The students have now completed their second day of lessons, demonstrating a clear willingness to learn. Teachers were continually reporting back stories of diligence and enthusiasm all morning; we have a really good feeling about Session 5 achieving great heights.

After a productive morning of lessons, the students had their free time. Optional activities were laid on by counsellors, including Punting on the River Cherwell. The student’s keenness was reflected in the turn out for Punting, as every student selected to take part. Punting is one of the most quintessentially Oxford pass times, a very traditional activity being enjoyed by students, residents and tourists alike. Students had tremendous fun trying to propel the boats themselves, regularly knocking into their friend’s boats and banging along the river banks. Being such quick learners, they quickly got the hang of it and were soon speeding along the river enjoying some of Oxford’s most beautiful scenery.

Following the punting, the students split up and began tours of Oxford. The Bridge of Sighs, Christ Church College, Carfax Tower and the sun soaked Botanical Gardens were but a few of the stops visited this afternoon. The students appear to absolute love living in such a unique city stooped in so much history, noticeably wanting to get as much out of their short time with us here at ORA.

Back at College after a delicious dinner in the Great Hall, the Bird Man brought his ‘Birds of Prey’. Students were able to learn all about the birds, touch, stroke and even hold them. The most popular by far was Zeus, the Alaskan bald eagle, with jaws as strong as a crocodile and weighing over 50 pounds!