Exceptional Summer Pre-College Creative Writing Program for Teenagers at Cambridge University Campus

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Creative Writing Program for Teenagers at Cambridge University Campus

The Creative Writing Programme introduces students aged 13–15 to creative writing as a rigorous, imaginative, and highly transferable academic discipline. Blending creativity with close attention to language, structure, and technique, the programme encourages students to develop their own writing voice while learning how compelling stories are crafted, refined, and shared.

Delivered in the historic academic environments of Cambridge and Oxford, the programme follows a university-style learning approach, combining guided writing exercises, literary analysis, discussion, and peer feedback. Students explore a wide range of narrative techniques while gaining early insight into potential future pathways in writing, publishing, media, and related fields.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching is structured around interactive workshops and thematic modules, allowing students to explore both theory and practice. Sessions are highly participatory, with an emphasis on:

• Experimentation and creative risk-taking

• Critical reflection on writing choices

• Constructive peer critique and discussion

Tutors adapt sessions to students’ interests and strengths, ensuring a supportive environment while maintaining academic challenge.

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Core Academic Content

Introduction to Creative Writing

Students begin by exploring what it means to write creatively in the modern world. Topics include:

• Developing sustainable writing routines and habits

• Strategies for overcoming “the blank page”

• Challenging assumptions about creativity and talent

• Establishing goals for a short story, novella, or writing portfolio

Students are introduced to key ideas that will underpin their creative work throughout the programme.

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Editing, Critiquing, and Workshopping

This module focuses on the essential skill of revision. Students explore:

• Editing as a process of refining style, clarity, and intent

• Giving constructive and respectful feedback

• Receiving criticism and deciding how it should shape revisions

• Learning from mistakes to strengthen future writing

Students participate in guided workshops to improve both their writing and critical judgement.

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Form and Plot

Students examine the role of plot in storytelling, considering:

• What it means for a story to be “plot-driven”

• Narrative structures used in popular literature and media

• Classic storytelling frameworks such as The Hero’s Journey

• How plot interacts with character and setting

Creative exercises encourage students to experiment with different narrative structures.

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Character Creation

This module explores how memorable characters are constructed. Topics include:

• Building believable internal lives for characters

• Balancing strengths, flaws, and motivations

• Managing multiple characters within a single narrative

• How character traits influence tone and genre

Students analyse examples from literature and apply techniques to their own work.

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Character Development

Students examine how characters evolve over time, focusing on:

• Character arcs and transformation

• How events and choices shape identity

• When character change strengthens a story—and when it doesn’t

• Aligning character development with plot progression

This module highlights the dynamic relationship between narrative action and character growth.

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Dialogue

Students practise writing realistic and engaging dialogue, exploring:

• How context, background, and setting shape speech

• Differences between everyday conversation and written dialogue

• Dialogue in prose, screenwriting, and theatre

• Using dialogue to reveal character and advance plot

Students write and revise dialogue-heavy scenes as part of this module.

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First and Third Person Narration

This module examines narrative perspective and voice. Topics include:

• First-person vs third-person narration

• Narrative distance and focalisation

• Shifts in perspective and their effect on storytelling

• Rewriting scenes from different points of view

Students gain insight into how grammatical choices shape reader experience.

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Setting and Time

Students explore how setting and time influence storytelling. Topics include:

• Creating consistent and credible fictional worlds

• Using setting to enhance mood, theme, and character

• Time as a narrative tool

• Approaches to fantasy and historical fiction

Attention is given to how small details can bring a fictional world to life.

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Understanding the Writing Industry

The programme concludes with an introduction to the creative industries. Students explore:

• Publishing routes including competitions, magazines, and traditional publishing

• Digital publishing, self-publication, and screenwriting

• The role of agents and how writers present their work

• Marketing, visibility, and sharing creative work responsibly

Students gain realistic insight into how creative writing connects to professional opportunities.

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Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students work on an individual Personal Project, which takes the form of:

• A short novella, or

• A portfolio of creative writing developed through class exercises

Students are encouraged to continue writing independently and bring extracts to class for feedback and discussion. Tutors review completed work and may reference it in a written evaluation provided after the programme.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Some tutors may assign preparatory reading or short exercises before the programme begins. These tasks are strongly encouraged, as they support early discussion and creative engagement.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Enjoy storytelling, reading, and creative expression

• Want to improve their writing technique and confidence

• Are curious about literature, media, or creative careers

• Want early exposure to university-style academic learning

No prior creative writing experience is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundation in creative writing techniques

• Experience with workshop-based, university-style learning

• Improved confidence in drafting, revising, and sharing work

• A substantial piece of writing or portfolio to build upon

Where You’ll Be Staying 🏛️

Studying in a Global Academic Hub

Participants are typically accommodated in historic colleges of the University of Cambridge, offering a truly authentic university experience. Staying within these iconic colleges allows students to live and learn in one of the world’s most prestigious academic environments.

Accommodation, meals, and extracurricular activities are all included in the programme package, ensuring a comfortable and enriching stay. Each Cambridge college has its own unique history and architectural character, and living alongside fellow participants fosters a strong sense of community and the opportunity to build lasting friendships.

Male and female students are housed separately, and Wi-Fi is available throughout all college accommodations, providing both safety and convenience during the programme.

Location: The Old Schools, Trinity Lane, Cambridge, United Kingdom

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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 Much Unsupervised Time Will There Be? ⏰

Our programmes are designed to offer an authentic insight into university life, while maintaining a strong focus on student safety.

Students will have regular opportunities to sign out during the day in small groups of two or three, allowing them to explore the historic city of Cambridge, visit local cafés, and enjoy time with friends.

For safeguarding reasons:

• Students may not sign out in the evening

• Overnight accommodation is fully supervised by our residential pastoral team of Mentors

This structure provides students with a healthy balance of independence and support, ensuring a safe, well-managed experience throughout the programme.

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 in Cambridge �*

Weekdays: Academic Immersion & Personal Development

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

Students begin the day with breakfast in college, taking time to prepare for a focused academic schedule in the historic Cambridge setting.

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

Morning sessions are dedicated to academic learning, delivered by expert tutors. Classes are discussion-led and interactive, encouraging critical thinking, debate, and deeper subject understanding.

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

A two-hour lunch break allows students to relax, socialise with peers, or explore Cambridge’s cafés and green spaces before returning to afternoon study.

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

Afternoon sessions continue with academic seminars, workshops, and project-based learning. Many students also receive 1:1 tutorials, offering personalised academic feedback and guidance.

Mid-Afternoon: Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break gives students time to rest and recharge before afternoon enrichment activities.

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

Late afternoons are dedicated to enrichment activities, such as masterclasses, guest speaker sessions, city walking tours, creative challenges, sports, or personal project supervision.

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

Students reconvene for dinner in college, reflecting on the day and connecting with tutors and peers.

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

Evenings feature a varied programme of social and cultural events, including fireside chats, quiz nights, college tours, STEAM challenges, talent show preparation, and relaxed social activities designed to build confidence and friendships.

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Weekends & Excursions: Learning Beyond the Classroom �*

Weekends and selected days include full-day and half-day excursions, offering a change of pace and broader cultural exposure.

• Full-day excursion to London, exploring museums, landmarks, and cultural institutions

• Museum visits and free time in Cambridge, allowing students to explore independently in small groups

• Iconic experiences such as punting on the River Cam

These experiences complement academic learning and help students engage more deeply with their surroundings.

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Final Days: Presentations & Celebration �*

As the programme draws to a close, students:

• Deliver project presentations, showcasing their academic progress

• Take part in a graduation ceremony

• Celebrate together at a final night party, marking the end of a rewarding Cambridge experience

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 Cambridge

• Breakfast and dinner served in College Hall (For students aged 13–15, lunch is also included)

• Laundry facilities and Wi-Fi available in college accommodation

• 40 hours of academic sessions taught by tutors from University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge – including 2 hours of 1:1 tuition

• Carefully designed study and lecture materials

• Support in completing a personal subject project

• A dedicated mentor programme and access to academic support resources

• All excursions and social programmes, including formal dinners, punting, sports, and more

• One full coach excursion, including a trip to London

• Graduation Ceremony and Certificate

• Tutor-written academic assessment

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

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How Do I Get to Cambridge? ✈️

Participants should arrive between 14:00 and 17:00 on the first Sunday of the programme. Our team will be ready to welcome students, complete registration, and escort them to their accommodation. Please note that rooms may not be available until 16:00.

Airport Transfers (London Heathrow)

If arriving at London Heathrow Airport, a shared, chaperoned airport transfer service is available.

• Coaches depart from Terminal 3

• Arrival Sunday departures: 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00

• Departure Saturday transfers: 07:00 and 12:00

• Transfers are bookable after enrolment for a fee per journey

If you arrive at a different Heathrow terminal, the on-site team will meet you and escort you to Terminal 3.

Other Arrival Options

Participants arriving via another airport or by alternative transport will receive full arrival and departure instructions in their Welcome Pack, sent after enrolment. Contact details are shared closer to the programme start date.

Transfers to Cambridge cost £180 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