Virtual Tempus Fugit

The lunch which is open to all Old Bradfieldians over the age of 70 and was by all accounts a nostalgic and joyous affair despite the unusual circumstances. Many guests wore their OB ties and we had quips of “What time does Meals on Wheels arrive?” and “Is it OK if I eat my soup?” alongside a lot of friendly chat.

The Headmaster opened the event with the traditional College update, sharing Bradfield’s achievements from the Summer Term and the resilience of the pupils and staff, noting that it will be the things we did which will be remembered during these unusual times rather than the things we did not do.

Following the update guests were hosted on virtual tables with contemporaries from their years at Bradfield to talk and reminisce together.

The virtual event provided a unique opportunity to meet with a number of guests who are located overseas and we were thrilled with the outcome and the smiles we saw on everyone’s faces. It will never replace the face-to-face lunch and the excellent catering at Bradfield but to host such a successful event in these difficult times was a special moment.

We were pleased to successfully replicate the event for those OBs who form our Junior Tempus Fugit cohort towards the end of November. Bradfieldians joined us from as far afield as the Netherlands and with the event being held online, there were no issues with travel time to the College, only the challenge of time differences for those living overseas.

As there was no opportunity this year for guests to see the campus on the day, a video “fly through” was shared after the get-together showcasing all the changes to the College over the intervening years. We were thrilled to be able to meet so many Bradfieldians virtually during the Michaelmas Term and we look forward to getting our regional lunches rescheduled again as soon as we can in 2021.