The last day of the first week always brings some excitement to campus, and this session is no different. Over their full-english breakfasts, our students were busy making plans about what they’d like to do with their free time over the weekend.

The last classes of the week gave the students a chance to put some of the skills and knowledge they’ve been developing over the week into action. The students taking part in the Global Issues Seminars spent the morning gearing up for a debate about whether we’ve entered a new age of imperialism. Everyone spoke very passionately for their chosen side and it’s clear they’ve learned a huge amount about how to present and structure arguments to create an impact. 

Cricket had been planned for the afternoon, but since it was such a sunny day, the students decided they’d rather try their hand at punting! The counsellors gave a quick coaching session on dry land before everyone climbed into the boats to see how their skills would measure up on the water. Though it took a little practice, soon the students were gliding down the river like pros – though there were reports of someone falling in further downstream!

Once everyone had dried off from any river mishaps, it was time to celebrate the end of a fantastic first week in Oxford. The students gathered up bags and light jackets and headed over to Yarnton Manor for a Mad Hatter’s Tea Party with our other session 6 cohorts. It was a great chance to make some new friends and everyone had a happy evening sipping tea, eating scones, and playing party games on the grass.