Successful inaugural Community & Giving Week at Teddy Hall

From Friday 25 April to Friday 2 May, the inaugural Community & Giving Week took place at St Edmund Hall, bringing together students, Fellows, staff, alumni and friends in a week-long celebration of community, growth and giving.

The main focus of the week was the 1317 Challenge. Inspired by the first documented reference to the Hall in 1317, Aularians around the world were asked to take part in a range of exciting activities with a focus on the College and the number 1317.

The Aularian community responded with enthusiasm, sending in a wide range of creative and exciting challenges, including hikes, poetry, baked goods, rowing challenges, and musical and theatrical arrangements. A notable highlight was a performance by current student Luke Boulton (2022, Medicine) of an original piano composition which was written by alumnus James Harpham (1959, History) especially for the 1317 Challenge. You can watch the recording on the Hall’s YouTube channel.

Across the week, the College raised funds in support of four key areas: Student Support, Access and Outreach, Sports Clubs, and Music, Arts and Culture. The fundraising campaign exceeded all expectations with over £140,000 raised in total, surpassing the original goal of £131,700.

More than 200 Aularians participated, spanning generations from matriculands of 1951 to current students, Fellows and staff. This collective effort is a demonstration of the enduring strength, enthusiasm and generosity of our Hall community.

You can read more about the 1317 Challenges and catch up on the week’s events on the dedicated Community & Giving Week page.