As is to be expected, the maturity of students on our 19 + programmes is always notable. Regardless of this, it can still be a little overwhelming to come to a new country, with a whole new group of people, and there were a few students who were clearly a little nervous today.

However, it was great to the see these nerves diffuse and as students shared their full English in the breakfast hall, our staff gave them an induction into the week’s routine. There was a light level of chatter as the group began bonding, and before long their conversations were in full flow as they headed for their first classes of the programme.

Politics and International Relations: A Global Perspective, was a popular choice this session, as our forward-thinking students are eager to remedy some of the political issues of the modern age. Across the board, it was an enthusiastic morning as teachers encouraged students to come out of their shells by interacting and collaborating with one another. Monday saw a strong start, and it’s clear that these students are going to challenge themselves through study.

After lessons, the group headed into the city centre for an exciting end to the afternoon. All of our students were sworn into the Bodleian Library in a traditional ceremony where each student was required to read the library declaration in their mother tongue before they were able to register. This was a great way to celebrate the rich history of this city and the group seemed to enjoy the formality of the ceremony.

Once they had seen the other sights of the city, it was time to refresh themselves with a drink at Turf Tavern – an infamous spot for thirsty students to have a pint and a chat following a busy day. It was a relaxed end to Monday, as everyone made friends over a drink of their choice before heading back to college.