For those of you young enough to remember Love Story film, let me start with the words from its theme song, “Where do I begin to tell the story?”. That’s exactly how I felt about OwensFest - held on 3rd July 2022. For the fear of running out of superlatives - I’ll just say it was a real success!

The school positively sparkled in the fabulous sunshine as it welcomed back the newly named OwensFest. The herculean effort by the OSA committee and many Owen’s parents was evident through and through. With a huge turnout of excited attendees, everyone’s enthusiasm was heighted by the long gap since the last Summer Event and all of this allowed us to raise much needed funds for school projects in just one afternoon!

We must say a huge thank you, from the OSA committee, to everyone who lent a hand in organizing OwensFest from setting up for the activities on Saturday and Sunday, helping on stalls and taking everything down at the end.

The playground had the main performance stage expertly organised by the amazing talents of our very own Tech Crew. Live jazz, provided by ensembles from the Owen’s Music Department, entertained us over lunchtime and created a wonderful atmosphere and a host of student bands performed later in the afternoon.

This rich show of musical talent was surrounded by a typically bucolic English scene of food stalls including the Pimms Van (that was so successful it sold Sangria later in the afternoon), BBQ, Indian street food and many other great stalls to visit such as the Year 7 activities, Beat the Goalie, cakes and a very eye-catching tie dye stall.

The lawn in front of Mrs Nemko’s office had the ever-popular inflatables, a very difficult bungee run and an assault course. The atmosphere there was just overflowing with the delightful giggling, screams and chatter of excited children!

If one felt they’d had enough of the lively music and vigorous activities and were seeking some respite from the sun there was something to please them too. The silent auction and tombola were held in the dining room equipped with the big screen broadcasting tennis live from Wimbledon. Alongside these activities in the hall you could enjoy a traditional afternoon tea accompanied by Owen’s pupils playing charming chamber music in the background.

It was a wonderful day with an amazing atmosphere and there really was something for everyone!

Luckily, the owner of the winning raffle ticket was present to collect her prize in person from Mrs Nemko – a PS5! – both beaming with joy.

OSA committee members were glowing with delight too now that they could be easily identified in their new branded polo shirts which they wore with pride and style.

The success of the 2022 OwensFest makes us excited to look forward to summer 2023. Come and join the OSA so you too can experience the spirit of the great Owen’s community!

If you happened to miss the Fest here are some photos for you to enjoy and we hope you will all soon start to get excited about OwensFest 2023.