Exceptional Summer Pre-College International Relations Program for Teenagers at Oxford University Campus

• Outside of lessons, enjoy a busy and diverse social program including punting on the River Cam, zorb football, games night, movie night, quiz night, talent show and a murder mystery night at the college.
• All activities and excursions are led by our team of friendly mentors, dedicated to maximizing your enjoyment.

• College allocation based on dates and subject choice, assigned a few weeks before arrival.

• All colleges are central, historical, with unique culture and character.

• Accommodations designed for study, not luxury; many buildings over 500 years old, no air conditioning.

• Accommodation requests for friends/siblings considered where possible.

• Separate male and female accommodations in each college; wi-fi available throughout.

• Single occupancy rooms with shared bathrooms (one per four participants); some ensuite facilities available, prioritized for additional needs.

• Mixed-gender corridors for ensuite facilities; gender-separated corridors for shared bathrooms.

• Welcome Pack includes possible college details for program dates.

• Rooms secured with locks, housekeeping access for maintenance.

• Breakfast and dinner included on campus

• Host venues accommodate all dietary requirements, special attention to religious observances and medical needs (Please let us know if you need to follow any particular religious observances or have any medical requirements that we need to know about.)

• As a student, you will experience formal dinner three times during your stay: once per week in Oxford and at an Cambridge University college on the excursion day, making formal hall a memorable occasion, so remember to bring some smart clothes!

• Two excursions offered: a day trip to visit Oxford and its colleges, and an optional day out in London to see famous landmarks and enjoy shopping.
• If you opt out of the London trip, you're invited to afternoon tea in Oxford.

• Arrival Time: Participants should arrive between 2 pm and 5 pm on the first Sunday of the program, with registration and accommodation showings upon arrival (accommodation ready by 3 pm).

• London Heathrow Airport Transfers: Shared airport transfer service available from Heathrow Terminal 3 directly to Cambridge/Oxford colleges. Pastoral team to meet participants at any Heathrow terminal and escort to Terminal 3.

• Transfer departures at 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00 on arrival Sunday; return transfers to London Heathrow Airport depart at 07:00 and 12:00 on the final Saturday.

• Transfer Fee: Available for booking post-enrollment at £150 each way.

• Detailed information is provided closer to the program date, including contact numbers.

• Alternative Arrivals: For those arriving at different airports or by other means, details are in the Welcome Pack sent after enrolment confirmation.

Academic Highlights

• 40 hours of academic sessions delivered by expert tutors from the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge.
• Carefully designed curriculum featuring lectures, seminars, and supervised study tailored for high-achieving students.
• Mentor program and access to top-tier academic resources and support materials.
• Small class sizes – average of 7 students, maximum of 10 – to ensure focused and personalized learning.
• 1:1 tutorials that are supportive, challenging, and intellectually engaging.
• Personalized academic report from tutors for every participant.
• Capstone project or creative portfolio developed and presented by each student at the end of the course.
• Interview preparation and academic writing workshops to build communication and presentation skills.

Academic Skills Workshops

• Equip students with the tools and confidence needed to succeed in higher education and beyond.
• Focus on developing key study skills and fostering a supportive, university-style learning environment.
• Workshops cover diverse, thought-provoking topics—examples include "Productivity Strategies" and "21st Century Technology Skills."
• Pre-course preparation and assignments enhance the immersive experience and ensure students arrive ready to engage.

Sample Modules (International Relations Track)

Module 1: The United Nations and Its Challengers Explore the historical development and structure of the UN. Evaluate the influence of other international actors within the framework of globalization. Module 2: Rising Powers and the International Order – The Case of China Analyze China’s integration into international institutions and policies such as "Made in China 2025." Examine its growing global influence and impact on international systems. Module 3: Change and Continuity in U.S. Foreign Policy Study current areas of U.S. foreign policy—military, trade, and relations with Europe. Compare with past administrations to assess evolving strategies and priorities. Module 4: Exploring International Actors Choose and research a key international actor. Apply International Relations theory to evaluate their global role. Present your findings through a written essay and class presentation with peer feedback and discussion.

Ann Kristin Glenster:

• Ann Kristin Glenster is a Senior Policy Advisor for Technology Governance and Law at the University of Cambridge Minderoo Centre for Technology and Democracy.

Guest Speakers from Previous Summers:

• Abi Oyepitan - Former Olympian: A two-time Olympian and Commonwealth Gold and Silver winning track and field athlete.

• Dr Lynda Shaw - Neuroscientist & entrepreneur: A journey in personal development - how to create your own set of tools to fast track success

• Dr Nigel Warburton - Philosopher, author & journalist: How do great people find answers to deep and meaningful questions?​​

• Transfer Fee: £150 each way.

• Pocket Money Advice: Money we recommend that participants bring £80 per week to cover any souvenirs that they may wish to purchase. Various banks and ATMs are available throughout Cambridge, and Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.

• This program is accredited by British Accreditation Council (BAC)

• Meets global standards for academic provision and student welfare

• Top priority for participant safety

• Staff undergo enhanced background checks and safeguarding training

• Participants assigned to a “Mentor Family” of 10 students

• Mentors offer support, advice, and share their experiences

• School management and supervision is managed by senior, experienced College Managers in Cambridge, Oxford, London, and Sydney

• College Managers trained to Level 3 Safeguarding standards

• Resident summer team and college personnel supervise sites 24/7

• Encourage student independence within safe boundaries

• Team supervision ensures safe and rewarding experience

• This program is designed for students with at least an upper-intermediate level of English (B2). If you are unsure if you meet this requirement, please contact with our advisor.