Exceptional Summer Pre-College History Program for High Schoolers at Cambridge University Campus

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College History Program for High Schoolers at Cambridge University Campus

The History Programme offers an academically rigorous introduction for students aged 16–18 who are interested in understanding the past through critical analysis, interpretation of sources, and scholarly debate. The course explores history as a dynamic and contested discipline, shaped by evidence, perspective, and methodology rather than simple narratives or dates.

Delivered in the intellectually rich settings of Cambridge and Oxford, the programme mirrors undergraduate-level historical study, encouraging students to question established interpretations, engage with primary sources, and develop independent, evidence-based arguments.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching follows a university-style, seminar-based structure, with sessions arranged into thematic modules. Students are encouraged to:

• Analyse historical events through multiple perspectives

• Engage with visual, material, and written sources

• Participate in discussion and structured debate

• Develop clear, well-supported historical arguments

Tutors adapt sessions to students’ interests while maintaining a high level of academic challenge and intellectual rigour.

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Aim of the Programme

The programme is designed to:

• Build upon skills developed in school history courses

• Introduce students to advanced historical concepts and debates

• Develop independent research, writing, and analytical skills

• Provide insight into studying history at university

By the end of the programme, students gain a strong understanding of both historical content and historical practice, as well as the academic and career pathways associated with the subject.

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Core Academic Content

The Renaissance

Students explore the intellectual, artistic, and cultural developments associated with the Renaissance. This module:

• Examines humanism and changes in artistic production

• Challenges traditional narratives of a sudden “awakening” from the medieval period

• Explores political thought, including civic humanism

• Incorporates close analysis of artworks, objects, and visual sources

Students gain experience working across cultural, artistic, and political history.

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The Reformations

This module investigates the religious upheavals of the 16th century, beginning with Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses. Students examine:

• Challenges to the Roman Catholic Church

• The ideas of reformers such as Luther and Calvin

• The social, political, and cultural consequences of religious reform

• Key scholarly debates surrounding the Reformations

A wide range of visual and material sources is used to deepen understanding.

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Science and Discovery

Students explore the early modern period as an age of discovery and intellectual transformation. Topics include:

• European encounters with the Americas

• The collection of new knowledge, objects, and cultures

• The work of thinkers such as Galileo, Descartes, and Newton

• Debates surrounding the concept of a “Scientific Revolution”

The module highlights how changing approaches to the natural world reshaped European thought.

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Gender and Witch-Hunting

This module introduces students to modern historical debates around gender. Students explore:

• The construction of gendered identities

• Masculine and feminine spaces and power structures

• The relationship between gender and social roles

• Witch-hunting as a social, cultural, and historical phenomenon

Material culture, theory, and case studies are used to explore these themes.

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Global Encounters

Students examine Europe’s interactions with the wider world during the early modern period, including:

• Encounters with non-European and non-Christian societies

• Religious missions and cultural exchange

• Relations with the Ottoman Empire

• Trade, diplomacy, and conflict

The module highlights the complexity of global interaction beyond simple narratives of conquest.

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State Formation, Revolts, and Courts

This module challenges traditional ideas about the “rise of the nation-state.” Students examine:

• The growth of bureaucracy and governance

• Patronage networks and local authority

• Absolutist rhetoric and royal power

• The court of Louis XIV at Versailles

Students learn how historians reinterpret political power and authority.

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Court Festivals

Students explore the role of spectacle and symbolism in early modern Europe. Topics include:

• Triumphal entries, tournaments, and banquets

• Festivals marking political alliances and royal events

• Material culture, performance, and audience experience

• The recording and preservation of court culture

This module highlights how power was communicated through visual and sensory experience.

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Working with Sources & Asking Historical Questions

After studying multiple historical themes, students return to the practice of history itself. This module focuses on:

• Evaluating and interpreting historical sources

• Writing source-based essays

• Receiving individual academic feedback

• Understanding how historians ask new questions of the past

Students gain insight into high-level historical research and undergraduate-style assessment.

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Magnificence and “Mirror of Princes” Literature

This module examines early writings on rulership and power. Students explore:

• Literature written for and about princes

• Ideals of rulership and courtly magnificence

• The dissemination and purpose of political writing

• What such texts reveal about elite society

The module connects political theory with cultural history.

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Cultures of Collecting

Students examine the intellectual life of early modern courts through:

• The rise of collecting and material culture

• The growth of scientific and philosophical inquiry

• The relationship between knowledge, power, and prestige

This module explores how early systems of knowledge shaped long-term European development.

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Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students complete an individual Personal Project, which may take the form of:

• A source-based essay, or

• A research presentation delivered to peers

Projects allow students to apply historical theory and methodology to a specific theme or event. Presentations are followed by questions and discussion, and tutors may reference this work in the student’s written academic evaluation.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Some tutors may provide preparatory reading or exercises before the programme begins. Completing this work is strongly encouraged, as it supports engagement during the opening academic sessions.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Enjoy critical reading, discussion, and debate

• Are interested in history, politics, culture, or philosophy

• Want to develop strong research and essay-writing skills

• Are considering future study in history or related disciplines

No prior specialist knowledge is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundation in early modern history

• Experience with university-style historical learning

• Improved analytical, research, and writing skills

• A completed Personal Project suitable for academic portfolios

• Greater clarity about studying history at university and beyond

Where You’ll Be Staying 🏛️

Studying in a Global Academic Hub

Participants are typically accommodated in historic colleges of the University of Cambridge, offering a truly authentic university experience. Staying within these iconic colleges allows students to live and learn in one of the world’s most prestigious academic environments.

Accommodation, meals, and extracurricular activities are all included in the programme package, ensuring a comfortable and enriching stay. Each Cambridge college has its own unique history and architectural character, and living alongside fellow participants fosters a strong sense of community and the opportunity to build lasting friendships.

Male and female students are housed separately, and Wi-Fi is available throughout all college accommodations, providing both safety and convenience during the programme.

Location: The Old Schools, Trinity Lane, Cambridge, United Kingdom

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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.

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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 Much Unsupervised Time Will There Be? ⏰

Our programmes are designed to offer an authentic insight into university life, while maintaining a strong focus on student safety.

Students will have regular opportunities to sign out during the day in small groups of two or three, allowing them to explore the historic city of Cambridge, visit local cafés, and enjoy time with friends.

For safeguarding reasons:

• Students may not sign out in the evening

• Overnight accommodation is fully supervised by our residential pastoral team of Mentors

This structure provides students with a healthy balance of independence and support, ensuring a safe, well-managed experience throughout the programme.

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

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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 in Cambridge �*

Weekdays: Academic Immersion & Personal Development

Morning: Breakfast & Preparation (07:30–09:30) ☀️

Students begin the day with breakfast in college, taking time to prepare for a focused academic schedule in the historic Cambridge setting.

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

Morning sessions are dedicated to academic learning, delivered by expert tutors. Classes are discussion-led and interactive, encouraging critical thinking, debate, and deeper subject understanding.

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

A two-hour lunch break allows students to relax, socialise with peers, or explore Cambridge’s cafés and green spaces before returning to afternoon study.

Early Afternoon: Continued Academic Study & Tutorials (13:15–15:00) ✍️

Afternoon sessions continue with academic seminars, workshops, and project-based learning. Many students also receive 1:1 tutorials, offering personalised academic feedback and guidance.

Mid-Afternoon: Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break gives students time to rest and recharge before afternoon enrichment activities.

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

Late afternoons are dedicated to enrichment activities, such as masterclasses, guest speaker sessions, city walking tours, creative challenges, sports, or personal project supervision.

Evening: Dinner in College (18:00–19:30) 🍽️

Students reconvene for dinner in college, reflecting on the day and connecting with tutors and peers.

Evening Programme: Social & Cultural Activities (19:30–21:00) �*

Evenings feature a varied programme of social and cultural events, including fireside chats, quiz nights, college tours, STEAM challenges, talent show preparation, and relaxed social activities designed to build confidence and friendships.

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Weekends & Excursions: Learning Beyond the Classroom �*

Weekends and selected days include full-day and half-day excursions, offering a change of pace and broader cultural exposure.

• Full-day excursion to London, exploring museums, landmarks, and cultural institutions

• Museum visits and free time in Cambridge, allowing students to explore independently in small groups

• Iconic experiences such as punting on the River Cam

These experiences complement academic learning and help students engage more deeply with their surroundings.

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Final Days: Presentations & Celebration �*

As the programme draws to a close, students:

• Deliver project presentations, showcasing their academic progress

• Take part in a graduation ceremony

• Celebrate together at a final night party, marking the end of a rewarding Cambridge experience

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.

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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:

• 13 nights’ accommodation in a central college of the University of Cambridge

• Breakfast and dinner served in College Hall (For students aged 13–15, lunch is also included)

• Laundry facilities and Wi-Fi available in college accommodation

• 40 hours of academic sessions taught by tutors from University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge – including 2 hours of 1:1 tuition

• Carefully designed study and lecture materials

• Support in completing a personal subject project

• A dedicated mentor programme and access to academic support resources

• All excursions and social programmes, including formal dinners, punting, sports, and more

• One full coach excursion, including a trip to London

• Graduation Ceremony and Certificate

• Tutor-written academic assessment

Please note: Travel to and from the programme is not included in the participation fee.

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How Do I Get to Cambridge? ✈️

Participants should arrive between 14:00 and 17:00 on the first Sunday of the programme. Our team will be ready to welcome students, complete registration, and escort them to their accommodation. Please note that rooms may not be available until 16:00.

Airport Transfers (London Heathrow)

If arriving at London Heathrow Airport, a shared, chaperoned airport transfer service is available.

• Coaches depart from Terminal 3

• Arrival Sunday departures: 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00

• Departure Saturday transfers: 07:00 and 12:00

• Transfers are bookable after enrolment for a fee per journey

If you arrive at a different Heathrow terminal, the on-site team will meet you and escort you to Terminal 3.

Other Arrival Options

Participants arriving via another airport or by alternative transport will receive full arrival and departure instructions in their Welcome Pack, sent after enrolment. Contact details are shared closer to the programme start date.

Transfers to Cambridge cost £180 per journey

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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 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.

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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.

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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 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.

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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