It is almost the halfway point in the final ORA Summer 2019 session at Balliol, and what better way to celebrate a successful week’s work than with a party? That’s exactly what our students did, as they threw a spirited celebration on Friday!

After a day of lessons, which neatly rounded off the previous few days of learning, the students were well and truly ready to embrace the weekend. Once the afternoon lessons were out of the way, there was ample chance to get outside and take in some fresh air.

Some of the students went into the city, with a trip to the incredible Pitt Rivers Museum on offer. There was also a scavenger hunt, an opportunity for them to display the Oxford knowledge which they have managed to gather in their first week at Balliol.

For those who were more interested in games, the option of frisbee was there – as it always is! Everyone was grateful for some down time at the end of an intense but productive week. Before long, it was time to get ready for their dinner party. The theme of the event was ‘Midsummer Night’s Dream’, and it was great to the students get into the spirit of the evening!

Some more sports in the University Parks and a film night were arranged for after dinner, and the weekend arrived with everyone in a great mood. The weekend looks set to be lots of fun, with more sport and academic tasks lined up, and the students are looking very focused for the challenges ahead.