It was a truly celebratory spectacle in the Simpkins Lee Theatre in LMH yesterday, as students were joined by their parents and loved ones to commemorate and bid farewell to their two weeks of learning and exploring with ORA. Programme Director Sarah wished each student well and praised each one for the adventuring and intellectually curious natures they have exhibited in lessons and activities, and for their good and generous conduct with one another.

Then they were called to the Randolph ballroom, by London as it happens―Big Ben stood proudly and pink-lit for party-time on one side of the ballroom, with an iconic red London telephone box facing it on the opposite side. Students played at blackjack and shuffleboard, and enjoyed a sumptuous dinner, where all were joyful and eager to savour the last moments with newfound but close friends.

London then called them to the dancefloor, and there they remained well into the evening, arms reaching upwards in waves to the chandeliers above. There were hugs all round, as students expressed their affection towards each other and their thanks to the Counsellors and Deans who had guided them through the last two weeks and introduced them to so many of Oxford’s historical wonders and delights. When it was time to leave and return to LMH for the last time, students did so contented, with the promise of final conversations before goodbye at breakfast the next morning. Congratulations, all!