Members of Local Community Enjoy Fun-filled Harvest Party

Oakham School welcomed over 100 guests to its annual Harvest Party, one of its best-loved Voluntary Action community events. The party, which is a highlight of the year, is hosted by pupils and staff in the School’s Barraclough Dining Hall.

In preparation for the party, Oakham’s Voluntary Action pupils spent the morning baking cakes and making party bags for their guests, as well as decorating the venue. Oakham School provided complimentary local transport for those attending and on arrival the pupils greeted their guests and escorted them to their seats. The guests were then treated to afternoon tea served by pupils and a programme of entertainment. This included a competitive game of bingo, with Headmaster Henry Price announcing the numbers, a quiz, and musical recitals from some of Oakham School’s talented musicians. There were also plenty of prizes to be won. The event was rounded off with a cheerful singalong to some popular songs, accompanied by our new Director of Music, John Mountford.

Oakham School’s new Head of Voluntary Action, Monica Fernandez, said: “It has been wonderful to feel our community spirit in action. This is a special moment to practise the act of giving, sharing and serving others.”

Local resident Anne Kent, who attended the party, said: “The pupils were a credit to the School with their kindness and ability to make everyone feel that nothing was too much trouble. The musicians were so talented too. Please convey my thanks to all involved.”

The Harvest Party is one of many charity and community initiatives that Oakham School is proud to support. On the same afternoon as the Harvest Party, a team of sixth form pupils entertained members of Oakham’s Phab Club with a movie afternoon. Sixth Formers also recently hosted a lunch alongside Voluntary Action Rutland (VAR) at Lands’ End for 50 members of the local community with the aim of bringing people together to combat rural loneliness and isolation. VAR is one of two main charities that Oakham School has chosen to fundraise for through different activities.