The students staying at St Peter’s College ventured out on yet another exciting excursion yesterday to the beautiful Blenheim Palace. The vast 18th-century country house is only a short bus ride away from the city centre, located in Woodstock. Currently occupied by the Dukes of Marlborough, the palace is the only non-royal country house to retain the title of ‘palace’. The house is also a national monument to the Battle of Blenheim in 1704. Students explored the intricately decorated halls and chambers all morning, directed by an astonishingly knowledgeable guide. Students then moved outside to lunch, marvelling at the impeccably kept gardens, before embarking on a miniature train ride that allowed the students to gain a full viewing of all the palace’s sights.
On return to St Peter’s College, the students enjoyed a sumptuous dinner in the main college dining hall before assembling in the main marquee for the highly anticipated ORA’s Got Talent. The students were informed of the show right at the beginning of their stay with us, enabling them to prepare and rehearse a performance for the rest of their peers in the hope of winning sweet edible prizes. From beautiful piano and flute performances right through to alternative dance and comedy, all participants performed radiantly. The competition was too close to call, with Bob Barnes, Programme Director and adjudicator declaring everyone a winner and praising all students brave enough to take part individually.