Exceptional Pre-College Medicine January Program for High Schoolers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Program Details

Course Description: Exceptional Pre-College Medicine January Program for High Schoolers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Medicine Programme

Ages 13–18

Course Overview

The Medicine Programme is a rigorous academic introduction designed for students aged 13–18 who are interested in pursuing medicine, biomedical sciences, or related health disciplines at university. The programme builds upon existing school-level scientific knowledge and challenges students to explore medicine as both a scientific discipline and a practical, human-centred profession.

Through university-style teaching, hands-on practical sessions, and case-based discussion, students gain insight into how foundational science translates into clinical practice, medical research, and healthcare innovation.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

The programme is delivered through modular academic sessions that mirror undergraduate medical teaching. Students are encouraged to:

• Engage critically with advanced scientific concepts

• Apply theory to practical and clinical scenarios

• Develop independent opinions grounded in academic evidence

Teaching is intellectually demanding yet fully supported, with tutors adapting sessions to students’ individual strengths and learning needs.

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Core Academic Content

Medical Research: From Bench to Bedside

Students explore how scientific discoveries become clinical treatments. Topics include:

• The scientific method and research design

• Fundamental, translational, and clinical research

• Clinical trials and interdisciplinary collaboration

Students gain insight into careers in medical research and the long-term journey from laboratory discovery to patient care.

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Functional Genomics & Epigenetics

This module examines modern genetic science, focusing on:

• DNA structure and gene function

• The Human Genome Project

• Epigenetic regulation of gene expression

Students participate in DNA extraction and explore how environmental and parental factors influence gene expression across generations.

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Anatomy & Histology

Students study human structure from the microscopic to the systemic level. Topics include:

• Cells, tissues, and organs

• The four tissue types

• The 11 body systems

Learning is reinforced through dissections and microscopy, enabling students to understand structure–function relationships essential to medical practice.

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Cardiovascular & Respiratory Physiology

This module explores how vital systems function in health and disease. Students:

• Investigate heart and lung physiology

• Perform experiments on heart rate and breathing regulation

• Examine CPR, AED use, and emergency interventions

Key medical questions such as asthma, altitude sickness, and sleep-disordered breathing are explored through applied science.

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Pharmacology

Students explore how drugs interact with the human body, covering:

• Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

• Drug safety, side effects, and toxicology

• Antibiotic resistance and substance misuse

Debate-based learning encourages students to consider ethical, medical, and societal challenges in modern pharmacology.

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Emergency Medicine

This practical module introduces emergency medical response through the DR ABCDEFG protocol. Students explore:

• Mechanisms of injury and illness

• Pre-hospital emergency care

• The chain of survival

Simulation-based scenarios allow students to apply anatomical and physiological knowledge to trauma and medical emergencies.

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Experimental Medicine

Students investigate cutting-edge and emerging medical technologies, including:

• Stem cell therapies

• Microbiome-based treatments

• Organ transplantation innovation

• 3D-printed organs and bionic devices

• Advances in reproductive medicine

This module highlights how technology and innovation are shaping the future of healthcare.

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Science Communication

Students learn the importance of communicating scientific discoveries effectively. Topics include:

• Academic papers and journal articles

• Conferences, posters, and presentations

• Public engagement with science

Students evaluate how medical knowledge can be responsibly shared with both professional and public audiences.

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Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students complete an individual Personal Project, culminating in a research-based presentation. This project:

• Builds on a medical topic studied during the course

• Encourages independent research and critical analysis

• Develops academic writing and presentation skills

Presentations are followed by discussion and questioning, with written feedback provided after the programme.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Optional preparatory reading or exercises may be provided before the programme begins. These tasks support early engagement and help students adapt to the academic pace and expectations.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Are interested in medicine, biomedical science, or healthcare

• Enjoy biology, chemistry, and applied science

• Are considering medical school or related university pathways

• Want early exposure to university-style medical education

No prior clinical experience is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundation in medical science and clinical thinking

• Experience with university-style learning and assessment

• Enhanced analytical, practical, and communication skills

• Greater clarity about medical and healthcare career pathways

Where You’ll Stay 🏛️

Students in Sydney will reside at St. Paul’s College, located within the University of Sydney, Australia’s oldest university and a proud member of the prestigious Group of Eight.

This historic college offers a truly collegiate experience, blending academic tradition with modern comfort in the heart of the city. Students are accommodated in secure, comfortable residences with Wi-Fi, shared facilities, and dedicated residential support staff on hand throughout the programme.

Accommodation arrangements are separate for male and female students, ensuring a safe, welcoming, and well-supervised environment. From iconic landmarks nearby to Sydney’s world-famous harbour, students enjoy the very best of campus and city life throughout their stay.

Address: St. Paul’s College, Camperdown NSW 2050, Australia

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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 �*

Morning: Start the Day Together (07:30–09:30) ☀️

The day begins with breakfast, giving students time to energise and socialise before academic sessions begin.

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

Students participate in structured academic sessions led by expert tutors, focusing on interactive learning, discussion, and real-world application.

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

A relaxed lunch break allows students to refuel and recharge before afternoon learning.

Early Afternoon: Deepening Learning (13:15–15:00) ✍️

Afternoons feature workshops, seminars, project work, and opportunities for 1:1 academic support.

Mid-Afternoon: Short Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break to refresh before enrichment activities.

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

Students enjoy masterclasses, guest speakers, creative challenges, sports, or city excursions, bringing learning beyond the classroom.

Evening: Dinner & Community Time (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Dinner provides time to unwind and reflect with peers and mentors.

Evening Activities: Culture & Connection (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings include talks, showcases, challenges, city experiences, and celebration events.

Night: Wind Down & Prepare (After 21:00) �*

Students return to accommodation to relax and prepare for the following day.

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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:

• Accommodation at the University of Sydney

• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• 28 hours of academic sessions

• Study and lecture materials

• Designated mentors and 1:1 tutor support

• Guest speaker sessions

• Personalised tutor evaluation

• All activities, excursions, and day trips

• Comprehensive insurance

• Graduation ceremony and certificate

• Tutor-written assessment

Travel to and from the programme is not included.

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How Do I Get to the Programme? ✈️

Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport (SYD) is the main arrival airport.

A chaperoned shared airport transfer service is available, departing at:

• 11:00

• 14:00

• 17:00

Transfer cost: £85 per journey

For train arrivals, Macdonaldtown Station is the nearest station—approximately a 14-minute walk or 5-minute drive from the college.

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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 Will I Receive After the Programme? �*

• Certificate of Participation (awarded at graduation)

• Detailed tutor feedback evaluating progress

• Recommendations for future academic development

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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 Visit Australia? �*

International participants may require a visa. Please apply well in advance, as the institution cannot be held responsible for non-attendance due to visa refusal.

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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

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Excursions & Activities in Sydney 🇦�*

Explore Sydney’s Famous Landmarks

Walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge, visit the Sydney Opera House, and spend time at Bondi Beach, soaking in breathtaking coastal views.

Discover Sydney’s Rich History

Explore historic areas like The Rocks, and visit museums that bring Australia’s past to life.

Enjoy Cultural Adventures

Experience Sydney’s diverse culture through Chinatown, bustling markets, ferry trips to Manly, or visits to Taronga Zoo.

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An Experience Like No Other ✨

Sydney is more than a destination—it’s a place that inspires growth, independence, and new perspectives. Each day offers opportunities to learn, connect, and explore, creating an unforgettable academic and cultural experience that stays with students long after summer ends.