Oxford Summer Experience For High School Students

Course Description: Oxford Summer Experience For High School Students

Welcome to Oxford

Set in the heart of England, Oxford is a city where centuries of tradition meet bold intellectual curiosity. Its medieval colleges echo with history, while its vibrant academic culture continues to shape new ideas and global perspectives. Studying here offers students a truly memorable scholarly experience.

Cobblestone lanes wind past iconic spires and tranquil college quads. Ancient libraries stand beside lively cafés, bookshops, and cultural landmarks. Students can debate ideas where some of the world’s greatest thinkers once studied, explore world-class museums, or relax along the scenic River Cherwell.

From historic lecture halls to inspiring discussions, Oxford offers an atmosphere that continually challenges, inspires, and fascinates students.

***

Academic Programme �*

This pre-college summer programme combines academically enriching coursework with the unique experience of studying in one of the world’s most historic university cities.

Courses are taught in Oxford’s academic environment and are designed to give students the experience of college-style learning, encouraging critical thinking, discussion, and intellectual exploration.

Students choose two courses from a range of subjects and attend classes Monday to Friday.

Courses are taught by experienced instructors and academic specialists who guide students through engaging seminars, discussions, and collaborative learning.

***

Course Options

Students select two subjects to study during the programme.

Available courses may include:

• Law, Politics & Global Affairs

• International Business

• Criminology

• Engineering

• Entrepreneurship

• Creative Writing

• English as a Second Language

• Philosophy, Ethics & Critical Thinking

• Social Psychology

• Economics

• Artificial Intelligence & Emerging Technology

• History & International Relations

• Environmental Studies & Sustainability

These courses introduce students to university-level topics while building confidence in discussion, research, and analytical thinking.

***

A Typical Weekday Schedule ⏰

Students follow a structured daily schedule balancing academics, activities, and social time.

08:30 – 09:15 Breakfast

09:30 – 11:30 Course 1

11:30 – 13:00 Lunch

13:00 – 15:00 Course 2

15:00 – 16:00 Break in residence

16:00 – 18:00 Afternoon activities

18:00 – 19:30 Free time / relax

19:30 – 21:00 Dinner

21:00 – 23:00 Evening activities or seminars

23:00 – 00:00 Social time in residence hall

00:00 Lights out

Classes take place Monday through Friday.

***

Accommodation in Oxford �*

Students live in single rooms at Brasenose College, located in Radcliffe Square in the centre of Oxford.

Brasenose College is one of the historic colleges of the University of Oxford, providing students with the opportunity to experience life in an authentic collegiate environment.

Living in the heart of Oxford allows students to enjoy:

• Historic courtyards and college architecture

• Walking access to libraries, cafés, and museums

• A vibrant international student atmosphere

Accommodation is supervised, with residential staff living on site and available at all times to ensure student safety and wellbeing.

***

Meals �*

Students enjoy meals at on-campus dining facilities, which provide a wide variety of freshly prepared food options including:

• Main dishes and international cuisine

• Fresh fruit and vegetables

• Salad bars and desserts

• Fresh breads and pastries

Breakfast and select dinners are served on campus. On weekends and occasional evenings, students dine at selected restaurants around Oxford, giving them the chance to explore the city’s diverse food scene.

Special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated.

***

Activities in Oxford �*

Each afternoon and evening, students take part in a variety of organised activities designed to complement the academic experience.

Activities may include:

• Exploring Oxford’s historic streets and colleges

• Visiting museums and galleries such as the Ashmolean Museum

• Walking along the River Cherwell

• Traditional punting on the river

• Quiz nights and social games

• Sports activities and friendly competitions

• Group discussions and cultural workshops

Students also visit famous Oxford landmarks including:

• The Bodleian Library

• The Radcliffe Camera

• Historic college courtyards and libraries

These experiences allow students to immerse themselves in Oxford’s rich academic and cultural atmosphere.

***

Guest Speakers & Academic Seminars �*

On selected evenings, students participate in guest lectures and interactive seminars designed to deepen their academic experience.

These sessions may feature:

• University scholars

• Industry professionals

• Subject-matter experts

Topics often explore global issues, academic disciplines, career pathways, and university life.

Students are encouraged to ask questions, exchange ideas, and engage in thoughtful discussion, helping build confidence and intellectual independence.

***

Weekend Excursion to London �*

During the programme, students enjoy a special overnight excursion to London, exploring many of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Highlights may include:

Westminster & Big Ben

Visit the historic centre of British government and see the Houses of Parliament.

Buckingham Palace

The official residence of the British monarch and a key site for national ceremonies.

Covent Garden

A lively district filled with cafés, boutiques, and street performers.

Millennium Bridge & South Bank

Walk across the Thames and explore London’s vibrant riverside cultural district.

London Eye

Enjoy panoramic views of London from one of the world’s most famous observation wheels.

Borough Market

Experience one of London’s oldest and most famous food markets.

Hyde Park

Relax in one of the capital’s largest royal parks.

Tower of London & Tower Bridge

Discover centuries of royal history and enjoy iconic views across the Thames.

West End Theatre Show

Experience London’s world-famous theatre district.

River Thames Boat Cruise

See London’s skyline and historic landmarks from the water.

***

Safety & Supervision �*

Student safety is a central priority throughout the programme.

Key safety features include:

• Low student-to-staff supervision ratios

• Residential staff living on student floors

• Staff accompanying students on all activities and excursions

• Organised transportation for all programme activities

• Residence halls with 24-hour staffed reception

Oxford is also widely recognised as a safe and welcoming university city.

***

Travel to the Programme ✈️

Students typically fly into London, where they are met and transferred to Oxford by organised private transportation.

Families may also choose to bring students directly to the programme location.

Please note that transportation costs and airport transfers are not included in tuition.

***

Optional European Extensions �*

Students may extend their summer experience with an additional 5-day European travel extension.

Participants travel together with programme staff and fellow students to explore new destinations.

Two extension options are available.

***

Greek Isles Extension 🇬�*

Students travel through some of Greece’s most famous destinations, including Athens, Santorini, and Mykonos.

Highlights may include:

• Visiting the Acropolis and Parthenon in Athens

• Exploring traditional markets and historic neighbourhoods

• Relaxing on Santorini’s famous volcanic beaches

• Visiting the archaeological site of Akrotiri

• Exploring the historic streets and windmills of Mykonos

***

Croatian Coastal Extension 🇭�*

Students explore the stunning Adriatic coast, including Dubrovnik, Split, and nearby islands.

Highlights may include:

• Walking the ancient city walls of Dubrovnik

• Visiting historic Diocletian’s Palace in Split

• Swimming in the Blue Lagoon near Trogir

• Island hopping to destinations such as Brač and Hvar

• Exploring coastal towns, beaches, and historic fortresses

***

Laundry

Students may use on-campus laundry facilities or choose a laundry service where clothes are collected, cleaned, and returned.

Staff are available to assist students when needed.

***

What’s Included ✔

Programme tuition includes:

• Accommodation in Oxford

• Breakfast and dinner daily

• Two academic courses

• Academic instruction and materials

• Cultural activities and excursions

• Evening seminars and guest lectures

Not included:

• Lunch and snacks

• Personal spending money

• Laundry services

• Airport transfers and travel costs

• Optional extension programme costs

• Travel insurance (recommended)