Dove Day 2023
17 July 2023 - All
After a year of hard work and in true Wycombe Abbey style, we celebrated the end of the academic year with Dove Day at the end of June.
The day began with a beautiful chapel service led by our School Chaplain Rev Penny, and we were delighted to see so many parents join us for this service. As the doors of Chapel opened and pupils and parents spilled out, the fête began. Smooth jazz played as everyone checked out the stalls, grabbed some food and drink and gathered around to watch the first instalment of entertainment for the day. In the arena, we were first treated to a wonderful gym display demonstrating incredible feats of athleticism and grace. Then the competition heated up for Tug-of-War with each House cheering on their team as they battled it out for pride and glory. The ever-popular Dog Show followed with over pets taking part in categories including waggiest tail and best trick. It was not just outside where the action was taking place, in Fisher Library there were LAMDA performances, an Art Exhibition in the Performing Arts Centre and Design Technology and Cookery displays, and information about our vision for a world class campus in Big School.
Before long, everyone was on the move to the House Marquees. It was lovely to see parents, pupils and staff all sitting down together to enjoy their picnic in the beautiful Wycombe Abbey grounds. After a leisurely lunch, Chair of Council, Peter Warren, took to the stage to give a speech praising the hard work and resilience of pupils, staff and parents that has been shown over the last year. Mrs Duncan also spoke about the importance of community that days like Dove Day enshrine. She said ‘It is wonderful to have the school community together to celebrate the end of the academic year and all that has been achieved since September. As you are aware, this year has not been without its challenges but the community has shown its strength throughout the last term in particular, and I am grateful for the support, care and compassion that has been generously offered to me and others during this time.’. She went on to restate our School values and explain how important they have become and shared a poem by Rosalie in Upper Third.
Trust is for the honest and strong,
Dynamism the ones who belong,
Excellence to aim up high,
Encouragement to reach the sky.
Service to always embrace,
Balance to keep us in place,
Innovation to fight for the right,
Mutual respect to shine the light,
These are the pearls
Of Wycombe girls.
Finally, the Head Girl Team spoke about a few of their highlights from the year and reiterated how important the school community is and how special Dove Day has become for so many. Deputy Head of School Liza said, ‘Everybody here plays such a vital part in reinforcing the sense of belonging and unity which is at the core of our school.’. Head of School Laila also said reflecting on meeting Seniors at Seniors’ Day, ‘For us, this event further highlighted the strong sense of community that encompasses Wycombe Abbey and the strong friendships that are built here and have proven to last lifetimes.’.
After the speeches, the evening Review Show started and showcased highlights from the year’s productions and performances. The day ended with a joyous set from Concert Band.
Named after our founder Dame Frances Dove, Dove Day is a very special and unique event that many pupils, staff and Seniors have enjoyed and relished over the years. We are already looking forward to the next one.
Parents can view photos via My School Portal
Ms Rebecca Conroy
Communications Manager
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