On Friday night, 400 Oakhamians watched and supported Old Oakhamian, England, and Leicester Tigers rugby player Jack Van Poortvliet (’19) score a try against the Ospreys in an exciting match at Welford Road, Leicester. Jack recently visited the school and met up with the pupils answering their questions and giving them rugby tips and advice.
Lower School had enormous fun at their House themed socials, where they played games such as skittles, Twister and limbo dancing. Lincoln Housemistress Michelle Northcott said, “The pupils had an amazing time. It was wonderful to see their smiles and laughter and memories being made.”
The Burns Night celebrations saw seventh formers enjoying an entertaining night of Scottish dancing and eating to honour the country’s famous poet.
To celebrate Chinese New Year Oakham’s boarders had a tasty oriental meal in the Barraclough, the Dining Hall, which was adorned with Chinese decorations. For starters, the pupils had a selection of spring rolls, prawn crackers and delicious tempura prawns. The main course was made up of egg fried rice or noodles, sweet and sour chicken, fried vegetables or beef and black bean stir fry.
Selected Model United Nations (MUN) pupils attended an MUN conference held at Wycombe Abbey where they represented Iraq, Romania, Lebanon and the UK on a number of contemporary and global issues. The conference saw Ben singled out as an outstanding debater, winning the Outstanding Delegation Prize.
Saturday saw a number of Sports fixtures take place, including hockey, netball, cross country and Eton fives.
Oakham’s DECEM (senior prefects) practised their elevator pitches and small talk skills, helping them to grow into their full leadership potential.
A number of Old Oakhamians visited the School to compete in the Ed Farmer football match. The frost meant no competitive matches could be played, but the OOs made the best of the situation, playing impromptu matches amongst themselves, refereed by Hon OO David Taylor.
Additionally, The Rt. Revd John Holbrook, Acting Bishop of Peterborough confirmed over 40 pupils, the largest confirmation group since 1992. The service took place in the School Chapel with the assistance of the Chamber Choir.
Meanwhile, Lower School boarders challenged themselves with some rock climbing and the high ropes, which they thoroughly enjoyed.
There was also an exciting Crime Day event for prospective pupils. They were invited to use their detective skills to investigate some strange occurrences across the campus whilst exploring the School and its extensive facilities.
A huge thank you to Oakham’s superb catering department for playing a huge part in helping many of the above events be memorable for the pupils. Weekends at Oakham School provide a healthy balance of activities and free time, and outings are carefully planned so that there is a good mix of cultural visits and active pursuits.
