Create a spectacular universe of your own this summer with a creative writing course in the literary and cultural hotspots of Oxford, Cambridge or London. Stretch your imagination and challenge yourself to think differently, and play with different genres and styles through creative storytelling. Feel the buzz of finding exactly the right word to make your poem sing, craft a tantalising script destined for the silver screen, or finally get started on your Great Novel!
Age(Step 1)
Destination(Step 2)
Subject(Step 2)
Atlas Summer CoursesAuthentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience by Oxford Summer Courses immerses high school students in diverse academic studies and cultural explorations at these historic universities.
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Reach CambridgeTransformative summer courses for teens, combining academic studies, cultural excursions, and growth opportunities in Cambridge.
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Immerse EducationA transformative two-week summer programme for motivated students aged 15-18, built around the art of communication, storytelling, and public speaking.
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Oxford Scholastica AcademyExceptional learning experience in Oxford, blending immersive academics with practical, real-world challenges.
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Immerse EducationUniversity-style summer programmes in Cambridge and Oxford for ages 13–18, combining academic rigour, world-class teaching, and an authentic taste of student life.
View programmeFrom J.R.R. Tolkien to Zadie Smith, generations of writers have been shaped by the university cities of Oxford and Cambridge. Writing here means drawing inspiration from history, architecture, and a long tradition of literary excellence. Where will you choose for your Creative Writing summer program this summer 2027?
What is it about the magic of Oxford that has inspired so many of our literary greats? Wander the same streets as Tolkein, Oscar Wilde and Percey Shelley whilst they studied and taught here, and visit the very pub that Tolkein and CS Lewis met at to discuss their ideas!
Browse Oxford
The roll call of famous authors to have studied and lived in captivating Cambridge is almost endless: from the leading English romantic poets Wordsworth and Tennyson, to Sylvia Plath, Iris Murdoch and modern fiction greats such as Zadie Smith!
Browse Cambridge
Interested in studying Creative Writing in other wonderful study destinations in Europe, the USA and worldwide?
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A broad selection of programmes is available, varying in depth, workload and course design across providers.
Creative writing summer schools prioritize an immersive and exploratory approach, allowing students to delve deeply into various genres and styles. Instruction often emphasizes not just the mechanics of writing but also the importance of voice, narrative structure, and character development. Unlike conventional school methods that may focus primarily on prescribed curricula, these programs foster a more dynamic and individualistic learning environment. Through workshops, peer critiques, and one-on-one mentorship, participants are encouraged to experiment and refine their unique perspectives, ultimately enhancing both their craft and critical thinking skills.
The structure of creative writing summer schools typically balances intensive study with ample opportunities for independent exploration. Students engage in a blend of guided workshops and self-directed projects, promoting a collaborative classroom atmosphere. Expect a rhythm that oscillates between structured lessons and creative freedom, where daily writing exercises and group discussions play pivotal roles. This blend cultivates a supportive community, enhancing the overall experience as participants share their work and receive constructive feedback, while also finding space to develop individual voices and styles.
Creative writing summer schools cater to a diverse range of participants, often welcoming individuals with varying levels of experience and backgrounds. While some programs may target specific age groups, many are designed to be inclusive, encouraging anyone with a passion for writing to apply. Expectations typically include a willingness to engage in creative processes, a readiness to explore different writing forms, and an openness to feedback, all of which contribute to a rich and productive learning environment.
These summer schools stand apart from traditional writing courses due to their concentrated focus on creativity and personal expression. Students are immersed in a vibrant community of like-minded individuals, all passionate about storytelling and artistic exploration. The intensity of the programs often leads to remarkable personal growth and breakthroughs in writing, as participants are encouraged to push past their comfort zones. This experiential learning approach fosters a sense of ownership over one’s creative journey, distinguishing these summer schools from more conventional academic settings that may prioritize standardized assessments over individual expression.
Compare published creative writing summer schools by provider, campus, age range, dates and price. This table uses current catalogue data so families can move from editorial research into real programme options.
| Programme | Provider | Campuses | Ages | Dates | From Price | Courses Available |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience for Teens & Young Adults Authentic Oxford & Cambridge Experience by Oxford Summer Courses immerses high school students in diverse acad... | Atlas Summer Courses | Oxford University Colleges, St Hilda’s College | 13-24 | 2 weeks | £5,495 – £9,995 | 53 courses |
| Inspiring Academic Summer Courses in Cambridge Transformative summer courses for teens, combining academic studies, cultural excursions, and growth opportuni... | Reach Cambridge | Cambridge University Colleges | 14-18 | Summer 2027 | £6,295 – £18,495 | 21 courses |
| TED Summer School in London, New York, Singapore & Sydney A transformative two-week summer programme for motivated students aged 15-18, built around the art of communic... | Immerse Education | University College London, Barnard College | 15-18 | 27 June - 7 August 2027 | £5,995 – £7,495 | View options |
| Transformational Academic Summer Programme in Oxford Exceptional learning experience in Oxford, blending immersive academics with practical, real-world challenges. | Oxford Scholastica Academy | Oxford University Colleges, St Thomas’ Oxford | 12-18 | Summer 2027 | £6,995 – £13,690 | 12 courses |
| Academic Insights in Oxford & Cambridge University-style summer programmes in Cambridge and Oxford for ages 13–18, combining academic rigour, world-cl... | Immerse Education | Oxford University Colleges, University College London | 13-18 | 2 weeks | £5,995 – £7,495 | 64 courses |
| Inspirational Cambridge Summer School for Ages 13-18 ISSOS at Cambridge is based in the extensive and beautiful grounds of The University of Cambridge, one of the... | ISSOS | St Edmund's College, Cambridge, Cambridge University Colleges | 13-18 | 3 weeks | £7,900 | 8 courses |
| Dukes Cambridge Summer School An academic summer school in Cambridge for students aged 14 to 17. Six courses, each teaching a subject and ac... | Summer Boarding Courses | Tripos Court | 14-17 | 28 June, 12 & 26 July 2027 | £3,495 – £4,995 | 7 courses |
| Junior Summer School for Ages 9-14 in UK Boarding Schools The Junior Summer School with Oxford Summer Courses offers diverse academic experiences for younger learners a... | Atlas Summer Courses | Harrow School | 9-14 | 1 week | £2,395 | 30 courses |
| St Andrews Summer School For Ages 13-18 The ISSOS St Andrews summer school in Scotland offers students aged 13-18 the opportunity to spend their summe... | ISSOS | St Andrews University, St Salvator's Hall, St Andrews | 13-18 | 3 weeks | £7,900 | 11 courses |
| World Leading Oxford Summer Schools for Teens Experience Academy Royale International's summer programmes on campus at world leading universities, offering... | Oxford Royale | Oxford University Colleges, St Catherine’s College | 12-18 | 2 weeks | £7,995 | 27 courses |
The Creative Writing summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £5,495 for Non Residential option.
Find your voice as a storyteller in Cambridge, a city that has inspired generations of writers.
Creative Writing at ISSOS is designed to develop students’ writing talents and help them to harness the power in their words as a way to express themselves and tell their own story.
Where better than Oxford to hone your skills in creative writing? Get inspired by the city that was home to Tolkien, Lewis Carroll and Philip Pullman. In this course, you’ll explore different genres and plot-types, learn about the importance of dialogue, and practise different techniques to hone your skills and ensure writing becomes a part of your daily routine.
This course introduces students to subjects beyond the scope of their current school courses, thereby offering them a flavour of English Literature at university level.
A two-week English course in Cambridge for students aged 14 to 17 at any level, covering academic, practical and creative use of the language.
Refine your writing craft in Cambridge, a historic centre for literature and the arts.
Unleash your storytelling potential in Oxford, a city that has inspired countless literary greats.
Craft compelling narratives in Oxford, following in the footsteps of renowned authors and poets.
Unleash your creativity in Tokyo, the vibrant heart of anime and a global powerhouse in film production. Click to learn more.
Immerse yourself in creative writing at an historic Oxford college, exploring novels, speculative fiction, drama, and poetry. Learn from expert faculty and professional writers, studying genres from modern dystopian fiction to Shakespeare and the Romantics. Develop versatile storytelling skills for careers in media, marketing, and entertainment. Enjoy unique Oxford experiences, including punting on the River Cherwell and a graduation dinner in a medieval hall, while building confidence and creativity in a vibrant student community.
