Reviewing all that has happened in Jowett Walk these past 10 days, it’s clear that students have had a fantastic time learning through studying and travelling. They have learned a great deal, on trips to museums, hands-on classes with experts, and even on the sporting pitch; but they have also learned a great deal about themselves.

A particular highlight was hearing engaging talks from some guest speakers. James Aidoo, who delivered a superb presentation about motivational and emotional maturity, and Mike Bull who is a specialist in ecology with a passion for protecting endangered species. They certainly stimulated students’ minds!

Students had great fun at one of the UK’s most popular theme parks, Drayton Manor park and zoo- and were doubly lucky with the fantastic weather! Daring the rapids and getting soaked from the big waves was not a turn off for some students, who were grateful for the chance to cool off from the summer’s heat. This fifteen-acre zoo is home to over 100 species of animals and a plethora of theme park rides and attractions, where Jowett Walk students spent their day learning about endangered species and what it is like to work in conservation, before hitting the rides for an adrenaline boost.

Keeping with the theme of animals, students were delighted yesterday to have the chance to participate in an animal handling experience hosted by Zoolab. There was everything : rats, pythons, giant snails and hissing cockroaches! In addition to this, students also took advantage of the glorious sunshine while visiting Cotswold Wildlife Park on Saturday. Unfortunately there were no elephants, but as you can see from the photos there were plenty of other animals like zebras and beavers to admire.

The students at Jowett Walk are really getting a feel of Oxford student life by eating in the dining halls of Balliol college, punting along the river Cherwell, and taking part in sports and games on the campus lawns. These experiences all contribute to the ORA enrichment programme, to ensure that students leave the course feeling intellectually stimulated as well as energised and inspired!

Much, much more to come for students at Jowett Walk between now and Sunday, so stay tuned! If last week’s Mid-week party is anything to go by, students are in for a superb treat for their graduation meal and party tonight!