A Legacy of Sport: Rachel Keens Reflects on 24 Years at Wycombe Abbey
24 February 2025 - All
The Wycombe Abbey community extends well beyond current pupils and staff—it includes the many former staff members who have shaped the School’s history and continue to contribute to its legacy. Speaking to Rachel Keens, who previously worked at Wycombe Abbey as Head of PE and Deputy Head (Operations), she reflected fondly on her time at the School.
How did you come to work at Wycombe Abbey?
I was very happy as Head of PE at my previous school in Harpenden, Herts, and was not looking to change schools. However, I had always said that if the role of Head of PE at Wycombe Abbey ever became available, it would be the only job I would apply for. When it did come up, I was lucky enough to get the position!
How long did you work at Wycombe Abbey and what were a few of your favourite moments?
I worked at Wycombe Abbey for 24 very happy years, and as you can imagine, I had so many favourite moments during that time! If I had to be pinned down, I would say my top three memories would be: the opening of the Sports Centre in 2004 – I had been on the planning committee for several years, and at the very start, I was asked to write down my ‘wish list’ for the sports centre – and every one of my wishes was granted! Secondly, coaching the 1st XII lacrosse team to glory at National Schools and being the first British lacrosse school to take a team on tour to Japan. Thirdly, two events during the 120 celebrations – visiting Hong Kong to celebrate with so many Seniors and the 120 Ball held at Wycombe Abbey in July 2016.
What do you get up to now you’ve left Wycombe Abbey?
I am happily living in the Cotswolds with my two-year-old Sproodle, Tilly. I play a lot of golf and am very involved in the organisation of the women’s section. I do a bit of exam invigilation at my local school and am also a Council Member at Dean Close, Cheltenham. I really enjoy visiting friends, especially all my ex-colleagues from Wycombe Abbey.
Did you always want to be a Sports Teacher, or did you consider other careers?
My father had always told everyone I was going to be a PE Mistress (such old-fashioned terminology), and at 17, I rebelled against that and secured five places at various universities to study Zoology. Sitting in an A level Biology lesson six months later, it suddenly hit me that I couldn’t follow this career path… so my father was right, and I changed to PE! A great decision!
How different life would have been if I’d stuck with Zoology!
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