Pupils at Milton Abbey School have created a time capsule to mark the school’s 100th anniversary, capturing a snapshot of life at the Dorset boarding school in 2026 for future generations to open nearly three decades from now.
The capsule, organised by Lower Sixth pupils Nadiia S and Lucy T, is due to be reopened on 1st May 2054. Contributions came from across the school community, with each House adding items alongside letters, photographs and personal mementoes from staff and pupils.
The project formed part of the school’s centenary celebrations, which also included a whole-school barbecue bringing pupils and staff together to mark the occasion.
Among the items sealed inside are reflections on school life, ambitions for the future and memories of the centenary year. Lower Sixth pupil Alize E-K said: ‘I put a detailed letter in the time capsule to my 41 year-old self about my hopes and dreams, my current worries that I know I will have overcome, and the best parts of my school years. I loved the sentimentality behind the idea.’
Fellow pupil Greg P also reflected on the future reopening of the capsule. ‘I just can’t wait to come back to Milton Abbey School on the day we reopen the time capsule. It will be the day before my birthday, and I’m excited to see what people are doing, what they look like, who’s here, and who’s not. I hope to be the Headmaster of Milton Abbey!’
The initiative also received recognition from Buckingham Palace. Nadiia and Lucy were sent a letter in connection with the project and its commemoration of King Athelstan, adding an unexpected historical link to the celebrations.
Reflecting on the project, the pair said: ‘We are so happy that it was a success and that so many people participated. We hope that when the capsule is opened, it will bring back lots of positive memories and that future students will feel the spirit of Milton Abbey at this moment in time.’
The capsule is intended to provide future pupils and staff with a record of school life during its centenary year, preserving both everyday experiences and the wider atmosphere of the school community in 2026.
