Week 1 finished with a bang! Across ORA campuses, themed parties and formal dinners were thrown to give students the chance to celebrate the end of a successful week.

Balliol, Queen’s & St Catherine’s – Alice in Wonderland

The Mad Hatter and Cheshire Cat graced us with their presence to throw an extravagant tea party to celebrate the end of Week 1 of Session 5. ORA students from Balliol, Queen’s and St Catherine’s donned their finest outfits to impress the Queen of Hearts and her troublesome soldiers.

The room was adorned with teacups, cakes, hearts and other wonderful props inspired by Wonderland. As the evening continued, and our students had feasted on everything that said ‘eat me’, the dancing commenced and colourful lights turned the party into an amazing Wonderland spectacle, complete with loud music and dancing.

Jowett Walk & Lady Margaret Hall- Generic Wizard School

Staying in historical colleges has gone to the heads of ORA students at Jowett Walk and LMH, who hosted a ‘Generic Wizard School’ party. Wands at the ready, pupils arrived at the magically decorated marquee ready for a night of spells and potions (and, of course, wizard dancing!).

The concept that students could well be in a Harry Potter film encouraged some to get into character and dress up, enjoying watching the muggles dance as they cast charms and spells. The snacks available ensured that energy and magic levels remained high all night, despite hours of loud singing and dancing.

Merton – Dinner at Malmaison

A formal dinner at Malmaison was in store for ORA students at Merton, as they donned their finest dresses and outfits to celebrate the end of the week with a delicious dinner.

Beautifully designed name cards invited everyone to sit and enjoy the banquet in front of them, and a selection of wine and cocktails were quickly ordered. The night was merry and entertaining, with photos being snapped all around the room throughout the evening.

Full of delicious food and fruity drinks, pupils slowly made their way back to Merton to sleep off the wonderful evening.

St Catharine’s – Dinner at The Hilton Hotel

St Catharine’s decided against hosting a party for the end of Week 1 and instead opted to hold an elegant group dinner at the Hilton Hotel.

The ORA students enjoyed a delicious feast as they laughed the night away reminiscing about the excitement the week had brought. The food selection was impressive and appreciated, ending the week on a tasty note.

St Peter’s – The Caribbean

The surfboard was waiting and the straw huts were ready for the St Peter’s end-of-week party. Complete with beachy snacks, colourful leis and fishy decor, the party got off to a swinging start. ORA students tried their hardest to balance on the fickle and temperamental surfboard in an effort to gain glory, whilst others swayed and danced in the flashing lights.

Though we are halfway through Session 5, students have loads more to look forward to this coming week with excursions, lessons and practicals. Keep an eye on the blogs to find out more.