The campus was a hub of anticipation all day as the students prepared themselves for the excitement of their graduation evenings. Everyone finished their final lessons in the afternoon, and with a combination of sadness and achievement, they thanked their teachers for all their help and commitment to the programme. Then they all headed off to get changed into more formal attire for the rest of the afternoon.

The sun was finally shining as Adam, the Programme Director, introduced the order of ceremonies with a few words on the successes and challenges overcome by this brilliant first cohort of students. He took a moment to express his deep gratitude to all the students who have made these last two weeks so fantastic and memorable for the staff here at Yarnton Manor. It has been a real pleasure to help this talented group take their next steps in their educational journeys, and to see them develop, not only academically, but also as autonomous, young individuals.

First to graduate were our students aged 16 – 18, who took a few moments to have their photos taken in front of the Manor before their official ceremony. A special mention went out to Pari, who Adam described as an inspiration for her display of great resilience. Well done Pari! After everyone received their scrolls, the students then departed for Oxford city centre for a well-deserved graduation meal at Browns.

The students aged 13 – 15 were next to graduate, and Adam particularly noted their willingness to engage with the place, their academic material, and one another. After a beautifully presented celebratory dinner in the dining hall on campus, all of the group took some of their final moments of free time to play badminton, American football and few intense games of bulldog. This was followed by an evening of dancing as everyone got stuck in with DJ-ing.

Huge congratulations to the first graduating students of ORA’s Class of 2019!