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

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

The Creative Writing Programme is an academically engaging introduction designed for students aged 13–15 who are passionate about storytelling, language, and creative expression. The course treats creative writing as a serious academic discipline, blending imagination with critical thinking, technical skill, and literary awareness.

Through structured workshops, guided writing exercises, and discussion-based seminars, students develop their own creative voice while learning how professional writers craft compelling narratives across genres and forms.

***

Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching follows a module-based structure similar to introductory university creative writing courses. Students are encouraged to:

• Experiment with ideas, styles, and forms of writing

• Analyse published texts alongside their own work

• Participate in peer critique and guided workshops

Sessions are academically challenging yet supportive, helping students build confidence, discipline, and reflective writing habits.

***

Core Academic Content

Introduction to Creative Writing

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

• Developing productive writing routines

• Overcoming the “blank page”

• Reflecting on personal goals and creative influences

Students are introduced to ideas and concepts that will shape a portfolio of creative writing or a short novella, developed progressively throughout the course.

***

Editing, Critiquing & Workshopping

This module focuses on revision as a core creative skill. Students learn to:

• Edit beyond grammar, focusing on clarity, style, and structure

• Give constructive, thoughtful feedback to peers

• Respond productively to critique of their own work

Workshopping sessions help students refine their writing and develop editorial awareness.

***

Form & Plot

Students examine plot as a foundational element of storytelling, exploring:

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

• Classic narrative structures, including The Hero’s Journey

• How plot interacts with character, setting, and theme

Through practical exercises such as the “Flat Tyre Story,” students test different structural approaches in their own writing.

***

Character Creation

This module explores how writers create believable and engaging characters. Students analyse:

• Internal lives, motivations, and flaws

• Balancing multiple characters within a narrative

• How character traits influence tone, genre, and reader engagement

Examples range from comedic characters to darker psychological portrayals.

***

Character Development

Students explore how characters evolve through action and experience, focusing on:

• Character arcs and transformation

• When and why characters should change

• Situations where static characters can be effective

This module strengthens the connection between character development and plot progression.

***

Dialogue

Students practise writing authentic, engaging dialogue by examining:

• Voice, accent, and social context

• Dialogue in fiction, theatre, and screenwriting

• How dialogue can reveal character and advance plot

Exercises help students sharpen pacing, realism, and subtext in conversations between characters.

***

Narrative Perspective: First & Third Person

This module introduces key concepts of narratology, including:

• Narrative voice and focalisation

• Narrative distance and point of view

• How perspective shapes reader experience

Students rewrite scenes from different perspectives to explore how grammatical choice transforms meaning and tone.

***

Setting & Time

Students learn how setting and time shape storytelling by exploring:

• World-building in realistic, historical, and fantastical fiction

• Genre conventions and creative constraints

• The role of time in structuring narrative and plot

Attention is given to detail, atmosphere, and consistency in creating believable worlds.

***

Learning the Industry: An Introduction

Students gain insight into the creative industries, learning about:

• Traditional publishing and literary agents

• Competitions, magazines, and online platforms

• Self-publishing, e-books, and screenwriting pathways

This module helps students understand how writers share their work and build a creative profile.

***

Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students complete an individual Personal Project, consisting of either:

• A short novella, or

• A curated portfolio of creative writing

Students workshop excerpts regularly with peers and tutors, receiving guidance and feedback. Tutors review the final work and provide written academic feedback after the programme.

***

Academic Preparation & Support

Optional preparatory reading or writing exercises may be provided before the programme begins. These help students engage confidently in early sessions and discussions.

***

Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Enjoy writing stories, poetry, or creative nonfiction

• Are curious about literature and storytelling techniques

• Want to develop confidence, structure, and originality in their writing

• Are considering future study in creative writing, literature, or related fields

No prior creative writing experience is required.

***

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

• A developed piece or portfolio of original writing

• Greater confidence in their creative voice and future pathways

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

***

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.

***

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

***

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.

***

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.

***

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.

***

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.

***

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

***

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

***

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

***

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.

***

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.

***

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.

***

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

***

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.

***

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.

***

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.

***

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.

***

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