Exceptional Pre-College Chemistry Program for High Schoolers at Cambridge University
Chemistryactivity
University of Cambridge Campus, UK

Exceptional Summer Pre-College Chemistry Program for High Schoolers at Cambridge University Campus

Well-rounded that offers exceptional enrichment programmes led by top tutors, propelling students from 13-18 to academic success through rigorous and stimulating curriculum at prestigious universities worldwide.

age icon 16-18 years old

time icon 2 weeks

book icon Weekly hours: 20

See Dates

Session Dates

Choose your preferred session from the options below and submit your details in order to complete your booking.

July - Day

Start 7/12/2026
End 7/25/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £5,995

July - Boarding

Start 7/12/2026
End 7/25/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £7,495

July - Day

Start 7/19/2026
End 8/1/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £5,995

July - Boarding

Start 7/19/2026
End 8/1/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £7,495

July - Day

Start 7/26/2026
End 8/8/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £5,995

July - Boarding

Start 7/26/2026
End 8/8/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £7,495

August - Day

Start 8/2/2026
End 8/15/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £5,995

August - Boarding

Start 8/2/2026
End 8/15/2026
Duration 2 Weeks
Price £7,495

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Chemistry Program for High Schoolers at Cambridge University Campus

🧪 Pre-College Chemistry Summer Program (Ages 16–18)

Location: Cambridge University Colleges

***

📌 Key Facts

  • Age Group: 16–18 years

  • Duration: 2 weeks (13 nights)

  • Academic Hours: 30 hours of Chemistry tutorials

  • Average Class Size: 7 students (max 12)

  • Tutors: Oxford, Cambridge & Harvard academics

  • Personal Project: Research, presentation & class discussion

  • Workshops: Future & Academic Skills (e.g., personal branding, interview skills, academic writing)

  • Accommodation: Single study bedrooms in Cambridge colleges (shared bathrooms, limited ensuite)

  • Meals: Breakfast & dinner included daily

  • Formal Dinners: 2 (👔 bring smart clothes!)

  • Excursions: Oxford day trip + optional London visit (or Cambridge afternoon tea)

  • Pocket Money Recommendation: £80 per week (for lunch + souvenirs)

  • Transfer Service: London Heathrow, £180 each way

  • English Requirement: Upper-intermediate (B2)

***

📖 Course Description

Explore the bonding patterns of atoms and molecules, thermodynamics of reactions, and modern frontiers such as nanotechnology and sustainable chemistry — all in the historic setting of Cambridge University.

This program allows students to move beyond theoretical learning, with hands-on experiences, personal projects, and interactive workshops.

Cambridge has produced over 20 Nobel Prize winners in Chemistry — and you could be inspired to become the 21st. You’ll even step into history by studying near the Cavendish Laboratory, where discoveries like splitting the atom and unravelling DNA changed science forever.

***

🎓 Academic Experience

  • Small-group tutorials with leading academics.

  • Develop critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills.

  • Collaborate with peers from around the world.

  • Gain university-style learning experience with direct feedback.

***

🛠 Academic Skills Workshops

Alongside Chemistry tutorials, you’ll join Future & Academic Skills Workshops designed to prepare you for higher education and career paths. Topics include:

  • Academic writing & research methods ✍️

  • Personal branding & interview skills 🎤

  • Study productivity & time management ⏳

  • 21st Century Technology Skills 💻

***

📝 Sample Modules

Module 1: Atomic Structure & Periodicity

  • Trace models of the atom: Thompson, Rutherford & Bohr.

  • Understand the mole concept for chemical calculations.

  • Analyze trends in the modern periodic table.

Module 2: Thermodynamics

  • Explore the 1st & 2nd Laws of Thermodynamics.

  • Study enthalpy, entropy, Hess’s Law & reaction spontaneity.

  • Apply energy concepts to chemical reactions.

Module 3: Compounds, Hybridisation & VSEPR Theory

  • Predict covalent bonding with Lewis structures.

  • Understand molecular orbital theory & hybridisation.

  • Use VSEPR to model 3D molecular structures.

Module 4: Personal Project

  • Research a chosen Chemistry topic.

  • Present findings to peers in a mini-symposium.

  • Develop academic presentation & research skills.

***

🏛 Accommodation & Meals

  • Stay in historic Cambridge University colleges (buildings over 500 years old).

  • Rooms: Single bedrooms, shared bathrooms (1 per 4 students). Limited ensuite available (priority for additional needs).

  • Meals: Breakfast & dinner daily in college halls.

  • Formal Hall Dinners: 2 candlelit banquets in Cambridge dining halls (👔 bring smart clothes).

  • Wi-Fi access throughout.

  • All dietary, medical & religious needs accommodated.

***

🎭 Social Activities & Excursions

Outside of class, enjoy a full social calendar led by Cambridge mentors:

  • Punting on the River Cam 🚣

  • Zorb football ⚽

  • Quiz night ❓, games night 🎲, movie night 🎬

  • Talent show 🎤 & murder mystery night 🕵️

Excursions:

  • Day trip to Oxford University.

  • Optional day in London (sightseeing + shopping).

  • Alternative: Afternoon tea in Cambridge.

***

✈️ Arrival & Transfers

  • Arrival Day: Sunday, between 2–5 pm (rooms ready from 3 pm).

  • Heathrow Transfers:

  • Chaperoned service from Terminal 3.

  • Departures at 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00.

  • Return transfers at 07:00 & 12:00 on final Saturday.

  • Cost: £180 each way.

  • Alternative Travel: Details provided in Welcome Pack after enrolment.

***

💷 Fees & Pocket Money

  • Transfer Fee: £180 each way.

  • Pocket Money: £80 per week (for lunch + souvenirs).

  • ATMs available; Visa & Mastercard widely accepted.

***

✅ What’s Included

  • 13 nights’ accommodation in Cambridge colleges.

  • Breakfast & dinner daily.

  • 30 hours of Chemistry tutorials with Oxford/Cambridge tutors.

  • Study materials.

  • Personal research project & presentation.

  • Future & Academic Skills workshops.

  • 2 formal candlelit dinners.

  • Full social program & excursions.

  • Graduation ceremony & certificate.

  • Tutor’s detailed written evaluation.

  • Comprehensive summer school insurance.

  • Notebook & pen.

  • Mentor family photograph.

***

✨ The Cambridge Chemistry Summer Program combines academic excellence, historic tradition, and hands-on science exploration. From thermodynamics to nanotech, and from Nobel Prize heritage to modern labs — this is where future scientists begin to bond.

Do you need help?

Can't find what you're looking for? That's okay. Our advisors are here to help 😊 You can schedule a Zoom call or message our advisors for free guidance!