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Dear Parents,
The month of May is always an unusual time for us as an international school. Our second Year IB students have left campus, Year 1 students have begun their second year of studies, our faculty colleagues are focusing on teaching and learning in preparation for September 2024, and we are nearing the final stages of the close of the 2023-2024 academic year.
We already miss our second year IB students, and having completed their final examinations are now enjoying, time with their families before their onward academic journey. Results days will be with us soon, our final year A Level students are working hard in preparation for their final exams. Please remember that we are here to help and support during this time of transition to university. Jennifer Dashwood-Begg, our Examinations Officer, and Dr Mark Zumbuhl will be contacting you with further details.
School life for our Year 1 students is as busy as ever, they are currently receiving results and feedback from their final assessments of this academic year. Parents, please take the opportunity over the next week to ask your child what they have learned from their teachers' feedback. This 'positive questioning' from home completes our triangle of support. If you have any questions or concerns following these discussions, please contact your child's Pathway Manager, or our Deputy Head of Academics ([email protected]).
Our final newsletter of this academic year, published in June, will provide an opportunity to reflect on what has been another amazing year. It will highlight the significant achievements of our students, showcase the memorable events and activities that took place, and celebrate the hard work and dedication of both students and staff. We will also look ahead to the exciting plans and goals for the upcoming academic year, ensuring we continue to build on the successes and learnings of the past year.
Update from our Residence Manager- Chloe
It has been quieter in boarding this month, as our students have undertaken external and internal exams. We have also had to say goodbye to our final year IB Students which is always a sad time for staff and students alike; we will miss having them on campus but wish them all the best for their futures. We marked the first wave of departures with a Chinese meal from a local restaurant which was enjoyed by all. During the exams we have continued to keep the students energised with our ever-popular snack nights. These have included homemade sweets produced by House Parent Lin, a cheese board from Tara, and some wonderful baked goods from House Parent Mark. Finally, to end the month and celebrate the completion of internal assessments for our 1st-year students, the house parent team treated students to a barbecue on the lawn.
Extracurricular Update from Sam
Paddle Boarding Taster Lesson:
Amidst the academic rigors of exam preparation and assessments, our Year 1 and 2 students took a refreshing break to engage in a paddleboarding taster lesson. Led by our experienced instructor, Colin, students received thorough guidance on paddle techniques before embarking on a serene journey along the River Thames. This excursion not only provided a welcome respite but also offered students an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of Oxford City's riverside.
Reach for the Sky!
To promote trying new experiences and skill development, some of our first-year students participated in trapezing taster lessons. This experience encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the challenge of mastering a new skill. The students have thoroughly enjoyed this adventurous opportunity, and we are hopeful that it has not only enriched their extracurricular pursuits but also enhanced their confidence in exploring unfamiliar territories and embracing new challenges.
House Competition Updates:
House Badminton Tournament
The competitive spirit was alive as students from Osney, Magdalen, and Folly houses competed in a spirited badminton tournament. Following a series of engaging matches, Osney emerged victorious, showcasing exceptional teamwork and sportsmanship. This achievement solidified their position at the top of the league table at the end of the House Badminton competition.
House Chess Tournament
EF Academy Oxford's first House Chess competition took place on May 29th, marking an exciting conclusion to the competitive house events for the 2023-2024 academic year. The competition was fiercely contested between all three houses, with the final outcome hinging on a golden game between Osney and Folly.
Ultimately, Folly emerged victorious, a win that impacted the House league standings, placing them just one point behind Osney (14 points to 15) and keeping Magdalen in contention with 13 points. As the academic year draws to a close, house points from boarding and academic achievements will be tallied to determine the overall winner of the 2023-2024 House Competition. The much-anticipated announcement of the champions will take place during the final assembly of the year.
What's happening in June
As we approach the conclusion of the academic year, we have planned two final day trips to provide memorable experiences for our students. On June 1st, students will tackle the challenges of Wet n Wild, followed by a visit to Thorpe Park on June 8th, offering an exciting conclusion to the year's activities.
Our much-anticipated Summer Ball will take place on Wednesday, June 5th, at the picturesque Cherwell BoatHouse. This elegant event serves as a fitting conclusion to the academic year, providing students with an opportunity to celebrate their accomplishments and create lasting memories with peers.
Key Dates
TOK Exhibition (IB students only): 4th June, Language School Lecture Hall
Summer Ball: 5th June
Duke of Edinburgh Expedition (Selected students): 7th-10th June
University Trip (Year 1 students): 11th June, Bath University
Final Day of Teaching: 13th June (Students may depart campus from 5pm)
End of Year 1 Academic Reports: 14th June
With very best wishes,
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Mark Fletcher-Single
Head of School, EF Academy Oxford
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