Echelon Magazine 2026

THE ECHELON DEFINING FUTURES E x p e r t Te a c h e r s | P e r s o n a l i s e d P a t h w a y s | B u i l t I n O x f o r d

SEC OND EDITION OX F O R D I N TE R N ATI O N AL CO LLE G E

Welcome to Echelon -our annual visual celebration of the spirit of OIC. From academic excellence and university offers to competitions, trips, and unforgettable moments. The Echelon celebrates the people, progress, and passion that define our community at its best.

THE ECHELON

C ONTENTS J une 2 0 2 6

Introduction

04

Student Life & Boarding

29

Principal’s Welcome

06

Endeavour Academy

32

Academic Highlights

08

Sound of Hope

34

Celebrating Success

10

Partnerships and Collaborations

38

OIC Amplify

17

Graduation

42

Trips and Excursions

22

Year 11 Leaver’s Meal

52

Duke of Edinburgh

26

Defining Futures

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INTR ODUC TION W E LCO M E TO TH E E CH E LO N

Welcome to The Echelon, Oxford International College’s brand-new end-of-year magazine — a bold and elegant celebration of everything that makes our college community exceptional.

Our second edition is more than just a roundup; it’s a tribute to a year defined by academic distinction, personal growth, and pioneering spirit. From the classroom to the competition stage, the lecture hall to the published studies, our students have shown what it means to strive, achieve, and lead.

Inside, you’ll find exclusive reflections from Dr Watson, Principal at OIC, highlights of our students’ remarkable academic and extra-curricular accomplishments, and a vibrant spread of photos capturing the energy, joy, and brilliance of the year.

As we look back on another extraordinary year, one filled with Olympiad successes, Kwok Scholarship opprtunities, global university offers, enrichment designed to push your boundaries, and inspiring experiences we also look forward, together, to a future shaped by ambition, purpose, and compassion.

Defining Futures.

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OXFORD INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE

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Pri n ci pal’s Welc ome D ef i n i n g F utu r es

To those of you who are new to the Echelon, welcome, and those of you who are familiar with our celebratory end of year magazine -here it is! Created to celebrate the achievements, stories, and spirit that defines our extraordinary community, I’m incredibly proud to lead this College.

The name Echelon reflects the high standards and aspirations we set for ourselves as a College. It symbolises the outstanding academic outcomes, pioneering leadership, and resilience shown by our students and staff throughout the year. From Olympiad competition success to published papers, from public speaking accolades to world-class university offers — our students have continued to reach new heights.

OIC aspires to be the world’s leading sixth-form college for ambitious international students. A place where every student’s future is engineered with precision, passion, and purpose. We build the next generation of global leaders, thinkers, and innovators and this magazine showcases just that.

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B ui l t I n O xfor d I am incredibly proud to share this vision with our pioneering community of students, senior leaders and expert teachers. Together, we are defining futures through ambition, innovation and a shared commitment to excellence.

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Re l en tl e s s C u r io si t y.

P r o v en E x ce l l e n ce .

G l ob a l R e co gn i t i o n .

Ac ad emic Hig hlig ht s o f t he Ye a r

At Oxford International College we are proud to celebrate a stellar record of university success, with students receiving over 530 offers from the world’s most competitive institutions. Alongside university offers the College celebrates outstanding Olympiad success across Chemistry, Biology, Physics, and Maths, demonstrating analytical skill, creativity, and advanced problem-solving. This year we also celebrated success with a new award, the NAE History and Politics Essay competition going to Harry and an old favourite the Lexden Prize, with Serena winning first prize! The academic year was rounded off in the perfect way with news of the prestigious Kwok Schloarship being awareded to our Oxford offer holder, Charmaine. Congratulations to you all!

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Student Council Ambassadors 2025-26

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P r e c i s io n . Pe r fo r man ce .

Exc e l l e n c e.

Celeb rat ing S uc c ess

The UK Chemistry Olympiad once again highlighted the exceptional talent and ambition of our students. An outstanding 15 of our 16 entrants received an award, with Sooah and Flora achieving the highest marks in the College to earn Gold Awards, placing them among the top 8.5% of students nationally.

Our Year 12 cohort also impressed, with 40% securing Silver Awards despite sitting the notoriously challenging paper a year early -a remarkable achievement.

Overall, 50% of our entrants achieved Gold or Silver Awards, significantly exceeding the national figure of 34.2%, reflecting the depth of scientific excellence, determination and intellectual curiosity that continues to thrive at the OIC.

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The UK Linguistics Olympiad challenges students to solve fascinating language puzzles using logic,

One of the year’s most significant achievements came late in the final term, with Serena being awarded

pattern recognition and analytical thinking, often drawing on languages they have never encountered

the prestigious ISA Lexden Prize, one of the highest honours available to sixth-form students across the

before. This year, our students embraced the challenge with outstanding success. Congratulations to

UK’s independent school sector. Recognising exceptional leadership, service and contribution beyond

Anna, Chloe (Yearr 12) and Felicia on achieving Silver Awards, and to Abby, Catarina, Harry, Julian, Samuel

the classroom, the award is open to students from hundreds of ISA schools, with each school permitted

and Sasha on receiving Bronze Awards. Their achievements reflect not only exceptional reasoning and

to nominate just one candidate. Serena’s remarkable journey -from founding Serena’s Secret at the age of

problem-solving skills, but also the intellectual curiosity and willingness to tackle unfamiliar challenges.

seven to raise awareness and support for autistic children, to building an award-winning social enterprise that has transformed lives across Malaysia -captivated the judges. Serena now joins a select group of young people recognised nationally for demonstrating that compassion, leadership and determination can create lasting change far beyond the classroom.

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L e a rn in g th a t Le aps Of f th e P a ge Connec tions a n d Collaborat io n s

Our students continue to seize exceptional opportunities beyond the classroom through Nord Anglia Education’s global collaborations. Kivi has earned a place on the prestigious MIT Nord Anglia STEAM Collaboration this November, after impressing the selection panel with an innovative project tackling the growing challenge of lithium battery recycling. Kivi developed a practical, low-cost recycling process that enables small factories to safely recover valuable metals using simple equipment and locally available materials, offering both environmental benefits and a sustainable source of income. We cannot wait to see what the trip brings and must mention our MIT Lead, Dr Perz who has been the driving force behind STEAM at OIC.

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Meanwhile, Anna and Felicia are currently representing the College at the NAE Student Summit in partnership with UNICEF, joining more than 150 students from over 50 schools worldwide to explore how young people can help create more sustainable and inclusive cities.

Supported by our Outreach Lead, Jenny Bourlakis, they are collaborating with peers from across the globe, exchanging ideas and developing the leadership skills needed to drive meaningful change in their communities.

Follow our socials for all the latest updates.

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A L a u n c h pad Fo r Gro w t h O I C A m p lif y

Half term at OIC offered more than a break from lessons - it became an opportunity reserved for students determined to go further. Through the exclusive OIC Amplify programme, students participants immersed themselves in a carefully curated week of academic excellence, university preparation and industry engagement. Combining expert mentoring with pathway-specific experiences, OIC Amplify challenged students to extend their learning, sharpen their ambitions and make meaningful progress towards their future goals.

A particular highlight was the BioGrad residential in Liverpool, where aspiring medics and scientists took part in immersive laboratory workshops using industry-standard equipment. Working alongside professionals, students developed practical skills, explored cutting-edge biomedical techniques and gained valuable insight into careers in healthcare and life sciences. Across the programme, Study Mind industry visits and specialist workshops brought pathways such as Medicine, Engineering, Law, Economics and Computer Science to life through real-world experiences.

Back on campus, expert teachers and mentors provided bespoke support through academic clinics, helping students consolidate understanding, refine examination and essay-writing techniques, and build confidence in challenging subjects. Dedicated interview preparation sessions gave students the opportunity to practise communicating complex ideas, strengthen critical thinking and prepare for competitive university admissions, while mentors also offered guidance on study strategies, goal setting and wellbeing.

More than simply extra study time, OIC Amplify created an environment where students could challenge themselves, collaborate with their peers and return to lessons with renewed confidence and purpose. By combining academic rigour with exceptional enrichment opportunities, the programme exemplified OIC’s commitment to preparing students not only for university, but for the opportunities and challenges that lie beyond.

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Exploration Beyond the Classroom

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A dv en tu r e .

L e a d e r s h ip .

A c h i e v em en t.

Duke of Edin b u rg h A wa rd

Our ‘DofE’ students demonstrated resilience, teamwork and determination as they successfully completed the expedition section of their Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

Bringing together participants from Year 11 and Year 12, the challenging expedition required students to navigate unfamiliar terrain, work collaboratively under pressure and develop leadership and problem-solving skills beyond the classroom. As a key component of the nationally recognised DofE programme, the expedition represents an important milestone on their journey towards achieving the full Silver Award and highlights the value of perseverance, independence and personal growth through outdoor adventure.

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Ma k i ng i t p ossi b l e

Special thanks go to Matt Walsh and the Supercurricular Team, whose dedication, organisation and commitment made experiences like this possible, providing students with exceptional opportunities to grow academically, personally and beyond the classroom.

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A Co m mu n i t y o f P i o ne e rs C e le b ra t in g Stud en t Li f e

Boarding life at Oxford International College is vibrant, welcoming and full of opportunities to connect, unwind and make lifelong memories. From themed celebrations and cultural events to sports, games and weekend activities, there is always something bringing our community together.

Guided by our dedicated House Parents and Boarding Leadership Team, students enjoy a supportive home-from-home where laughter, friendship and wellbeing are just as important as academic success. It’s this strong sense of community that makes boarding such a memorable part of the OIC experience.

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Con fi d en c e.

P e r s u a s io n .

P r e s en c e.

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L eading With Compas s ion

E ndeavo ur A c ademy C o l l abo rat i o n

Since joining Oxford International College, Serena has continued to embody the College’s commitment to service through the Endeavour Programme, dedicating her time to spearheading volunteering projects in collaboration with Endeavour Academy, a specialist school supporting students with severe and profound learning difficulties. Working alongside teachers and support staff, she developed bespoke classroom activities, communication exercises and sensory learning, while taking the time to build genuine relationships with the young people she supports. Her calm, patient and compassionate approach has helped create an environment in which students feel encouraged, respected and confident to engage.

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Serena’s involvement extends far beyond volunteering hours. She has

Through the Endeavour Programme, Serena has continued to demonstrate the qualities that

embraced every opportunity to learn from specialist educators, deepen her

define her wider contribution - selfless leadership, quiet determination and an unwavering

understanding of inclusive education and advocate for the importance of

belief that meaningful change begins with small acts of kindness. Her work at Endeavour

creating environments where every individual can flourish. Inspired by her

Academy has become a natural extension of the mission she began as a child through Serena’s

lifelong experiences growing up alongside her twin sisters who have autism,

Secret: ensuring that every young person is given the opportunity to thrive, be heard and reach

she brings authenticity and empathy to every interaction, recognising the

their full potential.

potential in every child rather than focusing on their challenges.

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S o un d o f H o p e For many of our students, moving to the UK means leaving behind not only family and friends, but also the instruments and musical communities that have been an important part of their lives. Determined to ensure that a passion for music could continue to flourish at Oxford International College, Dr Mona Chaudhury established Sound of Hope, a musical ensemble that has become a much-loved part of the College community.

Bringing together students from across year groups and musical backgrounds, the ensemble meets regularly for rehearsals, providing a creative outlet alongside the demands of academic life. Throughout the year, students have shared their talents through festive Christmas concerts and heartwarming performances for residents at St Luke’s Hospital, using music to bring comfort, joy and connection to the wider community.

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The programme has continued to grow thanks to the dedication of Dr Mona Chaudhury and Janet Merror-Smith, whose generosity of time and expertise has created meaningful opportunities for students to perform, collaborate and develop as musicians. Janet has also introduced the marimba to OIC, expanding the College’s musical offering and enabling students to explore new instruments and performance experiences.

Together, they have created a space where music transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, ensuring that, even when far from home, students can continue to express themselves through the universal language of music.

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These experiences enable students to pursue their passions beyond the classroom while developing the knowledge, skills and perspective that leading universities value most. By demonstrating initiative, intellectual curiosity and meaningful engagement with their chosen disciplines, students build compelling university applications and gain a deeper understanding of the world around them. At OIC, enrichment is woven into the student experience, empowering young people to become confident scholars, innovative thinkers and future leaders.

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Sust a in a b i l i ty I n A ct i o n Oxford Food Hub Pa rt n e rship

Creating change, together. Our students embraced

This year marked an exciting step forward in OIC’s social impact journey, with the launch of our first local

collaboration, championed sustainability and

partnership with the Oxford Food Hub and a growing programme of sustainability-focused community

strengthened their communities through purposeful

initiatives. Developed in collaboration with our catering team and spearheaded by our dedicated Outreach

action.

Lead, Jenny Bourlakis, the Oxford Food Hub partnership reflects a shared commitment to reducing food waste, supporting local charitable networks and turning our values into meaningful action.

As part of this initiative, students had the opportunity to work directly alongside the Food Hub team, helping to sort, organise and stock surplus food ready for redistribution. This hands-on experience gave students valuable insight into the scale of food waste and the logistics involved in ensuring that goodquality food reaches those who need it most. Carefully checking, categorising and preparing items for delivery, students played an active role in supporting local charities, gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of efficiency, teamwork and responsibility within community support networks.

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Students also enjoyed a memorable farm-to-fork experience at the City Farm, where they explored

Together, these initiatives reflect a growing culture of awareness, compassion and action across the

sustainable growing, harvested fresh ingredients and transformed them into homemade dishes including

College. With new partnerships, student-led projects and a full programme of post-exam activities

pesto, roasted broad beans, fresh butter, garlic bread, kale crisps and carrot salad. A guided farm tour

underway, OIC continues to empower students not only to achieve excellence, but to use that excellence to

gave students the chance to learn about animal care, help with feeding and even get involved in mucking

make a positive difference in their local and global communities.

out, connecting lessons about sustainability, food production and healthy living with hands-on experience.

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GR A D U AT I ON 2 02 6 A Celeb rat io n o f F u t u re P io n e e rs

The Class of 2026 closed their OIC chapter in style with a stunning graduation ceremony held at the historic Oxford Town Hall. Dressed in academic robes and surrounded by family, friends, and staff, students were honoured for

their

achievements,

contributions to college life.

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character,

and

Graduation 2026

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A d a y to r e me mb e r

Ox fo rd To w n H al l

From heartfelt speeches to proud smiles in academic robes, the ceremony was a moment to reflect on the challenges overcome and the futures being embraced. It marked not just an ending, but the beginning of new chapters at some of the world’s leading universities.

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Following the formal ceremony, staff and students came together to celebrate in true OIC style, sharing a wonderful evening of food, laughter, and music. A celebratory meal brought everyone around the table for stories, toasts, and thanks, before the night ended on a high with a vibrant graduation disco. The dancefloor filled quickly, and the energy, joy, and sense of togetherness was unforgettable. It was the perfect way to close a defining chapter — one of achievement, friendship, and shared memories that will last a lifetime.

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Ye a r 1 1 G ra d u a t io n a n d L e a ve r ’s m e a l

More than a farewell, our Year 11 Graduation was a celebration of resilience, of friendships forged through shared experiences, and of the incredible potential that lies ahead. As our graduates look forward to their next steps – whether returning for Sixth Form or setting out on new paths – they leave with the confidence that comes from being part of something meaningful.

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Year 1 1 G r aduation

This year’s Year 11 graduation and leavers’ meal was a true celebration of friendship, growth, and all that our students have achieved during their time at Oxford International College.

Set against a backdrop of laughter and heartfelt conversation, the evening brought together students and staff to mark the end of an important chapter – and the exciting beginning of the next.

Thoughtful speeches and hard earned awards gave space to the many memories made – from late-night revision marathons and weekend outings, to the small everyday moments that shaped their boarding journey.

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Defining F ut ur e s

Everything we do at Oxford International College begins with a simple promise: Defining Futures.

It is more than a brand tagline -it is the principle that shapes every lesson, every opportunity and every conversation.

Our

mission

is

to

develop

confident,

compassionate and responsible global citizens through academic excellence, personalised career preparation and outstanding personal development. We believe that exceptional outcomes are achieved by nurturing the whole student, combining intellectual ambition with character, resilience and purpose.

Our vision is equally ambitious: to be the world’s leading sixth-form college for ambitious international students. Every pathway is carefully designed to prepare students not only for entry to the world’s most prestigious universities, but for lives of leadership, innovation and meaningful contribution.

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Throughout

this

magazine,

you

will see that promise brought to life. From academic success and global collaborations to community partnerships, enrichment and boarding life, every achievement reflects our commitment to engineering futures with precision, passion and purpose.

At OIC, we don’t simply prepare students for university - we empower them to shape the future.

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THE EC HELON OX F O R D I N TE R N ATI O N AL CO LLE G E

As we close the academic year, I want to extend heartfelt thanks to our parents, guardians, staff, students, and partners. Your trust and collaboration have been instrumental in making this year so successful.

To those moving on — we wish you all the very best in your next chapters. To our returners — we look forward to welcoming you back in September with renewed purpose and energy. The journey continues.

THE ECHELON

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