Memories of Philip Grotjahn at Abingdon School

Philip joined Abingdon in 2016, and from the outset, established a reputation for academic prowess, displaying an independent and creative mind that allowed him to make seemingly effortless progress. Teachers and peers alike were struck by his immense intellectual curiosity, memorably described in a Biology report as ‘raw academic horsepower’. He was known for asking questions that went far beyond the standard curriculum. Wrote one teacher:

Phillip continues to be a razor-sharp presence in my 5th form set and has shown a deep interest in radioactivity and particle physics, often staying behind to ask about material that would better fit into the A-Level syllabus (if not beyond). This is why I love teaching him.

This intellectual drive led him to excel in his studies. Philip could have chosen any A Level subjects he liked and done well in them - indeed, you get a sense, reading his reports, of teachers trying eagerly to persuade him to pick their particular subject. He chose ultimately to take five A Levels in Maths, Further Maths, Biology, Physics and Chemistry, achieving four A*s and one A which earned him his place to read Natural Sciences at Cambridge, but he also relished the opportunity to test himself in extension activities, achieving four Gold Awards in Olympiad competitions in the Lower Sixth and participating in a team in the global Ritangle Maths competition which was ranked 1st in the UK and 21st in the world. 

Philip enjoyed wider school life too, taking part in badminton, tennis and canoe polo, while also playing his trumpet in musical ensembles in his younger years. His tastes outside the classroom lent towards the cerebral, and he got involved in podcasting, mahjong, chess and especially bridge, which included regularly volunteering on Open Mornings: perhaps a good way to spend the morning playing bridge rather than showing visitors round. 

Philip was also celebrated for his unique and independent spirit. He was his own person, often interpreting School regulations (such as uniform) in his own special way and distilling complex mathematical calculations into a single, yet always correct, line: He never fully bought into the well-worn maxim of ‘show your working’. This individuality, combined with a sharp wit, made him a source of warmth and laughter among his close-knit group of friends. As one classmate put it, he was “a source of comedy and hilarity in the best way possible.”

Philip’s legacy at our School is one of exceptional ability, intellectual curiosity, and a powerful sense of self. His teachers relished the opportunity to teach him, and his friends valued him for his intelligence, humour, and individuality. We feel a profound sense of loss that his potential did not have more time to flower. He was a very special young man who will be deeply missed by the entire school community.

Mike Windsor

April 2025