And we’re off!

Yarnton Manor is now abuzz with the first cohort of students for ORA’s 2019 summer programmes, all of whom had arrived safely by Sunday afternoon. After months of preparation, the ORA team are all really excited to have the Manor full of students, all ready to learn, explore and make friends for life from across the globe.

To refuel after some long journeys (starting from five different continents!), our students and any parents that came along to drop them off were treated to afternoon tea in the Manor’s 17th-century Main Hall.

Parents and students were then given a Welcome Talk by Programme Director Adam Atkins, after which any remaining parents said their farewells, leaving students to get acquainted with their new friends over dinner in the historic wood-panelled Long Gallery. With everyone fed and watered, the students were given more detailed information about what to expect over their two-week stay, and the chance to ask any questions, in their programme Induction Talk (as well as being reminded of The Rules!). Students then headed out into the Manor’s beautiful grounds for some energetic Ice Breaker activities, including a spot of badminton in the Walled Garden.

With a long day of finding new places and meeting new faces behind them, the students were happy to head back to their homes for the next two weeks and settle down for a good night’s sleep, ahead of the first full day of their courses. Monday holds their introductory academic sessions as well as a tour of the historic city of Oxford – let’s hope the Great British Summer weather makes an appearance for them…