Headmaster's Welcome
Milton Abbey is a co-educational boarding and day school committed to the individual delivering an education that is meant to challenge, stretch and develop young men and women into leaders and assured adults who possess confidence without arrogance. At Milton Abbey’s heart is a philosophy of developing each and every girl and boy into fully rounded people academically, culturally, spiritually, within a caring and supportive environment. We are inclusive and ambitious for every pupil. Success, in whatever form, is celebrated. No one is overlooked. Our small size allows for a level of care that is unsurpassed in bigger schools. However, our size does not diminish from our expectations of pupils - we want them to have big achievements, big ambitions and big hearts.
In January 2011, I announced Milton Abbey’s new development plan, launching co-education throughout the school. Welcoming girls into the third form at Milton Abbey was a logical step, and one born out of a deeply held belief that boys and girls learn better together.
Milton Abbey has built two new boarding houses ensuring that our facilities rank as some of the very best in the country. With three resident house staff in each house, individual study bedrooms for all sixth formers, excellent social areas and full matron supervision, our boys and girls will have a home from home.
Throughout their time at Milton Abbey, our main responsibility to pupils is to find a spark that will light a passion. This may be in the classroom, as academic excellence is promoted thoroughly throughout the school. It could be on the games field, or in the theatre or concert hall, where we endeavour to engender a sense of pride in teamwork and individual performance. It could be on the school farm, the pheasant pens, the school shoot or in the ferret shed, as environmental awareness and a passion for the outdoors is a key feature of our life here at Milton Abbey.
The Abbey is the beating heart of our school. Christian values form the backbone of Milton Abbey’s philosophy. Services and assemblies are designed to develop and hone our moral compasses, whilst allowing us to consider the importance of community living and caring for our neighbours
Miltonians are extraordinary people and the staff at Milton Abbey are passionate about helping pupils to think for themselves, preparing them fully for the twenty-first century. I, too, am immensely proud of this magical place. Glorious photographs filled with un-posed pictures of happy pupils tell only part of our story and I invite you to visit us and experience our warmth and welcome.
Gareth Doodes
Headmaster
Gareth Doodes took up post as Milton Abbey’s seventh Headmaster in August 2010. Educated at Eastbourne College and St. Andrews University, he worked as a history teacher at Taunton School before moving to Oakham School where he was Master of Scholars and, latterly, a Housemaster. He was appointed Deputy Head at Milton Abbey in September 2009 before taking up the Headship. He is married to Jessica, is a grade eight pianist, violinist and organist, has directed drama productions and coached sports teams and enjoys outdoor pursuits and worldwide travel. Alongside his work as Headmaster Gareth is a Governor of St. Edmund’s School, Hindhead,(www.saintedmunds.co.uk), Forres Sandle Manor School in Hampshire (www.fsmschool.com) and a trustee of the Bloxham Project (www.bloxhamproject.org.uk).