Both of our final Summer Schools are in full swing as we reach the end of the first week.
University College
The first few days at University College saw ORA students keen to get to know each other. A series of welcome talks, icebreaker games and even an exciting city tour ensured that pupils were quick to feel at ease in their new surroundings. The group strolled around iconic landmarks, including the Radcliffe Camera and Bridge of Sighs, and laughed during the games, making fast connections with their peers.
Having settled in, it was time for students to get involved with their Masterclasses. Some tested their detective skills with the CSI Masterclass, trying to solve a crime, whilst others constructed fan-powered cars and demonstrated their engineering prowess. Later in the week, an Arts and Crafts activity provided a creative outlet to ORA’s artistic pupils, who grabbed glitter, paint and pens to create masterpieces.
Back to their core classes, a Model UN workshop gave the group the opportunity to walk in the shoes of diplomats fighting for the needs of their country. Using public speaking, debating and research skills, the students made valuable contributions to the class. Elsewhere, a Basic First Aid workshop provided pupils with essential life-saving skills for the future through a fascinating class.
An excursion to the Ashmolean Museum was a highlight for ORA students at University this week, as they investigated the incredible collections held by the world-famous museum. Admiring the Alfred Jewel and gazing at the Guy Fawkes’ lantern kept pupils fascinated and provided a culturally rich experience. Back at base, a cupcake decorating activity gave everyone the chance to relax and enjoy some time together.
Yarnton Manor
To get the week started, ORA students at Yarnton Manor took part in the renowned quiz night, encouraging everyone to get to know their peers and settle into their new home. A tour around Oxford quickly followed and exposed the group to the stunning architecture of the world-famous city, including the Sheldonian Theatre and Bodleian Library.
Acquainted with their local surroundings, it was time for students to begin studying. Business and Enterprise students worked hard on creating business marketing plans, learning the key elements of the important documents and gaining an appreciation of the forward-thinking required in business. Those of the Global Leadership programme, on the other hand, drafted press releases in response to a made-up natural disaster, debating the importance of resources and how best to use them.
In the evenings, a series of Art Workshops, Cookie Making sessions and leisure time to play outside has kept everyone busy. A tasty evening of paella and games on the lawn was particularly enjoyed during the week and presented another opportunity for students to bond.
Later in the week, pupils gathered to create their own beautiful tie dye shirts. With shirts and dye provided, it didn’t take long for the colours to begin splashing across the blank shirts, creating bright patterns. All of the shirts turned out fantastically and the variety of colour schemes was incredible.
Still to Come
The renowned end-of-week party hits tonight, with students from both ORA campuses coming together to celebrate in style with a neon theme. Over the weekend, time in Oxford ensures ORA pupils at Yarnton can experience as much of the city as possible, whilst those staying in University have lots of sports activities lined up.
Next week brings more lessons, Masterclasses and even trips to the theatre in London. Be sure to check back to read all about how ORA students are getting on.