It has been a busy first week for all of our students on our 19 + programmes as they have jumped feet first into life in the renowned colleges of Oxford. Merton and Univ are amongst the oldest of the Oxford colleges, and all of our students have shown a deep interest in their eclectic histories over the last week.

On Saturday, students had the day to themselves and everyone chose to take a trip to Bicester Village, an excellent shopping spot just outside of Oxford. Everyone shopped to the heart’s content, enjoying the sunshine throughout the afternoon, and several students chose to eat out together as well.

Laden with bags, the group headed back onto the coach in the late afternoon, and many napped on the short journey back to Oxford after a busy day on their feet. It was a great way for students to enjoy some down time and everyone seemed pleased to be able to eat lunch out of college with their new friends.

The Saturday programme culminated with a barbecue dinner at University college, as well as dinner at Oxford Castle in Malmaison for those students living at Merton. Overall, it was a very enjoyable Saturday and a perfect way to enter the weekend. The relaxed atmosphere allowed the students some relief from the intense academic atmosphere during the week!

Students have already expanded their horizons as they have enjoyed learning about the modern workplace and its expectations over the week. This weekend has been a chance for them to reflect on this wonderful experience so far. This diligent bunch, have also, unsurprisingly, been eager to get on with their homework! They have taken hours to study in the Bodleian – a real treat!