Cambridge Summer Courses for Ages 13-15
Study in One of the World's Leading Academic Cities
Cambridge is one of the world’s most historic and prestigious academic centres, where groundbreaking ideas and traditions of learning have shaped generations of scholars. At Oxford Summer Courses, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in this extraordinary setting while exploring your academic interests. Study at renowned colleges like Fitzwilliam College, Murray Edwards, and Gonville & Caius, where you’ll engage with expert tutors and like-minded students from around the world. Our summer courses hosted at Cambridge colleges offer a unique blend of academic challenge and cultural discovery, combining small, discussion-based classes with engaging social activities. You’ll develop new skills, explore your interests, and build meaningful connections with students from around the world — all while living and learning in the heart of Cambridge. Limited space available - apply now.
Teaching Methodology for Ages 13-15
Our Cambridge Summer Courses for ages 13–15 are designed to provide a dynamic and engaging learning experience hosted at prestigious Cambridge Colleges, while reflecting the academic traditions of Cambridge University. The programme combines seminars, masterclasses, and directed study to offer a balanced approach to education.
Seminars are small-group discussions where students explore key ideas, debate opposing viewpoints, and engage in critical analysis under the guidance of experienced tutors. This encourages independent thinking and helps students build confidence in presenting their ideas and defending their arguments.
Masterclasses complement this by focusing on developing practical and transferable skills such as communication, leadership, and problem-solving. Through hands-on activities like case studies and leadership challenges, students learn how to apply their academic knowledge in real-world contexts. Directed study sessions allow students to engage in independent research and project work, helping them develop academic responsibility and self-motivation.
This balanced teaching approach ensures that students gain both deep academic understanding and practical skills that will benefit them in future studies and beyond.
Cambridge Learning Outcomes for Ages 13-15
Our Cambridge Summer Courses are designed to equip students with a broad range of academic and personal skills, hosted at prestigious Cambridge Colleges. Through seminar-based learning, students develop critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and confident communication. They learn how to present ideas clearly, engage with opposing viewpoints, and support their arguments with evidence. This strengthens their ability to engage with complex material and participate effectively in academic discussions.
Masterclasses and directed study sessions enhance students’ ability to apply their knowledge in practical settings. Students learn to work independently and collaboratively, strengthening their problem-solving and teamwork skills. The combination of academic study and practical skill-building helps students develop resilience, adaptability, and self-confidence — essential qualities for success in future academic and professional settings. By the end of the course, students leave with improved academic abilities, stronger personal skills, and a deeper understanding of their chosen subject.
Cambridge Tutor Expertise
At Oxford Summer Courses, our tutors are selected for their expertise in leading seminars, masterclasses, and independent study sessions. Many have academic backgrounds from top institutions such as Cambridge and Oxford, bringing a wealth of subject knowledge and teaching experience to the classroom. Tutors are trained to create an open and engaging learning environment where students feel comfortable contributing their ideas and challenging different perspectives.
Our tutors are skilled at adapting lesson plans to match each student’s learning style and academic goals. During seminars, they guide discussions and encourage critical thinking, helping students to articulate their ideas and engage in thoughtful debate. In masterclasses, tutors focus on developing practical skills like leadership, problem-solving, and communication. For directed study, tutors provide guidance and support while encouraging students to take ownership of their work. This personalised and flexible approach ensures that students feel supported while developing independence and confidence in their academic abilities.
Example Cambridge Timetable for Ages 13–15
Our Cambridge timetable offers the perfect mix of learning and fun. Each weekday starts with breakfast and a morning sign-in before heading to engaging lessons with expert tutors. These small-group sessions encourage discussion, critical thinking, and hands-on learning in your chosen subject. After a morning break, you’ll continue with more focused sessions before enjoying lunch with your classmates. The structured format ensures you have time to explore new ideas and ask questions in a supportive learning environment.
Afternoons are designed to help you develop both academically and personally, with activities like goal-setting, masterclasses, tutorial work, and directed study sessions. Evenings are focused on socialising and relaxation — from quiz nights and Taskmaster to movie nights and themed events, there’s always something to look forward to. On Saturdays, you’ll go on an exciting full-day excursion to explore the history and culture of Cambridge and its surrounding areas. Sundays are for arrivals, settling in, and a welcome talk to help you feel comfortable before the week begins. The week concludes with a celebratory dinner and a fun evening activity where you can reflect on your achievements and celebrate.
Flexible Course Options and Pricing
We offer four course tiers designed to provide flexibility and a tailored experience for every student:
- Classic (£6,495) – Comfortable accommodation and essential benefits.
- Plus (£6,995) – Additional support and enhanced personal assistance.
- Superior (£7,595) – Premium features, including guaranteed ensuite rooms.
- Premier (£8,595) – Concierge support, private airport transfers, and a framed certificate signed with a wet signature.
Not every tier is available for every date, course, or age group, so we recommend reviewing the options carefully before applying. For a full breakdown of what’s included and to explore available dates and options, visit our Prices and Dates page.
Why Study in Cambridge?
At Oxford Summer Courses, you’ll learn from expert tutors who bring academic experience from leading universities such as Cambridge and Oxford. With small class sizes, capped at just eight students, you’ll receive personalised attention and have the opportunity to actively participate in lessons. Tutors adapt the content to suit your academic interests and goals, encouraging independent thought and critical analysis. Our seminar-style teaching approach, inspired by Cambridge's academic environment, facilitates meaningful discussions and the opportunity to explore complex ideas in depth.
Beyond the classroom, you’ll have the chance to build meaningful connections with students from over 100 countries, expanding your global perspective and forming lasting friendships. Our flexible approach to learning means that there is no fixed syllabus — tutors tailor lessons to the academic interests and goals of each student, ensuring a dynamic and engaging learning experience. This combination of academic rigour and personalised support makes studying in Cambridge both challenging and rewarding.
What to Expect
Our Cambridge Summer Courses are designed to help you engage with the academic environment of the city while offering a personalised learning experience. You’ll take part in four days of interactive subject lessons each week, lasting three hours each, with tutors leading discussion-based classes that encourage independent thinking and critical analysis. You’ll also attend a weekly masterclass focused on essential personal skills such as resilience, communication, and leadership. Directed study time gives you the flexibility to explore your subject more deeply through research and small group work, helping you develop analytical and problem-solving skills.
Outside of class, you’ll experience a full social and cultural programme — from punting on the River Cam and visiting the Fitzwilliam Museum to quiz nights, scavenger hunts, and an optional visit to St Mary’s Tower for panoramic city views.
Subjects Available in Cambridge
Explore a diverse range of subjects, including:
- Biotechnology and Genetics
- Media Studies
- Natural Sciences
- Neuroscience
- Computer Science
- Law
- Medicine
- Psychology
- Engineering
- International Relations and Politics
- English Literature and Creative Writing
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Life Beyond the Classroom
During your time in Cambridge, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's rich history and culture through a variety of engaging activities. Enjoy a classic punting trip down the River Cam, taking in the stunning architecture of the historic colleges from the water. A visit to the Fitzwilliam Museum will allow you to explore its world-class collection of art and historical artefacts. For a spectacular view of the city, you can take an optional visit to St Mary's Tower, offering panoramic perspectives of Cambridge’s iconic skyline.
Evenings will be filled with social activities designed to help you relax and connect with fellow students. From quiz nights and Taskmaster challenges to movie nights, there's always something enjoyable on offer. The experience culminates with a formal dinner and a graduation ceremony, where you'll celebrate your achievements alongside new friends and tutors in a memorable and inspiring setting.
Cambridge Accommodation
Students will stay in comfortable, well-equipped accommodation at three renowned Cambridge colleges: Murray Edwards College, Fitzwilliam College, and Gonville & Caius College. Murray Edwards College features twin rooms, promoting a more social environment while maintaining a comfortable and secure setting. Fitzwilliam College offers single standard rooms, providing a quiet and private atmosphere for both study and relaxation. Gonville & Caius College offers both twin rooms and single ensuite rooms, giving students the option to choose privacy and convenience.
Each college is fully staffed with experienced residential staff who provide 24/7 supervision and support, ensuring students feel safe and well-cared for throughout their stay. Male and female students are accommodated in separate areas to maintain privacy and respect. Dining is full-board, with meals served in the historic dining halls, offering an experience reminiscent of the traditional student life at Cambridge. The peaceful and secure college environments create the ideal balance between academic focus and personal relaxation, supporting both academic success and personal development.
Visa Information
If you are travelling to the UK from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you may need a visa to attend our courses. Most students aged 13–15 can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa or a Child Visitor Visa depending on their country of residence and the length of their stay. You will need to provide proof of funds to support yourself during your stay, evidence of a return or onward journey, and written consent from a parent or guardian if you are under 18. Oxford Summer Courses, hosted at Oxford colleges, will provide you with a Visa Support Letter to confirm your enrolment and accommodation details once your course fees have been paid in full.
Students from certain countries, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, may be eligible for an Electronic Visa Waiver (EVW), which is faster and easier to apply for than a Standard Visitor Visa. If you have any questions about the visa process, please contact our team for guidance.
Cambridge Travel and Support
We provide complimentary transfers for students arriving at London Heathrow Airport on the course start date (Sunday) between 8:00 am and 3:45 pm. Our team will meet you at the arrivals hall and assist with your transfer, which leaves every hour from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. On departure day, we offer a complimentary transfer back to Heathrow for flights departing between 8:00 am and 4:00 pm, with a target arrival time at the airport of three hours before take-off.
If you are travelling as an unaccompanied minor, our team will collect you after you’ve been escorted by airline staff. For departures, we offer a paid service (£145) where students will be accompanied to the airport and handed over to airline staff for check-in. Full travel details will be provided in your Travel Form before your course begins.
Not Affiliated with Cambridge University
Oxford Summer Courses is not affiliated with Cambridge University. While our courses are hosted at prestigious Cambridge colleges, including Fitzwilliam College, Murray Edwards College, and Gonville & Caius College, we operate independently. This allows us to offer a flexible, tailored academic experience that is shaped around each student’s interests and learning goals.
Our courses are hosted in the renowned facilities of Cambridge colleges, where students benefit from an inspiring learning environment. Our own expert tutors, not affiliated with the University, lead the sessions and tailor lessons to each student’s academic background, encouraging independent thinking and active participation through small, discussion-based classes.
FAQs about Cambridge Summer Courses for Ages 13-15
- What are the entry requirements? Applicants must be aged 13-15 and have a strong interest in academic study.
- What subjects are available? Students can choose from subjects like History, Law, Maths, Medicine, Science, and Technology.
- What kind of support is provided during the course? Our on-course staff, including Course Directors, are available to assist with academic and personal needs throughout the programme.
- What extracurricular activities are offered? The programme includes guided city tours, formal dinners, cultural excursions, and social events.
- Is travel insurance provided? Yes, travel and medical insurance are included in the course fee for comprehensive coverage during your stay.
Secure Your Place Early
To secure your preferred location, we highly recommend applying early. Each of our courses has a limited number of places available, and they tend to sell out quickly. Once they are full, no further places will be available. Submit your application as soon as possible to ensure you don’t miss the opportunity to study in one of our prestigious locations.
