Exceptional Pre-College Psychology January Program for Teenagers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Program Details

Course Description: Exceptional Pre-College Psychology January Program for Teenagers at University of Sydney Campus in Australia

Psychology Programme

Ages 13–18

Course Overview

The Psychology Programme is an academically rigorous introduction designed for students aged 13–18 who are interested in understanding human behaviour, cognition, and mental processes. The programme introduces psychology as both a scientific discipline and an applied social science, encouraging students to think critically about how evidence is gathered, interpreted, and communicated.

Through university-style seminars, discussion-based learning, and applied research activities, students develop analytical thinking, research literacy, and an appreciation for the complexity of human behaviour.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

The programme is delivered through modular academic sessions that reflect undergraduate-level psychology teaching. Students are encouraged to:

• Analyse psychological theories and research methods

• Evaluate evidence and question assumptions

• Develop independent, research-informed perspectives

Teaching is academically challenging yet supportive, with tutors adapting content to individual learning needs and interests.

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Core Academic Content

Introduction to Psychology & the Brain

Students explore the interdisciplinary nature of psychology and its major branches, including:

• Cognitive psychology

• Biological psychology

• Developmental psychology

• Individual differences

• Social psychology

The module also introduces brain structure and function, examining how scientific methods such as fMRI contribute to understanding behaviour and cognition.

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Reasoning & Decision-Making

This module examines how humans make decisions and why reasoning can sometimes be flawed. Students explore:

• Probability and judgement errors

• Cognitive biases and irrational decision-making

• Experimental design in decision research

Participants design and plan their own experiments to test decision-making theories.

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Stereotypes, Prejudice & Discrimination

Students analyse how stereotypes form and how they influence behaviour and social structures. Topics include:

• Types of stereotypes and discrimination

• Psychological roots of prejudice

• Strategies for reducing discrimination

Students also learn to design, score, and analyse basic questionnaires, gaining practical research skills.

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Behavioural Genetics

This module explores the interaction between genetics and environment in shaping behaviour. Students examine:

• Twin studies and genetic research methods

• Genome-wide association studies

• Heritability of traits such as intelligence

• Genetic influences on mental health conditions

Ethical and methodological challenges in behavioural genetics are critically assessed.

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Family Psychology

Students explore how family structures influence psychological development. Topics include:

• Changing definitions of family

• Effects of technology and online interaction

• Family dynamics and child development

Academic research is used to evaluate how modern family environments impact wellbeing.

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Cognitive Psychology & Research Practice

Students examine how psychologists interpret data and identify patterns, focusing on:

• Research validity and reliability

• Overinterpretation and cognitive bias

• Best practices in presenting psychological research

The module strengthens students’ ability to evaluate evidence critically.

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Animal Psychology

This module explores animal cognition and intelligence, examining:

• Measures of intelligence beyond brain size

• Information processing and neural connectivity

• Challenges in interpreting animal behaviour

Students design experiments to investigate animal cognition while addressing ethical and methodological constraints.

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Psychopathology

Students examine mental health from a scientific and societal perspective. Topics include:

• Diagnosis and classification of mental disorders

• Overlapping symptoms and diagnostic challenges

• Impact of social media on mental health

• Media portrayal of psychological conditions

This module encourages nuanced understanding of mental health beyond simplified labels.

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Experiments & Scientific Ethics

Students learn how psychological research is conducted and communicated, focusing on:

• Experimental design and data collection

• Ethical considerations and data protection

• Writing and evaluating academic research papers

Students also explore peer review and the importance of critical evaluation in scientific progress.

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Personal Project

Each student completes an individual Personal Project, culminating in a research-based presentation. This project:

• Builds on a psychology topic studied during the programme

• Encourages independent research and application of theory

• Develops academic writing, presentation, and discussion skills

Presentations are followed by class discussion and structured feedback.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Optional preparatory reading or exercises may be provided prior to the programme. These tasks support early engagement and help students adapt to the pace and expectations of university-style study.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is well suited to students who:

• Are curious about human behaviour and mental processes

• Enjoy critical thinking, discussion, and research

• Are considering psychology, neuroscience, or related degrees

• Want early exposure to university-level academic study

No prior psychology experience is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundational understanding of psychology

• Experience with university-style teaching and assessment

• Enhanced research literacy and analytical skills

• Greater clarity about psychology-related academic and 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.