The Practical Science course in Oxford, for ages 15-17, combines hands-on scientific investigation with specialist English language teaching.
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The Practical Science course in Oxford, for ages 15-17, combines hands-on scientific investigation with specialist English language teaching. Students develop practical lab skills, improve English in an academic context, and enjoy interactive lessons with weekly themes. Set in Oxford’s inspiring environment, the course offers a diverse international community, engaging activities, and strong student support, ensuring a safe, stimulating, and enjoyable learning experience.
Focus on Core Sciences: Explore key topics in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, developing both subject knowledge and scientific vocabulary in English.
Prepare for Further Study: Build the practical investigative skills you’ll need for future studies in science, supported by staff with international teaching experience.
Learn in State-of-the-Art Laboratories: Use specialist equipment such as data logging machines and microscopes in modern, fully equipped science labs.
Gain Hands-On Laboratory Experience: Master essential techniques: observation, measuring, controlling variables, recording results, and evaluating conclusions.
Meet Practising Scientists: Be inspired by Guest Speakers who share their cutting-edge research and insights from the world of science.
Stimulating Study Visits: Connect classroom learning with real-world science through visits to Oxford’s Natural History Museum, Pitt Rivers Museum, History of Science Museum, and Botanical Gardens.
Personal Research Project: Investigate a topic of your choice, conduct experiments, and present your findings – building critical research and presentation skills.
Supportive Environment & Future Pathways: Study in small, supportive classes with a high staff-to-student ratio, enjoy excursions and cultural activities, and receive tailored careers advice to guide your next steps in science.

This course is part of the programme
Compare available dates, duration, campus, fees and availability. Open a session for accommodation details.
| Session | Dates | Duration | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Science — 2 weeks — 27 June 2027 | 27 Jun 2027 - 11 Jul 2027Enrolling Now | 2 weeks | £3,980 | |
Science — 2 weeks — 11 July 2027 | 11 Jul 2027 - 25 Jul 2027Enrolling Now | 2 weeks | £3,980 | |
Science — 2 weeks — 25 July 2027 | 25 Jul 2027 - 8 Aug 2027Enrolling Now | 2 weeks | £3,980 |
- Juniors aged 9-12 – dormitories of 4-6 students at the Headington Rye Prep School campus - Juniors aged 13-15 – single or twin rooms at the Headington Rye Prep School campus - Older teenagers stay in a shared residential room near the main College buildings at 139 Banbury Road - Adults have a choice of single or twin rooms at 3 Bardwell Road or 382 Banbury Road
Juniors – 16.5 hours per week Teenagers – 19.25 or 22.9 hours per week Adults – 13.75 or 19.25 hours per week
English language courses have a minimum CEFR level of A2 so are unsuitable for complete beginners. Exam preparation courses have a minimum level of B1 All other courses have a minimum level of B2
Juniors are monitored closely on a secure campus. Older Teenagers and Adults are issued with a photo ID card that is needed to access any of our College buildings and residences. A team that includes Teachers, House Parents, Activity Leaders and a Nurse led by our experienced Course Director and Welfare Manager is available 24/7 to supervise students under 18 years of age.
Junior programmes (ages 9-15) include free Heathrow transfers. For Juniors using other airports, older teenagers (ages 15-17) and adults please see our list of transfer prices: https://stclares.ac.uk/student-life/airport-transfers/
Insurance is included. Details of the coverage are available at this link - https://stclares.ac.uk/app/uploads/Insurance-policy-for-personal-accident-and-group-travel.pdf
Student will receive a certificate from St Clare’s and a personalised report at the end of the course.
Students will either need a Standard Visitor Visa for stays up to 6 months or a new eVisa. Learn more at https://stclares.ac.uk/about-us/visa-advice/.