Leading with confidence | Learning with purpose | Living with joy

Putting girls first

Every individual valued

Real-world learning

“This is a diverse and down-to-earth community with joy at its heart.”

Read the Head's Welcome

Passion and opportunity

Academic excellence and joy

“Students achieve “outstanding academic, musical, sporting, linguistic and dramatic distinctions” with “exceptional” outcomes “actively encouraged by a strong culture of expanding horizons and discovering passions”.

ISI Report – click here to read

Gateway – News from around The Abbey

The latest insights from Abbey staff including Will le Fleming and Nisha Kaura

  • Gateway Highlights
    by Together Abbey on 6 December 2024

    Have a look at this week’s highlights across the school.

  • Aachen Market
    by Together Abbey on 6 December 2024

    Aachen is a beautiful place which is located on Germany’s borders with Belgium and the Netherlands. School trips are always a mix of excitement and curiosity, and our visit to Aachen was no […]

  • ‘Bah! Humbug!’ 
    by Together Abbey on 6 December 2024

    Lower IV enjoyed a production of ‘A Christmas Carol’ on Wednesday afternoon in the Richards Hall. Actors from Quantum Theatre presented an adaptation of the play, complete with plenty of […]

  • Social Enterprise Hub
    by Together Abbey on 6 December 2024

    Being part of the Social Enterprise Hub with Reading School is such an amazing experience for all of us at The Abbey. It’s not every day you get the chance to create your own social enterprise and […]

  • 2024
    by Together Abbey on 6 December 2024

    It’s been a year punctuated by a glittering succession of awards, moments when we have celebrated the best of an independent girls’ education – a fitting acknowledgement of The Abbey School’s […]

  • The Abbey becomes a Cisco Networking Academy
    by Together Abbey on 6 December 2024

    Last week The Abbey School was approved as a Cisco Networking Academy. Cisco Networking Academy is a global IT and cybersecurity education program that aims to empower students with the skills needed […]

Instagram

Dec 9

32 1
Open
Did someone say Hot Chocolate? During a recent Spanish literature lesson with Sra. Trujillo, our Sixth Form students delved into Spanish traditions through the beloved book Manolito Gafotas. One of the highlights of the lesson was discovering Colacao, a popular Spanish cacao drink packed with nutrients and a staple in many children’s diets. To embrace the festive season, the students brought holiday cheer into their final Christmas lesson by sipping warm Colacao with milk while singing traditional Spanish Christmas carols. It was a heartwarming and immersive way to experience Spanish culture and traditions! ¡Bien hecho! #AbbeyLanguages #AbbeySixthForm

Dec 9

17 0
Open
When it’s Times Tables Rock Stars Day at The Juniors and your teachers understand the brief! #AbbeyMaths #AbbeyJuniors

Dec 7

18 0
Open
This week’s #AbbeyConnected, titled "2024," is written by Nisha Kaura, Head of The Abbey Junior School. Read in full via the link in our bio or on The Abbey Gateway!

Dec 6

3 0
Open
We all love Christmas dinner but the worst thing about it is.. The clean up! There is a woman to thank, who made this all a bit easier and her name was Josephine Cochrane. Josephine was a groundbreaking engineer and inventor, best known for creating the first commercially successful dishwasher. Born in 1839, she faced the challenge of hand-washing dishes that often led to breakage and frustration. Determined to find a solution, Josephine developed her invention in 1886, using a water pressure system that efficiently cleaned dishes. Her invention revolutionised kitchenware and changed the way households operated, earning her a patent in 1886. In 1893, she showcased her dishwasher at the World’s Fair in Chicago, where it garnered significant attention and acclaim. A trailblazer in engineering, Josephine Cochrane’s legacy endures as a symbol of innovation and determination. Her contributions have transformed kitchens around the world, inspiring future generations of women in engineering and technology. #herstorymatters

Dec 6

23 0
Open
We're pleased to share with you that after a joint effort from students and staff the puzzle is finally taking shape! Please feel free to pop in over the next few days so we can display it before Christmas. The last person to put a piece in will get a candy cane! Last week the Taylor Library has started a new tradition of building a 1000-piece puzzle. The piece is a great reflection of the Abbey spirit, with everyone chipping in and giving a helping hand. ‘Its such a lovely way to unwind after a long day and have some relaxed fun with friends!’. A huge thank you to Ms Wenman and Mrs Warrior for starting such a wonderful activity that is open to the entire Abbey community. It’s very exciting to see staff and students alike partake in such a fun and cheerful task! We’re excited to watch the puzzling community flourish and we couldn’t think of a better way to ring in Christmas. Grace and Christina, Upper IV

Dec 6

18 0
Open
The Junior School had a certain visitor this week - hiding in places with special treats! It has been great fun trying to find him every morning and they can't wait to see if he makes an appearance next week! #AbbeyJuniors

Dec 4

79 0
Open
Our Humanities Festival has started! Meet Sixth Formers Ione and Jemimah who will tell you all what to expect in the next few weeks! #AbbeyFestival

Dec 3

4 0
Open
Author of the Month: Christmas edition Paula Gooder is a prominent theologian, author, and speaker known for her work in biblical studies, particularly in the area of women in the Bible. Gooder is known for her accessible writing style and her ability to engage with complex theological concepts, making them understandable to a broader audience. In her book "Women of the Nativity," Gooder explores the lives and significance of the women surrounding the birth of Jesus. The book highlights figures such as Mary, Elizabeth, and Anna, examining their roles and contributions within the Nativity story. Gooder uses a blend of historical context, biblical interpretation, and personal reflection to bring these women's stories to life, emphasising their faith, resilience, and importance in the Christian narrative. Through her work, Gooder aims to give voice to women in the Bible and to inspire contemporary readers to appreciate the depth and richness of these biblical accounts. "Women of the Nativity" is a thoughtful exploration that encourages readers to reconsider the significance of these women and their impact on the story of Jesus' birth. #herstorymatters

Dec 2

7 0
Open
Shirley Ann Jackson is a theoretical physicist and a pioneer in her field, known for her groundbreaking contributions to science and technology. Shirley made history as the first African American woman to earn a doctorate from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1973. Her research has significantly advanced the fields of condensed matter and quantum physics. Shirley is also renowned for her development of innovative technologies, including advancements in telecommunications that have impacted everyday life. In addition to her research, Shirley Ann Jackson has held several prestigious leadership positions, including serving as the 18th president of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Under her leadership, RPI has made significant strides in research and education, particularly in STEM fields. She is also a former chair of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, where she played a key role in shaping policies related to nuclear safety. As an advocate for diversity in STEM, Shirley has dedicated her career to mentoring young scientists and encouraging underrepresented groups to pursue careers in science and engineering. Her influence extends beyond her scientific achievements, making her a role model for future generations of scientists and leaders. #herstorymatters

Nov 28

4 0
Open
How did the typical Tudor family celebrate Christmas? When was the Christmas cracker invented? Why did Victorians send christmas cards featuring a dead robin!? There is much to learn at our fascinating Year 4-6 History of Christmas Masterclass at The Abbey School on 7 December, 9.30-12pm. Places are limited, so avoid disappointment and register for your place now via the link in our bio!

Nov 27

4 0
Open
Sappho of Lesbos (circa 630–570 BCE) is one of the most celebrated poets of ancient Greece, renowned for her lyrical poetry that explores themes of love, passion, and the beauty of personal relationships. Often referred to as the "Tenth Muse," Sappho's work offers profound insights into the human experience and has resonated through the ages. Living on the island of Lesbos, Sappho founded a school for young women, where she taught poetry and music, promoting education and empowerment among her students. Though only fragments of her work survive today, Sappho's influence on literature and the arts is immeasurable. Her unique voice and pioneering spirit have inspired countless writers and artists throughout history, affirming the power of women’s voices in the literary canon. #herstorymatters

Nov 27

22 0
Open
Ho, Ho, Ho! It’s that time of year, The reindeer are coming, Christmas is near! To Little Knellies they’re on their way, For a magical, joyful Stay and Play! Book your tickets via link in bio

14 June 2024

What If…?

One of the highlights of the academic year in the Senior School is always ‘Curiosity Week’, which took place earlier this year.

Read More

24 May 2024

Examinations

The Senior School is in full examination-battle mode! The IB exams were the frontline, two year groups have just received results from internal exams, two year groups are on study leave, and we have…

Read More

10 May 2024

We Are Family

‘Be the change you wish to see in the world’ and ‘If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you’ are just two of many phrases we hear in relation to change as a positive driver.

Read More

26 April 2024

Shifting Sands

‘Be the change you wish to see in the world’ and ‘If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you’ are just two of many phrases we hear in relation to change as a positive driver.

Read More

19 April 2024

Teaching and Learning

One of the things that makes The Abbey a wonderful place to work is the passionate focus and interest on teaching and learning among colleagues.

Read More