School-day memories came flooding back to former pupils and staff who came back to school for the first ever Archive Open Day.

The event, held last Saturday, was a celebration of the school’s 600 year history and more importantly a chance for former pupils and staff to meet up and talk about their own school-day experiences. For several, this was the first time they had been back to the school for over 50 years. 

Former staff Chris Symons, Sue Leonard and Vicky Evans helped to host the event and provide a warm welcome to guests as they arrived. Volunteer archivist David Ward (OO 1960 - 69) was also on hand to assist with archive enquiries.

Photographs, pupil records, school magazines and much more were on display at the event which aimed to showcase the school’s small but precious archive. 

Visitors brought their old school photos, school reports, newspaper clippings and much more to share with others. Some even donated items to the archive.

Among the items given to the school on the day was a silver Oswestry School badge donated by Margaret Owen, belonging to her late father, Richard Owen, who attended the school in 1928. 

The badge is an early example, number 124, and was delightfully received by organisers. 

A talk by local historian John Pryce-Jones added a fascinating feature to the day. The talk focussed on the political landscape of Oswestry in the early 1400s, when Oswestry School was founded by David Holbache and his wife Gwenhwyfar. It was obvious a great deal of research and thought had gone into the presentation, which was very well received by those gathered.

Fundraising and Development Manager, Anna Evans said the day was a success. 

“Judging by this event, there seems to be an appetite for bringing people together in this way and for learning about the school’s history.  I am certain we will organise another event like this in the near future. We thank everyone who came along and supported us.  I think it is safe to say we had a wonderful day,” she said.