Over 50 Years of the Careers Service at 56 Banbury Road

Last week, the University of Oxford Careers Service celebrated more than 50 years at 56 Banbury Road with a special anniversary event marking the service’s long-standing presence in the building and its continued support for Oxford students across generations.

The celebration brought together current and former Careers Service colleagues from across the decades, including staff who worked in the building from the 1990s onwards.

The event provided an opportunity to reflect on the history and evolution of the Careers Service, reconnect with former colleagues, and share memories from over five decades of supporting students as they explore careers, internships, further study and professional opportunities.

Guests heard reflections from Tom Snow and Jonathan Black on how the Careers Service has developed over the years, while maintaining its core commitment to helping students make informed decisions about their futures. 

Current Director of the Careers Service, Jonathan Black, said:

“Taken aback by the energy and warmth of over 40 Careers Service alumni who came to our 54@56 party last week - celebrating over 50 years in our building. And a special treat to hear from Tom Snow, then Secretary to the Appointments Committee in 1972 when he led the move into the building."

The evening highlighted not only the history of the Careers Service, but also the strong sense of community that continues to connect colleagues past and present. From the early years of the Appointments Committee through to today’s wide-ranging careers programmes and employer engagement activity, the event served as a reminder of the lasting impact of the service across generations of Oxford students.

A huge thank you to all the colleagues and wider community who have supported our students and helped shape the Careers Service over the years. We look forward to continuing this work and building on this legacy in the years ahead.