This weekend’s busy social events left the students revitalised ready and to begin another busy week of lessons. Inspired by the ORACLE talks on Sunday, in which visiting experts shared their testimonies and advice, the students’ fierce desire to study hard was stoked still further, and Monday was their first chance to put this resolution into effect.

In the afternoon, a variety of different animals made their way into St Peter’s College as the students were treated to ‘Zoolab’. Students were able to see, hold and stroke a variety of creatures- snakes and tarantulas, always favourites. Many brave students faced their fears and pushed out of their comfort zones to get close to animals they were afraid of, all with the supportive aid of the Zoologist.

After an afternoon of hands-on zoological exploration, the first part of the evening was devoted to some rather innovative art. In a session called ‘Chickenwire’ the students had the chance to exercise their creative license, designing and building sculptures out of chicken wire.  The Zoolab certainly provided inspiration for many of the creations: we now have an impressive collection of wire snakes, spiders, and scorpions hanging around the college.

With creative thirst satisfied, there was a chance to vent any remaining energy and explore the sounds of other cultures at the fun and vibrant Chango Lingo Carnival. Students were trained by drumming experts to follow the correct method for playing bongo drums and tambourines to generate a more authentic, harmonious sound. The students drummed and danced deep into the evening before winding down and settling into some activities led by councellors, or catching up on homework.

Tomorrow provides another opportunity for the students to really immerse themselves into Oxford life as they embark on more adventures around the city. Stay tuned for more updates.