Staying in touch with our OWLS long after they have left us has always been a priority here at Windlesham. Although the school was established in 1837, the first official Windlesham Old Boys Association was only formed later in 1910. The name of the association changed in 1968 to the Old Windlesham Association after the school became coeducational and then changed once again to OWLS (Old Windlesham Leavers) in 2015.

But why is it so important to stay intouch and build on the engagement we already have? This article from Sanford School perfectly sums up some of the reasons why so I thought I would share this with you.

Alumni engagement plays a crucial role in the success of private schools. Here are five reasons why it is essential:

Understanding School Culture: Alumni have an intimate knowledge of the school’s culture. Their experiences and values shape the institution. By involving alumni, schools ensure that their mission and culture remain strong as they evolve.

Building Reputation: Prospective families often look at alumni to gauge a school’s impact. Each alum represents how the school molds its students. Showcasing successful alumni demonstrates the school’s ability to prepare students for the world beyond graduation. 

Sustaining Development: Private schools rely on tuition fees for daily operations but need additional support for development initiatives. Engaged alumni who contribute financially create a strong donor network. Their donations can enhance facilities, increase financial aid, and drive positive change for current students. 

Mentorship and Job Placement: Active alumni networks benefit current students by providing mentorship opportunities and improving job placement rates. These connections extend beyond graduation and contribute to the overall success of the institution. 

Fueling Growth and Reputation: An engaged alumni community acts as a powerful force, fueling growth, reputation, and success. Recognizing and harnessing alumni potential unlocks benefits that extend beyond the campus boundaries.

In summary, alumni involvement is not just about nostalgia; it’s an investment in the future of the school and it's pupils. 

We would like as many of you to join our online community as possible as we have 4800 past pupils on our database but only 614 of you connected with an online profile. Please create a profile or update your details with your contact preferences and help us double that number in 2024.