Elite Engineering Summer Course at Oxford University

Course Description: Elite Engineering Summer Course at Oxford University

Fascinated by how things work? Keen to pursue a career in engineering? The Experience Engineering Academy offers the perfect opportunity to deepen your understanding of engineering while exploring university life in Oxford.

Students tackle real-world engineering challenges, experiment with practical problem-solving and explore the principles behind cutting-edge innovations. Throughout the programme, you’ll build an engine, design a hydraulic system and put your skills to the test by constructing a bridge — all under the guidance of expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.

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Course Content & Learning Objectives �*

1. Introduction to the Course

Students will:

• Get to know each other and understand what to expect from the course curriculum

• Set norms and values for the course

• Understand their overall task for the course

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Discover Aerodynamics ✈️

Students will:

• Identify the origins of lift and drag

• Discuss how lift and drag impact aerodynamic design

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2. Explore Electronics ⚡

Students will:

• Identify principles of electricity and electromagnetism

• Apply these principles in identifying how certain machines work

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3. Pneumatic Systems

Students will:

• Identify principles of pneumatic systems

• Identify and solve issues in the design of particular pneumatic systems

• Build a pneumatic system

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4. Thermodynamic Cycles �*

Students will:

• Outline thermodynamic cycles

• Explain how thermodynamic cycles are applied in engines

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5. The Maths Behind Engineering ➗

Students will:

• Discuss mathematical processes that are fundamental in engineering

• Apply these processes in a Maths competition

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6. Build an Engine 🛠️

Students will:

• Apply knowledge and understanding of engineering through the design and building of an engine

• Reflect on the engines created and consider how these could be improved

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7. Pin-Jointed Structures

Students will:

• Identify principles in the design of pin-jointed structures

• Apply understanding by designing and building a pin-jointed structure

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Hydraulic Systems �*

Students will:

• Outline how hydraulic systems work

• Identify and solve issues in the design of particular hydraulic systems

• Design and build a hydraulic system

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Final Class

The final class is based on the tutor’s personal expertise in the field, focusing on cutting-edge research they are passionate about.

Please note, this course outline may be subject to change.

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The Bridge Building Challenge �*

Students will put their engineering knowledge into action during the Bridge Building Challenge.

Students will:

• Apply what they’ve learned in class using resourcefulness, engineering knowledge and creativity to design and build the best possible bridge

• Put teamwork skills to the test

• Demonstrate their understanding of engineering principles by applying theoretical knowledge to a practical task

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The Bridge Building Academic Challenge

Beyond daily classes, students take part in an intensive four-hour academic Challenge.

In this hands-on engineering experience, students:

• Design and construct a bridge within budget and time constraints

• Plan, pitch and build a structure capable of withstanding rigorous stress tests

• Experience the engineering design process from concept to execution

This Challenge provides an exciting opportunity to apply creativity, technical knowledge and collaboration in a realistic engineering scenario.

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Meet Your Tutor 👨‍�*

Benjamin White

MChem Hons, DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)

Benjamin White is currently completing his DPhil in Engineering Science at the University of Oxford, having studied for his integrated Master of Chemistry degree at the University of Bath.

His research focuses on the use of nanotechnology in cancer treatment to improve chemotherapy.

Ben has many years of tutoring experience across STEM subjects and has served as a peer mentor and tutor for undergraduate students at the University of Bath and St Edmund Hall, University of Oxford.

Please note that tutors may be subject to change.

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Master Engineering Concepts �*

Students develop key concepts including:

• Designing efficient structures

• Understanding mechanical systems

• Applying physics to real-world challenges

All sessions are delivered under the guidance of expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.

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Meet an Established Engineer �*

Students gain insight from an Engineering Hero — a successful young engineer — who shares their journey into design, innovation and problem-solving, answering questions about careers in engineering and industry pathways.

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Level Up with Masterclasses �*

Students also attend Masterclasses designed to strengthen essential life skills, including:

• Public speaking

• Critical thinking

• Teamwork

These sessions provide transferable skills that support success in any academic or professional future.

🗓️ Schedule: What to Expect

The Academy provides a carefully balanced schedule designed to mirror the life of an Oxford Engineering student. Below is a detailed breakdown of the two-week experience.

☀️ A Typical Weekday

• 08:00 – 09:00: Breakfast ☕ Continental breakfast in the college dining hall.

• 09:00 – 10:00: Prep Hour �* Independent study time. Students use this hour for "problem sets," reviewing structural diagrams, or reading the technical brief for the morning seminar.

• 10:00 – 12:00: Engineering Seminar ⚙️ The core academic experience. Topics range from "Thermodynamics and Fluid Mechanics" to "The Future of Nanotechnology and Biomedical Engineering."

• 12:00 – 14:00: Lunch and City Exploration �* Free time to discuss project ideas with teammates or visit the Museum of the History of Science.

• 14:00 – 16:00: The Engineering Design Challenge 🏗️ The "Do" part of the day. Working in collaborative teams, students apply the morning's theory to practical challenges—ranging from bridge-building and robotics to designing targeted drug-delivery systems.

• 16:00 – 18:30: Afternoon Socials & Free Time �* Organised activities such as punting on the River Cherwell or a guided tour of Oxford's engineering landmarks.

• 18:30 – 20:00: Group Dinner 🍽️ A formal or casual group dinner at a local Oxford restaurant or within the college hall.

• 20:00 – 22:00: Evening Entertainment �* High-energy social events including themed quiz nights or "Dragon's Den" style project pitches.

• 22:30: In-Room Curfew �*

🏰 Weekends & Special Events

• Saturday Excursions: Full-day trips to iconic locations such as Windsor Castle or Blenheim Palace.

• Sunday Exploration: A relaxed morning brunch followed by a trip to the Ashmolean Museum or the Botanic Gardens.

• The International Boat Ball 🚢: A signature black-tie event held on a boat cruising the river.

• Graduation Ceremony 🎓: A formal celebration on the final Friday where students receive their certificates.

Experience Student Life in Oxford 🏛️✨

You’ll stay and study on the Oxford University campus, see all the sights and get to call this beautiful city home for the summer.

Living and learning in Oxford is more than just attending classes — it’s an opportunity to gain independence, meet like-minded students and form lasting friendships in one of the most historic cities in the world.

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An Authentic Taste of Oxford

Students live in an Oxford college setting and experience what it’s like to stay in real university accommodation.

St Anne’s College was built in 1879, and other accommodation buildings are located in Oxford’s ancient Castle Quarter, which dates back to 1073.

The centrally located accommodation provides easy access to Oxford’s cafés, shops and cultural landmarks. All buildings feature welcoming common rooms and social spaces where students can relax and spend time with their new friends.

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A Secure and Supportive Environment �*

As a family-run summer school, student wellbeing is a top priority.

Each student is supported by a dedicated Head of House and a team of Activities Coordinators who are available 24/7 to provide pastoral care and assistance.

An experienced Matron (a staff member responsible for student health and wellbeing) is based at each campus to assist with medical needs, emergencies or general wellbeing concerns.

Students are housed in secure buildings, with rooms allocated by age and sex.

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Where You’ll Stay �*

Students live in a typical Oxford University bedroom — rooms that are occupied by university undergraduates during term time. Accommodation is allocated across the following campuses:

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St Peter’s College – St George’s Gate

St George’s Gate, part of Oxford University’s St Peter’s College, sits beside Quaking Bridge and overlooks the remains of Oxford’s original medieval wall.

Adjacent to the historic Oxford Castle, the building features an entrance courtyard and picturesque views of the Castle Mill Stream, a branch of the River Thames.

Along with accommodation at St Thomas’ and Paradise Street, St George’s Gate is one of St Peter’s College’s annexe accommodations and is home to second- and third-year undergraduates during term time.

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St Peter’s College – Paradise Street

Paradise Street is also owned by St Peter’s College and is situated on a historic street in central Oxford, next to the listed Swan Bridge over the Castle Mill Stream.

Located beside the famous Oxford Castle and just a few minutes’ walk from the city centre, the building offers single bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms and a study area for completing academic work.

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St Peter’s College – St Thomas’

St Thomas’ forms part of St Peter’s College, the youngest Oxford College within the old city boundaries.

Students at St Peter’s — known as “Peterites” — include notable alumni such as Mark Carney (Prime Minister of Canada), Edward Akufo-Addo (former President of Ghana), and Reverend Wilbert Vere Awdry (creator of Thomas the Tank Engine).

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St Anne’s College – College Campus

St Anne’s College sits opposite the Radcliffe Observatory, the university’s iconic observatory from the 18th century.

Founded in 1879 as an affordable way for women to obtain a degree during the Victorian era, St Anne’s has always represented innovation. Today, it blends historic charm with modern amenities, offering comfortable rooms and inviting common spaces for socialising.

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Corpus Christi College – Lampl Building

The Lampl Building is an annexe of Corpus Christi College, one of Oxford’s oldest colleges, founded in 1517. One of its earliest members contributed to the translation of the King James Bible in 1611.

Located near the historic Oxford Castle — which played a role in the English Civil War and later served as the city’s prison until 1996 — the building now sits close to what has been transformed into a stylish hotel. During term time, Lampl houses second- and third-year Oxford undergraduates.

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Room Types 🛏️

When registering, students choose either a standard or en-suite room.

En-Suite Bedroom

En-suite rooms include:

• A standard single bed

• Desk

• Wardrobe

• Private bathroom with shower, basin and toilet

These are typically single occupancy, though a limited number of twin en-suite rooms are available. Students can indicate interest in a twin en-suite via the Student Information Form after booking.

Standard Bedroom

Standard rooms include:

• Washbasin

• Wardrobe

• Desk

Bathrooms are shared, usually between two to three students on the same corridor. Students may be allocated either a standard single (private room, shared bathroom) or standard twin (shared room, shared bathroom).

If attending with a friend or family member and in the same age group, students can be placed in the same building. Twin rooms are limited and allocated on request.

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Our Teaching Philosophy �*

The programme follows a three-part approach:

LEARN: Deepen Your Subject Knowledge

Classes and Masterclasses deepen subject knowledge while encouraging critical thinking and intellectual curiosity under expert guidance.

SEE: Be Inspired by Industry Experts

Students meet inspirational tutors, mentors and Heroes who offer practical insights into careers and share real-world advice.

DO: Tackle Real-World Challenges

Theory is applied through hands-on activities, problem-solving and academic Challenges that develop essential skills for future success.

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A Comprehensive Learning Experience �*

Challenges: Tackle Real-World Problem Solving

Students participate in a rigorous academic Challenge, designed to stretch them beyond the curriculum.

Examples include:

• Medicine students visiting a local hospital to meet and diagnose real patients

• Law students participating in a Mock Trial Challenge in a court

• Business students designing, building and pitching a web-based business

Whichever course is chosen, the Challenge extends learning beyond theory.

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HEROES: Learn from Role Models �*

Students meet a dedicated Hero — a young professional in their chosen field. The Hero shares their university and career journey, explains what a typical day in their profession looks like and answers students’ questions.

This session offers a window into what life might look like 15 years into the future.

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Masterclasses: Experience Skills-Based Sessions �*

All students attend Masterclasses designed to nurture transferable life skills.

Topics include:

• Debating

• Critical thinking

• Leadership

• University applications

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Student Community �*

Students join from across the UK and more than 85 countries worldwide, including Brazil, China, the USA, India, the Netherlands and Malaysia.

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Certification 🎖️

Students who successfully complete their course receive a Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.

Those who meet the criteria also receive a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting academic performance, strengths and participation.

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Daily Schedule & Free Time ⏰

Students receive a couple of hours for lunch each day to explore Oxford or relax. Weekends are more relaxed, with optional activities available.

Students must be in their rooms by 10:30pm, with lights out at 11pm.

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What’s Included in the Fees �*

The total fee includes:

• All classes

• Accommodation on the Oxford University campus

• Trips to Windsor Castle and Blenheim Palace

• Cultural and social activities

• Certificate of Achievement

• Letter of Recommendation

• Breakfast and dinner daily

Not included:

• Lunches

• Flights (if travelling internationally)

• Airport transfers (available to book in advance for £150 from Heathrow)

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Entry Requirements �*

1. Students must be aged 11–18 at the start of the course.

2. Students must be motivated to learn (personal statement required).

3. Students must speak, read and understand English well (minimum level C1 / IELTS 6.5 equivalent, no formal test required).

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Practical Information

Laundry

Free washing machines, detergent and dryers are available. Activities Coordinators provide assistance if needed.

Food

Breakfast and dinner are provided daily. Breakfast is continental at the accommodation; dinner is eaten together at local restaurants or in college. Lunch is independent, allowing students to explore Oxford.

Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, lactose intolerance, religious needs and allergies) can be accommodated. Allergies Policy available upon request.

Health & Safety

All staff are first-aid trained. A residential Matron supports student health and wellbeing. Accommodation is secure with fob/key access. A safe is available in the staff office for valuables.

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Travel to Oxford ✈️

Oxford is approximately 60 miles from London with excellent transport links.

Most international students fly into Heathrow or Gatwick (60–90 minutes away). Heathrow is recommended and serves as the central meeting point. Staff are present on arrival days. Airport transfers from Heathrow can be booked in advance for £150.

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Visas & ETA

Students from the UK, EU or EEA typically do not require a visa. Others should check official UK government guidance.

An official stamped acceptance letter is issued after full payment to support visa applications. Visa processing times vary, and early application is advised.

Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) may be required depending on nationality. Students must ensure they arrange appropriate documentation before travel.

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Academic Materials �*

Students are strongly encouraged to bring a laptop. Wireless internet is provided.

For Experience Computer Science & Coding Academy or Discover Technology Academy, a laptop is essential.

Students should bring standard stationery and either a laptop or tablet (laptop required for coding/technology courses).

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Spending Money �*

Approximately £20 per day is recommended for lunches and personal spending.

Large amounts of cash are discouraged. Oxford has many banks and ATMs, and card payments (including Apple Pay and Google Pay) are widely accepted.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) ❓

Where are the other students from? �*

Students join from across the UK and from more than 85 different countries worldwide, including Brazil, China, the USA, India, the Netherlands, Malaysia and many more. The programme offers a truly international environment where students meet like-minded peers from around the globe.

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Will I get a certificate or accreditation at the end of the course? �*

Yes. All students who successfully complete their course receive a Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.

Students who meet the required criteria are also awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their academic performance, strengths, participation and engagement.

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How much free time will I get? ⏳

Students receive a couple of hours for lunch each day to explore Oxford, spend time with friends or relax.

Weekends are more relaxed, although optional activities continue to run for students who wish to participate.

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When do we have to go to bed? �*

Students are required to be in their own rooms by 10:30pm, with lights out at 11:00pm, ensuring they are well-rested for the following day.

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I’m coming with a friend. Can we be placed in the same building? �*

Yes. If you are in the same age group, you will be placed in the same building.

If you would like to share a room, you can request this in your Student Information Form after booking. Please note that twin rooms are limited and always popular.

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How does laundry work? �*

Washing machines, detergent and drying machines are available free of charge.

If students are unfamiliar with doing laundry, Activities Coordinators are available to assist and provide guidance.

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What are the arrangements for food? 🍽️

Each day includes:

• Continental breakfast at the accommodation

• Group dinners at local restaurants or in college

Lunch is not included, giving students the opportunity to explore Oxford’s cafés and affordable lunch options.

Special dietary requirements — including vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, lactose intolerance and religious needs — can be accommodated. Allergies Policy is available upon request.

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What if my child has a minor illness or injury? �*

All staff are first-aid trained and able to respond to minor illnesses or injuries.

A residential Matron is based on-site at each campus to support student health and wellbeing.

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How secure is the accommodation? �*

Oxford is a safe city. Accommodation buildings are secure and accessed via fob/key entry.

Students can lock their individual rooms.

A safe is available in the main staff office where students may deposit passports, bank cards and other valuables if they wish.

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Do I need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)? �*

Students from the UK, EU or EEA typically do not require a visa. Students from other countries should check official UK government guidance.

An official stamped acceptance letter is issued after full payment to support visa applications. Visa applications can take time to process, so early application is advised.

Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs) may be required depending on nationality. Students must ensure all required documentation is arranged before travel.

Please note that informal advice may be provided, but it is the responsibility of the applicant to check the latest visa information and apply correctly.

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Do I need to bring my laptop? �*

Yes — students are strongly encouraged to bring a laptop. Wireless internet is provided throughout the accommodation.

If studying on the Experience Computer Science & Coding Academy or Discover Technology Academy, a laptop is essential.

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What do I need to bring? �*

Students should bring:

• Standard stationery (pens, pencils, paper)

• A laptop or tablet

For coding or technology courses, a laptop (not a tablet) is required.

Stationery shops are available in central Oxford if needed.

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How much spending money should I bring? �*

Approximately £20 per day is recommended for lunch and personal spending.

Large amounts of physical cash are discouraged. Oxford has many banks and ATMs, and credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Apple Pay and Google Pay are also commonly used.