Scholars Trip
Day 1: Cirencester
As CE beckoned, the 11 scholars headed off early morning in search of the source of the River Thames. Jemima navigated all the way to Kemble and then from there we were on foot. Splitting into two groups and armed with OS maps, the challenge then was a race to the source with Tilly and Mr Attlee taking a back seat. Tilly's group narrowly won by 45 seconds. It is hard to believe that this tickle then becomes the mighty tidal Thames that flows through London. We then headed to the ancient Roman capital of Corinium (Cirencester). The museum there is packed full of Roman mosaics and artifacts. The day was topped off by supper at Pizza Express and then frisbee football in the park in the evening sunshine. The scholars held a one minute silence for the CE candidates
Day 2: Daylesford and Blenheim Palace
On Wednesday, the scholars were very fortunate to be treated to the first farm tour of Daylesford to take place in the last 18 months. As guests of Lady Bamford, the general manager, Richard Smith drove the scholars in a tractor and trailer around the huge organic farm, explaining how they have taken business from a £1m turnover employing 20 people to the operation it is today - £45m turnover with a staff of over 500. While being shown fields of lavender, wildflower meadows, rare breed cattle and sheep, the scholars gained a fine understanding of the principles of organic farming and how you can be successful commercially. They also came to appreciate the importance of the building a brand and protecting its integrity. One of the highlights was when Richard demonstrated how his sheepdog, Cam, could herd sheep in response to whistles and commands. In the afternoon, it was off to Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Winston Churchill. The scholars were amazed by the opulence of the state rooms, library and gardens, and they also enjoyed the exhibition on the life and impact of Winston Churchill. Finally, the Blenheim maze was successfully navigated by most with the exception of Daisy, who required a rescue party! The day was topped by supper in Oxford and watching the sun set over the dreamy spires from the top of Westgate. The cricket match against Summer Fields awaits tomorrow.
Day 3: Oxford and the Natural History Museum
Thursday was all about Oxford. First, we went to visit the Natural History Museum to explore dinosaurs and fossils, before going out the back to discover the wonders and curiosities of the Pitt-Rivers Museum – an eclectic mix of objects collected from around the world by Sandroyd’s very own. We then met Alfie’s cousin at the Radcliffe Camera, and he talked about being a student at Oxford, the different colleges, and the application process. It is hoped that this current cohort might consider studying at Oxford in five years time. After a picnic in the University Parks, it was time for the Scholars Match against Summer Fields. In a thrilling finale, Daisy and Rory steered Sandroyd to victory, after some excellent bowling by Pia and Indy. But it was Eloise, who was awarded player of the match, for her acrobatic overhead catch. The evening was about shopping in Westgate and supper at Zizzis. All the scholars are really looking to joining the CE celebrations on the beach at Studland.
