The first set of St Andrews students for Summer 2019 has left the campus after the end of their tremendous session in Scotland. A rigorous academic programme was mixed with a range of excursions and activities to give the students an educational and entertaining experience.

The subjects our programmes covered included Medical School Preparation, Law School Preparation, Summer Architecture, Business & Enterprise and Engineering Preparation. The students covered a number of theoretical elements from each of their respective subjects, as well as putting together projects and presentations to attain their final marks. The academic programmes were engaging and the students all worked very hard, such was their interest in the fascinating content.

On top of the lessons and working on their projects, the students had a series of masterclasses and talks to further enhance the experience. This was also the case on the middle weekend, when debate fever took hold of the campus and the students came together to hold a formal discussion on the subject of education. The issue on the table was whether high school prepares pupils adequately for the issues they will face in later life. The students were mature in respectful in their debating, which was typical of how seriously they treated the programme.

It wasn’t all work, however, as the students were able to experience some of Scotland’s unique culture. There was an amazing trip to Edinburgh, an historic and beautiful city where the students were able to see the sights and even buy some souvenirs! There were also trips to Dundee, and a look around the golf course at St Andrews – considered The Home of Golf. In addition to this, there was a fun and challenging scavenger hunt around the town which went down very well.

The atmosphere throughout the two weeks has been outstanding, as everyone has embraced the chance to make friends and learn about new cultures. This has been enhanced during the generous free time that the students have been timetabled, most of which has been spent playing games and joking around on campus. There have also been plenty of opportunities to explore town and shop, as well as film nights and karaoke – all of which were very well received!

With the academic sessions drawing to a close, the students had a graduation at the end of week two. The ceremony was a great occasion, as everyone celebrated their success with their new friends and received their awards. There was also a party and a meal at a restaurant in town, during which the counsellors handed out some funny awards to some of the students.

Their time in Scotland has come to an end, but the students will certainly not be leaving empty-handed thanks to their new-found friendships and the invaluable knowledge they have gained during their stay. They have impressed everyone at ORA with their diligence and positive attitudes and they are welcome back any time!