Undergraduate Open Days give visitors a taste of life at Oxford

Open Days are held each year to allow those interested in applying to the University to visit Oxford and learn more about the undergraduate courses, the colleges and the University in general. All colleges and departments opened their doors to host events throughout the day, along with the University's museums, libraries and other facilities. These included drop-in sessions and tours for prospective students and parents, giving visitors the chance to talk to tutors and current students. Between 5,000 and 10,000 students, parents and teachers attended events over the two days.

Dr. Samina Khan, Director of Undergraduate Admissions and Outreach at Oxford, said: 'We know that open days are a key factor in a student’s choice of university so we work very hard to show students, parents and teachers all that the University and city of Oxford have to offer. A key part of this is doing our best to be a good neighbour to all those who live and work in the city by working to minimise disruption for all and ensure our visitors see Oxford as a welcoming place through the eyes of excited prospective students, parents and teachers.'

Hertford College had a LEGO model of the college on display for the Open Days.

Credit: Ian Wallman, IW Photographic

Helen Charlesworth, Head of Enquiries and Marketing at Oxford University, says: 'We really look forward to welcoming visitors to open days and letting them see how the friendly, welcoming college communities enhance the university experience. It’s particularly important that students from as wide a range of backgrounds and schools as possible get a chance to see life at Oxford up close, to see what it’s really like.

'Many students may think Oxford is unattainable, or "not a place for someone like me" until they actually get a chance to meet current students and tutors and see what it's like to study and live here as part of a college community. It's also a wonderful chance for people who live here to show off their city and University. In spite of the record-breaking temperatures this year, everyone seemed to really enjoy the events and the enthusiasm of the staff and students who put everything together was evident everywhere.'

Staff from across the university and colleges manned gazebos in busy areas to help advise visitors.

Credit: Ian Wallman, IW Photographic

The Earth Sciences Open Days helpers.

Credit: Ian Wallman, IW Photographic

Biochemistry Open Days display.

Credit: Ian Wallman, IW Photographic

Visitors pause for a rest at Trinity College.

Credit: Ian Wallman, IW Photographic

Student helpers at Oriel College.

Credit: Ian Wallman, IW Photographic

University College's tortoise was out welcoming visitors.

Credit: Ian Wallman, IW Photographic