Now halfway through the first week, ORA students at Yarnton have enjoyed being creative with an art workshop and cookie making, as well as played games and enjoyed delicious food.

Art Workshop and Chocolate Cookie Making

Students cracked out their watercolours for a relaxing painting activity. Given free rein over what they wanted to create, pupils wasted no time letting their imaginations run wild. Flowers, seascapes and people vibrantly filled the paper, showcasing the artistic talents of the students.

For those desiring a more tasty activity, the chocolate cookie making was right up their street. Chopping white and milk chocolate into small cubes was tricky, with pupils sneakily eating as much as they transferred to the saucepan! When there was finally enough chocolate, the cookies were baked to life and the glorious warm smell filled the Manor. We think they were just as good as Ben’s Cookies, if not better.

Football

With the weather remaining dry, students took to the back field to play some football. Teams were marked with bright vests, creating friendly rivalry as the ball flew from end to end. For the pupils, it was a fantastic opportunity to release some energy after a long day of lessons, giving them a break from their intensive studies.

Paella and Garden Games

Having exhausted themselves with lessons and football, dinner was a welcome break from the excitement of an ORA Summer School. A huge paella pan was set up on the back lawn, full of rice, meat and vegetables, ensuring that everyone was well fed after a day of hard work. Salads, bread and churros also lined a nearby table and encouraged students to grab as much as they wanted.

After a delicious meal, there was the chance for some relaxing bonding as pupils participated in outdoor games. Jenga was a particular favourite, as the group watched anxiously as their friends tried to carefully remove the wooden blocks without making the tower topple over. As the tensions grew, the crowd got bigger and the pressure was on to find who had the steadiest hand.

Some found the activity too much and opted to play swingball or chat in the alcoves around the grounds. Whatever the activity, it was an evening full of laughter, fun and good food.

Towards the end of the week, ORA pupils at Yarnton will enjoy some time in the centre of Oxford and join their comrades in University College for a Neon party. Check back soon to read more!