On May 19, 2016, Sophie, Countess of Wessex, had a busy schedule in Oxfordshire. She visited Cogges Manor Farm in Witney and later opened a Licensed Victuallers School in Oxford, Begbroke.
At Cogges Manor Farm, a historical site dating back to the 13th century and now operated by the Cogges Heritage Trust, the Countess toured the grounds, engaged in activities such as sheep shearing with local school children, and planted an Oxford beauty apple tree to mark the occasion. This visit highlighted the farm’s transformation from a traditional museum into an educational and community-focused site, featuring small farmyard animals and a classical walled garden cultivated by volunteers.
Later that day, the Countess officially opened the Licensed Victuallers School in Oxford. As the patron of the National Autistic Society, she emphasized the importance of such institutions in providing specialized education for children with autism.
These visits showcased the Countess’s commitment to supporting educational and community initiatives, reflecting her active involvement in various charitable activities across the UK
