Yarnton Session Three has now come to a close and as we wave our third cohort out of the gates, we want to say a massive thank you to all of the students who have made the past two weeks so unforgettable! This cohort will be remembered in particular for their relaxed but organised attitude to work, and mostly for their friendliness towards one another. Of all of our cohorts this summer, they have gelled the most as a whole group and it is brilliant to know that so many of these friendships will be continued beyond the programme.
In their classes this group have excelled, impressing teachers and campus staff alike with their ground-breaking ideas and inventive collaborations. Our students aged 16 – 18 studying on our Global Leadership programme have enjoyed the opportunity to learn more about international politics and international relations. Throughout their programme they have been encouraged to think about some of the challenges faced by the global leaders of today, as well as learning how to find solutions to contemporary crises such as climate change. As usual our Medical School Prep and Law School Prep were popular, with all of our students enjoying the more practical set of skills they have learnt alongside the theory on these programmes. Manor Farm Barn in Yarnton has witnessed some exciting changes, as our students aged 16 – 18 on our Mastering Automotive Engineering, have begun work on their six week project to build their Caterham race car. We hope to continue seeing more updates after the group move to the city centre for the duration of their six week stay here.
Outside of the classroom, students have enjoyed a range of social activities. Their main source of entertainment has been daily trips into the city to do sightseeing and shopping and it is safe to say that this group have immersed themselves in the culture of Oxford like no other cohort before them. As well as experiencing all the city has to offer, students have enjoyed a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at the manor, as well as barbecues, quizzes and movies nights. Thanks to our fantastic campus staff, there has never been a dull moment for anyone here.
Students tested their intellect during the Great Debate – a fantastic event held in the Sheldonian Theatre where they argued their case that ‘robots are indeed taking our jobs.’ Jason Bradbury, our key note speaker also offered them his insights into the future of tech, and astounded everyone by arriving in style – on a hoverboard! Beyond this, the group have enjoyed a range of Masterclasses in Creative Writing as well as a fun afternoon of Architectural challenges.
Excursions have also taken the students outside of Oxford, with particular mention of their trip to the West End to see the musical, ‘A Comedy About a Bank Robbery.’ Students also enjoyed some free time in London to explore the surrounding area, with the chance to see Buckingham Palace and Oxford Street.
Graduation was an apt way to end the day and everyone cheered and applauded as they saw their friends receive their scrolls and shake hands with Adam, the Programme Director. To those who had gone above an beyond there were some selected awards and then the night was closed with a three course meal and a fun joint party with some of the other students at Balliol and St Catherine’s!
Thank you Yarnton for a memorable two weeks and we hope to see this wonderful cohort enjoy every success in their future careers. Well done to all of our staff for organising such a great session – goodbye for now Yarnton!