Oxford University Trip

On Friday 24^th May, Year 12 Historians headed off for a busy day at the University of Oxford. In Oxford, we visited Christ Church College in order to participate in a History Debate Workshop.

The debate focused on whether Winston Churchill’s legacy was positive or negative for Britain, and all students got stuck into researching and formulating arguments regarding this famous historical figure. At the debate, our students met pupils from a range of schools in the South East of England and gained great experience in presenting their ideas in a persuasive manner.

Following the debate, we were treated to a delicious lunch in the prestigious Tudor dining hall at Christ Church College where we were surrounded by portraits of masters of the college, notable academics and monarchs. We then went on a tour of the college, facilitated by current History and Ancient History undergraduates, where we heard what it is really like to study at the University of Oxford.

After the tour, our students participated in a History Workshop with Professor Sarah Mortimer on the English Revolution (which our students study at A Level) – the students confidently answered questions using their knowledge from the classroom, and with the help of Professor Mortimer they then analysed some new sources to better understand the period they were studying.

I was really impressed at their ability to talk about what they had learnt with an expert on the topic.

After a Q&A with current students, we collected our Christ Church College prospectuses and tote bags and then made our way back towards the station.

All in all, our Historians had a brilliant day and thoroughly enjoyed their visit to the city of the dreaming spires!

Ms Delahaye, Head of History