Over the last week and a bit, students staying at Jowett Walk have had an amazing time visiting historical sites, competing in sports games and singing karaoke as Session 4 continues.

Hampton Court Palace

A visit to the UK is not complete without an excursion to a castle, palace or stately home, as ORA rightly agree. With that in mind, ORA students at Jowett Walk embarked on a mission to learn more about Tudor history at the famous Hampton Court Palace near London.

Begun in the early 16th Century by the infamous Cardinal Thomas Wolsey, the palace was taken over by King Henry VIII after the fall of his Lord Chancellor in the 1530s. Henry VIII used the Palace as a demonstration of his wealth and opulence, parading important diplomats through its corridors and hosting lavish parties for his extravagant court.

Later in time, the Palace played host to other members of royalty, including William III and Mary II who added a baroque palace to the existing Tudor site. With famous architects and landscapers, such as Christopher Wren (who built St Paul’s Cathedral in London) and Capability Brown (the famous landscaper), the 17th Century amendments to the Palace added a regal and beautiful extension to Hampton Court.

Surrounded by such rich history definitely inspired ORA students at Jowett Walk to prance about the Palace and inspect its furnishings meticulously, as if they themselves were royal visitors. The intricate detail of the Royal Chapel was a favourite for some pupils, who marvelled at the spectacular cornflower blue ceiling and gold decoration. Others appreciated getting a closer look at original paintings and tapestries that filled a number of rooms, whilst some enjoyed strolling through the stunning gardens in the English sun.

A day full of history inspired our students to explore their natural curiosity and ask plenty of questions to the room guides, who were pleased to answer. The day gave pupils a thrilling insight into the past and ensured they had plenty to discuss on the journey home.

Table Tennis and Karaoke

During free time, students decided to create a Table Tennis tournament, challenging their friends to show off their skills and find the Jowett champion. With exciting rallies, thrilling serves and tense spectators, the tournament created a hub of entertainment and exhilaration at the college. It was superb to watch everyone having a go and enjoying some time together with some friendly rivalry.

The new karaoke machine at Jowett Walk proved extremely popular in Session 4 as everyone took turns testing their singing voices. Groups of students auditioned to be the next big hit, chuckling as they attempted to beat the machine and get the high score. It was certainly an entertaining spectacle to those listening and watching and a great way for students to unwind after a long day of studying.

In their final week, ORA pupils staying at Jowett Walk will visit Warwick Castle, compete in ORA’s Got Talent and enjoy a series of Masterclasses, so stay tuned to find out how they get on.