Help & Advice for Choosing Your Oxbridge Summer School
On this page we attempt to answer some of the most common questions for parents and students when choosing their summer school, as well as providing some ‘myth-busting’ of common misconceptions.
Why Choose an Oxbridge Summer School?
Summer camps at Oxford and Cambridge offer a unique opportunity for academic progress and cultural enrichment in two of the most unique and prestigious universities in the world. These programmes provide students with a chance to explore subjects of interest, promoting personal and academic development that goes far beyond the school curriculum, alongside students from all over the world.
Perhaps the main reason to enrol on a summer school in Oxford or Cambridge (collectively called ‘Oxbridge’), as opposed to other well-known summer study destinations such as London, is the completely unique experience these two universities provide. Neither Oxford nor Cambridge are individual campus-style universities like other major universities in the UK, but rather consist of a series of self-contained colleges dotted all over their respective cities. Indeed, the cities have grown around the colleges, with cobbled streets, quaint shops, museums (often with research arms), hospitals and more that have grown to serve the university community.
All quality Oxbridge summer schools such as those featured on the Oxford Summer Courses Guide website combine lessons and activities with the thrill of living and studying in these awe-inspiring places. Participants balance their studies with local sightseeing, gaining an authentic experience of student life in these truly remarkable venues. Learning isn’t just confined to classrooms; discussions spill over into the evenings, allowing students to share diverse perspectives and form lasting bonds based on their experiences.
So if you’re looking immersive learning, the chance to forge global connections, an understanding of your subject that goes far beyond that offered at school – and all in awe-inspiring academic venus – look no further than a summer school in Oxford and Cambridge.
Oxbridge Summer School Programs & Providers
As if the universities of Oxford and Cambridge weren’t confusing enough, consisting of a myriad of smaller institutions (‘colleges’) that serve as unique campuses in their own right, the landscape of summer school providers can be even more puzzling to international students.
So what is a provider and why are there so many of them?
In short, providers are (usually) private companies that host their own courses in the accommodation and classrooms of colleges in Oxford and Cambridge as private enterprises in the summer. This idea really took hold in the early 2000s where companies realised that they could make use of the space vacated by students in the summer vacation, a teaching staff consisting of post-graduate students looking for work, and colleges with increasing costs looking to raise revenues over the summer period. So it’s important to note that summer school providers are (mostly) not part of the universities or affiliated to them in any way, but simply contracting for space and staff privately. Which is not to say that the experience is in any way lessened than if they were official university programs – in many ways it is enhanced as providers compete to offer more for their students. Teachers often really are university academics, and students will indeed live and study in genuine university accommodation and teaching rooms; so the experience is as close to being a student at Oxford or Cambridge as it can get.
Providers often cater to slightly different audiences or offer slightly different experiences. For example:
- Immerse Education, one of our top providers, offers courses that prepare students for future careers, often with a clear focus on tech;
- Oxford Summer Courses opts for more experiential learning in small classes (max. 6 students), mirroring the university seminar teaching model;
- Oxford Royale Academy goes all out on academic progress and authentic Oxford experiences, only hiring extremely talented and credentialled tutors (not to mention its series of world-class guest speakers);
- Bucksmore Education tends to cater for a slightly younger age-group and offers more English-focused courses with a more rounded ‘camp’ experience;
- LMH summer programmes offers courses exclusively for adults / undergraduate students with a strong focus on Artificial Intelligence;
- Reach Cambridge offers a broad range of academic courses in Cambridge, focusing on providing an authentic Cambridge summer experience;
- Oxbridge Academic Programs is a selective summer school only offering places to academically gifted students that are keen for intensive, Oxbridge-style learning;
- Summer Boarding Courses is primarily based in prestigious boarding schools and mostly focused on younger students, but offers a growing pre-university Oxford and Cambridge summer school for its older students.
…. And more.
Providers typically operate in different colleges, so it can be worth trying to choose based on where you would like to stay.
A Typical Day
Most providers tend to follow a typical daily routine:
Early in the morning, students come together in the college hall for breakfast, talking and making plans while they have breakfast.
After breakfast, everyone heads to their first lesson, diving into interesting topics and lively debates in class. After the first class, a short break lets students stretch, grab some refreshments, or just revel in the historic surroundings. Energised, they delve into their second lesson of the day under the guidance of their dedicated tutors.
Lunchtime is an adventure in town. Local bistros serve up tantalising dishes, followed by an afternoon of activities. Some choose punting, some tour iconic colleges, while others opt for a museum visit. On select days there’s an excursion, like a trip to bustling London.
As twilight descends, the evening buzzes with events. Whether it’s dancing the night away at a themed party or attending a classic show, the day ends on a high, promising more unforgettable memories.
How to Get the Most Out of Your Oxford or Cambridge Summer School
To make the most of your summer school adventure, approach it with an open mind and a thirst for new experiences. Embrace the opportunity to meet new people and explore unfamiliar places. Stepping out of your comfort zone, whether by initiating conversations or trying local cuisines, can lead to unexpected friendships and exciting discoveries.
Exploring the city where you’re studying is another fantastic way to enrich your summer school journey. Tourist offices serve as gateways to discovering hidden gems and iconic landmarks, so be sure to grab a map and embark on unforgettable adventures.
Remember that summer school programmes maintain an academic focus, so staying committed to your studies is crucial. Immersion in your chosen subject fosters a competitive edge for future educational pursuits and beyond the curriculum, you’ll develop essential life skills to benefit your personal and professional growth.
Upon arrival, prioritise safety by noting essential emergency numbers and contacts before transforming your room into a cosy, welcoming space to feel at home during your stay. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your summer school adventure is enriching, fulfilling, and packed with unforgettable experiences.
How to Prepare for Your Oxford or Cambridge Summer School
Preparing for your summer school adventure is crucial to ensure you make the most of this exciting experience. Begin by researching the city where your summer school will take place, especially if it’s an unfamiliar location. Explore the city’s history and attractions through its tourist website or online videos. Familiarising yourself with your new temporary home can make your arrival less daunting, and you can create a bucket list of must-see places to explore during your stay.
Homesickness is common, particularly if it’s your first time away from home. Combat these feelings by scheduling regular calls with loved ones, keeping a journal to record memories and emotions, and bringing along a book or cherished item from home to provide sense of familiarity. Additionally, be mentally prepared to make friends. Have some conversation starters ready, such as asking about others’ travel experiences or course interests.
Consider leaving your dorm room door open and sharing snacks or games to encourage interaction with fellow students. Ensure you thoroughly read all the welcome information provided by your summer school provider, including timetables, course details, preparation requirements, and school rules. Save emergency phone numbers to your phone and pack essential items recommended by the school. These steps will help you start your summer school adventure with confidence and excitement.
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