English + PhD Research Fellowship Programme

Course Description: English + PhD Research Fellowship Programme

The Fellowship Award is an advanced academic research programme designed for ambitious students aged 13–17 who aspire to study at leading universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, and Ivy League institutions.

This immersive summer experience goes far beyond traditional classroom learning. Students undertake an independent research project, develop critical academic skills, and produce a structured research paper—with the opportunity for publication.

Throughout the programme, students are guided by expert mentors and supported within a structured, university-style environment that mirrors the expectations of higher education.

Academic Leadership

The programme is designed and delivered under the supervision of Professor David Faulkner, former Director of the MBA Programme at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.

With extensive experience in higher education, Professor Faulkner has shaped the curriculum to reflect:

• Real university academic standards

• Independent research methodologies

• Critical thinking and analytical development

This ensures students experience a programme that is both academically rigorous and highly relevant to future university applications.

Academic Experience

Students work closely with a PhD mentor to:

• Select a research topic aligned with their interests

• Develop structured academic arguments

• Conduct independent research

• Produce a formal academic paper

The programme focuses on developing key university-level skills:

• Critical thinking

• Academic writing

• Research methodology

• Argument construction

• Public speaking and presentation

What the Programme Includes

• Intensive summer research programme in Cambridge

• Individual mentorship from a PhD scholar

• Guidance on academic research and critical analysis

• Development of a structured research paper

• Skills development in writing, research, and presentation

• Opportunity to publish research online

• Full-board residential accommodation

• 15 hours of academic sessions per week

• Structured afternoon and evening activities

• 2 full-day excursions per week

• Course completion certificate

Publication Opportunity

Completed research papers are reviewed by academic mentors and may be published on a dedicated online research platform showcasing outstanding student work.

This provides students with a tangible academic portfolio that can support:

• University applications

• Personal statements

• Future academic opportunities

Example Research Topics

Students choose their own research focus, with examples including:

• Artificial Intelligence and Ethics

• Climate Policy and Global Economics

• Neuroscience of Decision Making

• Behavioural Economics and Consumer Choice

• The Future of Renewable Energy

• The Psychology of Social Media

Campus & Location – The Leys School, Cambridge

Founded in 1875, The Leys School is one of Cambridge’s leading independent schools, known for its strong academic reputation and historic heritage.

Set within a beautiful campus that blends classic architecture with modern facilities, it provides an inspiring and secure environment for students to learn and grow.

Located in the heart of Cambridge, students also benefit from:

• A safe and vibrant university city

• Exposure to real student life

• A culturally rich academic atmosphere

Accommodation & Facilities

Students stay in comfortable boarding houses on campus.

Room Options:

• Single, twin, and quad rooms

• Shared bathroom facilities

Facilities Include:

• Modern classrooms and seminar spaces

• Indoor swimming pool

• High-quality sports facilities

• Theatre and drama studios

• Large green outdoor spaces

Meals

Students are provided with full-board accommodation, including:

• Breakfast

• Lunch

• Dinner

Meals are served in a buffet-style dining hall offering a wide variety of international cuisine. Menus are designed to ensure students are:

• Well-nourished

• Energised for academic and activity sessions

• Exposed to diverse food options

Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.

Excursions & Experiences

Each two-week stay includes four major excursions, designed to enhance cultural understanding and provide memorable experiences.

These may include:

• London overnight trip (including Thames cruise and evening activities)

• Oxford city visit and sightseeing

• Cotswold Country Park (water sports and outdoor activities)

• Safari Park experience

In addition, students benefit from:

• Immersive Cambridge experiences

• Guided city exploration

• Academic-related visits

These excursions are not just sightseeing—they are designed to complement the academic programme and broaden students’ perspectives.

Sample Weekly Structure

A typical week combines academic learning with activities and excursions:

Mornings:

• Lectures and group discussions

• Academic writing workshops

• Research development sessions

Afternoons:

• Continued academic work

• Excursions and cultural visits

• Cambridge exploration and activities

Evenings:

• Social activities

• House events

• Free time with supervision

This balanced structure ensures students remain engaged, productive, and socially connected.

Student Experience

Students join a diverse international community, with participants from over 80 nationalities. This creates a truly global learning environment where students:

• Build friendships from around the world

• Develop cultural awareness

• Practise communication in an international setting

Support & Supervision

• 1:6 staff-to-student ratio

• 24-hour supervision

• Staff living on campus

• Structured and secure environment

Students receive continuous support, ensuring both their academic progress and personal wellbeing.

Transfers

Airport transfers are not automatically included in the base programme fee.

• Transfers may be arranged at an additional cost

• Detailed arrival and departure instructions are provided before travel

• Students are supported upon arrival when transfers are booked

Students must submit flight details in advance to ensure smooth coordination.

Why Choose This Programme

• Learn how to think, not just what to learn

• Gain real academic research experience

• Be mentored by PhD-level academics

• Build a university-ready academic portfolio

• Experience life in Cambridge, one of the world’s leading academic cities

• Develop skills that top universities actively look for