Friday was more like Fri-YAY as it was graduation day at Yarnton, and the perfect chance to celebrate all of the achievements and successes of this brilliant cohort of students. As was to be expected, the whole group got out of bed with a spring in their step as they looked forward to an evening to party away the last two weeks.

In the morning, it was time for their final lessons with us and as they set off for their classes, there was an atmosphere of sadness in the air. Despite it being their last classes, students still put in their all! Our Business and Enterprise class gave some fantastic presentations, while the Engineering Preparation students wowed everyone as their creations navigated a 3D maze! The students all made sure to thank their teachers for their efforts over the session, and classes ended on a definite high note.

After the final lesson had finished, it was time for lunch and the opportunity to enjoy a traditional meal of fish and chips for the last time in the manor. After lunch, some chose to get the badminton nets out whilst most of the group used the time to chill-out and chat on the lawn. Then it was time to prepare for the festivities! Students, counsellors and junior deans helped to set up the lawn for the ceremony and everyone helped to make the marquee look fitting with balloons and streamers.

The formal ceremony was emotional, and as Adam, the Programme Director addressed the students, it was clear from his kind and thoughtful words that they had made an impression on all of the staff at Yarnton. Everyone was applauded as they came to receive their scrolls and a few notable students also received prizes for attainment and effort in their specific subject areas.

The evening was celebrated in style as everyone dressed for the occasion and enjoyed a wonderful three course meal and a party at the Town Hall in Oxford city centre with some of our other students from St Catherine’s and Balliol College.