Culture and creativity flowed from ORA students at University this week, as they took a fascinating trip to the Ashmolean Museum and spent time decorating cupcakes.

Ashmolean Museum

The world-famous Ashmolean Museum was an exciting excursion for students at University College this week. Showcasing some invaluable and unique artefacts, the Museum is well-known for its extensive collections.

The Alfred Jewel is one of the Ashmolean’s prized possessions, thought to adorn a pointer used for reading text (an aestel). The colourful artefact is believed to have been commissioned by King Alfred the Great in the 9th Century and its preservation, despite its old age, amazed ORA students.

Another object that caused fascination was Guy Fawkes’ iron lantern, supposedly carried by the man himself as he attempted to blow up the Houses of Parliament in 1605. The fame of the Gunpowder Plot adds value to this intriguing item and pupils enjoyed imagining Fawkes creeping through the cellars holding the artefact.

Cupcake Decorating

Full of historical and cultural knowledge, some pupils decided to join in with the cupcake decorating class during their evening leisure time. Armed with bright sprinkles, glittery sugar balls and vibrant icing, the group got to work with creating delicious masterpieces.

The approaches were varied and unique, showing the stylistic preferences of each student. Some were keen to splash as much colour as possible on their cakes, whilst others delicately drew figures and faces and went for a minimalistic approach. Throughout the activity, it was lovely to hear lots of laughter erupting from the students and some even showed their keen teamwork skills as they created wonderful designs together. You can see some of the creative works of art below but, be warned, some were eaten before we could even get a photo!

Tonight, ORA pupils at University College join up with their Yarnton Manor peers to party the night away. Keep an eye on the blogs page to stay updated with their progress.