The students have arrived! Session 4 here at Queen’s College is now definitely underway, with a typically grey English day kicking off arrivals day in Oxford. Despite the overcast day, the students were still excited and ready to start their first day of summer school. Counsellors and Junior Deans ensured the students felt welcome upon arrival at afternoon tea. This also provided the opportunity for parents to meet the staff responsible for the students for the coming fortnight and feel more comfortable knowing they are in safe hands.

Programme Director, Ron Wilder, gave a welcoming and informative introductory speech reassuring students that all staff are happy to help with any issue, but also guiding students through upcoming highlights to build their excitement. Students were actively encouraged to “fully immerse themselves in the experience” and take in as much of Oxford as they can in their short stay with us.

After students had been shown to their rooms and dropped off their bags, the Counsellors and Junior Deans wasted no time to break the ice with numerous social exercises, encouraging the students to meet and mingle. All 160 students gathered in the main Queen’s College dining hall, soaking in the beautiful paintings and architecture surrounding them.

After many long flights and a busy afternoon, there were some very weary faces. Students were keen to rest up in anticipation for a full morning of lessons followed by their first opportunity to get out and explore the city. The sun is forecast to come out tomorrow, tune in again to find out how they got on.