Set in a 100 glorious acres of Capability Brown designed grounds Milton Abbey gives its pupils a well rounded education that plays to their strengths, as its head master Magnus Bashaarat reveals
What do think are the benefits of boarding at Milton Abbey?
As well as developing independence and confidence, our pupils build lifelong friendships through their shared school experiences in a permanent boarding community where weekends are as busy and exciting as any weekday. There is a huge range of activities on offer: sailing, training for the Ten Tors Challenge, life drawing classes, Diving Club to become PADI qualified, as well as an array of music and drama productions and an impressive list of outings.
What qualities does Milton Abbey bring out in its pupils?
Our pupils are engaging, confident and interesting individuals. We can nurture these qualities as we are a deliberately small school where each individual matters and everyone knows each other. The staff pupil ration is 4:1 so no one falls under the radar and everyone has the chance to shine.
From an educational aspect what makes you special?
Our size allows us to tailor our pupils’ curriculum around their interests and talents. Initially they study a broad curriculum, covering the traditional academic subjects, as well as PSHE, History of Art and International Studies. At GCSE level we offer traditional subjects, as well as more vocational options such as BTECs in Sport, Hospitality, Countryside and Environment.
What subjects do you offer in Sixth Form?
Pupils can choose from 24 subjects in A levels and BTECs, Milton Abbey is unique in the independent sector in offering parallel learning pathways to a common destination, and pupils can either study all A Level, all BTEC, or a combination of the two. Currently we offer BTECS in subjects such as Creative Media, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship, Countryside Management, Sport, Performing Arts and Design. BTECS also count towards UCAS points just as A Levels do.
What extra curricular activities do you offer?
We run a comprehensive programme of activities - from Leith’s cookery courses to mechanics. Other activities include Duke of Edinburgh award and helping on the school farm or shoot. Our extensive sports facilities include stables. Pupils can take part in weekly polo lessons as well as represent the School at team jumping competitions.
Tell me about the Entrepreneurs in Residence scheme?
It involves lectures, business workshops and lessons taught by well known entrepreneurs - these have included Anya Hindmarch OBE, Cath Kidston, Johnnie Boden and now David Ross, co-founder of Carphone Warehouse. It gives pupils a unique insight into what goes into starting and running a successful business.
And when you’re not teaching…
I head into the north Dorset hills on my road bike - a 20 mile ride does a great deal to restore the soul.
Milton Abbey School
Independent Co-educational Day and Boarding is for 13 – 18 year olds. For more details visit miltonabbey.co.uk or contact Head of Admissions, Claire Low admissions@miltonabbey.co.uk; 01258 882182.
Open days
Saturday 5 November 2016 (Sixth Form); Saturday 4 March 2017 (Lower School); Saturday 13 May 2017 (Lower School)
