On the evening of Tuesday 24 June, the Foleyan Centre played host to the very first OSHVision Song Contest – a dazzling showcase of talent featuring 12 standout acts.
Each performer took to the stage with the aim of captivating both the judges and the audience, all competing for the coveted winning title. Entirely student-led and executed, the event was the culmination of over four months of dedicated planning and preparation.
The journey began in March, when all 12 acts auditioned and were selected, with their songs carefully chosen soon after. Each act then met with me individually to discuss their vision for the performance. These sessions covered everything from props and visual effects to backing dancers, projections and costumes – laying the groundwork for a truly immersive experience.
While the performers focused on rehearsing their songs and finalising their outfits, I worked behind the scenes to design custom projections and graphics, and to coordinate all other staging elements. To preserve the fairness of the competition, each act drew cards to determine whether they would perform in the first or second half of the show. This added an element of unpredictability while still allowing for a well-paced and cohesive running order.
Following the May half-term break, we began filming the “postcards” – short video clips that introduced each act and played between performances. These not only added a professional touch to the production but also gave rise to some iconic moments, many of which earned a place in the blooper reel.
The event itself began with a vibrant Opening Parade where all 12 acts were welcomed to the stage with enthusiastic applause and celebration. Each performer delivered their act with confidence and flair, leaving the audience thoroughly dazzled and impressed by the sheer talent on display. In addition to the main competition, the night featured two other special performances. The first was a dynamic number by your hosts – Molly Garner and myself – which set the tone for the voting sequence. Later, the GCSE Music Class of 2025 delivered a heartfelt commemorative performance, marking the end of OSH’s 358-year legacy as an all-boys institution. It was a powerful and symbolic moment that added depth and historical significance to an already unforgettable night.
The final OSHVision result was determined through a combined voting system with both the audience and a designated jury panel – the “Big 5” – casting votes for their favourite performances, very similar to the actual voting system for Eurovision. The quality of talent on display made for an incredibly tight race, with just 7 points separating first and second place!
Though the voting sequence had a few moments of suspense, it ultimately built to an exciting conclusion, culminating in the crowning of our very first OSHVision champion: Poppy in Year 8! Her simplistic yet powerful performance of ‘A Thousand Years’ earned her a well-deserved victory, and the whole show paved the way for an exciting tradition of excellence.
On a personal note, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated in and supported the OSHVision Song Contest. It has truly been a privilege and a joy to bring this event to life. Congratulations to all the performers — regardless of the final scores each of you contributed to an unforgettable evening of musical excellence.
For those who were unable to attend, or for anyone wishing to relive the magic, the recording of the full show is now available on the Old Swinford Hospital YouTube channel!
For now, it’s a goodbye from moi, and I hope to see you all soon!
Written by George
Chief Executive Organisation and Year 11 student
