Student Stories
We’ve asked students what it has been like at St Clare’s and here are some of their stories; learning in class, living with students from around the world
International Baccalaureate Diploma
“Truly international, vibrant, fun, gets the right results, couldn’t do better … if you want to go the IB road” – Good Schools Guide
Yasmina – British – IB
St Clare’s is not like other schools where students are simply spoon-fed information. I realised this in my first week. Teachers expected more from me and all at once I was at the helm of my own education. I won’t deny that this was shocking and strange, but now, two-years on, I couldn’t be more grateful. I have attained greater independence and new-found appreciation for my subjects. St Clare’s has bolstered me for the dynamic world ahead. I now enter it knowing that I can take whatever comes my way.
Jiangnan – Chinese – IB
Life at St Clare’s is just like the IB: challenging but fascinating. Studying in such a diverse and friendly environment has encouraged me to discuss different ideas, undertake challenges and become a more independent thinker.
Alba – Albanian – IB
St Clare’s means more to me than academic excellence: it is an academic inspiration where I discovered and developed my passion for economics.
The mixture of nationalities and diversity of cultures here has broadened my mindset and opinions. The college environment teaches you to be independent, to take initiative and to build your future.
University Pathways Stories
Danny’s Story
The reason why I chose St Clare’s is I guess because of the atmosphere, it’s very homey, everyone will get the vibe first then it will feel like home and then everything will be going for you. I love Oxford; I am looking forward to staying here for the next four years studying Politics and Philosophy at Oxford Brookes University.
Ryan – American – Liberal Arts
“This has been a really eye opening experience for me”
Alli’s Story
Alli from Colorado explains what it has been like on the Education Studies Programme at St Clare’s Oxford – will she be a great teacher? Definitely!
Megan – American – Liberal Arts
Kevin – Indonesian
Coming here is such a unique experience and is one that allows anyone to grow and develop themselves for the better! You meet the nicest of friends and the most supportive of teachers and staff that integrate with you in a level found nowhere else. It has definitely prepared me for my next stage in life as I come out a more independent and determined person than before.
“A unique study abroad experience”
Emma’s Story
Emma from Elon University explains that studying at St Clare’s Oxford you get the English culture but you go to school with people from all over the world.
English Language Stories
“The moment I got here I was embraced by the people who were living here as if I’d known them for years. Life is incredible here; it’s exhausting, but it’s fun.”
Summer Courses Stories
“I’m glad that I came here to improve my English! Perfect service, perfect staff, great fun!!”
Malgorzata – Poland
“I learned how to work in groups and more grammar. Also I enjoyed our debates which taught me how to argue and how to give good examples.”
Candela – Argentina
“Candela, Argentina I’ve learnt to be less shy and be more confident in front of a group pf people Nicolina, Sweden I’m really happy that I chose St. Clare’s. I have improved my English a lot here and I have met a lot of new friends from different nationalities. I will definitely come back! Thank you for helping me in my learning.”
Juste – Lithuania
“Our main teacher was amazing and the lessons were really interesting and different from the ones that I have in my school.”
Raphael – Belgium
“Every student is given individual attention, and the location and size of the college are ideal. Everyone knows each other and this helps create a productive learning environment”
Further Reading
What’s it like to study the IB at St Clare’s? A student’s perspective.
An IB student writes about what it’s like to live and study at St Clare’s. Abbygail from China discusses every-day life at our college and why she loves it.
Guest speakers share their secrets to success!
As part of their Leadership Course, students listened to fascinating talks by STV CEO Rob Woodward and former editor of the Guardian newspaper Alan Rusbridger.
Introducing the Cross-College Themes
Find out how our weekly themes enhance our students’ learning experience by incorporating lessons, activities and social events.