At Oxford Royale Academy, we offer more than ‘just’ a summer job. We believe that the key to running a successful educational programme is providing our staff with a working environment which trains and prepares them for their roles, supports them throughout the summer and provides a healthy and social atmosphere, so they can have an amazing summer, both during and outside work.

From fantastic training before and during the programme to staff social and sporting activities, we provide a wealth of personal and professional development opportunities, including:

Training

Part of our success is the exceptional training our staff receive before the students arrive but also throughout their time working for us. Our trainers are professionals imparting their knowledge and years of experience but also developing a dynamic skill set among the staff body.

Staff will be introduced to the essential skills for working, leading and communicating with young people, to ensure their development, safety and well being.

For those working directly with the students, teaching masterclasses, leadership workshops and online learning modules will develop further essential skills and in addition we provide workshops on punting, tour guiding and leading ice-breakers.

For those working in an operational capacity we provide essential training in areas such as manual handling and driving and all of our staff are trained in the essentials of safeguarding and have the opportunity to undertake first aid courses.

Social

Our social programme isn’t just for the students! We have a calendar of activities going on throughout the summer for staff, including karaoke, croquet and Pimms and a relaxing ‘crafternoon tea’. Or, if you’re feeling hungry, we offer burrito challenges and evenings at G&D’s ice cream parlour. At the end of the summer there is even the ORA Summer Ball for all staff, held in the beautiful surroundings of our very own Yarnton Manor.

Sport, health and fitness

We love to stay active! Whether you prefer team sports suchas rounders and frisbee in University Parks, pushing yourself during a circuits session or boot camp, or taking in a more sedate afternoon of yoga or lawn games, we have you covered. Our programme of classes and games sessions is available to ensure that your time off shift is just as rewarding as your time in work, with the added bonus that you get to spend quality time getting to know other ORA summer staff and making new friends. Add in the regular healthy meals across all our sites and you’ll end this summer healthier than ever.

Personal and Professional Development.

Although your position might only be for the summer, we truly believe that working with us will develop skills which will benefit any chosen future career. From taking on the responsibility of looking after young people and being pushed out of your comfort zone, to building your confidence in areas such as public speaking, people management and administration, you will be building skills without even realising it!

We are also committed to providing a framework for your professional development, with the support of senior staff: we hold appraisals and even additional training for those looking to further their skills in particular careers, such as Teaching or Events Management. Throughout the summer, there will be regular surgeries and drop-ins, designed to support you in your role – here you can meet and speak one on one to an experienced professional in the field (examples include: drop-ins on how to support students’ learning run by our Special Educational Needs Coordinator, behaviour management surgeries led by experienced youth workers and space to discuss people management challenges with a HR professional).