OAA Overview
The Old Andreans’ Association Incorporated (OAA) a not for profit organisation administered by ex students exists to support and maintain a vibrant community, providing an extension of the friendships and associations from the school-years into a life-long connection with the School. The Association was founded by the third Headmaster Rev. Percy Simpson as the Old Boys Union (OBU) in August 1906. This was some 21 years following the establishment of the School in July 1885, making it one of the oldest continually-active alumni organizations in Sydney.
The history of the association is strongly tied to the development of the School from being 'The Choir School', educating mainly choristers to an Intermediate level (equivalent to the School Certificate), through to the co-educational institution it is today. Prior to the School offering the Leaving Certificate for the first time in 1960, the activities of the OBU were significantly curtailed by the fact that many students matriculated at other schools. The OBU became the OAA following the admittance of female students to the School in 1999.
In addition to fostering connections between the former students, the OAA also aims to maintain a tangible link between this community and the wider School community. The activities of the OAA are strongly linked with the activities of the School and other associations including the Parents and Friends. The association also supports the School through financial contributions and, as a result of recent growth, the establishment of the OAA Scholarship for the child of an Old Andrean. These contributions are made possible through financial membership and direct contributions from members.
Financial members receive regular publications and notices informing them of the activities and achievements of Old Andreans and promoting a variety of annual and occasional events. Each year, the organisation holds a formal dinner, the OAA Sports Day, the OAA Chapel Service and the School Captains’ Dinner. All alumni are invited to participate in events commemorating the fifth, tenth, fifteenth and twenty-fifth anniversaries of their graduation. All members are strongly encouraged to utilize the resources of the association to assist in the organisation of additional functions and activities which fulfil the aims of the OAA.
