Embedded Files
Before the trip
Before the trip
Ensure you have the group register and emergency contact numbers for all leaders and students
Make sure you have the tickets you need to enter with your group
Wear the official group T-shirt or hoodie for easy identification
Charge your phone fully and bring a power bank
Review the risk assessment for the day’s route and activities
Remind students to bring a raincoat or umbrella in case of light rain
Take group photos at key locations and share them with the programme WhatsApp group
Downloads
Downloads
▶️ Risk Assessment for this trip
▶️ Registers for this trip
▶️ Tickets for this trip
Activity Leader Notes
Activity Leader Notes
1. Arrival & Introduction
1. Arrival & Introduction
Welcome to St Mary’s Church! This building has been part of Oxford’s history for centuries, and today we’ll explore both the interior and the tower.
Please stay together and follow instructions—this is a working church, so respect the space and keep your voices low.
Fun fact: The church has been used for university ceremonies and special events for hundreds of years.
2. Inside the Church
2. Inside the Church
Take a moment to look at the stained-glass windows, the wooden pews, and the historic arches. The church has elements dating back to the 13th century.
Fun fact: Some of the carvings and decorations were made hundreds of years ago and are still preserved today.
3. Tower Climb & Panoramic Views
3. Tower Climb & Panoramic Views
As we climb, hold the handrail and take your time—there are over 100 steps to the top. At the top, you’ll see some of the best views in Oxford. You can spot the Radcliffe Camera, Bodleian Library, and many college spires.
Fun fact: The tower is about 50 metres high, and it’s one of the city’s most iconic viewpoints!
4. Church History & Architecture
4. Church History & Architecture
St Mary’s Church dates back to the 12th–13th century, though it has been rebuilt and restored several times over the years.
Notice the Gothic windows and pointed arches—they were designed to make the church feel taller and let in more light. The tower was added later and has served as a lookout and a bell tower for centuries.
Fun fact: The bells in the tower are still rung for services and special events. Some parts of the church were also used for academic ceremonies linked to Oxford University, which shows how the church has always been connected to city life.
Leader Tips:
Remind students to take their time on the stairs and hold the handrail.
Keep groups small during the climb to avoid congestion.
Encourage students to enjoy the interior of the church before the climb.
Set clear meeting points at the base of the tower for regathering.
Remind students to respect the church as a historic and religious site.
Safety Notes:
Ensure no running or pushing on the stairs.
Check that students wear appropriate footwear for climbing.
Maintain a headcount at the bottom of the tower.
Make sure students follow instructions when entering and leaving the church.
The Timetable for the Trip
0:00 – Meet at Ruskin College for welcome and safety briefing by Activity Leaders.
0:05 – Depart Ruskin College and travel by public transport to St Mary’s Church.
0:20 – Arrive at St Mary’s Church; gather outside for a short introduction by Activity Leaders.
0:25 – Enter the church and explore the interior (architecture, stained glass, history).
0:40 – Begin the climb to the top of the tower.
1:00 – Reach the top; enjoy panoramic views of Oxford and take photos.
1:15 – Descend the tower and regroup at the church entrance.
1:20 – Free time for questions, exterior photos, or nearby areas.
1:30 – Begin return journey to Ruskin College.
1:50 – Arrive back at Ruskin College; activity concludes.
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