Almost 50 years to the day since I matriculated, I was reminded of the difference between the young person who stood in subfusc outside the Library and the adult who left three years later. The alumni 'Open House' weekend, from Saturday 21 to Sunday 22 September, yet again provided the opportunity to reflect on how those three years shaped the remainder of my life (to date).

We started in the Thatched Barn for the Association AGM where we heard from the Dean and others of the ambitious plans for the 500th anniversary – as well as the need to ensure that the endowment is replenished to allow current and future generations to enjoy what made Oxford, and the House, so special to us. The Dean gave an update on the progress on governance review, alterations to the Dean’s lodgings and urged everyone to look at the new stained glass window in the Cathedral. I can honestly recommend a visit to the North Transept – the window is subtly detailed and warrants a good look.

Lunch in Hall was fun, eavesdropping on how the young guests reacted to Hall and their Alice Tour – note to self – my grandchildren will be old enough next year. I was pleased to note that a certain wizard was hardly mentioned...

Much of the rest of Saturday and Sunday morning was spent in the lectures for Oxford University's Meeting Minds Oxford 2024. I urge anyone who has not come across this to give it a go next year. And – to finish off – the 1546 Society Lunch in Hall, for Members who have left a legacy to Christ Church, meeting old friends and new acquaintances.