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8
January 2014
SCIENCE CENTRE APPEAL
The Challenge
Abingdon is an outstanding school, widely regarded for developing well-rounded boys.
For many years, local and international families have sought an Abingdon education for
just this reason. As such, Abingdon’s roll has grown gradually, which has required periodic
investment in new facilities. Mercers’ Court opened twenty years ago, the Arts Centre ten
years ago, and the Sports Centre "ve years ago. We now need new science facilities.
Biology, Chemistry and Physics are among our most popular A-level subjects. Yet,
current science facilities, which date from the 1950s and 60s, are increasingly aging and
inadequate. Already, we have outgrown our permanent laboratories, necessitating the use
of additional temporary laboratories in a rented modular building. By September 2015, we
will require even more laboratories. And, at about the same time, several other subjects will
need more space, too.
Abingdon School Science Centre
The Solution
Facing this dilemma, the Board
of Governors took the decision to
invest in a new, modern, purpose-
built Science Centre, and to then
redevelop the existing science block
for use by other subjects, such as
Classics, Geography, History and
Religious Studies.
Hopkins Architects has designed
what will be a beautiful, functional
and inspiring Science Centre that
will meet our needs now and well
into the future. The Science Centre
will be located on the northwest
corner of campus, and will have
three !oors, one per subject, each
featuring:
t
Seven laboratories
t
Project room
t
Sixth form study area
t
Technician’s preparation room
t
Open-plan study spaces
t
Large subject display areas
t
Staff of!ces
There will also be a
greenhouse
and long
ecology pond.
Dear Abingdon School Community,
This term, we launch the "nal phase of Abingdon School’s Science Centre Appeal.
Our goal is to raise £1 million for a fabulous new Science Centre, and already
we have raised £850,000. We have made a great start, and there are many
individuals and organisations to thank.
More than 130 Old Abingdonians, current and former parents, governors and
staff have collectively donated £500,000, including sponsorship of laboratories,
project rooms, study areas, prep rooms, and window seats. Continuing many
decades of generous support, The Mercers’ Company plan to make a donation
of £350,000 on the successful commencement of this crucial project.
However, we still have £150,000 to raise by March, and need community-
wide support. If you are an OA, a current or former parent, or a friend of the
School (and have not yet made a donation to the Appeal), you now have your
chance. Please use the donation form (right), look out for a mailing soon or visit
.
Help us secure the future of science for Abingdon School by donating to our
Science Centre Appeal. Thank you in advance for your generosity.
“
”
Felicity Lusk,
Head
Jon Gabitass,
Appeal Chairman
Adrian Burn,
Chairman of Governors
£850,000 raised – £150,000 to go
