Exceptional Summer Pre-College Psychology Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

Course Description: Exceptional Summer Pre-College Psychology Program for High Schoolers at Oxford University Campus

The Psychology Academic Insights programme in Oxford introduces students aged 16–18 to the scientific study of the mind and human behaviour. Designed as an academically challenging university-style course, the programme allows students to explore key areas of psychology while developing analytical, research, and critical thinking skills.

Through interactive seminars, discussions, and independent research, participants gain insight into how psychologists investigate behaviour, cognition, and mental processes. Students explore how psychology connects with fields such as neuroscience, biology, and social sciences, helping them build a strong foundation for further academic study in psychology or related disciplines.

Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to question assumptions, analyse evidence, and develop independent perspectives based on scientific reasoning and research methods.

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Introduction to Psychology and the Brain

Students begin the programme by exploring the interdisciplinary nature of psychology and the different branches that contribute to the study of the mind. Topics include cognitive psychology, biological psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and individual differences.

Participants also examine the structure of the brain and its different lobes, exploring how psychologists use scientific tools and techniques to understand the relationship between brain activity and behaviour. Case studies and brain imaging examples help students understand how psychological research is conducted.

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Reasoning and Decision Making

This module explores how humans make decisions and why people often make irrational judgments despite relying on logic and probability in everyday life.

Students investigate psychological theories related to reasoning, judgement, and cognitive bias. As part of the session, participants design their own experiment to test decision-making theories and gain practical insight into how psychologists conduct behavioural research.

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Stereotypes, Prejudice, and Discrimination

Students examine how stereotypes form and how they influence social attitudes and behaviour. The module explores how stereotypes can lead to prejudice and discrimination and investigates the psychological processes behind these phenomena.

Participants learn about different types of discrimination and discuss strategies for challenging stereotypes and promoting more inclusive social attitudes. The session also introduces research tools such as questionnaires and teaches students how psychologists collect and analyse behavioural data.

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Behavioural Genetics

This session explores the relationship between genetics, environment, and human behaviour. Students examine how behavioural traits may be influenced by biological factors while also considering the role of upbringing and social environment.

Participants learn about the scientific techniques psychologists use to study behavioural genetics, including twin studies, candidate gene studies, and genome-wide association studies. The module also explores questions surrounding the heritability of intelligence and psychological conditions.

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Family Psychology

In this module, students explore how family environments influence psychological development. Participants examine the concept of family and how family structures, relationships, and social environments shape behaviour and identity.

Discussions also explore how modern family dynamics may be influenced by technological change and online interactions, and how these developments affect children’s emotional and social development.

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Cognitive Psychology

Students are introduced to the methods psychologists use to interpret data and identify patterns in human behaviour. This session focuses on how researchers analyse information and avoid drawing incorrect conclusions from limited evidence.

Participants learn about best practices in psychological research and explore how scientists present and interpret findings within academic studies.

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Animal Psychology

Animal psychology examines how researchers study intelligence and cognition in animals. Students explore how scientists measure intelligence using factors such as neuron density, neural connectivity, and information processing capacity.

Participants also design experiments to investigate animal cognition while considering the methodological challenges involved in studying behaviour across different species.

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Psychopathology

This session explores the complexities of diagnosing psychological disorders. Students examine how mental health conditions can be influenced by biological, social, and environmental factors.

Participants also investigate how mental health issues are portrayed in media and discuss how social media may influence psychological wellbeing. The session highlights the challenges psychologists face when diagnosing and understanding mental health conditions.

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Psychological Experiments and Research

Students learn how psychologists design experiments and collect measurable data to study behaviour scientifically. The session focuses on experimental design, data analysis, and ethical considerations in psychological research.

Participants also explore how researchers present experimental findings in academic papers and why peer review and evaluation are essential in scientific research.

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Personal Research Project

Throughout the programme, students work on a personal project that allows them to explore a specific psychological topic in greater depth. Participants conduct independent research and prepare a presentation to share their findings with their peers.

The project encourages students to apply the theories and methods they have learned during the programme while developing academic research, critical thinking, and presentation skills.

Where Will I Be Staying? 🏛️

All participants attending the Oxford programmes will reside in a central college of University of Oxford.

Accommodation details include:

• Single or twin rooms with shared bathroom facilities

• Accommodation areas separated by gender

• Buildings used by undergraduate students during term time, designed to support academic study

• Many historic buildings are over 500 years old and therefore do not have air conditioning

Each room is secured with a lock, and keys are provided during registration. Housekeeping staff have access to rooms for essential services such as towel replacement.

Address: Oxford University Colleges, Oxford OX1 4BH

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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 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 at Oxford �*

Weekdays: Academic Immersion & Enrichment

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

The day begins with breakfast in college, giving students time to wake up, socialise, and prepare for a focused academic day in Oxford’s historic surroundings.

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

Students attend academic sessions led by expert tutors, exploring their chosen subject through lectures, seminars, and interactive discussion. Classes are small and designed to encourage confidence, critical thinking, and independent thought.

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

Students enjoy a two-hour lunch break, allowing time to explore Oxford’s cafés and green spaces, relax with friends, or return to college to recharge.

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

Afternoon sessions continue with academic workshops, project work, and seminars. Many students also benefit from 1:1 tutorials or personal project supervision, offering tailored academic feedback.

Mid-Afternoon: Break (15:00–15:30) ☕

A short break provides time to rest before the day’s enrichment activities begin.

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

Late afternoons focus on enrichment activities, which may include masterclasses, guest speakers, creative challenges, sports, museum visits, walking tours, or supervised free time in Oxford.

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

Students gather for dinner in college hall, an opportunity to reflect on the day and connect with peers and mentors.

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

Evenings feature a rotating programme of social, cultural, and academic activities, such as quiz nights, guest talks, college tours, creative workshops, talent shows, and themed events designed to build friendships and community.

Night: Wind Down & Rest (After 21:00) �*

Students return to accommodation for private study, relaxation, or rest, preparing for the following day.

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Weekends: Full-Day Excursions & Special Events �*

Weekends are dedicated to full-day excursions and special experiences, offering students the chance to explore beyond Oxford and apply their learning in real-world contexts.

• Coach excursions to London, including visits to iconic landmarks, cultural institutions, and historic sites

• Museum visits and guided exploration, with free time to enjoy the city

• Opportunities for relaxed social bonding and reflection outside the classroom

These full-day outings provide a change of pace from academic sessions and are a highlight of the programme, combining discovery, independence, and shared experiences.

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 Oxford

• Breakfast and dinner in College Hall

• Lunch also included for ages 13–15

• Wi-Fi and laundry facilities in college accommodation

• 40 hours of academic sessions delivered by Oxford and Cambridge tutors

• Including 2 hours of 1:1 tuition

• Study and lecture materials

• Support in completing a personal subject project

• Mentor programme and access to support resources

• All excursions and social programmes

• Including formal dinners, punting, sports, and activities

• One full-day coach excursion, including a trip to London

• Graduation Ceremony and Certificate

• Tutor-written academic assessment

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

*� Activities

Outside the classroom, enjoy a rich social and cultural program:

• Punting on the River Cam

• Zorb football, games night & quiz night

• Talent show & murder mystery evening

• Movie nights with new friends

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How Do I Get to Oxford? ✈️

Participants should arrive between 2:00 pm and 5:00 pm on the first Sunday of the programme. Accommodation will be ready from 3:00 pm.

Airport Transfers (London Heathrow)

A chaperoned shared airport transfer service is available from London Heathrow Airport Terminal 3.

• Departure times on arrival Sunday: 11:00, 14:00, and 17:00

• Return transfers on the final Saturday: 07:00 and 12:00

• Transfers can be booked after enrolment for a fee per journey

Participants arriving at other Heathrow terminals will be met by staff and escorted to Terminal 3. Full arrival details and contact information are shared closer to the programme start date.

If arriving via another airport or by alternative transport, full instructions are provided in the Welcome Pack.

Transfers to Oxford cost £150 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