where she set a fast pace. Recently, she has made several guest appearances in the Cookery Room, at Open Mornings, for cross-curricular events and at evening Cookery Club, where she has inspired the girls to make (and eat!) authentic Spanish recipes such as tortilla española, paella, arroz con leche, gazpacho and arepas. We will also never forget her performances

in the Staff pantomimes, not to mention her dance in the Staff Strictly show, highly acclaimed by the girls. Gema has been described as a Wycombe Abbey icon on more than one occasion. She has been a deeply committed and passionate member of the community for many years, sharing her experience and wisdom generously, and this will be greatly missed by both pupils and staff alike. We wish her a well-deserved and very happy retirement. Miss Emily Boswell Deputy Head (Academic)

Sharon George Teacher of Chemistry

haron George joined the School in September 2001 and, over the past 25 years, has become a much-loved and deeply valued member of both the Chemistry Department and the wider School community. As a Barry House tutor and, since 2019, a dedicated Sixth Form tutor, Sharon has supported pupils with kindness, wisdom and genuine care, always giving her time so generously to those around her. A true fountain of knowledge, Sharon’s passion and expertise in Chemistry are second to none. She is known not only for her excellent teaching, but also for her outstanding practical skills, famously being the only member of the Department who can reliably make the fountain experiment work! Her beautiful handwriting, detailed scientific drawings and meticulous attention to detail have always been admired by colleagues and pupils alike.

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Beyond the classroom, Sharon has been an invaluable member of the Exams Office team, where her precision, calmness and reliability have been much appreciated. Above all, it is Sharon’s warmth and unwavering support for others that will be missed most dearly. As Sharon retires to begin the wonderful new chapter of caring for her grandsons, we thank her for her extraordinary

contribution to the School and wish her every happiness for the future. Mrs Antonia McNeill Head of Chemistry

Shemila Mirza Teacher of Mathematics

t the end of this academic year, we say farewell to Shemila, whose association with Wycombe Abbey began in September 1999 when she joined to cover a one-term maternity leave. Fortunately for the School and the Maths Department, that brief appointment marked the start of a long and outstanding contribution. Shemila went on to teach part-time for the next ten years. After the birth of her youngest daughter, she continued teaching whilst also providing 1:1 Maths support to many pupils. All benefitted greatly from her patience and expertise. A deeply valued colleague, Shemila has always been generous with her time, offering advice and encouragement to those around her. Many newer teachers have benefitted from her calm, thoughtful guidance. A true team player, she was always willing to contribute, whether producing beautifully presented model

solutions, supporting Maths Challenges, or tackling admin, bringing warmth and humour to every task. Her enthusiasm for School life was perhaps best seen in the Wycombe Abbey Staff Talent Show, where she took to the stage dancing to Where Is the Love? – a performance fondly remembered by many. In the classroom, Shemila will be remembered for her clarity, meticulous notes and genuine care for each pupil. When covering a lesson, her classes would often comment that ‘she was the best Maths teacher ever’.

Shemila will be greatly missed; not only for her skill and dedication, but also for her warmth and friendship. We thank her for her many years of service and wish her every happiness in the future. Dr Iain Wallwork Head of Mathematics

Claire Leong Director of Global Links

laire Leong has played a pivotal role in shaping our Global Links programme, creating meaningful opportunities for pupils and staff to connect with leading schools around the world. Alongside strengthening existing partnerships, she established our first pupil exchanges with Greenwich Academy in Connecticut and with Mussoorie International School and Welham Girls’ School in India. Claire has also explored exciting new avenues for collaboration, helping us to engage more purposefully with our growing family of international schools. Throughout her time with us, she has championed the value of global citizenship, inspiring pupils and colleagues alike to appreciate and understand different cultures. Her clarity of vision and genuine belief in the importance of internationalism have left a lasting impression.

We are immensely grateful for all she has contributed in her time at Wycombe Abbey and send her our very best wishes for the future. Mr Nick Woods Deputy Head (Strategy and International)

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Kay Williams Head of Art

ay joined Wycombe Abbey as Head of Art in September 2018. She had already retired once but she couldn’t resist a job at Wycombe Abbey when it came up! From the very beginning, she brought her own sense of fun to the Art Department, creating a strong team around her and revitalising the curriculum. She strongly believed in encouraging all girls, ‘arty’ or not, to have a go and try something new, and she introduced a lot of new media to the department, which had traditionally focused on painting. She also oversaw Cookery and this was an area which developed tremendously during her time in post, with an updated Leiths course for Sixth Formers, and greater opportunities for younger pupils too, both for curriculum cookery and as a co-curricular club. Kay brings great positivity to everything she does. The Art department is always abuzz with activities and Kay made sure that the rooms were available for pupils to use well into the evenings and at weekends. Kay’s experience as a senior examiner has also been of great benefit to us, ensuring that she was completely on top of exam board requirements and could really help pupils to focus their work to gain maximum marks. She re-wrote the

Art scheme of work every summer as it would be far too ‘boring’ just to do the same thing year after year. She truly embodies the spirit of innovation. Outside the department, Kay joined in countless trips and loved making crosscurricular links. On the pastoral side, she was a much-loved tutor for many years in Pitt, joining in countless House outings and other activities.

Kay now leaves us for (her second) retirement, after an amazing teaching career of 45 years. She is never one to stand still and we know that she will involve herself in lots of exciting new ventures back in her Yorkshire homeland. We will miss her love of sunflowers, her well-stocked tuck drawer and her catchphrase ‘shine a light’! We wish her all the very best for the future. Miss Emily Boswell Deputy Head (Academic)

Simon Bannister Head of Geography

imon joined Wycombe Abbey in April 2023 as Head of Geography. He was a highly enthusiastic teacher, inspiring many pupils to take the subject at GCSE. He was keen to introduce trips for younger pupils and he jointly led a trip to the Bay of Naples with the Classics Department. More widely, he contributed to several wholeschool projects such as digital developments and revision strategies, and he was a tutor in both Campbell and Pitt houses. We wish him well for the future. Miss Emily Boswell Deputy Head (Academic)

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Marie Millwood Teacher of English

arie joined Wycombe Abbey three years ago as a member of the English department. Joining as an ECT, Marie exhibited an impressive eagerness to learn from more experienced teachers throughout the School, developing into a confident practitioner who was particularly adept at differentiating her approach and providing individualised support. Within the English Department, she became the standout expert in Young Adult fiction, undertaking extensive reading in pursuit of the next novel for LIV study. She has been a constant presence at in-School events and on theatre trips, graciously giving her time to enrich the experience of pupils. Members of the School’s Christian Society have benefited from her nurturing

leadership, while she has been a faithful member of the staff prayer group. She takes up an exciting opportunity at The Chalfonts Independent Grammar School, where she will no doubt thrive and make a lasting impact on the lives of many. Mr Sam Lenton Head of English

Susannah Morrisby Teacher of English

usannah has had a phenomenal four years at Wycombe Abbey, making an outstanding contribution to the success of the English Department. It is rare to encounter an ECT who is so naturally gifted, exhibiting an aptitude for teaching far exceeding that expected of someone at such an early stage of their career. With a maturity beyond her years and a calm, composed and compassionate manner, Susannah thrived since the moment she first stepped foot in the building, excelling as a dearly loved teacher, and Wendover House tutor who has undoubtedly impacted the lives of many for the better. Susannah supported pupils to achieve outstanding exam results, yet her contributions have always stretched beyond the classroom, whether she is coordinating curriculum developments, organising theatre trips or serving as Head of Libraries (maternity cover). If there was an English event or trip taking place, there is a very good chance that Susannah was there,

eagerly seizing the opportunity to enrich pupils’ experience of literature. She leaves to inspire pupils in her homeland of Northern Ireland, assuming a muchdeserved promotion to the role of Second in English, a position she will no doubt flourish in. Mr Sam Lenton Head of English

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James Bamforth Teacher of Classics

ames joined Wycombe Abbey in September 2024 as a Teacher of Classics and has been a valuable addition to the department. From introducing his UIII classes to the joys of the Greek alphabet and encouraging their creativity through the Ovid competition, to supporting his UVI Classical Civilisation class with their essays on Cicero and the fall of the Roman Republic, he has approached all of his lessons with a clear passion for the ancient world. Even though he has only been here for two years, James’s impact will be lasting, and he will be missed by pupils and colleagues alike. He has made some excellent changes to the UIV Classical Civilisation scheme of work by introducing a focus on literature, such as reading Euripides’ Bacchae and Virgil’s Aeneid. His History Enrichment Lecture on Greek religion was thought-provoking and compelling, delivered with his characteristic energy and enthusiasm.

He leaves to have a ‘gap year’ travelling all over the world, and we look forward to hearing all about his next adventures. We would like to thank James for all his hard work with the Department (and with cryptic crosswords!); we have been very lucky to have benefitted from his wisdom! Miss Tara Strange Head of Classics (Maternity Cover)

Nick Atkinson Examinations Officer

ick joined Wycombe Abbey in April 2014 and was thrown in at the deep end running the public examinations that summer. He quickly settled into the role ensuring that everything went smoothly. His calm, confident manner set an excellent tone and enabled him to quickly gain the respect of the pupils. During his time here he coped admirably with all that was required of him and more, including running exams in the Sports Hall to allow for social distancing following the aftermath of COVID and dealing with a swan repeatedly tapping on the window of an exam room. He has moved office several times and has always taken that in his stride. He will be remembered fondly by the pupils for many reasons, including reading the JCQ regulations at the beginning of every exam. He always did this with a smile and with a clarity and sense of calm that put pupils at ease at the start of their exams.

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He built up an excellent team of invigilators who thoroughly enjoyed working for him. He trained them professionally but found the time to deal with each of them individually and, as a result, they always gave their best. Nick will be greatly missed. We wish him the best for the future and hope that he enjoys his retirement by the sea. Mr Matt Welch Director of Curriculum Management

We also say farewell to Yinghua Han (Visiting Teacher of Chinese, ten years’ service) and Xiu Pan (Visiting Teacher of Chinese, nine years’ service) for their dedication to language learning; Laura Flores (Visiting Teacher of French, 13 years’ service); Mireille Lavollee (Teacher of French, Fixed Term since 2023); Mavis Edwards (Domestic Assistant, 18 years’ service), who has served our boarding Houses with great care since joining in 2008; Emma Spurrell (Science Technician, 17 years’ service); Colin De’Ath (Carpenter, 14 years’ service), who has brought valued expertise and specialism to the Estates team; and Sue Waghorn (Clarence Manager, ten years’ service), a constant presence supporting our UVI pupils in Clarence.

Our staff are an essential part of the Wycombe Abbey community, and we are hugely grateful for the commitment, care and professionalism of all our leavers. We wish them every happiness and success as they move on to new opportunities.

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