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

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

The Philosophy Programme offers an intellectually rich exploration of the ideas that have shaped human thought, culture, science, and society. Designed for students aged 16–18, the programme introduces philosophy as a rigorous academic discipline that examines fundamental questions about reality, knowledge, morality, freedom, and the human condition.

Delivered in the historic academic environments of Cambridge and Oxford, the programme mirrors university-style philosophical study, encouraging students to read closely, think critically, debate confidently, and form independent, well-reasoned viewpoints. Through engagement with major philosophical thinkers, students gain insight into both classical and modern philosophy, while developing skills essential for advanced academic study.

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Academic Approach & Learning Style

Teaching follows a discussion-led, university-style academic model, with sessions structured around key philosophical problems and texts. Students are encouraged to:

• Analyse complex arguments and abstract ideas

• Question assumptions and challenge received opinions

• Develop clarity, precision, and confidence in spoken and written reasoning

Tutors adapt content to students’ interests and abilities, supporting intellectual growth while maintaining a high level of academic challenge.

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Core Academic Content

Origins of Philosophy: The Presocratics

Students begin by exploring the origins of Western philosophy with the Presocratic thinkers, who sought natural explanations for the world without recourse to mythology. Topics include:

• Early theories of reality proposed by Thales, Anaximenes, Heraclitus, and Empedocles

• Competing explanations of the fundamental substance of the universe

• Connections between early philosophy and modern scientific inquiry

Students critically evaluate whether these early explanations remain philosophically convincing today.

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The Good Life: Socrates and Plato

This module examines philosophy as a guide to ethical living. Students explore:

• Socrates’ focus on the soul, virtue, and self-examination

• Plato’s theory of Forms and the nature of justice

• The concept of abstract ideas such as goodness and truth

• Key arguments from The Republic

Students consider what it means to live a good and just life.

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Knowing the World: Aristotle

Students examine Aristotle’s comprehensive approach to understanding reality. Topics include:

• Observation and experimentation as foundations of knowledge

• Aristotle’s concept of substance

• The theory of the four causes

• The origins of disciplines such as logic, ethics, metaphysics, and natural science

This module highlights Aristotle’s enduring influence on modern academic thought.

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The Human Condition: Montaigne

Students explore early modern skepticism through the work of Michel de Montaigne, examining:

• Doubt and uncertainty in human knowledge

• Critiques of philosophical dogmatism

• The idea that self-knowledge is the most reliable form of understanding

• Reflections on happiness and human nature

Students assess the strengths and limitations of philosophical skepticism.

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‘I Think, Therefore I Am’: Descartes

This module focuses on René Descartes’ method of radical doubt. Students explore:

• The foundations of modern rationalism

• The meaning and implications of cogito ergo sum

• The reconstruction of knowledge after doubt

• The relationship between mind, body, and certainty

Students debate the value and limits of Cartesian reasoning.

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The Enlightenment: Kant

Students examine Immanuel Kant’s revolutionary contribution to philosophy, focusing on:

• The distinction between perception and understanding

• The limits of human reason

• Kant’s Critique of Pure Reason

• The concept of the Copernican revolution in philosophy

This module explores how Kant reshaped modern approaches to knowledge and reality.

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Liberty and Equality: Rousseau

Students study the political philosophy of Jean-Jacques Rousseau, examining:

• The origins of inequality

• Human freedom and moral equality

• Key ideas from The Social Contract

• Tensions between civilisation and human happiness

Students evaluate Rousseau’s influence on modern political thought.

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Beyond Truth and Morality: Nietzsche

This module introduces students to Friedrich Nietzsche’s radical critique of morality and truth. Topics include:

• The concept of the Will to Power

• Critiques of traditional moral values

• Power, domination, and knowledge

• The role of philosophy in shaping belief systems

Students assess Nietzsche’s challenge to conventional moral frameworks.

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The Unconscious: Freud

Students explore the philosophical implications of Sigmund Freud’s psychoanalytic theory, including:

• The concept of the unconscious mind

• Dream analysis and slips of speech

• The id, ego, and superego

• Comparisons between Freud and earlier philosophical models of the soul

This module highlights the intersection of philosophy, psychology, and science.

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Freedom: Sartre

The programme concludes with existentialist philosophy, focusing on Jean-Paul Sartre. Students explore:

• Radical human freedom

• Responsibility and choice

• The absence of fixed human essence

• The search for meaning in a free but uncertain world

Students debate whether absolute freedom enhances or undermines human purpose.

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Personal Project

Throughout the programme, students complete an individual Personal Project, which involves:

• Researching a philosophical question or thinker

• Preparing a structured essay or presentation

• Presenting arguments to peers, followed by discussion and debate

Tutor feedback may form part of a written evaluation after the programme.

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Academic Preparation & Support

Some tutors may assign preparatory reading before the programme begins. These tasks are strongly encouraged, as they form part of the opening academic discussions and support confident participation.

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Who This Programme Is For

This programme is ideal for students who:

• Enjoy deep thinking, debate, and abstract reasoning

• Are interested in philosophy, law, politics, psychology, or ethics

• Are considering future study in humanities or social sciences

• Want early exposure to university-style academic learning

No prior philosophy experience is required.

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Key Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• A strong foundation in major philosophical ideas and thinkers

• Experience with university-style philosophical analysis

• Enhanced critical thinking, reasoning, and communication skills

• Greater clarity about academic and career pathways related to philosophy

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