Sunday was a big day for our 19+ courses: not only were we welcoming a new cohort, we were also opening the doors to more accommodation for the students at the wonderful Merton College! 

As one of the oldest colleges, Merton is home to a whole host of history for the students who stay here to bask in! Even better, it’s situated right in the heart of Oxford, which means our students can be inspired by all the cultural and artistic wonders ‘the city of dreaming spires’ has to offer! 

Throughout the afternoon, the students arrived on campus and it was clear at once that they were as excited to be there as we were to have them! They wasted no time before they began chatting to each other over refreshments on the lawn. It’s great to see everyone so eager to make friends and settle in on day one!

After the students had taken all their luggage up to their new rooms, it was time for a short talk by the assistant programme director. The talk covered all the important things the students might need to know – from where to find breakfast in the morning to reminding them know what’s expected of them academically.

Then it was time for some ice breaker games – it seems however old you get they’re still a great way to get to know new people! By the time everyone headed off to bed they were very tired but beginning to really mesh together as a cohort – A very promising sign for the coming session!