Session 4 is whizzing by for ORA pupils at LMH, with week 2 giving them an insight into English history, a tie dye workshop, sports, CV writing and homework club.
Blenheim Palace
Constructed in the early 18th Century as a gift from Queen Anne to John Churchill (1st Duke of Marlborough), Blenheim Palace is a fine example of Baroque triumph. Filled with extraordinary art collections, including the world-famous Marlborough Tapestries, the Palace is a cultural gem nestled in the heart of Oxfordshire.
Ready to learn all about Sir Winston Churchill (British Prime Minister throughout WWII) and his family home, students eagerly entered the Palace to explore the vast rooms and extensive collections. The gilded State Rooms dazzled pupils with the intricate ceiling detail, whilst the artwork and furniture shone with opulence.
Our resident artistic students remarked at the spectacular mirrors and ornaments that lined each room, whilst fans of historical battles eyed the weapons wielded in the military tapestries. The range of rooms and artefacts meant there was something to fascinate everyone, particularly the daring tales of battles and the lavish aristocratic lifestyle.
With the Palace well and truly explored, pupils took to the gardens to find the centre of the Marlborough Maze, marvel at butterflies and discover secret spots in the 2000 acres of parkland. As another of Lancelot ‘Capability’ Brown’s landscaping masterpieces, the gardens gave our students the perfect place to relax after soaking up such a rich history.
Homework Club
A chance to get together with laptops and notebooks to work on assignments was surprisingly welcomed by ORA pupils at LMH this week. Some were working on group projects and huddled around a computer screen, whilst others sat quietly together outside and studied independently.
It was really great to see everyone getting stuck in with their assignments and helping each other to get work done.
Tie Dye
Yearning for a creative workshop, some pupils joined the Tie Dye activity to create their own vibrant T-shirts. After twisting the shirts into small clumps to create the twirly effect, pupils poured different coloured dye over the clothing to produce rainbow masterpieces.
Some pupils went for more reserved choices, sticking with light colours that complemented each other. Others went for the bold and striking options, creating loud statement shirts guaranteed to draw attention.
Whatever their preference, all of the shirts came out wonderfully and some even wore them later in the week during their free time.
CV Writing Workshop
To give students the chance to improve their employability, Lorena Brasnic (LMH counsellor) hosted a CV workshop. The workshop was designed to help students draft their first CV and taught the key elements to be included in the document to catch the eye of future employers.
Running through important qualifications and achievements to include, the workshop also highlighted the significance of personal statements and how to appropriately word cover letters. The relevance of CVs in today’s society meant that the workshop provided essential information to better prepare pupils for the future and many drafted some excellent documents.
Sports and Leisure
Lots of intellectually stimulating classes and trips meant that ORA students at LMH were keen to release some physical energy in their free time.
Counsellor-led sports activities, such as football, tennis and basketball, enabled everyone to let loose and participate in team activities as they ran around. Even those who were not keen to play came out to support their friends with cheers and music, creating a jolly atmosphere around LMH.
With Session 4 going by in a blur, there is still lots for students staying at LMH to get stuck into, with guest speakers and Graduation arriving in the coming days.
