Transforming lives
The Abbey is proud to have been a leader in the education of girls since 1887, helping to give them access to lives and experiences that have advanced the cause of equality. With your generous support we will continue to widen access to academically able girls with full bursaries.
Our sincere thanks for all you do to support our community through your generosity of time and money. Our promise is to do everything in our power to continue transforming the lives of girls and women who go out into the world as a force for good.
Hope's Story
Hope Hawkins was an 1887 Bursary student. She completed her International Baccalaureate in 2025 and went on to study at the hugely prestigious Italia Conti Performing Arts Institution. Hope grasped every opportunity at The Abbey with both hands, from becoming House captain, choreographing the school play, hosting the school podcast, taking part in the Gym and Dance shows and achieving grade 8 on the drums!
In their own words, here is what the 1887 Bursary meant to Hope and her mum, Nomsa.
Hope’s Journey: What The Abbey Has Meant to Me
Trying to put into words what The Abbey has meant to me feels almost impossible. It has been such a significant part of my life—woven into so many of my experiences—and so much of who I am today has been shaped within its walls.
When I first joined The Abbey, I could never have imagined the journey that lay ahead. It turned out to be so much more than just an education—it became a life-changing experience. Through The Abbey, I’ve had opportunities I never dreamed of: I’ve performed on stages, travelled to new places, competed in events that pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and had the privilege of leading and collaborating with others in ways that have helped me grow.
This school has helped me discover passions I didn’t even know I had. It’s helped me find my voice and grow in confidence, both as a student and as a person. The Abbey has opened doors—not only academically, but personally. It gave me a safe space to explore who I am, and who I want to become.
I’ve been incredibly lucky to be surrounded by inspiring people—friends, mentors, and especially teachers—who have believed in me every step of the way. The support I’ve felt here has been unwavering. Our teachers do so much more than teach; they guide, they uplift, and they genuinely care. I’ve never felt alone here, and that’s something I’ll carry with me always.
Above all, it’s the friendships and the sense of belonging that will stay with me the most. The Abbey is more than a school—it’s a community, a family. From the little moments shared with friends in between classes, to the unforgettable trips and milestone events, every memory holds a special place in my heart.
The Abbey has not only given me an incredible education but also the foundation I’ll carry into the future. I’m proud of what I’ve achieved, but even more so, I’m proud of the journey I’ve taken to get here—and grateful to those who have supported me along the way, both in school and at home.
As I prepare to step into the next chapter of my life, I do so with gratitude, pride, and a deep love for everything The Abbey has given me. No matter where I go, it will always be a part of who I am.
With love and thanks,
Hope
If you are able to help transform a young life and enrich The Abbey School community, all donations make a difference and we would be so grateful.
A Mother’s Reflection: The Abbey – A Gift Beyond Words
When I think about Hope’s time at The Abbey, I honestly don’t have enough words to express the depth of our gratitude and love for this school. From the moment she joined, The Abbey became so much more than a place of learning – it became a part of our family.
Hope has been given opportunities that we never imagined she’d experience. She has travelled around the country and across the world, seen places and met people who have expanded her world view, and grown into a confident, thoughtful young woman with a strong sense of who she is. She’s taken part in performances, competitions, and trips that have enriched her life and shown her what’s possible when you are believed in.
But beyond all the incredible opportunities, what touches me the most is how The Abbey has cared for her – not just as a student, but as a person. The teachers here are like her second parents. They’ve guided her, supported her, lifted her up during difficult times, and celebrated her every success. That kind of care goes beyond a job – it’s love. It’s community. It’s family.
To us as a family, The Abbey has felt like a home. A place where our daughter has been safe, seen, heard, and cherished. There is such peace as a mother in knowing your child is not only being educated but genuinely cared for. I truly believe God placed Hope at The Abbey for a reason – and He knew she would be nurtured here in ways only this place could offer.
Watching Hope’s journey has been the most beautiful gift. The Abbey has helped her discover who she is, and who she wants to become. She has found her voice, her strength, and her purpose. And she has done it all surrounded by people who saw the best in her, even before she saw it in herself.
This chapter of her life will forever hold a special place in our hearts. The Abbey is part of our story now – not just Hope’s, but all of ours. And as she moves on to new adventures, she will carry the values, the memories, and the love from this place wherever she goes.
With all my heart,
Nomsa
