We had another great residential on the 6th and 7th September at Ripon College Cuddesdon. After coffee, Martin Hodson, the CRES Principal Tutor, updated everyone on the exciting stage the course has reached, with many more applicants than normal. We discussed how we might make moves to accommodate the increased numbers. Several people came forward to volunteer extra help.
In the afternoon we visited Sandy Lane Farm, a traditional, family-run, organic farm between Oxford and Thame. George Bennett, the farmer, gave us a truly fascinating insight into the running of the farm.
After dinner, our guest speaker, Dr Lizzie Rushton gave a presentation on “‘When the kids come out’: Exploring school-based environmental research projects as youth advocacy and activism in response to the climate emergency”. A vigorous discussion ensued. To end our day David Gould led a short service and reflection in the chapel.
We began the second day in the chapel again with Mavis Crispin leading our worship and reflection.
We then had four excellent student presentations, followed by the examiners’ meeting. As a result three students graduated with a certificate (one distinction). One student gained a Diploma with Distinction, the first we have ever had. Our graduates included one from South Korea, our second ever to graduate from abroad (three more are currently studying with us). Our running total is now 36 Certificates (10 with Distinction) and 5 Diplomas (one distinction). The first CRES graduates were in 2005, and we have had 15 cohorts so far. So we are averaging 2.7 graduates a year! CRES is happy to have helped 41 people along the way to helping us make a more sustainable world.
After lunch we said our goodbyes and left for home. It was a great time. Thanks once more to Ripon College Cuddesdon who made our stay so comfortable.