Rhubarb October 2022

ST EDWARD’S

PRESIDENT’S report

David Smart (Field House, 1968-1972)

T he last year has provided a welcome break from months of on and off lockdown. It was an absolute joy to be able to host events in Oxford and around the country and indeed as far afield as Canada, where I was fortunate enough to visit in the Spring. I am pleased to say that under the 14thWarden Alastair Chirnside’s leadership, St Edward’s did a magnificent job of continuing to provide a first-class education.The school inspection that happens every few years was an outstanding success.We should all be very proud of the results achieved by Tony Darby, former Sub-Warden, and all the staff, both teaching and support. During the year we ratified several changes to the Society’s constitution.The society will now be known as the OSE Society (as opposed to the SES Society). It was also decided to have an Executive Committee of 12 members (meeting three times a year) with a wider steering committee including past Presidents (meeting once a year) instead of

the 49-strong committee of past years.This year felt like the right time to make these adjustments, to keep us relevant and evolving and to work effectively for the wider OSE community. This coming year is certainly a milestone for our School as we celebrate 40 years of co-education. As Simon Taylor says in his interview on page 26, this started a new era of wonderful interaction, respect and understanding. It also greatly stimulated the learning environment both socially and academically, adding variety to sport and enriching drama and dance productions. As lockdown finished we were able to hold a variety of events for OSE.These included regional lunches and dinners in the SouthWest, Midlands, NorthWest, South East, North East, Scotland andYorkshire. We also held the first Special Gaudy for six years (including a classic car parade) which was very well attended.There really was something for everyone as we also held the Annual Quiz, several Teddies Talks and aWine Tasting.The carol service was held in the Olivier Hall and it was lovely to see so many OSE gathering in our amazing new auditorium, which was officially opened by the 11thWarden, David Christie, in June.This was a wonderful evening showcasing the great talents at Teddies in the arts.We were treated to dance, acting and a superb solo violinist.

WELCOME

Classic Cars at Special Gaudy

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