Exceptional Summer Pre-College Artificial Intelligence Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Artificial Intelligence Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

The Artificial Intelligence Programme is an academically rigorous introduction designed for students aged 16–18 who are interested in understanding how intelligent machines are created, how they learn, and how they are shaping the future of society. The programme presents artificial intelligence as an interdisciplinary field that blends computer science, mathematics, philosophy, and ethics.

Through university-style seminars, analytical discussion, and applied problem-solving, students explore both the technical foundations of AI and the broader implications of its rapid development across industries and everyday life.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching follows a modular, university-style structure, encouraging students to:

• Engage critically with complex technical concepts

• Analyse real-world applications and limitations of AI

• Form independent, research-informed perspectives

The programme is intellectually demanding yet fully supported, with tutors adapting sessions to individual backgrounds and levels of prior knowledge.

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Core Academic Content

Introduction to Artificial Intelligence

Students begin by exploring the origins and definitions of artificial intelligence, examining:

• Historical development of AI research

• Different types and subfields of AI

• What it means for a machine to be “intelligent”

This module establishes the conceptual foundation for more advanced study.

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Applications of Artificial Intelligence

This module explores how AI is applied across multiple disciplines. Students examine:

• AI in medicine, social sciences, and the humanities

• The impact of AI on employment and future industries

• Whether current AI progress represents sustainable advancement or technological overenthusiasm

Students critically assess how AI may shape human development in the coming decades.

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Ethics of Artificial Intelligence

Students engage with the ethical challenges posed by intelligent systems, including:

• Bias, fairness, and transparency in algorithms

• Responsibility and accountability in AI decision-making

• Applying moral philosophy to real-world AI scenarios

Through debate and case studies, students develop ethical reasoning skills essential for responsible AI development.

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Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning

This module clarifies the relationship between AI and machine learning. Students explore:

• Early AI research and abandoned approaches

• Probabilistic foundations of machine learning

• Neural networks and their variations

Complex ideas are demystified through conceptual explanations and applied examples.

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Deep Learning vs Machine Learning

Students examine the distinctions between deep learning and machine learning, focusing on:

• How different algorithms learn from data

• Supervised, unsupervised, and reinforcement learning

• Applications such as facial recognition, speech processing, and virtual assistants

Real-world examples illustrate how learning architectures influence system performance.

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Artificial Intelligence & Games

This module explores how AI approaches decision-making in games and optimisation problems. Students study:

• Rationality and decision theory

• Game-playing algorithms such as MiniMax

• Genetic algorithms, simulated annealing, and Monte Carlo methods

Historical case studies, including AI chess systems, illustrate algorithmic strategy and optimisation.

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Research Techniques in Artificial Intelligence

Students are introduced to foundational AI search and problem-solving techniques, including:

• Depth-first, breadth-first, and iterative deepening search

• Heuristic methods such as A* search

• Constraint satisfaction problems and backtracking

• Constraint propagation

These techniques highlight how AI systems efficiently navigate complex problem spaces.

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Artificial General Intelligence (AGI)

Students explore future-facing questions surrounding artificial general intelligence, including:

• The distinction between narrow AI and AGI

• Potential timelines for human-level machine intelligence

• Challenges in defining goals, alignment, and benefit

Philosophical and technical concerns are discussed to encourage critical reflection on long-term AI development.

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Personal Project

Each student completes an individual Personal Project, typically an essay or presentation delivered at the end of the programme. This project:

• Focuses on a topic studied during the course

• Encourages independent research and critical analysis

• Develops academic writing and presentation skills

Students receive written academic feedback following programme completion.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Optional preparatory reading or exercises may be provided prior to the programme. These tasks support early engagement and help students adapt to the academic pace and expectations of university-level study.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Are interested in computer science, mathematics, or emerging technologies

• Enjoy logical reasoning, problem-solving, and ethical debate

• Are considering future study in AI, data science, engineering, or related fields

• Want early exposure to university-style technical education

No prior AI programming experience is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong conceptual understanding of artificial intelligence

• Experience with university-style teaching and assessment

• Enhanced analytical, ethical, and problem-solving skills

• Greater clarity about academic and career pathways related to AI

Where Will I Be Staying? 🏛️

All participants attending the Oxford programmes will reside in a central college of University of Oxford.

Accommodation details include:

• Single or twin rooms with shared bathroom facilities

• Accommodation areas separated by gender

• Buildings used by undergraduate students during term time, designed to support academic study

• Many historic buildings are over 500 years old and therefore do not have air conditioning

Each room is secured with a lock, and keys are provided during registration. Housekeeping staff have access to rooms for essential services such as towel replacement.

Address: Oxford University Colleges, Oxford OX1 4BH

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Which College Will I Be Staying In? �*

Your assigned college will be confirmed closer to the programme start date and communicated to you in advance of arrival.

Your Welcome Pack will include details of the possible colleges for your programme dates. All colleges are central, historic, and each has its own unique culture and character.

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Will I Be Sharing a Bedroom? 🛏️

• Ages 16–18: All rooms are single occupancy with shared bathroom facilities

• Ages 13–15: Students may be placed in twin rooms, with accommodation areas separated by gender

Where bathroom facilities are shared, students are accommodated on gender-separated corridors.

How Fluent Do I Need to Be in English? 🗣️

Our tutors are experienced in teaching undergraduate-level students from around the world and are highly supportive of participants whose first language is not English.

While students do not need to be native speakers, we recommend a minimum English proficiency level of B2 to ensure participants can fully engage with the academic content, discussions, and project-based learning throughout the programme.

This level allows students to follow lectures confidently, contribute to seminars, and benefit fully from the programme’s academic depth.

Small Class Sizes 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

Students benefit from an intimate and highly interactive learning environment, with just 7–10 students per class. This small-group setting allows tutors to provide personalised guidance, encourage active participation, and tailor discussions to each student’s interests and academic goals.

Smaller class sizes ensure every student’s voice is heard, fostering confidence, deeper understanding, and meaningful engagement throughout the programme.

UCAS Points Available �*

Strengthen your UK university application by earning 8 UCAS points through this summer programme.

Students may opt in for this opportunity during the application process, allowing them to gain official UCAS-recognised points—a valuable way to stand out in a competitive admissions landscape.

• Available as an optional add-on

• Open to students aged 14 and above at the time of the programme

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Guest Speakers from Previous Summers �*

Participants will hear from inspiring guest speakers from a wide range of professional and personal backgrounds, offering insight beyond the classroom.

Suzanne Williams QPM

Former Senior Detective

An experienced hostage negotiator who has worked on some of the most high-profile and dangerous hostage situations worldwide, including negotiations in active war zones.

Jody Bragger

Ex-Military Officer & CEO of Midnight Runners

Former military officer and CEO of Midnight Runners, the world’s largest independent running community. He is also the founder of the Mogadishu Marathon, the country’s first since the outbreak of war.

Sarah Outen

Adventurer & Explorer

A British adventurer who has successfully circumnavigated the globe, overcoming extreme conditions and long periods of isolation in some of the world’s most remote environments.

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Backed by Academic Experts �*

Our programmes are shaped and validated by an Academic Advisory Panel made up of senior Fellows and Professors from world-leading universities, ensuring academic rigour, relevance, and credibility.

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A Day in the Life at Oxford �*

Weekdays: Academic Immersion & Enrichment

Morning: Breakfast & Preparation (07:30–09:30) ☀️

The day begins with breakfast in college, giving students time to wake up, socialise, and prepare for a focused academic day in Oxford’s historic surroundings.

Late Morning: Core Academic Sessions (09:30–11:15) �*

Students attend academic sessions led by expert tutors, exploring their chosen subject through lectures, seminars, and interactive discussion. Classes are small and designed to encourage confidence, critical thinking, and independent thought.

Midday: Lunch & Independence (11:15–13:15) 🍽️

Students enjoy a two-hour lunch break, allowing time to explore Oxford’s cafés and green spaces, relax with friends, or return to college to recharge.

Early Afternoon: Continued Learning & Tutorials (13:15–15:00) ✍️

Afternoon sessions continue with academic workshops, project work, and seminars. Many students also benefit from 1:1 tutorials or personal project supervision, offering tailored academic feedback.

Mid-Afternoon: Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break provides time to rest before the day’s enrichment activities begin.

Late Afternoon: Enrichment & Experiences (15:30–17:30) �*

Late afternoons focus on enrichment activities, which may include masterclasses, guest speakers, creative challenges, sports, museum visits, walking tours, or supervised free time in Oxford.

Evening: Dinner in College (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Students gather for dinner in college hall, an opportunity to reflect on the day and connect with peers and mentors.

Evening Activities: Social & Cultural Programme (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings feature a rotating programme of social, cultural, and academic activities, such as quiz nights, guest talks, college tours, creative workshops, talent shows, and themed events designed to build friendships and community.

Night: Wind Down & Rest (After 21:00) �*

Students return to accommodation for private study, relaxation, or rest, preparing for the following day.

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Weekends: Full-Day Excursions & Special Events �*

Weekends are dedicated to full-day excursions and special experiences, offering students the chance to explore beyond Oxford and apply their learning in real-world contexts.

• Coach excursions to London, including visits to iconic landmarks, cultural institutions, and historic sites

• Museum visits and guided exploration, with free time to enjoy the city

• Opportunities for relaxed social bonding and reflection outside the classroom

These full-day outings provide a change of pace from academic sessions and are a highlight of the programme, combining discovery, independence, and shared experiences.

Do Participants Have Free Time? ⏰

Yes. The programme includes structured free time to allow students to relax and explore.

• A two-hour lunch break each day to discover cafés, eateries, and picnic spots in Oxford

• Additional scheduled free time for private study, sightseeing, socialising, or rest

If a participant wishes to schedule an absence (for example, to visit friends or family outside the programme), this can be arranged in advance with the programme team.

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Can the Institution Accommodate Dietary Requirements? �*

Yes. All dietary requirements can be accommodated.

Breakfast and dinner are provided by experienced college catering teams who regularly serve university students and are well-versed in a wide range of dietary needs. Dietary information is shared with catering teams in advance, though students with allergies are encouraged to confirm allergens with staff at mealtimes as an additional precaution.

Please note:

• Participants do not have access to a kitchen

• Lunch is included for most programmes

• Lunch is not included for:

• Ages 16–18 in Oxford/Cambridge

• Ages 15–18 at other campuses

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What’s Included in the Programme Fee ✅

The participation fee includes:

• 13 nights’ accommodation in a central college of the University of Oxford

• Breakfast and dinner in College Hall

• Lunch also included for ages 13–15

• Wi-Fi and laundry facilities in college accommodation

• 40 hours of academic sessions delivered by Oxford and Cambridge tutors

• Including 2 hours of 1:1 tuition

• Study and lecture materials

• Support in completing a personal subject project

• Mentor programme and access to support resources

• All excursions and social programmes

• Including formal dinners, punting, sports, and activities

• One full-day coach excursion, including a trip to London

• Graduation Ceremony and Certificate

• Tutor-written academic assessment

Travel to and from the programme is not included in the participation fee.

*� Activities

Outside the classroom, enjoy a rich social and cultural program:

• Punting on the River Cam

• Zorb football, games night & quiz night

• Talent show & murder mystery evening

• Movie nights with new friends

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How Do I Get to Oxford? ✈️

Participants should arrive between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm on the first Sunday of the programme. Accommodation will be ready from 3:00 pm.

Airport Transfers (London Heathrow)

A chaperoned shared airport transfer service is available from London Heathrow Airport Terminal 3.

• Departure times on arrival Sunday: 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00

• Return transfers on the final Saturday: 07:00 and 12:00

• Transfers can be booked after enrolment for a fee per journey

Participants arriving at other Heathrow terminals will be met by staff and escorted to Terminal 3. Full arrival details and contact information are shared closer to the programme start date.

If arriving via another airport or by alternative transport, full instructions are provided in the Welcome Pack.

Transfers to Oxford cost £150 per journey

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Are Staff Members Background-Checked? 🛡️

Yes. All staff undergo enhanced background checks, including DBS checks in the UK or equivalent international standards. Staff also receive comprehensive safeguarding training before and during the programme.

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What Happens at the End of the Programme? �*

Lessons conclude at 3:00 pm on the final Friday, with students presenting their academic work and projects developed during the programme.

Following this, participants take part in a graduation ceremony, celebrating their achievements alongside peers and tutors. The day concludes with a gala dinner and evening celebration, offering a memorable final opportunity to reflect, connect, and celebrate friendships formed throughout the programme.

On Saturday, shared airport transfer services depart for London Heathrow Airport at 07:00 and 12:00. These transfers must be booked in advance to guarantee a seat.

Breakfast is served between 08:00 and 09:00, and participants are required to check out of their accommodation and return room keys by 10:00. Most students depart shortly after check-out; however, programme staff remain available on-site until 15:00. Secure luggage storage can usually be arranged for participants who require it.

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What Will I Receive After the Programme? �*

All participants receive a Certificate of Participation, awarded during the graduation ceremony on the final day.

After the programme, tutors provide a written Participant Evaluation, detailing academic progress and offering personalised recommendations on how students can continue to develop their understanding and interest in the subject studied.

Participants also gain access to the alumni community, which offers exclusive benefits.

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Do You Accept Non-Residential Day Students? �*

Yes, non-residential places are available.

Day students are expected to attend all activities between 09:00 and 21:30 on weekdays and must be dropped off and collected by a designated adult approved in writing by parents or guardians.

Day students:

• May join for breakfast

• Participate in all activities and excursions

• Have dinner included

• Lunch exclusions follow the same age/location rules

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Will There Be Internet Access? �*

Yes. Wi-Fi access is provided on arrival.

Students are advised to have a small mobile data package, as programme updates and important messages are communicated digitally, especially during off-site excursions.

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Do I Need a Visa to Attend the Programme? �*

Visa requirements for the UK vary depending on nationality and are subject to change. We strongly recommend that all participants regularly check their visa requirements in advance of travel.

The UK Visa Office has planned the implementation of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for EU, EEA, and Swiss nationals. Participants should review the most up-to-date information on the UK Government website to confirm whether this applies to them.

The programme provider is an educational organisation accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) and is therefore able to support students who need to apply for a UK Standard Visitor Visa.

Once enrolled in the programme, participants may request an official visa support letter, which can be used as part of the visa application process.

Additional guidance on visa requirements is available through official UK government resources.

We strongly advise applying for your visa as early as possible, well ahead of the summer, to allow sufficient time for processing.

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Do You Accept Students from All Nationalities? �*

Yes. The programme is committed to fostering global citizenship, respect, tolerance, and understanding. Students from all nationalities are welcome where legally and operationally possible.

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What Should I Bring? �*

A full packing list will be provided after enrolment. All students must bring a personal laptop to fully participate in academic sessions.

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What Happens on Arrivals Day? �*

Arrivals day offers a relaxed introduction to the programme.

• Rolling accommodation tours run 14:00–17:00

• Parents and families are welcome

• A Welcome Talk introduces key information and staff

• Evening activities help students bond with peers and mentors