It was a sunny start to the day for students on our 19 + programmes as the weather began to warm up for what is forecast to be a fantastic week of sunshine here in Oxford.

The sun was reflected in the spirits of our students as they began their first classes of their programmes on Monday. Breakfast was held in their respective colleges, University and Merton – as the two groups chatted and got to know one another a little better before their lessons proceeded.

The classes were mainly introductory as our academics went through the plan of learning for our students over the next two weeks, answering any questions they had along the way, and outlining their expectations from the students during their stay here. The atmosphere was relaxed and open, which was a good way to settle our students into the rhythm of their programmes.

Following their lessons, students received a library induction at the Bodleian which means they are able to have somewhere quiet with excellent academic resources to study during their stay. They took part in a famous tradition of reading the library declaration in their mother tongue before they were allowed to be registered which was a very exciting affair! Once this was complete, it was time for the group to visit some of Oxford’s main attractions including on a brilliant tour run by counsellor, Emma.

The day was then completed with punting and a pint at the Turf Tavern – a right of passage for those studying in Oxford. This offered our students the opportunity to get to know the city centre as well as each other a little better.