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Dear Parents,
The IB Diploma examinations are now in full swing, and our campus is abuzz with focused revision. It is truly inspiring to see the dedication and hard work our students put in to achieve their goals.
As April unfolds, we are reminded of various signs of the season, including the excitement following this year's Graduation Ceremony. It was a momentous occasion, filled with pride and a touch of nostalgia as we celebrated the bonds of friendship formed within our community. As we bid farewell and wish our graduating students all the best, we also extend an invitation to stay connected with us. The ceremony was not just a celebration of academic achievement but also a testament to the growth and confidence our students have gained during their time here. We owe a debt of gratitude to the families who have supported them along the way. Together, we witnessed the embodiment of global optimism in our students.
Such events prompt reflection on the remarkable growth and development of our students. The Class of 2024 has exemplified academic excellence, camaraderie, and curiosity throughout their journey with us. As they prepare to step into the world as alumni, we wish them every success and eagerly await their return to share their stories. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made the Graduation Ceremony a memorable experience, especially the parents, students, and the talented individuals who contributed through music, poetry, or speeches.
As we approach the end of the academic year, there are still plenty of opportunities for your children to participate in enriching activities and trips. We encourage you to urge them to get involved and make the most of these experiences. Additionally, please keep us informed of any travel plans as they prepare to depart.
Finally, I would like to share the closing words from my graduation address, words that resonate deeply with our Year 2 students. I urge you to embrace your unique identities and use your education and skills to make a positive impact in the world. Be courageous in pursuing your passions and dreams and remember failure is never the end, but a stepping stone towards success. Learn from your mistakes and keep pushing forward with determination. As global citizens you have a responsibility to contribute towards building a more inclusive, compassionate, and sustainable world. Embrace diversity, respect differences, and strive to make a positive difference to the lives of others. Be empathetic, compassionate, kind and always strive to create a positive impact wherever you go.
Remember, it is your future, it is yours to create. Your future is as bright as you make it, go out, and be global changemakers, and good luck. Boarding Update from Our Residence Manager - Chloe
After returning from Spring Break, our students have swiftly readjusted to campus life. Despite the ongoing examinations for our 2nd years and looming assessments for the 1st years, we are committed to ensuring they strike a balance between work and relaxation.
The Student Lounge remains a bustling hub of activity, offering a variety of engaging events in recent weeks. From a quiz in honour of World Arts Day to a belated Easter Egg Hunt, there has been no shortage of fun. Our popular snack nights continue to delight, featuring new favourites like "Mini Roast Dinner" and "Homemade Soup Night."
We have also had some memorable special occasions, such as a breakfast reception with canapés and drinks for our 2nd years before graduation. Additionally, we celebrated with an outdoor pizza party complete with a chocolate fountain later that same weekend.
Sam, our Activities Coordinator returning from the DofE training weekend shares his updates.
Duke of Edinburgh Training weekend
Last weekend, 19 students participated in a training expedition for the Duke of Edinburgh Award. This three-day journey challenged students to work effectively as a team, involving tasks such as preparing a campsite, carrying all their equipment, and cooking. Most importantly, they honed their navigational skills using a compass and map. They also practiced staying warm and dry, a crucial skill in the UK's unpredictable weather. The expedition was not only a test of their physical abilities but also a fantastic opportunity for developing interpersonal skills, creating lasting memories, and forging new friendships.
House system
This term marks the conclusion of the first year of the new House system at EF Academy Oxford. Our students have valiantly supported their House teams throughout the year, engaging in a variety of competitions. These include House baking, House cooking, House debates, and House volleyball, to name just a few. Students will also compete in House badminton mixed doubles and a knockout chess competition to determine the House Champions of 2024!
Additionally, we have now installed an official House Leaderboard in the reception area. This allows us to recognize and record the hard work of the houses and students, making it visible for everyone to see on our leader board
Upcoming trips for the rest of the year
With 2024 flying by, we find ourselves in the final term of the year, however students here at EF Academy Oxford still have plenty to look forward to, please find below the dates with the trips for the rest of the year:
• Warner Bros- Harry Potter Studio Tour- 4th May
• A Trip to Bicester Village- 11th May
• Paddleboarding- 18th May
• Surf Lessons at The Wave in Bristol- 25th May
• Wet N Wild assault course- 1st June
• Thorpe Park- 8th June
Key Dates
Monday 6th May May Bank Holiday – No lessons
Monday 13th May A Level Final Examinations begin* - Year 2
Monday 20th May Assessment week 5 (Year 1)
Monday 27th May Spring Bank Holiday – no lessons
With very best wishes,
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Mark Fletcher-Single
Head of School, EF Academy Oxford
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