When we lose one of our own and if it is the wish of the family, we like to remember the contribution the colleague student or governor has made to the school by planting a tree.

On the 24th July  2023 Alan Hammond one of our site staff died whilst working on site of a heart attack. Alan’s life in the  service of Catholic Education stretched over  35 years, 27 of these at Oaklands.  People help define what a school is and what it stands for.  Alan was one of those people.   Catholic schools call on their community, be that students or staff, to use their gifts and talents to build the kingdom of God. Alan used the gifts in he had in abundance, he was full of grace, kindness, humility efficiency and generosity.  He took great pride in his work around the school, particularly the sunken lawn.

Shortly after Alan’s death we celebrated mass in school , in celebration of his life. The fact that over 150 people attended is a measure of his significance to the Oaklands community. Many more would have attended if it had not been for the holiday.

Alan was a humble man, he was not a man on milestone, but of moments. Alan’s moments can be seen on the power of a generous action, humour, a smile, a helping hand, it is these attributes that define him at Oaklands.

On the 17^th June we held a memorial service and a blessing of the tree. Alan’s family were in attendance long with many other staff. Following the service staff and were family were able to share  memories about Alan.

Updated Summer 2024