Top Arts Summer Schools 2026

Top Arts Summer Schools 2026

Interested in studying the arts this summer? Welcome to our independent directory of trusted providers offering arts courses in inspiring settings.

Create, Express, Inspire!

Welcome to our independent directory showcasing a selection of trusted providers offering arts courses in Oxford, Cambridge, London and other prestigious locations this summer 2026. An Arts summer school is a fantastic opportunity to nurture creative talent and give students the space, support, and inspiration to develop their understanding further. From fine art and design to film, photography, and mixed media, all programmes featured in our guide offer expert tuition, hands-on studio work, and the chance to build an impressive creative portfolio - all in world-renowned academic settings.

Explore Arts Programs 2026

Browse a curated selection of top-quality, accredited summer courses in the visual and creative arts. Every programme is carefully chosen for its academic excellence, student experience and creative depth, and we only list long-established providers with strong reputations.

Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies summer school Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies logo Oxford
From 12,595 US Dollars Ages 16 - 18 Summer 2026

The Institute offers a transformative academic experience for students eager to challenge themselves intellectually and prepare for university life. By engaging with cutting-edge topics under the mentorship of university experts, students not only deepen their understanding of global issues but also develop critical thinking and research skills through their individualized projects.

Oxford International Summer School for Teens summer school Oxford International Summer School for Teens logo Oxford
From £6,995 Ages 13-18 05 July 2026 to 1 August 2026

ISSFT Oxford offers an inspiring two-week summer experience for teenagers, combining world-class academics, exciting electives, and unforgettable cultural adventures at the historic University of Oxford.

Transformational Academic Summer Programme in Oxford summer school Transformational Academic Summer Programme in Oxford logo Oxford
From £6,995 - £13,690 Ages 12-18 Summer 2026

Exceptional learning experience in Oxford, blending immersive academics with practical, real-world challenges.

Inspiring Academic Summer Courses in Cambridge summer school Inspiring Academic Summer Courses in Cambridge logo Cambridge
From £5,845 - £17,445 Ages 13-18 Summer 2026

Transformative summer courses for teens, combining academic studies, cultural excursions, and growth opportunities in Cambridge.

Oxford Advanced University Preparation Programme summer school Oxford Advanced University Preparation Programme logo Oxford
From £3,195 (pw) Ages 15-18 Summer 2026

The Oxford Pre-University Preparation Programme by Bucksmore is an intensive, academic course for ambitious students, focusing on first-year undergraduate-level study and university admissions skills.

World Leading Oxford Summer Schools for Teens summer school World Leading Oxford Summer Schools for Teens logo Cambridge • London • New York • Oxford • Yale
From £6,995 Ages 12-18 5/7/26-15/8/26

Experience Oxford Royale's summer programmes on campus at world leading universities, offering students a chance to dive into prestigious academic and cultural enrichment.

Oxbridge Scholars Cambridge Summer Programmes summer school Oxbridge Scholars Cambridge Summer Programmes logo Cambridge
From £5,395 per programme Ages 14 - 17 July 2026

Cambridge excellence. Real-world experience.

Easter Revision Course with OXSS summer school Easter Revision Course with OXSS logo Oxford
From £1,350 - £1,950 per week Ages 14-19 Summer 2026

Maximise Holiday Revision Time with Structured, Expert Tuition this Easter

LMH Oxford Summer Programmes summer school LMH Oxford Summer Programmes logo Oxford
From £4,384 - £12,676 Ages 19+ Summer 2026

Experience Oxford University’s world-renowned tutorial teaching system, explore fascinating subjects with experts in the field, and gain new skills to take you further in your future academic or professional career.

Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience for Teens & Young Adults summer school Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience for Teens & Young Adults logo Cambridge • Oxford
From £5,495 - £9,995 Ages 13-24 Summer 2026

Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience by Oxford Summer Courses immerses high school students in diverse academic studies and cultural explorations at these historic universities.

Pre-University Scholars with Sapphire Education summer school Pre-University Scholars with Sapphire Education logo Bath • Oxford
From £5,990 Ages 14-18 5 July - 15 August

New for 2026! Explore your subject with Sapphire Education’s two-week programme in Bath and Oxford this summer. Are you ready to supercharge your futur?

Pre-university and Career experiences at Oxford College summer school Pre-university and Career experiences at Oxford College logo Oxford
From From £6,695 Ages 15-17 Summer 2026

The Oxford College Summer School by SBC offers high school students aged 15-17 an immersive academic experience in a prestigious university setting in Oxford.

Inspirational Cambridge Summer School for Ages 13-18 summer school Inspirational Cambridge Summer School for Ages 13-18 logo Cambridge
From £7,900 Ages 13-18 Summer 2026

ISSOS at Cambridge is based in the extensive and beautiful grounds of The University of Cambridge, one of the UK's most prestigious universities.

Interactive Oxford Summer English Programmes for Teenagers summer school Interactive Oxford Summer English Programmes for Teenagers logo Oxford
From £2,145 - £4,865 Ages 15-17 Summer 2026

Summer English language and academic courses for teenagers aged 15-17, combining interactive learning, academic support, and cultural activities in a supportive environment in Oxford.

Academic Insights in Oxford & Cambridge summer school Academic Insights in Oxford & Cambridge logo Cambridge • Oxford
From £5,995 - £7,495 Ages 13-18 July and August 2026

University-style summer programmes in Cambridge and Oxford for ages 13–18, combining academic rigour, world-class teaching, and an authentic taste of student life.

Find the Best Experience for You

From light-filled studios in historic Oxford colleges to creative workshops on Cambridge campuses, each city offers a unique backdrop for artistic exploration. These programmes are not run by the universities themselves but give students a chance to explore the arts in the inspiring academic settings of Oxford, Cambridge and more. Discover the arts with us!

The Radcliffe Camera, a host venue for Oxford Summer Schools
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Arts Summer School in Oxford

The ‘City of Dreaming Spires’ is an incredible place for the creatively-minded. Capture its stunning architecture on a photography course, visit Harry Potter and James Bond filming sites on a Film Studies course, or soak up the same magic that inspired great writers such as T.S Elliot, Lewis Carroll and Tolkein on a Creative Writing course.
Browse Oxford

Kings College Cambridge viewed from the River Cam, a Cambridge Summer School host venue
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Arts Summer School in Cambridge

Surround yourself with beauty in Cambridge: sketch medieval towers on a Fine Art course, capture pastoral landscapes with your camera lens, and discover masterpieces in the Fitzwilliam Museum. Get your creative juices flowing in the same city that inspired C.S. Lewis, Slyvia Plath and Zadie Smith.
Browse Cambridge

Three female summer school students sitting in the sunshine on a bench outside, smiling and having fun
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Browse All Destinations

Interested in studying the Arts in other wonderful study destinations in Europe, the USA and worldwide?
Browse All

Find A Course

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Classics (The Oxford Tradition)

This course examines the literature, philosophy, history, art, and scientific thought of Ancient Greece and Rome. From readings of classical…

Study Mind
Engineering Career Camp (15-18 Years Old)

Unlock your future in engineering with Study Mind’s Engineering Summer Career Camp. Engage in practical, hands‑on workshops covering electrical circuits, autonomous…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Cambridge: Shaping Scientific Futures (The Cambridge Experience)

Drawing ideas and inspiration from the university that nurtured Newton, Darwin, Turing, and Stephen Hawking, students immerse themselves in cutting-edge…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Criminology (The Oxford Tradition)

Through workshops, debates, and visits to police stations and criminal courts, students explore individual and social theories of crime, philosophies…

Study Mind
Banking and Finance Career Camp (15-18 year-olds)

Unlock your future in finance with Study Mind’s Banking & Finance Summer Career Camp. Visit UIB Lloyd’s of London, trade…

Oxford Summer Courses
Artificial Intelligence (16-17 years old)

The Artificial Intelligence Cambridge summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is…

Oxford Summer Courses
Natural Sciences (13-15 years old)

The Natural Sciences Cambridge summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small…

Oxford Summer Courses
Science Explorers (12 years old)

The Science Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 12 year old students, provides interactive learning and is…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
AI: Designing Intelligent Systems (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies)

The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful Artificial Intelligence…

Immerse Education
Psychology in Cambridge for Ages 16-18

Advance your understanding of the mind in Cambridge, a leader in psychological research and innovation.

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Critical Thinking (The Oxford Summer Seminar)

How might the rise of the "selfie stick" be related to the popularity of first-person video games? What does our…

Oxford Summer Courses
International Development (18-24 years old)

The International Development summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced…

Oxford Summer Courses
Sustainable Engineering (16-17 years old)

The Sustainable Engineering summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Medicine and Public Health (The Oxbridge Institute for Advanced Studies)

The course will begin by introducing students to the approaches and techniques required to carry out a successful Medicine, or…

ISSFT
Golf and Academic Study Summer Program

The ISSFT Golf Programme gives students the chance to train in the world-famous home of golf under the guidance of…

Oxford Summer Courses
Story Explorers (9-10 years old)

The Story Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 09-10 years old students, provides interactive learning and is…

Immerse Education
Medicine in London for Ages 15-18

Explore medical sciences in London, home to pioneering research institutions and teaching hospitals.

Oxford Summer Courses
Marketing and Media (16-17 years old)

The Marketing and Media summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is…

Oxford Summer Courses
Business and Entrepreneurship (16-17 years old)

The Business and Entrepreneurship summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is…

Oxbridge Academic Programs
Business Management (The Cambridge Tradition)

How do business organizations start, grow, and thrive? What analytical, interpersonal, and technical skills are required to address the problems…

More Details: Arts Summer Schools

A broad selection of programmes is available, varying in depth, workload and course design across providers.

Academic Focus and Teaching

Arts summer schools emphasize an interdisciplinary approach that instills both creativity and critical thinking. Students engage with a diverse curriculum that spans visual arts, performing arts, and theoretical studies, fostering a holistic understanding of artistic expression. Instruction often prioritizes hands-on experiences, encouraging learners to explore techniques and concepts that may not be as readily available in traditional school settings. This rich academic environment allows for a depth of study that nurtures individual artistic voices while also cultivating collaboration and peer feedback.

Programme Structure and Student Experience

The structure of arts summer schools typically combines intensive workshops with collaborative projects, resulting in a dynamic study rhythm. Classes often blend practical training with discussions, creating an engaging classroom atmosphere that promotes experimentation and self-discovery. Independent work is encouraged, allowing students to delve deeply into personal projects while benefiting from mentorship. Overall, the experience is immersive, fostering a sense of community among participants, where shared passions lead to lasting connections and creative inspiration.

Student Age Groups and Eligibility

Arts summer schools cater to a wide range of participants, welcoming those with varying levels of experience and skill. Expectations typically include a willingness to engage deeply with artistic processes and an openness to feedback. While specific age requirements may vary, the inclusive nature of these programmes allows individuals of different backgrounds and aspirations to thrive within an enriching environment.

What Makes Arts Summer Schools Unique

The uniqueness of arts summer schools lies in their focus on specialized artistic disciplines combined with an ethos of experimentation. Unlike conventional educational settings, these programmes often prioritize project-based learning, allowing students to pursue their interests in a focused manner. The intensity and duration of these courses can vary significantly, providing options that range from short, concentrated workshops to longer, immersive experiences. This flexibility enables participants to choose a path that aligns with their goals and schedules.

Choosing the Right Programme or Provider

  1. Curriculum focus and artistic disciplines offered
  2. Duration and intensity of the programme
  3. Instructor qualifications and teaching methodology
  4. Independent work opportunities and project support
  5. Community engagement and networking potential

Fees and Course Costs

Observed fees for current intakes start from £2,395, with total cost shaped by duration, accommodation and subject intensity.

When you’re ready, you can browse providers or compare courses that match your interests.

Top Arts Summer Schools Compared

Last updated: 19/12/2025

Course Provider Subject Location Duration Fees Short Description Link
Film Studies in London for Ages 15-18 Immerse Education Media, Arts London 2+ weeks 7495 Explore cinematic arts in London, a city that has inspired and produced countless film masterpieces. View
Creative Writing: Writing Paris (Oxbridge in Paris) Oxbridge Academic Programs Creative Writing, Arts, Literature Paris 4 weeks $9,995 In this course, students explore Paris as a city full of stories – drawing inspiration from the city in order to broaden their writing skills. Instructed by professional authors, students will polish their writing skills as they produce new works inspired by visits to Hemingway’s favorite cafe, Beckett’s tomb, and the Luxembourg Gardens. View
Creative Industries in San Francisco for Ages 15-18 Immerse Education Arts, Business, Creative Writing, Design, Media, Entrepreneurship San Francisco 2+ weeks 7495 Discover how art, design, and innovation intersect in San Francisco’s thriving creative scene. View
Creative Writing (16-17 years old) Oxford Summer Courses Creative Writing, Arts, Humanities Oxford 2 Weeks 6995 The Creative Writing summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. View
Photography MINOR ONLY (The Oxford Experience) Oxbridge Academic Programs Arts, Media, Creative Writing, Design Oxford 4 weeks $12,495 Photographers of all levels of expertise spend much of their time in the field, pursuing assignments designed to improve their landscape, portraiture, art, and fashion photography skills. Students exhibit their best work at the end of the program. View
Fashion (Oxbridge in Paris) Oxbridge Academic Programs Fashion, Arts, Design Paris 4 weeks $9,995 Using the city’s fashion resources, students are introduced to the history and modern processes of haute-couture. They become acquainted with the main facets of the business – from factory floor to boutique – visit some of the most famous houses as well as their artisanal suppliers, and learn the basics of clothes and accessory design. View
Architecture in Oxford for Ages 13-15 Immerse Education Architecture, Arts, Design, Humanities Oxford 2+ weeks 7495 Begin your architectural journey in Oxford, where centuries of design inspire future innovators. View
Liberal Arts Reach Cambridge Arts, Humanities, Sciences, Social Sciences, STEM Cambridge 2, 4 or 6 weeks £6,295.00 – £18,495.00 Dive into your academic passion through a diverse journey in Liberal Arts, exploring both familiar and new horizons View
Art (Elective) ISSOS Art, Arts St Andrews 3 weeks 7900 The ISSOS Art programme will help students to see that there is art in everything around us by exploring different types of art forms. Let your imagination run free this summer and explore your creative talents. View
Film & Animation in Tokyo for Ages 15-18 Immerse Education Arts, Art, Creative Writing, Design, Media Tokyo 2+ weeks 7495 Unleash your creativity in Tokyo, the vibrant heart of anime and a global powerhouse in film production. Click to learn more. View
Art and Digital Design in Oxford (15-17 years old) St Clares Art, Arts, Design Oxford 2 Weeks 3575 Improve your Art and Digital Design skills this summer View
Architecture, Heritage, and Urban Planning Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford Architecture, Arts, Humanities, History Oxford 3 Weeks 4384 How can we see cities and their buildings as a means of understanding history and society? In this course you will examine the everyday built environments of cities in Britain (and beyond). View
Architecture (Oxbridge in Barcelona) Oxbridge Academic Programs Architecture, Arts, Design Barcelona 4 weeks $9,995 Barcelona is an architect’s dream: from the city’s ancient Gothic Quarter, to Gaudí’s spectacular Modernismo. Students will discover two thousand years of urban development, from Roman ruins to FC Barcelona’s majestic new stadium, while learning how to transform their own ideas into models. View
Advertising and Media (Oxbridge in New York) Oxbridge Academic Programs Arts, Business, Marketing, Media New York 4 weeks $11,495 In the home of Mad Men and Times Square’s billboards, SoHo and NoHo’s cool side, students discover the power of creativity, big ideas, and product placement. Scouting the city for case studies and creative examples, they explore how different types of traditional advertising, social media, viral marketing, pop-ups and experiential events are transforming the game. View
Architecture in Cambridge for Ages 13-15 Immerse Education Architecture, Arts, Design, Humanities Cambridge 2+ weeks 7495 Discover the principles of architecture in Cambridge, a city where centuries-old buildings stand alongside cutting-edge design. View
Fashion & Design in New York for Ages 15-18 Immerse Education Fashion, Design, Arts, Business New York 2+ weeks 7495 Create cutting-edge fashion in New York, a trendsetting capital of style and design innovation. View
Art History (16-17 years old) Oxford Summer Courses Art, Arts, Humanities Oxford 2 Weeks 6995 The Art History summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. View
Jane Austen: Literature and Legacy Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford Literature, Arts, Humanities Oxford 3 Weeks 4384 A moderately successful author in her own lifetime, Jane Austen has since become a global phenomenon: her writings are now read the world over and successive generations of readers have been captivated by her innovative fusion of romance and reality. Why do Austen’s novels continue to resonate so deeply across the centuries? View
Debate ISSOS Arts, Humanities, Social Sciences St Andrews, Cambridge 3 weeks 7900 The ISSOS Debate programme offers students the opportunity to build valuable transferable skills while developing their confidence, voice, presentation and public speaking skills while learning the fascinating art of Debate. View
Architecture & Design in London for Ages 15-18 Immerse Education Architecture, Arts, Design, Humanities London 2+ weeks 7495 Explore innovative design in London, a city where historic architecture meets cutting-edge creativity. View

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