It’s time to say goodbye to our cohort at St Edmund’s and as our campus staff waved off the group on Saturday, it was clear that these students had left a real impression on our team at ORA. This group in particular have shown excellent skills in being a team, and they have always worked together and supported one another throughout their stay.
St Edmund’s has been a hive of knowledge over the last couple of weeks and lessons have always been enjoyed by this diligent bunch. Students on our Veterinary Science Programme have enjoyed learning the tricks of this difficult trade. They have benefitted from excursions to the Cambridge Veterinary Hospital, an essential resource used by the university which has given them hands-on experience of the practical skills involved in this industry. Those on our Summer Architecture Programme have really improved their sketching skills over the past two weeks, and they have really excelled together. The group have developed their knowledge in spatial mapping, planning and designing in order to benefit their future careers in the architecture sector.
Lessons have been interactive, challenging and dynamic thanks to our expert academics who have continually stretched the minds of our ambitious students. Outside of their classes, our counsellors and junior deans have encouraged students to get involved in a broad range of activities, from football to punting. Everyone has bonded over student talent shows, karaoke and even a few competitive games of poker! Sports have always been a popular choice with students even running their own workout session in the sunshine on the lawn at Eddie’s!
Students have received a creative education on top of their usual lessons, with several of the famous ORA Masterclasses in comedy, the stock market and how to write a book! These were always a hit with everyone as it was a great way for students to get hands-on experience in a fun and useful workshop run by some excellent guest speakers and experts. The Great Debate also tested out students’ public speaking skills, encouraging everyone to come out of their shells to discuss the topical issue of the internet as a tool for radicalisation. Considering that for most of these students, English is not their first language, everyone was impressed with their high level of engagement with the proposition and with their presentation of their arguments.
Throughout their stay, the cohort got to know Cambridge well, as they spent a lot of time touring the sights of this historic city. They enjoyed punting on the Backs for a more scenic view of the city by River. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed their free time for exploring some of the wonderful cultural activities available in Cambridge. Outside of this city, students also visited the UK’s vibrant capital, with a chance to see a West End play. Everyone got their time to enjoy some of what London has to offer in terms of eating, shopping and sightseeing. This was an incredibly memorable affair and one of the most popular!
Graduation was an appropriate celebration to close proceedings at this session. The whole group received their scrolls with pride and it was excellent to see all of the students clapping and cheering for one another. The night was danced out with fitting festivities, and students were rewarded with a delicious meal.
A massive well done to staff and students alike at St Edmund’s. The friendly and happy atmosphere in college over the past two weeks is a testament to everyone’s commitment to the ORA principles! Good luck for the future.