Transcript: End of Trinity 2026 message from the Vice-Chancellor

Greetings 20m up from a Cherry Picker here in the University Parks – something a Vice-Chancellor doesn't get to say too often! I'm here having a spectacular aerial view of our wonderful glorious Parks as we draw Trinity term to a close.

You can see that James from the University Parks team has paid tribute to the beautiful game by mowing this wonderful World Cup lettering here. Please come and take a look and this is why I'm up here in this cherry picker with my hat and harness, so EveryDaySafe as well.  

Well I hope you are enjoying the football as much as me. I’m rooting for England as ever – a great start with the win over Croatia, but I genuinely wish your team the best, whichever part of our wonderful international University community you belong to.

Well, we have arrived at the end of another academic year at Oxford.

I know that for many of you this has been a period of intense focus, with exams, deadlines, performances, competitions, research, projects and countless commitments alongside your studies. I want to recognise not only what you have achieved individually, but also everything you have contributed to college and University life over the course of the year. And for those of you completing your studies, thank you for all you have contributed to Oxford throughout your time here with us. 

This term has also provided opportunities to reflect on some of the major issues shaping our world beyond Oxford. Through my Colloquium, undergraduates came together to explore both artificial intelligence and climate, supported by postgraduate facilitators. The ideas and discussions that emerged demonstrated real creativity and collaboration, and my congratulations to all who took part.
Elsewhere, the Sheldonian Series continued discussions on the role universities play in public life and debate. Thank you to everyone who has contributed to conversations across the University this year.

June also provides an opportunity to celebrate and continue to support our LGBTQ+ community across Pride Month. It was wonderful to see so many students and staff at Oxford Pride. We remain committed to being an inclusive university community where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. 

I would like to thank all of you who contributed feedback this year through student surveys and representative roles. In particular, my thanks to this year’s Students' Union Presidents, JCR and MCR Presidents, and all those involved in the Students’ Union Conference of Common Rooms. Your participation in these discussions continues to strengthen your student voice across Oxford, and we are listening and acting on your feedback.

Even if your studies may now be ending, support for your next steps does not. Whether you are exploring future possibilities, developing your professional experience, or preparing for what comes next, the Careers Service offers guidance sessions and programmes during your studies, throughout the summer and after graduation.

Please remember that the University’s expert welfare and support services also remain available, with some adjusted summer opening hours.

And as we approach the summer ahead, I encourage you all to take care online. The University takes the security of your personal data very seriously. Please continue to be vigilant to phishing emails and other scams, and do report anything suspicious if you encounter it.

I wish those of you finishing at Oxford every success and happiness in whatever comes next and hope you remain connected to Oxford’s global alumni community. We are proud to now call you our alumni so go out there and make the world a better place. 

For those returning in the autumn, I look forward to welcoming you back for another academic year. To those continuing with research, study and other projects over the summer months, I wish you every success in your work. Whether you are staying in Oxford or spending time elsewhere, I hope you are able to find time to rest, stay safe and enjoy the months ahead.
Take care.