Our final cohort of Balliol students for Summer 2019 got off to a flying start on Sunday, as they arrived in Oxford and immediately set about making friends. A series of fun activities encouraged the process, whilst a welcome speech also went down a storm!

The friendly faces of our check-in team welcomed the students onto the campus, and they chatted away whilst waiting for the final few faces to filter in. Once everyone had arrived, it was time for the introductory speech.

Patrick, the Assistant Programme Director, addressed the cohort enthusiastically, getting the students on their feet and laughing away to remove any lingering nerves. He also embarrassed the counsellors with some awkward questions, which raised even more laughter!

After the rousing speech, the students were keen to get stuck into their activities. They were directed out onto the lawn by a counsellor, who used the campus’ ceremonial paddle as a visual aid! Once they arrived, they were split into groups for some games to break the ice, and the smiling faces suggested that everyone was enjoying it.

The students headed to bed excited for the session ahead, and keen to get out and see the Oxford sights. Arrivals day was a huge success, and the new arrivals certainly settled very quickly. The staff were pleased with the quick start to the programme, and everyone is full of optimism ahead of Monday’s opening lessons.