Exceptional Summer Pre-College Philosophy, Politics, Economics (PPE) Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Philosophy, Politics, Economics (PPE) Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

Programme Structure & Learning Approach

This programme is designed to introduce students to advanced academic study across three interconnected disciplines: philosophy, politics, and economics. Teaching is delivered through structured academic modules, allowing students to explore a wide range of topics while gradually building depth of understanding.

Students are encouraged to engage in discussion, debate, and critical analysis throughout, developing the ability to think independently and articulate complex ideas clearly. Teaching is adapted to students’ interests and ability levels, ensuring both challenge and support throughout the course.

Academic Sessions (Module-Based Learning)

The course is divided into a series of academic modules, each focusing on a key area within philosophy, politics, or economics.

Students will:

• Engage with a variety of core concepts across all three disciplines

• Build knowledge progressively, with each module expanding on previous learning

• Explore both theoretical frameworks and real-world applications

• Participate in discussions, case studies, and analytical exercises

Modules may also be adapted to reflect student interests, allowing for deeper exploration of specific topics where appropriate.

Personal Project

As part of the programme, students will complete an individual project, typically in the form of an essay or presentation.

This project requires students to:

• Select and research a topic related to philosophy, politics, or economics

• Apply theories and concepts studied during the course

• Develop structured arguments supported by evidence

• Present their findings clearly and confidently

Students receive detailed feedback to support their academic development and help refine their analytical and communication skills.

Preparatory Work

Students may be given preparatory reading or exercises before the programme begins.

This work is designed to:

• Introduce key concepts and terminology

• Ensure students are ready to engage with advanced material

• Support a more in-depth and interactive learning experience from the outset

Completion of this work is strongly encouraged, as it forms the foundation for early sessions.

Academic Challenge & Support

The programme is designed to reflect the level of challenge found in university-style learning.

Students will:

• Encounter complex ideas and advanced subject material

• Be encouraged to question, analyse, and evaluate different perspectives

• Develop resilience and confidence in tackling unfamiliar concepts

Tutors provide continuous guidance and adapt teaching to ensure all students are supported and able to progress.

Core Academic Modules

Introduction to Philosophy

This module introduces students to the fundamental questions and developments in philosophical thought.

Students will study:

• The evolution of philosophy from ancient to modern thinkers

• Key philosophical questions relating to knowledge, reality, and existence

• Moral philosophy and how ethical beliefs are formed

• The role of philosophy in shaping human understanding of the world

The module develops essential skills in logical reasoning, argument construction, and critical thinking.

Introduction to Politics

Students explore both theoretical and practical aspects of politics.

Topics include:

• Political theory and major ideological frameworks

• The structure and function of governments

• Comparative political systems and governance models

• Methods of political analysis, including data and evidence-based approaches

Students gain a foundational understanding of how political systems operate and influence societies.

Introduction to Economics

This module provides a comprehensive grounding in economic principles and analysis.

Students will explore:

• Microeconomics, including markets, supply and demand, and consumer behaviour

• Macroeconomics, including national income, inflation, unemployment, and policy-making

• Quantitative methods used in economic analysis

• Application of economic theory to real-world scenarios

Students develop analytical and problem-solving skills, particularly in applying mathematical reasoning to economic questions.

British Politics & Government (1900–Present)

This module examines the development of British politics over the modern era.

Students will analyse:

• Key political events and transformations from the 20th century to today

• The role and influence of major political figures

• Changes in government structure and political power

• The broader impact of British politics on global political systems

This module encourages students to link historical developments with contemporary political issues.

Ethics & Moral Philosophy

Students explore the foundations of ethical thinking and moral reasoning.

Topics include:

• The origins and justification of moral beliefs

• Major ethical theories such as consequentialism and virtue ethics

• Concepts including liberalism, moral absolutism, and moral relativism

• Application of ethical frameworks to real-world dilemmas

Students learn to evaluate arguments critically and construct well-reasoned ethical positions.

Development of the World Economy

This module focuses on global economic systems and development.

Students will study:

• The structure and evolution of the global economy

• Economic differences between developed and developing nations

• Globalisation and its impact on economic growth and inequality

• Contemporary global economic challenges

Students gain insight into how economies interact and the factors shaping global economic change.

Comparative Government

Students examine political systems across different countries and regions.

Key areas include:

• Comparative analysis of political institutions and decision-making processes

• Differences and similarities between national political systems

• The transfer and adaptation of political ideas across countries

• Development of broader political theories based on global comparison

This module strengthens global awareness and analytical thinking in political science.

Plato’s Republic

Students engage with a foundational text in philosophy and political theory.

They will explore:

• Concepts of justice, governance, and the ideal society

• The relationship between individuals and the state

• Philosophical arguments presented in The Republic

• The influence of classical philosophy on modern political and ethical thought

This module develops advanced reading, interpretation, and critical analysis skills.

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