The Oxford Summer School (OSS) was established in 1923 under the auspices of the Drapers' Chamber of Trade. After the First World War the status of those working in the retail trade declined and hence it attracted fewer individuals of ability. A decision was taken to run the School in an attempt to reverse this trend. The OSS has run every year since 1923, except for a break of six years between 1940 and 1946. This run of over 75 years makes the course unique within any industry. Over the decades the School has modified its style and content to reflect the trends and developments both within the retail sector and with staff development training generally. It has always prided itself on endeavouring to reflect the 'cutting edge' of retailing and has been successful in doing so through a Committee of experienced retailers who hold or have held senior positions within the Industry. During the time the OSS has been running over 14,000 retailers have attended, many of whom have gone on to become senior figures within the Industry. Over the decades the OSS has been held at both Oxford and Cambridge Universities, but in recent years has been held at Keble College, Oxford.