It was another educational – albeit creepy – day yesterday at Yarnton as the 13-15s delved into the depths of Oxford Castle and Prison. Over 1000 years old, the castle served as a prison after the English Civil War and still stands in remarkably good condition today.

The students participated well throughout and were clearly amazed by some of the stories that took place within the castle’s walls. These included incredible tales of the wealthier prisoners, such as that of a man who held a dinner party from his own cell, with over 200 guests!

Of course there were also stories of incredible hardship suffered by others, with some cells being crammed with up to 20 people. Courtesy of their tour guide, everyone was also shown the fearsome gallows, as well as the courtyards of the castle, which now serve as great locations for markets and theatrical performances.

Afterwards there was time to hike up the motte-and-bailey castle, a trek that was rewarded with a stunning 360-degree view of Oxford. The students managed to get some great pictures and scope out their next move for independent exploring later on.

It would not be a trip around Oxford without a visit to West Gate Shopping Centre, which the students keenly took advantage of!

Meanwhile in Yarnton, the Medical School Preparation group got down to business with heart dissection. Not for the squeamish, everybody got involved cutting and analysing its inner-workings, with expert guidance helping them navigate this most complex of organs.