There was another full day of lessons on Friday at Eddie’s, including dissections for some of our more scientifically focused students. This was a great opportunity for students to get direct, hands-on experience, and was a real highlight to round off a stimulating first week of classes for students here in Cambridge.

In the afternoon, counsellor Joe gave another very well-attended politics talk and discussion. After covering liberalism last time, this session was focused on socialism which certainly got everyone together sharing their ideas. Fortunately, things didn’t get heated as everyone was understanding and respectful of each other’s points of view.

This was followed up with some preparation for this Sunday’s final Great ORA Debate. The topic on this occasion will be whether future space exploration should manned or unmanned. Teams have now been selected, and our prospective debaters are hard at work researching the topic and preparing their speeches. It promises to be a fascinating afternoon of discussion and everyone is helping to support one another to build their confidence for the big day.

As afternoon turned to evening, it was time for students to enjoy themselves at the mid-session BBQ which was a success thanks to the wonderful weather. Students enjoyed a change of pace from meals in hall, sitting on the grass in the Millennium Garden to enjoy the selection of dishes. This was followed up by the classic ORA St Edmund’s celebratory activity: karaoke. The passion and engagement was as strong as any previous session, and there was no shortage of students (or counsellors) eager to step up to the microphone. Some were perhaps more orthodox in their performances than others, but all enjoyed themselves and spirits were high – we hope we didn’t wake the neighbours!

When curfew and bedtime did finally come, students and staff alike took their leave with big smiles on their faces after a fun-filled day, with the prospect of punting and much more besides in the weekend to come.