Week 1 of Session 5 has been a busy one for ORA students at Queen’s, as they embark on a tour around Christ Church College.
Christ Church College Fieldtrip
Christ Church College is a world-famous institution within Oxford University and was founded in the early 16th century by the infamous Cardinal Thomas Wolsey. As Henry VIII’s Lord Chancellor, Wolsey was a rich man and was inspired by the educationist values in the Renaissance movement to build Cardinal College, now known as Christ Church. With the fall of Wolsey, King Henry renamed the College but let it continue serving as an educational institution.
Despite its difficult beginning, Christ Church is now a thriving and popular college in Oxford. ORA students could understand why when they were given a spectacular tour around the stunning college, even having the chance to explore the renowned Cathedral.
Punting
A stay in Oxford means the chance to participate in a world-famous British pastime: punting. Taking to the River Cherwell and gathering into the small punts was a great experience for pupils who wanted to learn more about traditional English culture.
The weather was warm and a relaxing breeze ensured that those in the punts could keep cool. Some decided to try their hand at the activity and took control of punting the boat, laughing and enjoying the chance to amuse their friends. Others liked to watch the wildlife that drifted past them, with ducks in abundant supply.
A long afternoon spent punting, laughing and chatting exhausted students and by the time they returned to Jowett Walk, they were ready for some rest!
Cake Decorating
Away from the excitement of an afternoon punting, pupils had the option to decorate some cupcakes. Icing, sprinkles, sugar shapes and chocolatey pieces provided a delicious assortment of colours to create intricate designs. Lots of students decided to create regimented designs kept in a colour scheme and precisely decorated. Others went wild with coloured icing and drew flags and sunflowers, whilst some just created patterned masterpieces.
Whatever the design, the cakes tasted and looked amazing and we commend the decorating talents of our students.
Keep an eye out over the coming days to read all about the end-of-week party happening at Jowett Walk tonight.
