Week 2 has thrown ORA students at Queen’s headfirst into culture with trips surrounding themes of art, architecture and natural history.

Art and Architecture Trip

ORA students staying at Queen’s strolled along to Keble College this week to investigate the art and architecture of the old Oxford University building. Gawking at the sculpture and statues and marvelling at the intriguing brickwork, pupils were given an insight into the building inspiration, techniques and the stories behind the somewhat recognisable figures dotted around the College.

The brickwork was created by William Butterfield, who chose the unusual striped style due to its association with a high church position. This was perhaps inspired by John Keble (1792-1866), an ecclesiastical reformer, in whose memory the College was built in the 1870s. This architecturally interesting building intrigued our students and gave them something to think about regarding the purpose and symbolism behind art and architecture in Oxford and beyond.

Natural History Museum

Having soaked up architectural culture, pupils headed to the Natural History Museum in Oxford for the chance to discover more about the city’s complex past.

The museum contains unique displays, such as the Oxford Dodo and various dinosaur skeletons, making it a fun place for pupils to explore and learn more about many extinct species. With everyone fully immersed in discovering Oxford’s natural past, they almost didn’t notice when it was time to leave!

Stay tuned to hear what else our curious bunch get up to in the next few days.