On Saturday 25 January 2025, we welcomed back 18 Old Vikings and their families for our first OV Open House event. Spanning generations from the Class of 1965 to the Class of 2019, OVs in attendance were able to return to their old stomping ground for a trip down memory lane. 

The afternoon began with a short address from the headmaster who emphasised the importance of community and highlighted how events like these help Old Vikings stay connected to the College and to each other. His words set the tone for a day filled with reconnection and  community.

Following the address, guided tours of the school allowed OVs to revisit their old boarding houses, dormitories and classrooms to show their families the spaces they spent their time in while at the College. Many found their names on the Heads of House boards or spotted their faces in the photos displayed in each house. One highlight was taking former MFL teacher and Burr tutor, Rich Starr (07-12B), back to his beloved Burr House and where he spotted himself and his wife in many of the House photos. We were also able to reunite Jamie Gibbs (19S) with his broken cricket bat, proudly displayed in Skipwith House. Another special moment was showing Tom Wells (69W) the room he sponsored in our Learning Development department - a testament to how Old Vikings continue to leave a lasting impact on the school long after they have left the College. Old Vikings also had the oppotunity to see the recent developments to the site, such as the Davies Centre, and appreciate how the school has evolved since they left. As they wandered around the grounds of the College and shared stories of their time at school, it was clear to see how being back resurfaced many happy memories of their time at Shiplake.

After the tours, everyone gathered in the OVR to enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, complete with freshly baked scones, cakes and a selection of tea and coffee. The atmosphere buzzed with conversation as Old Vikings caught up with school friends and formed new connections through their shared Shiplake experience.

The event was a clear reminder of the sense of pride within our Old Viking community. It was so wonderful to see OVs of different ages coming together to reminisce and celebrate their time at Shiplake. We look forward to welcoming back our former pupils and staff at future Old Viking events!