Advanced Summer Academic Exploration Programme for Teens in Cambridge

Course Description: Advanced Summer Academic Exploration Programme for Teens in Cambridge

The Academic Exploration Programme offers students a unique opportunity to learn from the world-leading academics in the trendy interdisciplinary learning style in areas of study.

This immersive experience allows participants to delve into their own academic interests, gaining insights and inspiration for future studies. Through engaging lectures, interactive seminars, and hands-on projects, students will develop a deeper understanding of their desired disciplines, all within the prestigious and stimulating environment of one of the world's leading universities.

Student Intake:

This programme represents a higher tier of admission standards compared to the other research programmes, as it is limited to a selected group of 20-25 students.

The programme provides students the chance to connect with world-leading academics from Cambridge and like-minded peers from around the globe, fostering a diverse and vibrant learning community. Academic Exploration Programme comes with a wide array of advantages:

• Experience the pinnacle of intellectual discourse with the academic lectures and talks, featuring esteemed Cambridge Professors* in various fields.

• Be engaged in hands-on learning through workshops led by current Cambridge scholars*.​

• Explore desired academic direction by tasting professional courses in a wide range of subjects.

• Experience the trendy interdisciplinary learning with the completion of a task in one or more desired fields.

• Study at the Cambridge University Library.

• ​​Study and live like a Cambridge student with other like-minded individuals from around the world in the traditional and world-leading academic atmosphere in Cambridge and the UK.

Certification & Rewards

This provider takes immense pride in celebrating the achievements of students who complete our programme. As a recognition of the dedication and hard work, here are the rewards and benefits that participants will receive:

• Programme Recommendation Letter from Programme Director at Cambridge

A reference letter from our Programme Director at Cambridge will highlight students’ participation and accomplishments during their time in the programme, serving as a valuable addition to the academic portfolio.

• Certificate of Attendance

Students will receive an official Certificate of Attendance, co-issued by a Cambridge College and the provider to recognise their commitment to academic excellence.

• Programme Report Card

A report card to reflect a comprehensive evaluation of students' learning progress achieved during the programme with individual feedback.

Academic Content

Leading Professors:

Mathematics

Prof. Maciej Dunajski

• Professor of Mathematical Physics, DAMTP, University of Cambridge. 

• Fellow & Graduate Tutor, Clare College, Cambridge.

Computer Science/Artificial Intelligence

Prof. Pietro Liò

• Fellow of Clare Hall, University of Cambridge

• Member of the European Laboratory for Learning & Intelligent Systems (ELLIS) and Academia Europaea

Medicine and Biochemistry

Prof. Thomas Krieg

• Clinical Professor for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine, University of Cambridge

• Honorary Consultant Physician, Cambridge University Hospitals

Physics and Engineering

Prof. Jason Robinson

• Joint Head of Department of Materials Sciences and Metallurgy, University of Cambridge

• Professor of Materials Physics, University of Cambridge

• Fellow, St John's College, University of Cambridge

Sociology

Prof. Patrick Baert

• Professor of Social Theory, University of Cambridge

• Fellow and Director of Studies, Selwyn College, University of Cambridge

• Fellow, the Royal Society of Arts

Psychology

Prof. Nicola Clayton, FRS

• Fellow, The Royal Society

• Professor of Comparative Cognition, University of Cambridge

• Fellow, Clare College, University of Cambridge

Business and Management

Prof. Matthew Grimes

• Professor of Entrepreneurship and Sustainable Futures, University of Cambridge

• Director of the MPhil in Innovation, Strategy & Organisation Programme, University of Cambridge

• Co-Director of the Entrepreneurship Centre, University of Cambridge

Law and International Relations

Prof. Christopher Bickerton

• Professor of Modern European Politics, University Teaching Officer, University of Cambridge

• Fellow and Director of Studies in Human, Social & Political Sciences of Queens' College, University of Cambridge

Lectures:

Lecture 1 - Prof. Thomas Krieg

Prof. Thomas Krieg is the Clinical Professor for Experimental Cardiovascular Medicine at the University of Cambridge and a Consultant in Acute Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology at Addenbrookes Hospital. He received his training in Freiburg, Germany, and he has been practicing in Cambridge for over 14 years. His clinical and research interests are focused on many aspects of cardiovascular disease, particularly hypertension and acute heart attack. He also has a significant interest in lifestyle modifications necessary to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications, with a special emphasis on exercise and dietary changes. Additionally, Prof. Krieg is actively involved in mentoring young clinicians and researchers, fostering the next generation of experts in the field.

Lecture 2 - Prof. Jason Robinson

Prof. Jason Robinson is the Professor of Materials Physics at the University of Cambridge where he is also a joint Head of the Department of Materials Science & Metallurgy and Director of the Quantum Materials & Devices Group. He is also a Fellow of St John’s College, Cambridge. His group focuses on the development of multifunctional materials and nanoelectronic devices to approach key challenges in spintronics, superconductivity, and quantum materials research. Particular research topics include the superconductor proximity effect, unconventional superconductivity, quantum and topological transport. Prof. Robinson’s research is highly collaborative, making use of a broad range of experimental techniques as well as theory. He has made major contributions to superconductivity and spintronics research, including the demonstration of triplet Cooper pairs at superconductor interfaces with magnetic materials and leading the field of superconducting spintronics.

Lecture 3 - Prof. Pietro Liò

Prof. Pietro Liò is a Full Professor in the Department of Computer Science & Technology (Artificial Intelligence Group), a Fellow of Clare Hall, and a member of the Cambridge Centre for AI in Medicine. His work bridges AI and computational biology for precision medicine, and he is recognised as a Fellow of ELLIS (European Laboratory for Learning & Intelligent Systems) and a member of Academia Europaea. Recent interests include graph neural networks for complex biomedical systems.

Lecture 4 - Prof. Patrick Baert

Prof. Patrick Baert did his graduate work at the University of Oxford, working on social theory under the supervision of Rom Harré. He subsequently joined the Sociology Department in Cambridge. His recent research in the sociology of intellectuals has been funded by various bodies, including the British Academy, The European Research Council and the Leverhulme Trust. His writings have been translated into more than 10 languages. Prof. Baert is the chief editor of the International Journal of Politics, Culture and Society (Springer) and he also holds editorial positions at the European Journal of Social Theory, the Journal of Classical Sociology, Currently Sociology, and Distinktion. He has held visiting positions across the world, including the University of Cape Town, l'Université de Paris I Panthéon Sorbonne, the Humboldt University Berlin, Brown University, the University of British Columbia, the University of Concepcion in Chile, the LSE and Sciences Po.

Lecture 5 - Prof. Nicola Clayton FRS

Prof. Nicola Clayton, FRS, is Professor of Comparative Cognition in the Department of Psychology at the University of Cambridge and a Fellow of Clare College. She is internationally recognised for her pioneering research into animal cognition, particularly in the fields of memory, planning, and social intelligence. Elected as a Fellow of the Royal Society in recognition of her outstanding contributions to science, Prof. Clayton has transformed our understanding of how non-human animals think, remember past experiences, and anticipate future events.

Lecture 6 - Prof. Christopher Bickerton

Prof. Christopher Bickerton is Professor of Modern European Politics at Cambridge (POLIS) and an Official Fellow at Queens’ College, where he serves as Director of Studies in HSPS. His research covers European politics, international relations and state transformation, with prize-winning work on European integration.

Lecture 7 - Prof. Matthew Grimes

Prof. Matthew Grimes is Professor of Entrepreneurship & Sustainable Futures at Cambridge Judge Business School, Director of the MPhil in Innovation, Strategy & Organisation, and Co-Director of the Entrepreneurship Centre. His research examines how entrepreneurs and organisations create and sustain positive social change, governance of innovation and the tensions of mission-driven ventures.

Lecture 8 - Prof. Maciej Dunajski

Prof. Maciej Dunajski is a University Professor of Mathematical Physics at the Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics (DAMTP), University of Cambridge, and a Fellow & Graduate Tutor at Clare College. His research spans twistor theory, integrable systems, differential/conformal geometry, and applications to general relativity. He previously taught at the University of Oxford before moving to Cambridge, where he continues to lead advanced teaching and supervision in mathematical physics.

Practical Workshops:

• Following each lecture by the professor, Cambridge Scholars from diverse fields will guide participants through hands-on, interactive activities, which are designed to give participants an immersive, first-hand experience in the respective disciplines.

• The practical sessions are intended to provide a deeper, more tangible understanding of the concepts and methodologies discussed during the earlier lectures. By actively applying theoretical knowledge through experiential learning, participants will develop a more comprehensive grasp of the subject matter.

• This combination of theoretical and practical components aims to foster both a profound appreciation for academic inquiry and the acquisition of valuable, discipline-specific skills. The immersive nature of these hands-on activities allows participants to truly engage with the subject matter, ensuring a rich, multifaceted exploration of the academic disciplines.

Academic Skill Workshops:

Team Building

• Learn effective communication strategies to ensure clear, open, and respectful dialogue within the team.

• Develop skills for working collaboratively, including active listening, sharing responsibilities, and leveraging diverse strengths.

• Understand techniques for resolving conflicts constructively and maintaining a positive team dynamic.

Academic Writing

• Learn to structure your writing with clear sections and logical flow.

• Master techniques for building strong, evidence-based arguments.

• Understand how to write clearly and formally, and improve through revision and editing.

Presentation skills

• Learn how to structure your presentation with a clear introduction, main points, and conclusion to ensure a logical flow and coherent message.

• Master the use of voice modulation, body language, and eye contact to engage your audience and convey confidence.

• Understand how to effectively use visual aids, such as slides and handouts, to enhance your presentation and reinforce your key points.

Master Talks:

This provider invites a number of world class scholars and academics from various disciplines to give seminars on their specialities to promote academic interests. The speakers include world famous researchers, policymakers, industrial leaders, societies, associations, professional bodies and individuals.

Instructional Model

The Academic Exploration Programme goes beyond simply teaching academic theories; as it fosters an unyielding enthusiasm for exploration. Our small, exclusive classes are where serious discussions thrive, and ideas are shared among the best and brightest. This tailored approach allows students to focus their efforts and delve deeper into different areas of study, fostering a more immersive and fulfilling educational experience.

Professor & Supervisor Total Contact Time 30+ hours 

Practical Workshop by Cambridge Scholars 8 hours

Master Talk by Profound Scholars 2 hours

Academic Lecture by Cambridge Professors 8 hours

Academic Skill Worshop by Cambridge Scholars 6 hours

Task Presentation 8 hours

Cultural & Social Activities 12 hours

London / Oxford Excursion 2 days

Evaluation

The evaluation for our Academic Exploration Programme ensures a comprehensive and fair assessment. Cambridge scholars and dedicated supervisors evaluate participants, allowing them to showcase their learning and enhance their presentation skills.

• Completion of a task in the desired field of study

• 5-minute presentation for the task completed

• Assessments by experienced professors and dedicated supervisors

• Valuable feedback and constructive criticism provided

• Encourages academic growth and excellence in the programme

Admission Requirements

This programme is suitable for

• High School  students who want to explore academic interests with guidance from the leading scholars at the University of Cambridge

• Age 14-16 / 16-18​​​​

Accommodation & Dining *�️

To deliver a comprehensive and enriching experience in Cambridge, participants are accommodated in different colleges within the University of Cambridge. Full board dining is provided throughout the programme, with meals served in the college dining halls (apart from weekend trips).

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Living and dining in these iconic settings not only offers a taste of traditional Cambridge life but also enhances the participants' research and academic learning. The immersive environment fosters a deep connection with the university's rich academic heritage, making their time at Cambridge both intellectually and culturally enriching.

Cambridge Colleges

Some of the collaborating Colleges are:

• Clare Hall, University of Cambridge

Clare Hall was founded in 1966 on the initiative of Clare College. It was envisaged as a college with three main classes of members: university teaching officers whose principal focus was research; visiting academics who would stay in Cambridge for between six months and a year; and graduate students. The President, Fellows, Visiting Fellows and graduate students together make up an integrated academic society that is not constrained by hierarchy and is consequently a culturally rich and intellectually diverse environment for advanced study.

• Sidney Sussex College, University of Cambridge

Sidney Sussex College was founded on St. Valentine's Day in 1596 by the legacy of Lady Frances Sidney, Countess of Sussex. The College is in the historic heart of Cambridge, and its beautiful buildings and gardens are home to a dynamic and diverse academic community. Our students, Fellows and staff come from all backgrounds and all over the world, drawn by the University of Cambridge's world-class reputation and Sidney Sussex's commitment to excellence in teaching and research.

• Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge

Murray Edwards College was founded in 1954 as New Hall, later renamed in 2008 to honor Dame Rosemary Murray, its first President, and benefactor Ros Edwards. The college is known for its modernist architecture, featuring the iconic Dome, and a large collection of contemporary art. Academically, it offers a wide range of disciplines with a strong emphasis on supporting women in STEM fields. The college structure includes dedicated tutorial systems, research opportunities, and a library that caters to various academic needs. Murray Edwards fosters a collaborative environment, encouraging intellectual growth, leadership, and social responsibility, aiming to empower women to excel in their respective fields.

What Is Included:

• Accommodation for 13 nights in a College of University of Cambridge*.

• Daily breakfast, lunch and dinners (except for weekend days), with a memorable distinctive formal dining experience in the Cambridge tradition on the day of the graduation ceremony.

• All academic activities, such as lectures, workshops, master talks with world-class speakers, final presentations, and access to teaching venues.

• A rich social and cultural schedule, including excursions to London and Oxford.

• Programme awards as outlined in the programme details.

Application Procedure:

1. Gather Necessary Documents

2. Fill and Submit Application Form

3. Receive Your Offer

4. Pay Deposit

5. Receive Offer Letter and Invoice

6. Pay Programme Fee (deducted deposit)

7. Receive Programme Invitation Letter and Accommodation Letter (for visa purposes, if applicable)

8. Receive Pre-arrival Pack 

9. Study Aboard

Airport Transfers

We can arrange a private airport pick-up/drop-off transfer between London Heathrow Airport and Cambridge at a price of £200 per way, per person.