After three years without a face-to-face summer reunion, it was quite special to be able to invite The Bradfield Society community back to the College for Summer Bradfield Day.
The College and its gardens always look their best in midsummer providing spectacular scenery for our guests while there was also the added incentive of attending the opening performance of the 41st Bradfield College Greek Play, Oedipus The King, in Greeker.
In a first for Society reunions, those returning to the College were offered the chance to join a series of lectures, tours and workshops to gain a deeper insight into Bradfield in action. There were opportunities to get back into the classroom with an engaging science lesson in the Blackburn Science Centre and a journey through the Commemoration Exhibition in the Art Schools. Our technology specialists provided a sneak peek at their exciting Virtual Reality project CampusXR, and the College’s golf professional showcased the power of Trackman Golf at the Indoor Golf Performance Centre, inviting guests to pick up their clubs and gain instant statistical feedback on their swing.
There were also two tours on offer. Roger Keeley led guests on a walk through Bradfield history while discussing the evolution of the College from a church and a manor house to the educational establishment it is today. The ongoing St Andrew’s Project provided a further opportunity for those attending to witness the evolution of the College up close and personal with Capital Projects Manager, Julia Bond, leading tours through St Andrew’s Church which is being transformed into a learning resource centre.
It was a pleasure to be back and to see the College looking in such very fine shape, and as enchanting as ever.
It was wonderful to converse with the many returning OBs who gave such lovely feedback.
Micky Denehy (E 73-78) said afterwards: “Such a fun day and a great historic tour by Roger – I learned more new old things about the school in an hour than I did in five years as a pupil!”
Roger Vincent Silk (B 54-57) also said: “I found my return visit to Bradfield a very emotional occasion; just walking around, admiring those beautiful grounds below The Hall and renewing my memories as I walked down by the Pang.”
Robert Bacon (G 73-78) commented on the excellent programme for Summer Bradfield Day and added: “It was a pleasure to be back and to see the College looking in such very fine shape, and as enchanting as ever.”
Following the lectures and tours guests enjoyed a High Tea buffet prepared by the College caterers in the Marquee and a welcome from the Headmaster before heading over to the Greek Theatre as the light faded to watch the College’s current pupils take part in the century old tradition of performing in the Greek Play. A fitting end to a successful day.
