PARKLIFE

V O T E D NUMBER ONE M I X E D COLLEGE FOR S T U D E N T SATISFACTION

IN A 2013 SURVEY OF

OXFORD UNIVERSITY STUDENTS

Reg

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2013

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CONTENTSWELCOME

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONSJCR EXECUTIVE

COLLEGE FACILITIESSTUDENT PROFILES

SOCIAL LIFE IN COLLEGESOCIAL LIFE IN OXFORD

WELFAREPEER SUPPORTERSACCOMMODATION

RIP OUT MAP OF OXFORDCOLLEGE HISTORY

CREWDATING SOCIETIESACADEMIC INFORMATION

ARTS AND DRAMAFOOTBALL

BOAT CLUBTENNIS AND CROQUET

FINAL FLING FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CHAPEL AND CUSCRMCR

OXFORD ENGLISH DICTIONARYOTHER THINGS TO BRING

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Welcome to the best few years of your life...

Congratulations on being one of the lucky few to gain a place at Regentʼs - the smallest of the colleges of the University of Oxford but also the most fun and outgoing. Centrally located in the middle of Oxford, we are the perfect springboard to achieve anything which you set your mind to; our small, nurturing and friendly community really marks us out as the best place to spend your time at the university.

This magazine, written, designed and edited by members of the JCR (Junior Common Room) is intended to give you an idea of what life at Regentʼs is like, and what you can expect from your time here. However we canʼt answer every question - and if you have any queries unanswered by the end of this booklet, there are a range of ways to get in contact with us: you can either tweet us (@regentsoxford), send us a Facebook message (search Regentʼs Park College), or you can get in contact with your college parents, who will have sent you a letter alongside this booklet with their contact details.

Cast away all your preconceptions and get ready to find out all you need to know about the place youʼre going to love by the end of Freshersʼ Week.

Welcome to Parklife.

PARKLIFE 2013-14

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Will Tomsett

DESIGNERS: Ben Coulter, Will Tomsett

FORMATTING/IMAGE SELECTION: Miriam Hargreaves, Beth Hibbert, Sofia Newitt

PHOTOGRAPHS: Creative Commons, unless otherwise stated. With thanks to Josh Butler, for MCR photos, and Olivia Yallop and Ben Coulter for their continuing documentation of Regent’s life

POSTER MAP: Designed and created by Beth Hibbert

FRONT COVERPainting of the Main Quadrangle by the late Peter Caterall

© 2013 Regent’s Park College JCR

REGENT’S PARK COLLEGE

WWW.REGENTSJCR.COM

@REGENTSOXFORD

How many students does Regent’s take? We accept around 35 undergraduates each year. This

means we are not much smaller than other small colleges (Corpus takes around 60 undergrads, for example). We also have around 70 graduates, making our graduate intake larger than, for example, Mansfield. Being a small college, we have a tight-knit and close community, making it particularly easy to settle in as a Fresher.Can I play sport at Regent’s?

Absolutely. We have a number of Regent’s teams (football, rowing, tennis, etc), which compete against other colleges and you can read about them later on in this booklet. If you want to do a sport we do not offer then you can play for the team of another college, enabling you to choose a team which fits your level. We also enjoy full use of the University gym and sports facilities.Will I have accommodation for all three years?

College accommodation is guaranteed for your first year and your third year, as with most other Oxford colleges. You will live out in rented housing in your second year. What is the JCR/MCR/SCR?

The JCR is the body of students, and also a room within the college. The MCR is a special interest group of members of the JCR, consisting of graduate students and students over 21 only. The SCR is the collective name for the college

fellows and tutors. What is the JCR Exec?

The JCR exec represents the college to the SCR and to the university at large, as well as dealing with the day-to-day administration of JCR affairs. This includes calling JCR meetings twice a term, at which students can raise concerns and pass motions.What do I need to do before coming to Oxford? Relax! It can be daunting coming to a new city and beginning your Oxford degree, but everything will be just fine. There is no need to be stressed about coming, as the beginning of Michaelmas term provides plenty of opportunities to sort out any teething problems.What is a PPH? Regent’s is a PPH, not a college, although it makes such a miniscule difference to our day-to-day lives that we all tend to forget that fact. The difference between a college and a PPH is very technical - namely, that colleges have a right from the state to award degrees in their own right, whereas a PPH licenses that right from the University. This doesn’t mean your degree certificate is different or anything - in fact the only real difference is that PPHs tend to be smaller, and their students tend to be happier. Don’t stress about the fact that you’re at a PPH - we’re not religious, and you have access to the same resources, libraries, societies and sports clubs as everyone else at Oxford University.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAll you need to know

REGENT’S IN NUMBERS18101927109

4,200*

1

#1

5

????

* How did we work this out? Well: 21 biscuits per pack, with 5 packets of biscuits paid for by JCR per day, 5 days a week - 8 weeks per term. Therefore 21 x 5 x 5 x 8 = 4,200

ESTABLISHED IN LONDONCOLLEGE MOVED TO OXFORDNUMBER OF UNDERGRADSFOR STUDENT SATISFACTION

FORMAL HALL PER WEEKSHOTS IN COLLEGE COCKTAILBISCUITS EATEN PER TERMAGE OF COLLEGE TORTOISE

#5 FOR CHEAPEST RENT

JCR ExecutiveThe student committee representing Regent’sPRESIDENT: HARRISON DENNER

My name is Harrison Denner, I’m a 3rd year law student and the current JCR President. I’ll serve one more term before my glorious reign is over and I pass on the mantle to a worthy successor. Firstly, I would like to add my congratulations to the undoubted throng you will already have received thus far. You have made it to Oxford and are about to enjoy 3 or 4 of the best years of your lives. It will be hard work, but also an awful lot of fun. There really are few better places to be than Regent’s. Given that you’ll probably be seeing a lot of me, it’s important to outline my role. Being JCR President involves a variety of tasks. Principally, my job involves sitting in meetings and passing on your views to others. I sit on pretty much every single committee in the JCR, including freshers’ committee. I also chair bi-termly JCR main meetings, where everyone in the JCR meets to discuss their thoughts and ideas, and it is an opportunity for the rest of the Exec and I to report to you on our progress. A large part of my role is to liaise - I meet with the Principal on a weekly basis to relay your views to him and make sure your voices are heard. Another part of my role is attending Prescom every other week, which is a large gathering of all the JCR Presidents that takes place at a different college each time, followed by formal dinner. On top of liaison, I have a policy-making role. I have, over the last year, secured food provision for exam students in 9th week, overseen a budget overhaul along with our fantastic treasurer Stephen, and negotiated with the SCR over rent, meal prices, and various other costs and issues. Despite the lengthy hours and heavy workload, I receive an enormous sense of pride and satisfaction in what I am doing. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as President so far. I’ll introduce myself to you guys again in Freshers’ week and look forward to meeting you and spending the next year with you.Harrison xx

VICE PRESIDENT: PHOEBE WILLIAMS

Hi everyone,

I’m Phoebe, third year PhilThe student and JCR vice-president. The main thrills of my job come in supporting Mr President in all that his job entails - mainly accompanying him to college and university-wide meetings (often boring ones) and occasionally fetching him Lucozade on a hard day. I’m also in charge of sorting out college accommodation for third year students, buying and lovingly maintaining the carnations that all exam takers wear pinned to their gowns, and making arrangements for the college punt that all Regent’s students can use for free in Trinity term. Of course, the most important part of my job is organising and heading up your Freshers’ week along with Andie, our Welfare Officer. We’ve been working together over the summer to plan a Freshers’ week that will hopefully get your lives at Regent’s started in the best possible way - it’s going to be a great week and we’re looking forward to seeing you all here. Andie and I along with our lovely committee of second and third years will be here when you arrive to help move you in and will be around throughout the week to introduce you to Oxford life in various ways. Have a great rest of your summer and see you in October!

Congratulations on your place at Regent’s and I know you’ll be really happy here.

Phoebe x

SECRETARY - WILL TOMSETT

I’m a second-year History student and my job as Secretary really is one of the most interesting positions on the Executive, and a role which I would encourage everybody new to Regent’s to seriously consider taking on, as elections are held in your sixth week of your first term. Alongside doing boring things like taking minutes at JCR main meetings, and updating and maintaining the standing orders and constitution, I also am in charge of the creation of Parklife (this fascinating document which you are obviously very impressed with), the Alternative Prospectus, and I also maintain the JCR’s website. Alongside this, I run the Facebook and Twitter pages of the college, all of which is just an elaborate excuse to take pretty photos of the Quad and share them with everyone.I am also in charge of brew - the provision of tea and biscuits every weekday at 11am and 4pm - which means I am the person to moan at if you think the proportion of bourbon creams to Jaffa cakes is too high (because life’s too short to have bad biscuits).I’m on Freshers’ committee as well so I’ve been helping Andie and Phoebe sort out your first week in Oxford, and I’m really looking forward to meeting you all. Just please excuse my terrible dancing in clubs when you meet me...See you all in your first week!Will xx

TREASURER: STEPHEN RICHARDSON

"Money never sleeps"(Wall Street, 1987)

While somewhat removed from the global financial markets which this quote refers to, the requirement of the JCR Treasurer to deliver the JCR's morning newspapers did mean that I never slept past 9:45 last year; a nightmare when contending with a hangover! But, aside from this menial duty, I have to say that holding the position of Treasurer is remarkably enjoyable - so much so that I’ve done it for two years.

Firstly, the role offers a unique insight into the operations of the JCR and its societies; seeing how they function and deciding where they spend their money. This is achieved through the production of termly budgets and accounts which plan and record how the JCR uses its funding from College. While I cannot make this process sound exciting, (Microsoft Excel was certainly not built for entertainment purposes) it is quite fun writing a cheque and accounting to the JCR and College for the purchase of "Rainbow Willy Straws" for the Regent's Rabbits!

Moreover, I am an ex officio member of the Final Fling Committee, meaning I have influence over planning our biggest party, but a light workload. Additionally, involvement in College 'politics' always provides bemusement as mountains are occasionally and temporarily made out of molehills, but, much more than this, it accords me valuable influence and responsibility to protect JCR interests and shape its future. I would therefore conclude that my time as JCR Treasurer has been an exceptionally worthwhile investment of time and effort, and I would recommend the role to any of you.

Looking forward to meeting you all,Stephen xx(3rd Year Historian)

WELFARE INFORMATION OFFICER: ANDIE GBEDEMAH

I’m a Third Year Historian and the Welfare Information Officer for Regent’s. The welfare system in college is there to make sure that students are supported in all sorts of problems and feel as happy and as comfortable as possible at Regent’s and Oxford overall. As Welfare Officer I represent the welfare system within the JCR and I am a link with the Junior Deans and Dean of the college, who are able to deal with more serious welfare matters. This means if you have any problems I can put you in contact with the necessary people. I run events, alongside the Men’s, Women’s and LGBTQ Officers, for everyone to attend where trained peer supporters are available to talk to. Peer supporters are students in college trained by the University Counselling Service to be around to listen to anyone who needs a friendly face or information about welfare provision in the wider university. An example of a welfare event is Uber-Brew, which provides free food in the JCR every Sunday. I also provide free welfare supplies to anyone who wants them, including condoms and pregnancy tests. This, as with everything regarding welfare, is fully confidential, so people can feel comfortable approaching me with any concern.   I am also one of two people helping to organise and run your Freshers’ week. So I hope you enjoy it!!Andie xx

SOCIAL SECRETARY: JAMES CRAIG

Hi guys! I’m James, the Social Secretary for Regent’s. This simply means I come up with the ideas for your Friday night shindigs, as well as making them all happen! Previous themes have including bops like Barnyard Bop or social events with a James Bond theme and there are plenty planned for your first term in October. The first of which is a big one. To end your Freshers’ Week the theme will be Wild West; so think imaginatively for your costume as there are always multiple prizes to be won for the best ones! Expect plenty of free drinks and always having a Friday event to look forward to, and don’t forget to join the groups ‘Regentz’ and ‘Park Life’ on Facebook to be in the know!

See you soon!

James xx

BAR MANAGER: WILL OBENEY

Hello! I’m Will, the college bar manager. Unsurprisingly, I’m in charge of running our beautiful bar, which is conveniently located next to the JCR. Myself and the bar committee (who will be elected in your first term here) work hard to ensure the bar remains well-stocked, from copious amounts of Jägermeister to bars of Galaxy chocolate, as well as opening every night of the week. We’re proud to be cheaper than any other bar in Oxford, thanks to us being completely student-run. Do pop into the bar as soon as you can, and look out for our special freshers’ deal on the first Bop!

Also, if you want to get any bar experience, let me know. See you soon

Will x

The JCR is a comfortable room with two fireplaces and adorned with the rowing team’s trophy blades from previous years. It is the social hub of the college, and where most of the social events (and procrastination) happen - from brew (biscuits and tea) at 11am and 4pm, to social events after Formal Hall on Fridays.

College FacilitiesWhat Regent’s has to offer

Our beautiful quad comes into bloom in Trinity (summer) term, when we’re allowed to walk, sit and play on the grass. It is the home of Emmanuelle, our college tortoise, and the venue for many a croquet match. It’s the only main quadrangle in the university to have trees planted on it, and these flower in the summer along with the ivy on the wall of Main Block. There are smaller quadrangles outside Balding Block and Gould Block, respectively. People who lose a game of table football 10-0 will become familiar with the quad in a different way...

THE QUADRANGLE

THE JCR (Junior Common Room)

THE BARThe bar is one of the college’s greatest assets. The last college bar to be entirely by students, it is therefore the cheapest watering hole in Oxford, with a bottle of beer setting you back a mere £1.50, and Jaegerbombs priced at only £1. The bar is open every night after dinner until 11pm and is the centre for pre-drinks before a night out, or for bringing guests to for a quiet pint. Alongside alcohol, it also stocks soft drinks and snacks. The bar is run by a Bar Committee under the direction of the Bar Manager, who are all elected in Michelmas (autumn) term. The college cocktail, the ‘Mind Eraser’ is a must-try.

THE LIBRARY

THE HALL

OTHER FACILITIESDVD LIBRARY:The college also has a number of other facilities to offer - such as one of Oxford’s only free DVD libraries, which is available to use by getting the key off Joshua Butler, our DVD Librarian. We also have a 40” flat-screen television with DVD player in the bar, and during summer term we bring in a Playstation or an XBox so people can play FIFA. LAUNDRY:

There are a number of washing machines and tumble dryers near the men’s and women’s toilets in the shadowy basement area known as ‘Sheol’ (an appaling Theology

joke). A wash or dry costs £1.30 per go, and you soon learn to keep plently of coins on you as the machines refuse to give change back.BATHROOMS:

Bathrooms for both Main and Balding blocks are situated at the far end of the main corridors. The men’s and women’s bathrooms are identical in layout, each having two toilets, four showers, and a bath. Facilities are also available in Sheol.KITCHENS:

In common with many other colleges, there are no meals provided at weekends, but there are

two k i tchens in Ma in b lock (toasters, ovens, microwaves, etc) and a kitchenette on Vinson corridor. There are fridges available for general use, and you are allowed to bring a minifridge for your room provided it is no bigger than two cubic feet. STORAGE:

Rooms must be completely cleared at the end of every term. International students may leave some things behind, but the vast majority of your stuff goes home with you. As long as you can get it all in one car, you haven’t brought too much!

Unfortunately, we all have to do our work as well as have fun. This is where the Regent’s Library comes in. We have three libraries on site but the biggest is the main library (pictured). This is where most people do their work, as it is well-stocked with most of the books you’ll need for your first year, especially if you’re studying Theology or Philosophy. That said, make sure you go and explore all the other libraries Oxford has to offer - there are more libraries per square foot in Oxford than anywhere else in the world, so you’ll always be able to find a book you need!

The venue for meals and a number of other events, such as the college pantomime, Helwys Hall is a large 1930s building adorned with portraits of individuals from the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries connected with the college along with portraits and names of all the Principals. On one side of the hall are two-story glass windows looking out onto the quad and the ceiling is clad in Canadian pine. Lunch is served here at 1pm, and dinner at 7pm, from Monday-Friday, with Formal Hall (gowns, High Table and a special grace) on Friday evenings. Speaking in Latin or talking about the portraits in the Hall used to mean you risked a ‘bathing’ - being thrown in a cold bath - but now you only risk boring everyone senseless.

AMY WATSON, 3RD YEAR HISTORY

Hi! I’m Amy, and I’m just starting my final year studying History. Like a lot of people, I didn’t apply to Regent’s, and was actually a bit gutted on being pooled. However, within the first day of Freshers’ Week, I had already fallen in love with the place and I can honestly say that I cannot imagine being happier anywhere else. I can’t believe I’m already starting my last year!One of the things I was particularly nervous about on coming was the small size of the college, but this actually works really well. You end up meeting everyone quickly, the years mix much more than elsewhere, and there is far less of a divide between various social groups than at other colleges.I have been quite involved in college life; I was on the social committee for a year, I helped organise Freshers’ week in 2012, and have been a part of the committee running the Final Fling (the college ball) for two consecutive years. It’s very easy to get involved with such committees, and it’s a great way of feeling more of a part of everything going on in college.Regent’s, considering its size, represents itself well on university wide teams and committees disproportionately well, which is undoubtedly a good thing! I’m currently on the RAG executive committee for the second year running, which is the charity arm of the Student Union. It’s been brilliant to be involved in; not only is it incredibly rewarding (we raised over £100,000 for various charities over the last academic year), it’s also been a great way of meeting people from other colleges. I’m going to apologise in advance for plugging numerous events to you next year - but I cannot recommend it enough as something to get involved with!I know you’re going to love Regent’s as much as I have so get ready for an amazing three years - it'll go quickly!

Amy x

Student ProfilesA sample of who we are

JAMES GANDHI, 2ND YEAR ENGLISH

My time here at Regent's has been really great so far. Being interested in drama, it was great to find out that Regent's has such a strong background in it for such a small college. The annual pantomime held in college (which I will be organising this year) is a firm part of this, but there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in drama outside of college too. With two other Regent's freshers, we formed a production company and put on a piece of new writing with two fourth-year students at LMH, which sold out almost every night. This was a great way to get into the drama scene at Oxford, and was also good for meeting people outside of college, as well as working with other Regent's students. From this, I became Executive Producer for a production company in Oxford called Rough Hewn. There are plenty of opportunities to get involved in drama in Oxford, be it acting, writing, producing or the technical side.

  I also got involved with Schools Plus, a charity that sends Oxford and Brookes students to disadvantaged schools in the area. It was good to meet people who were really passionate about charity and improving education in Oxford – my role as Publicity Manager gave me great experience in social media and enabled me to realise the support that these local schools need.

Regent's has a great Sports and Arts Fund which helped me to get our first play off the ground by providing us with money to invest into our production company. Regent's also gave me money to go to the Edinburgh Fringe this year, again a massive help. University wide societies and groups are intercollegiate so are a great way to meet new people. But at Regent's there is almost always someone who wants to get involved with similar things to you, and the sense of community in college is unbeatable.  

If you’re a thespian then Regent’s is just the place for you and I look forward to meeting you all in Freshers’ Week!James x

WILL OBENEY, 2ND YEAR HISTORY

Oxford University is a place of great opportunities, and Regent’s is a wonderful springboard from which to experience them. We have a significant and successful drama scene amongst the undergraduates and I really can’t recommend it enough. Finding myself marketing and producing plays for the public (including one this term – come and see it!) before I realised is providing new challenges and is great fun. There are few feelings better than seeing something you were a part of being enjoyed by complete strangers and ticket-paying customers.

Regent’s students can also be found lurking in student journalism; I write for Cherwell, one of the main student papers, and the Oxymoron, a satirical magazine. The university newspapers have a clear and ever-progressing hierarchy so it is very possible to reach the highest echelons of the Oxford press in your time here.

In college, I run the bar, meaning evenings behind the counter and restocking/cleaning during the day. The chance to effectively run your own business is unique among Oxford colleges. I also cox the men’s rowing boat, which is looking forward to a successful year to come. Of course, the combination of the two roles can mean late nights and early mornings, a combination which can be a bit lethal at times, but with the Oxford term being only eight weeks long, you can afford to have a hectic two months and then spend your 6 week break sleeping!

At Regent’s, you are given opportunities you never expected; along with the activities I’ve mentioned, in the past year I’ve performed in a pantomime, competed against other colleges in croquet, watched a tortoise race, refereed an intercollegiate football match, dressed up as a woman, and walked around another college’s library in my boxers. At Regent’s, the opportunities are everywhere and so is the fun. Do something unexpected and throw yourself into the spirit of the whole thing and you’ll end up having the best time of your life!Will x

SAM HODGE, 3RD YEAR PHILOSOPHY AND THEOLOGY

Being at Oxford is a great opportunity for you to pursue your interests to any level you choose, whether at a college standard or for the wider university, simply for fun or competitively. As a sports-person, being at Regent’s has allowed me to have the best of both.

Regent’s is actually the best college for sports - a little-kept secret, but the best sportspeople often don’t realise how perfect we are for them. Regent’s is so small that we only have sports teams for a few activities, meaning it’s unlikely we’ll ever have a hockey team as we simply don’t have the numbers. This may at first be seen as a disadvantage, but actually it means that you can play for another college’s hockey team, and you can choose a team which is at your skill level. So you don’t have to worry about being ‘too good’ or ‘too bad’ to play hockey (or any other sport) at Regent’s - you simply pick another college whose team fits in with your own ethos and skill and from there the world is your oyster. Regent’s is one of the only colleges which has this arrangement and thus this level of opportunity.

Being a rugby player, I have been able to seriously participate in the Oxford University U21 rugby team, play matches for various other colleges, and play touch rugby for Regent’s for a bit of fun with friends in Trinity term. Many sports are catered for at Regent’s, including some that people often don’t get the chance to try before coming to Oxford.

Regent’s frequently competes at a high standard inter-collegiately though, and everyone is welcome to give any sport a try. For example I tried my hand at rowing and grew to love it; our M1 crew went on to win blades in Torpids 2011 – one of my best memories of Oxford. If competition isn’t for you, we often have groups that play a variety of sports for fun in University Parks, and have access to great gym deals with nearby colleges for those who want to keep fit. Regent’s really encourages a team atmosphere, and there is a fantastic amount of college support (both in financial terms and in terms of standing on the side of the pitch cheering) for those who represent Regent’s or the university in any respect. Finally, I’d encourage everyone to have a dabble at simultaneously the most and least brutal of sports, croquet, in our quad – just be careful with the mallets...Unay!Hodge x

Will didn’t realise it would be that sort of modelling work

FRESHERS’WEEK

2013

FFINISHING

WITH‘A NIGHT IN THE WILD WEST’

IN THE JCRAFTER FORMAL HALL

-BOOTLEG ALCOHOL--COWBOYS AND INDIANS-

-GUNSLINGING ENTERTAINMENT- -MUSIC AND BAR TILL 1am-

COME IN FANCY DRESS

C

The social life at Regent’s is exceptionally good by any standards, and you will never be bored.

The JCR possesses the cheapest bar in Oxford, which is entirely student-run, and which is open every night from after dinner until 11pm. It’s a great place to chill with friends and chat, or alternatively make use of our free DVD library (one of the few free DVD libraries in Oxford), watch a programme on our flat screen television, or play some FIFA on the playstation.

However the big social night in college is on Fridays, where everyone takes the night off work or other activities to celebrate the end of the week together. After Formal Hall, we all go up to the JCR where the social committee will have used part of their £1200 budget to provide free alcohol and decorations for the room. The sofas are moved off the dance floor, the disco lights get turned on and the place becomes the best club outside of London (not). After these events a few of us tend to go out clubbing whilst the rest of the college ends up passed out somewhere on the quad.

The first and last Friday nights of the term (called, embarrassingly, ‘bops’) are larger occasions with the music going on for longer (and always ending with Blur’s Parklife and Spandau Ballet’s Gold, our college songs). These have a theme for which everyone gets into the most ridiculous costumes they can muster - your first bop of the year will be ‘The Wild West’, so get grabbing stuff for your costume for that night before you arrive. The funnier the costume, the better, and there is usually a prize for the best outfit.

Other Friday nights are also themed, ranging from a Spanish Fiesta to a James Bond night to a Scottish Ceilidh in the hall on Burns Night and carols and mulled wine in the Quadrangle in Christmas term.

Finally, of course, our ball, the Final Fling, is one of the best nights of the year, when the college hosts one of the best parties in the university. One of the few annual college balls, the Final Fling is the cheapest in Oxford (£30/ticket), and is highly esteemed by students at other colleges - as Regent’s students you get first pick of the tickets. Last year’s Fling featured a car in the quad, a shisha tent, absinthe bar and a silent disco in the hall until 3am.

Whatever you enjoy, the social life in college is fantastically well-organised and varied - get excited for your first experience of it in Freshers’ Week!

“I love Fridays. They’re an incredible way to catch up with your friends over great food at Formal Hall, and then go up to the bar and have a good night with free alcohol paid for by the JCR”

Will Tomstt, second year Historian

Social Life in CollegeHow hard we party in college

The JCR social calendar is

great - events are usually

held on Fridays but on

most nights there’s also

always a large contingent of people willing

to go out clubbing or

who just want to sit at the

bar and chat’

Maddy Shott, 2nd Year Geography

Oxford is an incredible place, even once you get over the fact that you’re surrounded by buildings that seem as old as time itself.The town itself is really exciting, and there’s plenty going on - in this small space we can only really give you a snapshot!

There are a range of good pubs (including our very own Eagle and Child next door) where people like to spend an evening - the Three Goats’ Heads is the cheapest (but it does smell of urine), and the Red Lion is by far the nicest (it smells of nice burgers and good beer). Oxford is full of pubs and there’ll be plenty of time to explore them all.

There are a number of good restaurants, ranging from national chains (e.g. Strada), local chains (Taylor’s, the sandwich shop, only has branches in Oxford, as does G&Ds ice-cream) to independent stores (Will’s Deli up the road is a great place for lunch, and

MuMus do some great ice-cream which is rumoured to be better than G&Ds). Food-wise, you will never go hungry!

In the evenings, there are a range of student plays, opera performances, and music recitals going on, all of which are relatively cheap to go to if you’re of a thespian persuasion. Equally, in Trinity term there are a number of college balls; lots of Regent’s students always tend to go to one or two of these evenings as well.

Oxford’s clubbing scene is endearingly bad - although Cellar has some big names and some good nights (recently hosting Artful Dodger), most clubs tend to play a lot of cheese music (S Club 7 is a staple tune). Regent’s seems to prefer going out to Park End, the largest club in Oxford, on Wednesdays when the ‘Cheese Floor’ blasts out the worst music imaginable (such as the pokemon theme) until 2am. On other nights we visit Roppongi (you’ll find out when you get there) or Bridge on Thursdays and Camera on Fridays (both probably the best clubs in Oxford).

It’s not all clubbing, though. The crewdating societies have a crewdate each once a week on average and this is a good opportunity to meet members of the opposite gender over a curry or Thai food and then go out to a bar together.

It is a point of honour amongst many in the college that we go out in the evenings at least once or twice a week - you’re going to love the Oxford social scene once you arrive and the Freshers Committee look forward to helping you to discover it!

Social Life in OxfordHow hard we party out of college

“Oxford is a really dynamic city with lots going on - it’s not all libraries and museums! There’s a wide variety of bars, clubs, theatres, and music venues (as well as the obligatory punting and croquet) - so whatever you want to do in the evenings to escape your work, there’ll always be something to do”

Miriam Hargreaves, 2nd Year Theology

“Oxford faces a perpetual

dichotomy between going hard and going

home - I am pleased to

confirm that Regent’s strongly

endorses the former’

Mikey Blake, 3rd Year PPE

You will need your sub-fusc for many University occasionsOrder it now from the Varsity Shop About the Varsity Shop

The Varsity shop is Regent’s preferred vendor when

buying sub-fusc. They have a friendly and speedy

service, and sell the outfit at a lower price than any

other shop. They also sell a variety of Regent’s

memorabilia - from college scarves to cufflinks.

There is also a 10% discount for freshers on college

products.

In central Oxford - 2 minutes’ walk from College

13 Broad StreetOxford, OX1 3ASTel: +44 1865 244000E-mail: Shop@varsityshop.co.uk

‘Sub-fusc’ is the

academic dress of

Oxford University,

worn by all students to

exams and to

matriculation and

graduation. You will

need to buy your sub-

fusc ASAP as you will

need your gown for

the first Formal Hall

of term (Friday), and

you will need the full

outfit for the

matriculation

ceremony a week or so

later.

Undergraduate Package -

• Mortarboard or Soft Cap

• Commoners’ Gown

• FREE White tie/black

ribbon

only £24.99

Postgraduate Package -

• Mortarboard or Soft Cap

• Graduate Gown

• FREE White tie/black

ribbon

only £34.99

The Varsity Shop

WelfareWho to turn to when you need helpEveryone needs welfare at least once in their Oxford career - taking a degree, especially here, is an incredibly stressful experience at times. However thankfully the welfare provision at Regent’s is second to none. Not only does our small community try to make everyone feel welcome, but there are also a number of more formal welfare provisions. JCR Welfare provision on its most informal level occurs at the weekly ‘über brew’ on Sundays, where the JCR pays for chocolate, cake, sweets, etc - a great chance to catch up with everyone and indulge, whilst also always having a member of the welfare team there to talk to if you need to. The Men’s, Women’s and LGBTQ Officers also all organise a separate social event each term such as a pizza evening, cinema trip, punting or similar, paid for by the JCR, with the aim of bringing people together and getting to know each other better.

Another source of welfare is Andie (our welfare officer), who you can speak to in total confidence about anything which is troubling you. She will be able to help you deal with most things by referring you on to the relevant authorities. Or, you can speak to a peer supporter (see next page) if you want to talk about your problems in confidence.

If you have a problem which you don’t think the JCR can deal with, then there are the Junior Deans, Ellie and Luke. Ellie is a postgraduate student married to Luke, who used to study at Regent’s as an undergraduate (very romantic) - they both live on site in Angus block and are there to help with JCR issues and are also available out of office hours (11pm-7am on weeknights and on Saturdays and Sundays). They are a good point of contact if you don’t want to immediately go see a senior member of staff.

On a more formal level, there are a number of authorities in college who you can contact if you have a more serious issue - these range from the Dean (Nick Wood), who can lend a listening ear to any matter of concern, including harassment, and the Chaplain, (Myra Blyth), who is available to see any member of college regardless of whether you have a religious affiliation or not.Andie will be able to provide you with condoms, pregnancy tests and panic alarms free of charge - if you need any of those, do feel free to contact her.

Within the wider university, there is an excellent counselling service available for students, a Nightline listening phone service and a Student Union welfare officer. For more information, contact Andie Gbedemah through the details on the back of your pull-out map. Rest assured - the welfare team at Regent’s has it covered - all you need to do is ask!

Andie Gbedemah (right) is the

JCR’s Welfare Information

Officer - she will be able to

speak to you in total confidence if you need any support, advice

or help.

Peer SupportersStudents in college trained to listen

Evie Ioannidi Rhys Eden Sarah James Ben Coulter

Miriam Hargreaves

Madeleine Clinton

Men’s Welfare Officer

Women’s Welfare Officer

Tim Wickenden

Andie GbedemahWelfare Information Officer

Sophie ClaytonLGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay,

Bisexual, Transgender, Queer/Questioning) Officer

The peer supporters are a group of friendly individuals who have been trained by the University Counselling Service in listening and support skills. Their contact details are at the end of this book, and they tend to be at brew and around the college a lot. The peer support system is there to help you when you need it most; going to the doctors with you or emailing your tutors when you’re ill, but it also exists because sometimes we all need a friendly face to talk to about our problems, however trivial. They won’t judge, will be discreet and certainly won’t break your confidence or trust. They can also refer you on to professionals for more serious issues.

Amelia Gurley

AccommodationWhere you’ll be living

The college provides accommodation for your first and third year of study, with second-year students getting a taste of the real world by living out.

In your first year, you will be given a room either in Main block, Balding Block or on the Vinson corridor. Although specific furniture differs from room to room, wherever you end up your room will be of a decent size and have a bed, desk, wardrobe, sink, a couple of chairs and spaces for books and other ornaments. All the rooms are more than comfortable, especially so having visited friends’ rooms at other colleges in Oxford and at other Universities.

Additionally, all rooms have electric heaters for when it gets cold, at least a couple of electricity points, and an Ethernet point for internet access if you require it (although the whole college is covered by wifi - including the quadrangle, so you can work on it during summer term). Most students bring posters, photos, and all sorts of items to decorate their rooms with to make them feel particularly personal,

although if you don’t bring anything with you then there’s a poster sale at the Union in the first week which is worth a visit. Rest assured, your room will soon feel like home, and you won’t want to leave at the end of the year!

Main Block houses sixteen undergraduates. Rooms are slightly larger than the others in college. They all overlook the main quadrangle and are located in very close proximity to the kitchens, JCR, and the toilets in Sheol.

Balding Block houses twelve undergraduates, on three corridors of four rooms. There is a s trong community amongst Balding block-ers, and the rooms are very conveniently designed (they have many more lights than Main block rooms which makes bedside reading, for example, much more convenient). Rooms here are said to be more ‘cosy’, are away from the hustle and bustle of Main, and have the advantage of double glazing, which makes them much warmer than other rooms. They also have so much storage that you could probably bring the entire

contents of your house along with you and still have space for more. If you believe Wikipedia it also possesses the longest single pane of glass in Europe - although we’ve never seen the tourists.

Vinson corridor houses four undergraduates, and is directly across the quadrangle from Main. block. These rooms are similar to Main (if a little quieter) but also enjoy an excellent view of the quadrangle.

In second year you will have a chance to live out of college, which is a great chance to experience a different (uncloistered) side of student life and of Oxford as well. You should get to see some of the second-year houses, be it at a meal with your college parent or at a party. For the third year, you may choose to live in one of the on-site self-contained flats in Wheeler Robinson, Angus or Gould blocks. College accommodation is available for all finalists and rooms are allocated through a Room Ballot which is conducted by the JCR Vice-President in Hilary term.

A typical first-year bedroom in Main block.

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Top: Students, tutors and the and Principal of Regent’s Park College, c. 1899; Above: The rather ridiculously dressed cricket Team, 1890; Below: The college football team, shortly before World War One

Like most Oxford colleges, Regent’s has a theological foundation. It was established out of a Baptist educational society in 1752 before moving to premises in Stepney Green (East London) in 1810, with a mere three students. The impetus to establish the college was built out of the fact that before the 1850s non-Anglicans were prohibited from studying at Oxford or Cambridge. By1850 the popularity of the Academy meant that the number had risen to 26 students, and the college was forced to look for new premises.

Under the leadership of Joseph Angus, who served as Principal from when he was 33 in 1849 to his death in 1893, the college moved to Regent’s Park, and changed its name from the ‘Stepney Academy’ to ‘Regent’s Park College’. The premises of the college consisted of Holford House and the surrounding gardens in the middle of Regent’s Park (left), an attractive Georgian building which had previously been a private dwelling and which would later serve as the residence of the mistress of Herbert Asquith before being destroyed during the Blitz. During this period the college educated a number of important personalities of the nineteenth century, including many deeply involved in the anti-slavery cause.

The move to Regent’s Park also entailed closer links with the University of London, of which Regent’s became a Divinity School in 1901. This drove up standards of scholarship in the college, and Regent’s flourished in extra-curricular activities, setting up a cricket team, football club, and choir. Yet when the lease on the London buildings was due to expire in 1930 the then Principal, Henry Wheeler Robinson, decided to move the college to Oxford to increase the quality of scholarship still further.

The purchase of an eighteenth-century house on St. Giles (the current Principal’s lodgings) and a few crumbling farm buildings which stood on the current site of Helwys Hall meant that the site was secured by 1926, and the college began to raise funds to construct the ambitious design for the buildings. Nonetheless the first few students arrived in 1928 to a college which then consisted of nothing but an empty field (they used Mansfield College’s facilities whilst construction went on). Between 1935-8 Wheeler Robinson and other tutors went around the country raising funds, eventually only raising £20,000 of the £50,000 required. Thus only the Hall and Main Block were completed by 1940, when the start of World War Two, combined with a lack of funds, prevented the completion of the full quadrangle in its current Neoclassical style.

In the 1950s, after the end of the war, money was raised to finish the quadrangle by building lodgings on the south side of Quad, adjacent to Pusey Street - the current Vinson block. This completed the quadrangle, and the later construction of Angus, Gould, and Balding Blocks, combined with the extension of the Principal’s Lodge in the 1980s to create the Wheeler Robinson building, increased the capacity of the college. The full incorporation of Regent’s as a PPH of the University of Oxford in 1957 increased the number of students at the college still further, as did the incorporation of Greyfriars (a college which closed in 2008) five years ago.

We were also one of the earliest Oxford institutions to accept women; although it wasn’t until the 1970s that most colleges became mixed, Regent’s led the way in this respect having accepted female students for fifty years previous to this, with Violet Hedger being our first female undergraduate in the 1920s.

You’re joining a college with a long and proud history of making a difference in educational norms and in the wider world - we have a lot to live up to!

History

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Regent’s RabbitsReGents

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Regent’s Rabbits“complete with bunny ears and ‘cute’ posing in teeny tiny clothes” (Source: The Telegraph)

Regent’s Rabbits is the college’s ladies’ drinking society, and it is open to absolutely every girl in Regent’s. Rabbits is a great way to get to know girls in college, and boys from other colleges; as a group we ‘crewdate’ other drinking societies or sports teams from around the university (including university clubs - we had a great time getting to know Olympic bronze and silver medallists when we crewdated the Blues rowers or the Blues Rugby League teams last year).

Crewdates seem an odd concept at first, but I would definitely recommend trying them out since they are something of an Oxford tradition (though Cambridge have stolen the idea from us) and are just a fun way to spend an evening. We call ourselves a drinking society, and we do drink, but what’s really nice is getting out of college, meeting new people and bonding with other Regent’s girls.

The Rabbits are also one of the most sought after crews in Oxford thanks to our outgoing reputation and publicity in the national press. This means that our crewdates are often with some of the most entertaining (and best looking) boys in Oxford and we’re able to go out pretty much any night of the week as there will always be a group keen to crewdate us.

The Rabbits is one of the most fun societies within Regent’s and I look forward to meeting you all at our first Rabbits event of the year!

Beth Hibbert, Queen Bunny, 2013-14

ReGentsReGents is the male equivalent of the Rabbits, and our banter is of an equally high standard, despite our surprising lack

of attention from the national press. Legendary on the Oxford social scene, our venerable and secretive society of eligible bachelors is renowned for our antics on crewdates. Students at Hertford college still talk about the time Mikey Blake played jazz flute for them, and women at St Hugh’s tell tales of the incredible long-distance pennying skills of Stephen Richardson. All are welcome to join our crewdates and become a part of what the Oxford University Cheerleaders once called a ‘decidedly average-looking group of guys’.

AcademicThe work you’ll be expected to do

Undergraduates

Although our Urban Dictionary entry cites us as a centre of ‘rampant alcoholism, laziness, raging parties and rumour’, this perhaps paints a somewhat too wild picture. Like most Oxford students, we have a lot of work to do, and therefore much of your time here will be spent working on your academic work, with the rampant alcoholism and raging parties as mere distractions.

You will be taught for most of your time here in tutorials, either on your own or with another student. This is the time to ask any questions - and since you only get an hour, it’s important to have done all the work and reading in preparation. You will also usually be expected to write an essay to bring to the tutorial and discuss.

Tutorials are very different from school - you will not be told the answers, but rather encouraged to ask questions and get explanations out of your tutors. If you don’t ask something it’ll be presumed you know it - so usually it’s best to just gulp down your fear and ask; at the end of the day you’ll know something more because of it.

The exact structure of the tuition varies from subject to subject. Lectures are all (with a few exceptions, notably Geography) non-compulsory but their importance will depend on your subject - your tutor and your college parents will advise you on this. As a general rule, however, lectures tend to be less important at Oxford than at other universities.

Additionally, at the beginning of each term (excluding your first!) you will sit an exam, called a ‘collection’, set by your tutor, on the work you did the previous term. You need to pass them, but if you take them too seriously they will ruin your holiday.

Unless you’re studying Theology, you will probably be tutored out of Regent’s sooner or later. Either way, you may have received a reading list from your tutor already, which your tutor expects you to read through over the summer. Whilst it is important to do some preparatory reading, you may not have to do as much as they suggest. It’s best to check with your college parent to find out what they think are the most important books - after all, they did it last year.

Graduates

Most graduates will have little interaction with the fellows at Regent’s on academic matters (the exception being Diploma students, who do most of their work within the college). The graduate studies office and your academic faculty should have assigned you a preliminary supervisor in your acceptance letter - you will receive advice about contacting them during orientation to arrange your teaching schedule.

Studies at Oxford are very self-motivated, which may come as a shock to some who are more used to the classroom/seminar model. You may find the amorphous structure of academic life at Oxford frustrating at first, but it offers you the chance to read broadly and tie together interests that might not be obviously linked.

In addition, Regent’s holds a Graduate seminar, which meets every other week during term. This is an opportunity to socialise and share your work with the rest of the college and receive helpful feedback. Finally, Regent’s has a number of desks in the library assigned to graduates - these will be allocated during Michaelmas term.

The Angus Library within Regent’s (right) is a treasure trove of historical documents dating from the fifteenth century and used by scholars from across the world; it is one of three libraries at Regent’s.

Thespian activities flourish at Regents and as you progress through the year it is inevitable that you will know someone involved in a drama production. Both within Regent’s and on a university level there are plenty of opportunities for involvement in drama and the Arts.

On a college level, the first event in the college calendar is Drama Cuppers - a freshers-only event where the first-years get to showcase their skills to other colleges in their first term at Oxford. Additionally, the Regent’s pantomime in Michaelmas continues to thrive and is well loved by all - last year we put on an enthusiastic performance of Cinderella with singing, dancing, and even a little bit of acting. For those who aren’t particularly fond of bad jokes about the Dean, then there is a usually a more serious summer play during Trinity term which is performed on the Quad.

University-wide, Regent’s continues to dominate proceedings with second and third years making a name for themselves in the world of theatre and music and a number of Freshers showing the rest of Oxford that we are not to be trifled with. This past year Regent’s students have put on or acted in over twenty productions ranging from a dramatisation of Orwell’s 1984 to an original piece of writing, The Aleph, performed at the Burton Taylor Studios, to name merely two.

Even if you’re not particularly into performing, then there are plenty of opportunities for stage-managing, producing, lighting, sound, costume or directing - you simply need to throw yourself into the mess!

Don’t worry if you’re not into drama, though, as other significant arts ventures at Regent’s may tempt your fancy - the Advent Choir performs a carol service at Christmas once a year in a nearby church, and there is also a flourishing operatic and musical scene outside of the college which many students have got involved with in the past.

There is a world of opportunity in the university drama scene, and within the college - you will never be bored!

Arts and DramaThespian things

“Regent’s is undoubtedly the best place from which to launch your career into the university’s vibrant dramatic life. Alongside having a tradition of producing some of Oxford’s finest student actors, the community at Regent’s is always 100% behind you”Michael Beale, 3rd Year English

Football at Regent’s is as serious as you want to take it. The club’s main purpose is a social one; a chance to have a kick around on the pitch with your mates once or twice a week, whilst modelling some very attractive stash. Being a small college, we are always looking for people to get involved as inevitably not everyone can make every game and injuries are picked up along the way. It’s not just for undergraduates, and visiting students and postgrads often come and help the team out.

That said, we do manage to hold our own in the JCR reserves (second) league within the university - reaching the final of football cuppers (the intercollegiate football cup) this year and also coming second in the Reserves league. The league season runs through Michaelmas and Hilary terms, with five-a-side tournaments taking place in Trinity term - and especially important is the annual Charity tournament organised by Regent’s students. Again, these are a good laugh and anybody of any standard can join in,

The highlight of the year is the Old Boys’ game which is played in Trinity term, where ex-RPCFC players get to see how they size up to the current team. This is followed by a curry afterwards.

Football within Regent’s doesn’t just end for the college team, however. As we’re a small college, Regent’s students are uniquely allowed to play for other colleges, and we have a strong tradition of sending our top players to play for other college teams alongside playing for the Park, and this past year Paul Whelan played for Christ Church and Ben Newman-Sanders played for Magdalen - the both of them also playing for Regent’s at the same time and with Ben coming second in the ‘fewest minutes per goal’ rankings, and scoring 12 goals in two games. This is a great way to meet other students across the university whilst also showing how much better you are at football than them.

There is also a women’s football team which is joined with Balliol. Weekly training sessions provide much laughter and fun - and the occasional stunning goal - and are a great opportunity to get out of college and make some friends outside of Pusey Street.

Whether you’re a competitive sportsman or just want to keep fit and be sociable, make sure you get involved!

FootballRegent’s Park College Football Club (RPCFC)

RPCFC has achieved many feats in its long history; most recently we reached the final of the university’s intercollegiate ‘cuppers’ football competition, for example. However, more than that, the Club is a social one; you don’t need any exceptional skill to join - you just need enthusiasm!

Right: Jaylee Ali, whose swarthy good looks, masterful footwork, and impressive afro at the Cuppers final caused much jealousy amongst the New College spectators.Below: An action shot of a particularly dodgy tackle by Teddy Hall in University Parks.

Rowing is the most prestigious Oxonian sport, and one of the most fun things you can do at the University, especially as our college boat club gets just the right balance between being a social club and being a serious force on the water. The Boat Club at Regent’s punches well above its weight in the University regattas, and is set for grand things this year. Each year we train up men’s and women’s boats to compete in termly regattas - no previous experience in any sport is required, providing a great platform for the complete beginner to take up a new sport as they arrive at University.

Rowing is taken seriously in Oxford, and Regent’s is no exception. Most people in college have had a go at coxing or rowing and once a boat is selected Regent’s rowers have the chance to aim high and represent our college in a competitive and high-profile environment: bumps racing.

Bumps racing is by far the best thing about competitive college rowing, where the aim of the game is quite literally to bump (yes, we mean hit) the boat which set off in front of you by crashing into them. It provides a great degree of excitement and is the form that racing will take in Hilary and Trinity terms after spending Michaelmas training and getting into rowing culture. Our college rowing year culminates in Summer VIIIs which is an amazing four days of rowing, sunshine and Pimms’ in which Regent’s crews who’ve worked hard all year get to see how they size up against other colleges - our recent victories and successes in both Torpids and Summer VIIIs regattas are a testament to the competitive spirit and talent at our college.

Last year’s rowing was a great success, particularly with the women’s crew who bumped in all four days of Torpids, earning an honour referred to as ‘blades’ which is every rower’s aim. This year, should things fall into place, both crews will be aiming for a full sweep which is well within our capacities. Just like last year, we aim to take full advantage of the professional and high-quality teaching of Pete Bond which successfully turned a boat full of novices into veterans - but with the purchase of a separate women’s boat to complement our men’s boat (the ‘Regent’s Shark’) we are already better placed than last year.

All those who’ve been involved in rowing at Regent’s would recommend it. It’s a great way of making friends, keeping fit, and most importantly is a welcome break from academia - if you’re enthusiastic and looking for something new to try then RPCBC is the place for you!

RowingRegent’s Park College Boat Club (RPCBC)

“Rowing is the most prestigious sport in Oxford, and the style of racing we undertake here (bumps racing) is exciting both to compete in and to watch. Before I came to Regent’s I’d barely broken a sweat in three years, but I joined the Boat Club, absolutely loved it, and haven’t looked back since. It’s a great way to keep fit, have a good laugh with your friends, and work towards a shared goal of success in the regatta”

Will Tomsett, Boat Club President 2013-14

TennisRegent’s tennis has continued to go from strength to strength, following on from our debut season last year, which saw us go undefeated in the league, as well as defeating our mortal enemies St John’s during a memorable cuppers run. Although the weather last season prevented any meaningful promotion charge, the team continues to be one of the most successful sports teams at Regent’s, performing disproportionately well to the size of our college week on week. We certainly hope to gain promotion again next year, as we continue to rapidly ascend the ranks of college tennis. We’re always looking for new players to continue our proud tradition and wear our fabulous stash with pride. You don’t have to be particularly good at tennis, and in fact, you don’t even need to play tennis - many members of the college wear our tennis stash even if they’ve never held a racket!I look forward to playing alongside you in Trinity term.

Harrison Denner,RPC LTC President

CroquetCroquet, or Crockers as it has come to be known within the college, is a popular institution at Regent’s and in the University as a whole. Last year the Oxford-wide competition, ‘Cuppers’, had 537 teams enter, meaning 2148 students competed. This makes it the world’s biggest student sporting competition.

You may well have not played this extraordinary sport before, but if you have a competitive, obsessive, or revengeful character, then there’s something in Croquet for you. Many see Croquet as quite a bourgeois past-time best suited to Victorian men and women in gigantic hats and silly dresses. Not so at Regent’s where many of us have developed a true love for this savage game.

At Regent’s we play croquet in Trinity term on the Main Quad. If you’re extremely lucky, sometimes a few games are permitted in Freshers’ Week, so fingers crossed that you’ll be able to experience the true joy of this fantastic game as soon as you arrive.

With its imposing walls, hazardous tree beds, and biased spectators, the Main Quad is a rahter unique and tricky course to play croquet on (not least because one also has to navigate around the moving obstacle of Emmanuelle, the college tortoise), and it became somewhat of a fortress for the Regent’s 2nd Team this year. Sadly they were narrowly defeated by Oriel in the 3rd round. The Regent’s 1st Team made it to the 4th round, where they were confronted with a strong side from Christ Church, whose tactics proved too malicious for our lads to cope with. That said, we’re looking forward to a good season next year and I look forward to welcoming you to the wonderful sport that is croquet - there really is no better way to escape the library during Trinity term.

Sam Hurst, Master of Mallets

Above: Sam Hurst, Master of Mallets, proving that croquet isnʼt just about winning, but also about attempting to get the debonair Brideshead Revisited look with just a £5 blazer from Primark and some sunglasses you nicked off a passing tourist

THE FINAL FLING 2013

Most of your financial dealings in college will be with the Bursar (David Harper), and the JCR Treasurer (Stephen Richardson).

Tuition fee loans will be paid directly to the University and all other loans and bursaries are paid directly to your bank account after your attendance at the college has been confirmed. Keep chasing Student Finance England as required - they have a reputation of being rather slow to get the money to you, so make sure you have a bit of extra money in your bank account to pay for things if (as happened to Miriam Hargreaves last year), your student finance money does not arrive in your account until fourth week of term.

Each term (except in second year, when you live out), you will be required to pay ‘Battels’ (Oxford lingo for the cost of your accomodation, food, electricity, heating, photocopying costs, etc). Your Battels for Michaelmas term 2013 will need to be paid before arrival and the bill should be included in your fresher’s information pack. Meals are paid for in advance (i.e. at the beginning of term), but you can get a rebate the following term on meals that you didn’t sign in for. In future terms, battels normally need to be paid by Monday of 3rd week to avoid a surcharge - so do remember to pay them promptly!

There are also some hardship funds available from the College - details are

available from the Bursar. If you are unsure about anything, do speak to him - David is one of the friendliest faces in the college and always keen to help. He can be c o n t a c t e d b y e m a i l i n g david.harper@regents.ox.ac.uk.

There are also significant bursaries and opportunity grants available from the central University funds - these are generous and open to many more people than one might at first suppose so it’s worth going online and checking to see if you are eligible. There are also travel scholarships awarded by the university and by the college, and extra money (£250/year) will come your way if you get a First Class mark in your examinations at the end of your first year. Money is also awarded for First Class marks in collections, the exams sat at the beginning of term.

If at any stage you spend money on behalf of the JCR, you will be refunded by the JCR Treasurer, so make sure you hang on to any receipts. You will be refunded via cheque, so make sure you know where your nearest bank branch is in Oxford.

It is also worth noting that the JCR gives out Sports and Arts Grants each term, which can be applied for via the JCR Treasurer in 5th Week of each term. These are available to students who undertake sports, drama or anything else at the university level, in order to help buy kit, go on tour, etc. In recent terms we have funded

travel and accommodation for a Blues netball player, given money to two start-up poetry and culture magazines organised by Regent’s students, and part-funded a play which a student wanted to perform at the Edinburgh Fringe.

The JCR has a £5000/year budget which is used for the benefit of the student body. Anyone can propose that the JCR spends money on anything at our bi-termly JCR meetings, provided the motion passes with a simple majority of those present. The JCR budget goes towards funding the many sports teams in college, on welfare, or on providing social events for the college, amongst many other things.

Whatever happens to you, both the University and the college will always be there to support you financially. You will always be able to find a sympathetic ear in David Harper, so make sure he is kept in the loop about any issues you may have.

Financial StuffMoney Matters

David Harper (Bursar) will be able to answer any financial concerns you may have.

Chapel Christian UnionRegent’s, like all other colleges of the University, has a theological foundation. We are no more or less religious than any other college, and most of the undergraduate body have no religious affiliation whatsoever. Religious activity is optional and the college is accepting of all faiths and lifestyles.

That said, those who do wish to get involved in the Christian side of the college have many opportunities to do so. We have a vibrant and varied worship life to which students are welcome to attend and contribute. There is a small chapel in the college which holds regular services. Morning prayers take place Monday to Thursday and are led by students and tutors alike. The weekly service of worship takes place on Friday evenings prior to Formal Hall, and provides a great opportunity to share with one another in community as tutors, graduates, ministerial students and undergraduates.

Once a term the chaplaincy team organise a Chaplaincy Dinner, an opportunity for members of all common rooms to listen to an invited speaker over dinner. These have proved extremely popular; topics have ranged from Richard Dawkins and secularism to the Iraq War, and speaker such as the American Philosopher Marilyn McCord Adams and apologist Keith Ward have contributed.

Hi, we’re Ben and Sarah, both second year theologians and we’re the CU reps for Regent’s Park. We have a wide diversity of people in our CU (don’t worry not everyone is doing Theology) and we want the CU to be open to absolutely everyone. At the heart of our CU is the love for Jesus that we share, and we aim to show this in practical ways by supporting and serving the wider college. Frequently we do this by holding Text- a – Toastie’s (where someone texts a question about religion and receives a toastie in return as well as someone to have a conversation with in regard to the question.)  We also aim to make sure that you feel supported as you move away from home and on your own personal journey with your faith.

Our main meeting is at 8pm on a Wednesday for discussion and prayer, (this is often followed by a pub trip!) as well as a prayer breakfast every Sunday. We are also part of the Oxford Inter Collegiate Christian Union (OICCU) which is where all the Christian Unions in each college meet at larger group events such as the fortnightly Central meeting for all Christians (and those interested!) at the University.

Please do send us an email if you’re coming up to Regent’s as a Fresher this October, we’d really love to know that you’re coming and pray for you. A couple of CU’s from neighbouring colleges will be going away just before term for a couple of days with their current and new CU members, if you’re interested do get in contact. If there’s anything we can do to help you settle in during Fresher’s Week let us know.

Can’t wait to meet all off you in Fresher’s Week!Lots and lots of Regent’s loveSarah and Ben xxSarah.james@regents.ox.ac.ukBen.coulter@regents.ox.ac.uk

The SCR is both the name for the college tutors and the name of a room in college (above). The room itself is one of the nicest in the original buildings of the college and is the venue for drinks before Formal Hall on Fridays to which students are often invited.

Tuition in Regent’s is actually mainly done off-site, in tutors’ offices at other colleges (unless you’re doing theology, where most of best tutors in Oxford for that subject are at Regent’s), meaning you are able to choose experts from other colleges as your tutors who may not be available to students at colleges which already employ a specialist in that field.

The SCR has a number of experienced tutors in a range of disciplines, amongst whom the more prominent are:

The Revd Dr Robert A Ellis, below, (Principal, and Tutor in pastoral studies) is the head of the college and the head of the SCR. He is also responsible for ministerial training within the college, and was JCR President during his time as an undergraduate at Regent’s. Dr Ellis was in the famous rowing team of 1979 which rowed from Oxford to London, and lives in the house at the end of the Quadrangle with his wife.

The Revd Professor Paul S. Fiddes (Professorial Research Fellow of Systematic Theology) is an ex-Principal of the college and a heavyweight in academic theology, having written a number of books on a range of issues. As a student he studied at St Peter’s College before coming to Regent’s to do his doctorate and never looking back. He is a world authority on Process and Systematic Theology and represents the Baptist church to a number of organisations.

Dr Pamela Sue Anderson (Tutor in Philosophy and Christian Ethics) is a world-renowned feminist philosopher from the USA. She previously taught at Mansfield College, Oxford.

Dr Tim Bradshaw (Tutor in Theology and Senior Tutor) is a friendly and chatty face and during his undergraduate days at in Oxford he won caps for Keble college - expect tutorials to be arranged around the cricket season!

Dr Julian Thompson (Tutor in English Literature) is well known for his friendly manner and generous nature, along with his impressive mane of white hair. He has two sons (Gregory and Leo) to whom he is currently teaching the great complexities of the English language.

The Revd Dr Nicholas J Wood (Tutor in Religion and Culture, Director of the Oxford Centre for Christianity and Culture, Director of Studies for MTh Applied Theology and Dean) is another Regent’s alumnus who has returned to the college. Having taught Religious Studies and Sociology in secondary schools in Coventry and London for ten years, he studied his DPhil whilst training for ministry at Regent’s. As Dean, he is responsible for disciplinary matters and welfare and is a point of contact between the JCR and the SCR on these issues.

Mr David Harper (Bursar) is a well-known face around the college; he may be approached at any time about financial or accommodation matters and is very friendly!

The Revd Myra Blyth (Chaplain and Tutorial Fellow in Worship and Pastoral Studies) directs the BTh programme and tutors ministerial students. At undergraduate level, Myra teaches liturgy, focussing on the development of worship in the twentieth century.

Dr Richard Atherton (Lecturer in English Language and Literature) has written a book on the influences on J R R Tolkien and tutors students in Old English.

Dr Lynn Robson (Lecturer in English and Tutor for Visiting Students) is a well-loved face in Regent’s, and one of the best tutors in the University, being voted by Humanities students as the best lecturer in Oxford in the 2013 OUSU Teaching Awards.

SCRThe college tutors

The newly converted MCR room (below) boasts several exceptionally comfy sofas, free and fast internet provision, coffee and tea any time you want it and most importantly a place for our college’s graduate community to relax, get to know one another and provide collective support to every postgraduate at Regent’s as they progress through their studies. The entrance to the MCR is opposite the dining room.

The MCR is comprised of an eclectic group of individuals with a range of interests studying for post-graduate degrees and certificates from across the university’s humanities and social science divisions. It also includes over-21s who are studying for an undergraduate degree.

Our members work and study at Regent’s with a number of goals and interests in mind; whether it is aiming to improve one’s own personal development and intellectual interests with a certificate, or a new and emerging researcher shaping the future of his or her academic discipline as a doctoral candidate, you’ll be sure to find a wide array of personalities making up our diverse student body.

Our MCR is also unique amongst other colleges as we include a number of students training for ministry and ordination in the Baptist Church. Our 25 ministerials (many of whom are also studying for postgraduate degrees as well) are typically on-site at Regent’s for a few days a week and they contribute just as much to the life of the college as the rest of the postgraduate community, either by playing in college sports teams of flying the Regent’s flag on the university stage.

Ministerials have pastoral training on Mondays and Tuesdays in college, and the majority of ministerial students stay in college accommodation on Monday nights. During the rest of the week ministerial students can be found across the country pastoring churches. There are also some ‘college-based’ ministerials who are studying for either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in Theology. These students are full-time and attend regular lectures at the Theology faculty.

That said, the MCR (and indeed the college as a whole) has, as its majority, members who represent a remarkable range of cultural and religious or non-religious backgrounds - thus we are an open environment for exchange and progress, and are not as strongly based upon faith as some around the university would have you believe. We are a truly dynamic and open community welcoming people from all walks of life.

Academic excellence is the mark of an Oxford student at any level of study but our MCR aims to embrace all aspects of college and university life alongside this. From rowing, to drama, to music, to university politics, and to debates at the Union, our extraordinary MCR is truly a diverse and international community that is engaged with the whole of Oxford whilst remaining committed to the promotion and sharing of knowledge and scholarship alongside this. We invite all JCR members, SCR tutors, and friends of the college to come and experience, first-hand, our unique approach and addition to the Oxonian landscape.

MCRThe postgraduate community

Matthew Mills, MCR President

0th Week [Nawth Week] n. 1. The week before the first week of term.  The time is often spent meeting with Tutors to organise the term’s teaching and  sitting collections. 2. Time to cram all your revision for aforementioned collections.9th Week [Nahyn·th Week] n. The week after term ends. Sometimes undergraduate exams are held in this week, especially for Prelims or Mods.

Angus Block [Ang-us Block] n. Accommodation block named after a formal college Principal, Joseph Angus. Mainly two-person flats occupied by third year students.

Battels [Bat-ls] n. A college bill or invoice.  Paid to the college at the beginning of term, your battels cover accommodation, food and printing.Balding [ball-ding] n. Named after Bernard Balding, whose benefaction made it possible. A block of study b e d r o o m s h o u s i n g t w e l v e undergraduates.Bathing [bay-thing] vb. A weird Regent’s tradition where, many years ago, if you broke a college tradition (such as speaking Latin in the Hall) you would be thrown into a bath of cold water as a pun i shment . T h i s was however prohibited after one victim reacted badly and destroyed the bathroom, but it lives on in spirit.Blue [Bloo] n. Award for competing in the Varsity match in certain major sports.  University team members in minor sports get Half Blues.

Bod [Bod] n. Short for ‘Bodleian Library’, the main library at Oxford University. Contains a copy of every book published in England since 1671, including the entire back-catalogue of Playboy and Where’s Wally.

Bod Card [Bod Kahrd] n. Another name for University Card. A combination of identity, library, and stored value card. It is the key to getting into many places in Oxford, including some nightclubs.

Bop [Bop] n. Discos regularly organised by the JCR. Regent’s hosts two bops per term, with the rest of the term’s social calendar being filled by ‘socials’, which are very similar except the music ends earlier (11pm instead of 12pm)

Brew [broo] n. Tea and biscuits in the JCR at 11am and 4pm

Carfax [Car-fax] n. The junction of High Street, St. Aldates, Queen Street and Cornmarket Street. Carfax Tower, 400 metres away from the college, marks this traditional centre of the city.  All official distances from Oxford are measured from Carfax, and students only are technically studying at the University if they live within 6 miles of the tower in term time.Cherwell [Char-well] n. 1. One of two rivers in Oxford, a tributary of the Thames (see Isis, below).  The best river to go punting on. 2. The name of the older of the two student newspapers.Collections [kuh-lek-shuhns] n. Internal college exams set by Tutors at the beginning of each term to see if you learned anything the previous term or did any work in the vacation. Although collections don’t count for your final degree, the college award prizes for getting a first class mark.Come up [kuhm up] vb. To arrive as a student at Oxford, and to return each term. Similarly, when one leaves, no matter where you’re going, you always ‘go down’ from Oxford. Convocation [kon-vuh -kay

shuhn] n. The legislative body consisting of most of the academics and senior academic-related staff in the University. Crewdate [krew-dayte] n. also vb., An evening where a male sports team goes to a restaurant with a female sports team. Fancy dress is common but optional, consuming vast quantities of alcohol is compulsory. Side effects may include vomiting, bad banter, and failing academica l l y. Regen t ’s ha s two crewdating teams (ReGents and the Regent’s Rabbits).

C u p p e r s [ k u p - p u h r s ] n . Intercollegiate competitions in many sports, and in Michaelmas term drama cuppers is also held.Dean [deen] n. The member of the SCR who is responsible for college discipline and good order.  There are also t w o Ju n i o r D e a n s w h o a r e a n intermediary between the Dean and the students.E&C [Eagle and Child] n. Our local watering hole. So local, in fact, that it shares a wall with Balding block. Sadly, there is no door. Its former regulars include C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkein.

Eights [eyts] n. Intercollegiate boat race held in Trinity term.Emmanuelle [im-man-yoo-ell] n. Our college tortoise - although no one is quite sure how old she is, we’re reliably informed she’s over one hundred.Exec [ig-zec] n. Officers elected by the JCR / MCR who meet weekly to discuss the needs of the student body and how best to represent them to the college tutors.Essay Crisis [es-ay krahy-sis] n. Your tutorial is at 9am, and it’s currently 2am. You don’t have any idea how you’re going to get the work done, but what you do have, my friend, is an essay crisis.Exam Schools [ig-zam skools] n. An imposing building on the High Street where most of your exams will be sat and where some lectures will be given. Freshers’ Fair is also held there.Finals [fy-nlz] n. Final examinations at the end of 3 or 4 years as an undergraduate student. Sat in the Exam Schools, these terrifying affairs are what will define the level of degree you attain.

Final Fling [fy-nl fling] n. The college ball, held in seventh week of Trinity term. Last year’s theme was ‘La Belle Epoque’, with absinthe, dancers, a car and of course ridiculous amounts of free alcohol.

Formal Hall [faw-mul hawl] n. A three-course meal once a week in term i nvo l v i n g g re a t fo o d , s p a rk l i n g conversation and servers attending to your every need. Students can bring their own wine. Gowns, suits and dresses are worn, and the SCR sit on a separate table and say a special grace. If you arrive late or leave early you must bow to the Principal. Although guests are welcome at any time, twice a term there are ‘guest formals’ which are even more swanky affairs.Fresher [fresh-er] n. A first-year student. Traditionally freshers at Regent’s are called ‘monarchs’.Gould Block [Goold block] n. An accommodation block named after another former Principal. Houses third year students in flats of two, three or six.

Helwys Hall [hel-weez hawl] n. Main college dining room; also refers to meals themselves as in ‘eating in Hall’ or ‘Formal Hall’. Also referred to as ‘Hell Hall’ or ‘Hell Hole’, if you’re not a fan of the food served there.

Oxford English DictionaryOur ridiculous names for things

Hilary [hill-er-y] n. Spring term

Isis [eye-sis] n. That part of the River Thames that flows through Oxford. Also the name of an Oxford student magazine.JCR [jay-see-ahr] n. Short for Junior Common Room. (cf. MCR and SCR). 1. The college’s student body for undergraduate and visiting students; 2. An actual common room where we engorge ourselves with pizza, listen to music and watch TV, etc.Long vac [long vac] n. summer vacation. Your Tutor will constantly remind you of the difference between a holiday and a vacation - namely, that you’re expected to work over a vacation.Main Block [mayn block] n. The original buildings of the College, housing sixteen freshers.

Michaelmas [mik--l-ms] n. Christmas term.Matriculation [muh-trik-yuh-

lay-shun] n. A ridiculously fun ceremony in the Sheldonian Theatre to confer membership of the University, usually when you first begin your course of study. A nice variant on YOLO is prov ided by YOMO (You Only Matriculate Once). Men in gowns and Latin phrases abound, and the event is quickly followed by.... 

Matriculash [muh-trik-yoo-

lash] n. Matriculation has finished by 10am, and you have nothing else to do for the day but drink. This is called the matriculash.

MCR [em-see-ahr] n. Middle Common Room -(cf. JCR and SCR). The body within college for graduate students

Monarch [mon-erk] n. The official term for a first year student at Regent’s. No one quite knows where it comes from, but it has been suggested that it’s because you are a monarch in your first year until you become a Regent. Or something like that.

OUDS [owds] n. Oxford University Dramatic Society. The umbrella body for all student drama. Many famous actors and actresses have been OUDS officers and/or acted in OUDS productions.OUSU [owzu] n. Oxford University Students’ Union. The student union of the University, uniting all students and representing it to University authorities. You are a member as soon as you arrive in Oxford. The first President of OUSU went to Regent’s.The Other Place [Caym-bridge] n. Our less fun and more nerdy younger

b r o t h e r. A l s o r e f e r r e d t o a s ‘Cambridge’ (whatever that means), ‘North Fens Polytechnic’ or ‘The Tabs’, you are heartily encouraged to hate them for no other reason than the fact that they are actually very similar to us.

Pidge [pid-g] n., also vb. 1. Your (open) mailbox in the JCR. 2. A verb, meaning ‘to send’, eg Please pidge me the money ASAP’ 3. A free intercollegiate postal service - the ‘pigeon post’

Popes’ [popez] n. Regent’s bi-termly drinking society, open to all within the College. Allegedly founded in the 1350s by Antipope Alexander V, the society has moved to Regent’s with the closure of Greyfriars Hall in 2008.Prelims [pree-limbs] n. Short for ‘Preliminaries’.  Exams at the end of the first year, although there are some exceptions to this rule. Taken in sub-fusc in the Exam Schools. Also called Mods, although no one is quite sure what the difference is.Principal [prin-suh-puhl] n. The Principal, Dr. Rob Ellis, is in charge of the college. Rob is an ex-Regent’s student and was President of the JCR during his time here. He also likes Desperate Housewives and Eric Clapton, but we don’t judge him for it.Proctors [proc-tuhrs] n. Officials in charge of University regulation and discipline. Proctors are in charge of university exams and are the people to whom you are sent for a serious breach of conduct.Punt [punt] n., also vb (as in Punting) Wide, flat bottomed boat propelled by a pole. During summer term the JCR hires them for the students. An excuse to sit and have Pimms on a boat - what’s not to like?

Quad Run [kwod run] n. also vb. You’ll swiftly find out what one of these entails.Rustication [rust-ic-ay-shon] n., also vb (as in Rusticate) Students who rusticate have been ‘sent down’ for either academic or personal reasons. They take a year or so away from their studies and come back after sitting a test for re-entry.

Scout [skout] n. Our scouts, Dawn and Lesley, come to collect the rubbish from your room and clean it once a week.Sconce [skonse] n. T o f o r c e someone who falls into a specified category to drink. Often a part of Popes’ and crew dates, the aim is to encourage excessive alcohol consumption. When 'sconced', those to whom the sconce

applies must stand and take a large gulp of whatever alcoholic drink they have.SCR [ess see ahr] n. Senior Common Room -(cf. JCR and MCR). Senior Common Room - for the Principal and Fellows, College Lecturers and others including academic visitors.

Sheol [Shay-ol] n. The shady basement area of the college where washing machines and bathrooms are. The name is a theology joke, though sadly not a funny one.

Star [Stahr] n. Eg ‘Meet on the star in five minutes, yeah?’ On the floor of the entrance hall to the college is a gigantic star. This is where we meet for nights out, sports practice, etc.

Sub-fusc [sub-fusk] The academic dress of the University. Worn with a flower at examinations, this outfit turns you into a huge tourist attraction when you’re walking down the street wearing it.Stash [stash] Anything that expresses your college, club, society, production, or sports team affiliations, e.g. hoodies, t-shirts, polo shirts, even underwear. You will come to have a lot of Regent’s stash by the end of your degree!St John’s [scum] n. also vb. (derogatory - as in ‘Oh no, I’ve Johns-ed this up’) Our two colleges gaze confrontationally across the street at each other; staring with silent rivalry and resentment. You should and will learn to hate anything connected with St John’s College, Oxford, for they are our greatest rivals.Torpids [Tawr-pids] n. Inter-collegiate boat race held in Hilary term.

Trinity [trin-i-tee] n. 1. Summer term 2. A college.

Tute [choot] n. You will have a tute (tutorial) at least once a week in term time when your tutor will have set you an essay or problem. You will then discuss the essay for an hour or so, which can lead to some awkward silences if you don’t know something.

The Union [the Yoo-nyun] n. The University debating society, founded in 1823. Rarely, if ever, used to refer to OUSU, which is always known by its acronym. There have however been Regent’s presidents of both the Union and OUSU, respectively.

Vac [vac] n. Short for vacation.  Oxford has three: Christmas vac, Easter vac and the Long vac.Varsity Match [Vah-sit-ee

Match] n. Sporting fixture between Oxford and Cambridge.

Next StepsWhat to bring with you and what to do now

3

4

Buy a suit and some formal wear. You will get a lot of use out of them so buying, instead of hiring once you’re here, will probably end up working out cheaper.

Send in a passport photo (don’t worry about the quality - we all look horrific) to

Stacey, the college’s academic administrator, for the college photobook.

1Like our Facebook page (Regent’s Park College), follow us on Twitter (@regentsoxford) and make sure you’re in the Freshers’ Group on Facebook. We’ll be posting out

important information to you through all these methods so make sure you stay in the loop!

2

Speak to your college parent about any books you may need and work you might

need to do. In particular, see if you can get any second-hand copies from them!

I really hope this booklet has made you feel positive about Regent’s and that you now cannot wait to arrive here in Freshers’ Week. We’re all very excited to welcome you to our big college family!Below I’ve set out some of the things you need to do before you come -but don’t worry if you forget stuff, as you can always get parents to send stuff to you and you can buy most things you need in Oxford’s shops. Please make sure you have received a letter from your college parent alongside this booklet, and that you are a member of the Freshers’ Week Group. The best way to make sure you have all the information is to follow step one below - liking the Facebook page and/or following us on Twitter. If you have any problems which can’t be resolved that way then contact Andie Gbdemah or Phoebe Williams, whose details are on the back of the pull-out map. Also make sure you bring this booklet with you when you arrive so that you can stick the map onto your wall!I’m really looking forward to meeting you all. I hope you love it as much as I do.

Will TomsettJCR Secretary

WTomselt6

7

8

Order your freshers’ week t-shirt ASAP by getting in contact with us either on the

Freshers’ Facebook group or by sending a member of the Committee an email.

Washing machines and tumble driers at college don’t give change - make sure you bring plenty of small coins to avoid you

losing money. It’s £1.30 per wash and dry.

9If you’re planning to cook you’ll need cooking stuff. College provide cookers, toasters, etc but you will need your own plates, cups, pots, pans, and cutlery. A kettle is useful so you can have

people over for tea in your room.

10Sort your money out. Pay battels to college for

your first term here but most importantly remember that your student loan may not come in on time - get a student bank account with a

large overdraft so that if the money isn’t forthcoming you are still able to pay for things.

5Buy a costume for your first bop of term - ‘A night in the Wild West’. Don’t worry if

you don’t have enough time - there are plenty of shops in Oxford to go to.

6Bikes are the easiest way to travel around Oxford.

Unless you’re particularly active and need to travel to the gym and sports grounds, you’re unlikely to

massively need one in the first year. However, they are handy to have and if you do bring one make sure you

bring a bike lock.

SEE YOU SOON!