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

Lesson Plan

Philosophy is a broad subject that permeates many fields across the humanities and social sciences. Students interested in pursuing philosophy will gain an insight into what philosophy at university level entails: from the introduction of new material, writing excellent essays, to forming and defending an argument. The programme, designed and taught by experts from the world’s leading universities, not only introduces the historical context and areas of philosophical discussion but also the theories of famous philosophers who have shaped the thinking for centuries after them.

Learn directly from expert academics from world-class universities

You will explore novel concepts and share ideas in small groups of like-minded and ambitious peers from around the world. In small class sizes averaging 7 students, you will be guided by expert tutors who have honed their expertise through teaching undergraduate students at world-class universities, including the universities of Cambridge, Oxford, and Harvard. Our rigorous vetting process guarantees that all participants are taught by engaging and supportive educators who are, most of all, enthusiastic about sharing their expertise to ensure our summer school teaching is of the highest quality. It is an unrivalled academic experience.

Boost your confidence and develop key attributes in academic skills workshops

Our workshops are geared towards unlocking participants’ potential, giving them the tools to prepare for the next steps of their education and future goals. Build upon existing study skills to support future university-level learning. These workshops explore a diverse and enriching range of topics – past examples have ranged from ‘Productivity tips’ to ’21st Century Technology Skills’. We’re sure that you’ll learn something completely new. Unlike traditional schools, it allows you to learn beyond the traditional curriculum. This programme is designed for students with at least an upper-intermediate level of English (B2).

Example Modules

Origins The Presocratics: In this module, you'll examine the so-called Presocratics, Greek philosophers at the foundation of Western philosophical thought. Instead of relating to god-like entities in Ancient Greece, they looked to the four elements - water, air, fire, and the earth - to explain the nature of existence.

Beyond Truth and Morality Nietzsche: For Friedrich Nietzsche humanity is anything but innocent. In this module you will examine Nietzsche's notion that what fundamentally drives us is our ‘Will to Power’, our desire to dominate, even to enslave our fellow men. You will also examine how Nietzsche’s views were distorted by 20th century Nazi propaganda.

The Unconscious Freud: Sigmund Freud claimed that our actions and thoughts are motivated by unconscious plans and desires. In this module, you will explore his belief that one could access the unconscious mind through dream analysis and verbal slips, as well as his tripartite structure of the mind - the id, ego and superego.

Personal Project: This is one of the most exciting parts of the course. In this module, you will get the opportunity to give a presentation on an area of interest in the philosophy programme, engage in discussions with your peers, and receive important feedback from your tutor, an expert in the field of philosophy.

Key Facts

• Average class size is 7
• Maximum class size of 10 students
• 1:1 Career Coaching
• Personal support and guidance for success
• Professional development workshops
• Building essential skills for success
• World-class experience