College life offers an abundance of opportunities to use existing talents, or get involved in something completely new. Because many activities are run by the Students’ Club, new activities evolve each year through student input, leadership and initiative. The following is a taste of activities that regularly happen at Ormond:
Ormond’s Artist-in-Residence provides a valuable point of contact for students involved in art. An annual art exhibition of residents’ work is held in October each year. The Students’ Club has an Art Sub-Committee which also runs a series of projects.
Sunday Evening Engagements (SEE) are a new philosophical and faith dialogue held in the Chapel each Sunday throughout semester. Contributors have included philosophy scholars and theologians of different faiths. Attendance at SEE is optional.
The Community Service Subcommittee runs a number of initiatives each year aimed at raising money and awareness for charities and not-for-profit organisations.
College debating topics are usually light-hearted and provide entertainment and friendly team rivalry. Ormond also fields a team in the Inter-collegiate debating competition. This annual competition draws a good crowd.
The Ormond Play is a major event on the College calendar, offers opportunities for students with an interest (but not necessarily experience) in acting, lighting, stage management, sound, costumes, make-up, publicity or administrative work.
Film nights held throughout the year are a social way to share and expand knowledge of cinema and other cultures.
Music is an integral part of College life. Ormond offers a wealth of opportunities to perform or listen to all sorts of live music. All students who are interested in Music are welcome to join the Music Subcommittee and shape the musical life of the College. Musical activities the College’s highly regarded Choir, student instrumental ensembles, informal choirs, music soirées, band competitions, jazz and cabaret nights.
Ormond has a number of publications. These include the online Ormondian which keeps everyone up-to-date with social, sporting and cultural events, the Ormond Chronicle, documenting the year’s events, and Ormond Papers – an annual publication showcasing the best of Ormond’s academic and creative work. Student participation in writing, photography, editing and production is vital.
There are many opportunities to participate in many sports at Ormond. The intercollegiate competition is competitive, but enjoyable, with varying standards of skill, and is a great way to make friends. Participation in sporting activities is optional.
Intercollegiate sports include: athletics, badminton, basketball, cricket, football, golf, hockey, netball, rowing, rugby, soccer, softball, squash, swimming, table tennis, tennis, volleyball and cross country. Students also run an annual Ski Week.
Intercollegiate competitions in creative writing and poetry are held each year. A College award is given for the best essay published in Ormond Papers. All students are invited to submit their work.