#Oxford #13-15 years old #Maximum class size of 8 #From £6995
Biology
The Biology summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning and is priced from £6,995.
Learning
Outline
Biology Oxford summer school at Oxford Summer Courses for ages 13-15 years. Study Biology with Oxford Summer Courses. Study Biology with us, and you’ll focus on your expert tutor's discipline – from biochemistry to plant sciences or zoology. From the smallest cells to the largest flora, we’ll observe the relationships between organisms and their environments. From ecology to your own anatomy, discover the composition and functions of life itself on our insightful Biology course. Explore the living world around us and build your knowledge on cells, organisms, and their evolution for a solid base of skills and expertise that will translate to a wide range of career paths. Participate in a masterclass to acquire life skills such as teamwork, debating, and collaboration through an interactive workshop led by on-course staff. Set and reflect on ambitious goals with the support of our staff and engage in a reflection session to review the goals set at the beginning of the Oxford course and what you've learned so far.
Teaching methodology
Learning in a small group (no more than 8 students and often fewer) means that you get quality time with your teacher and ask as many questions as you like! Through interactive learning, our teachers will guide you through new concepts and assign you practice tasks to build your knowledge and skills. You will also have an opportunity for group work, independent research, and homework assignments to be discussed in class. Small classes mean everyone gets to have their say, and students learn from debating with one another, as well as from their tutor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to apply for Oxford Summer Courses?
To be eligible, applicants should:
- Be between 13-15 years old.
- Have a sufficient understanding of English to participate in academic discussions and coursework.
- Have a keen interest in exploring their chosen subject(s).
If you meet these requirements, we’d love to see your application!
How do I apply to Oxford Summer Courses?
Applying is easy! Follow these steps:
- Choose a Course: Select your subject, location, dates, and accommodation. You can add additional courses if you wish.
- Provide Student Info: Fill in your name, contact details, and a short personal statement about why you'd be a great fit.
- Enter School Info: Provide the name and address of your most recent school.
- Review & Submit: Double-check your details and submit your application.
After submission, our admissions team will review your application, and you’ll hear back within 2-3 days. Apply now!
Can I book more than one course?
Yes, you can book more than one course! During the application process, you will have the option to add additional courses either before or after your main course. The total price, including any additional courses, will be displayed before you proceed.
How can I set up a flexible payment plan?
After paying your deposit to secure your place, our admissions team will help you set up a bespoke payment plan. You can choose from options like monthly or bimonthly payments, and we will provide a detailed invoice outlining your instalment schedule. Learn more about payment plans.
Note: There are no additional fees for setting up a payment plan, and your place is secure once the deposit is paid.
What is the structure of the course?
The course is structured over two weeks, focusing on the immune system and how it can be leveraged to treat diseases like cancer.
Week 1: Understanding the Immune System (Example)
- Overview of the immune system.
- Exploring different lines of defense in the body.
- Functions of immune cells and how they combat diseases.
Week 2: Cancer and Immunotherapy (Example)
- Origins and hallmarks of cancer.
- Key treatments for cancer, including immunotherapy.
- Practical case studies on immunotherapy and its benefits over traditional treatments like chemotherapy.
Note: This is an example structure. The actual content may vary depending on the tutor’s expertise and student preferences. Students will have the opportunity to discuss their learning goals with admissions to tailor the course.
What will I learn by the end of the course?
By the end of the course, students may:
- Gain an understanding of how the immune system works and its role in protecting the body from diseases.
- Learn about the origins of cancer and different treatment methods, focusing on the use of immunotherapy.
- Develop research and presentation skills by investigating different diseases and sharing findings with classmates.
- Build critical thinking skills through discussions and group work on scientific topics.
Note: Learning objectives may vary based on student interests, which will be discussed during the admissions process.
What materials should I prepare before the course starts?
Students are encouraged to do pre-course preparation to maximise their learning. Suggested resources include:
Read:
- Understanding the Immune System: NIH Guide to Immunology
- Research an immune disorder or a type of vaccine on WebMD to get familiar with the concepts covered in class.
Optional Extension:
- Prepare a short presentation on a disease of your choice, focusing on how the immune system responds to it. For background research, you can explore disease information on Mayo Clinic.
Note: These are example resources. Specific materials may vary depending on tutor and student preferences. Students will be informed of the required materials in advance to allow enough time to prepare.
How will this course benefit my future studies?
This course provides an excellent foundation for students interested in biology and medical sciences. It introduces key concepts in immunology and cancer treatment, preparing students for further exploration in these fields. The combination of practical work, research, and discussions will also help develop critical thinking and analytical skills.
What is expected from students during the course?
You are expected to:
- Actively participate in seminars, group activities, and discussions.
- Complete independent research assignments, including preparing presentations on diseases and immune responses.
- Engage with the subject matter, asking questions and exploring new ideas with curiosity.
The course is designed to be interactive, combining mini-lectures, practical work, and group discussions to deepen your understanding of biology.
How does Oxford Summer Courses ensure the safeguarding and wellbeing of students aged 13-15?
For students aged 13-15, Oxford Summer Courses takes safeguarding seriously. All staff are DBS-checked and trained in safeguarding policies. We offer 24/7 on-site security, with supervision and curfews to maintain a safe environment. Our safeguarding policies are designed to balance growing independence with necessary safety measures, ensuring students feel supported.
The Summer Courses experience
For ages 13-15: Our Oxford programme blends academic exploration, curriculum enrichment, and social engagement. Students participate in two daily lessons with Oxford tutors, ensuring interactive learning in small class sizes. Directed study sessions offer dedicated homework time with on-course staff available for assistance.
Oxford Summer School Accommodation
Typical outings
1 / 10
Review
Stay in the City of Oxford
For ages 13-15: Residing in Oxford provides diverse experiences. City tours and orientations introduce students to the city's highlights, while planned activities and excursions allow deep immersion in local culture. Learn more about our Oxford summer school for ages 13-15.
Accommodation
Nestled within the University of Oxford’s most iconic colleges, including Lady Margaret Hall, New College, Somerville College, and Worcester College, students will experience life at one of the world’s top universities. Accommodation will be assigned based on room availability and the student's age group.
Food and catering
Ages 13-15: Full-board accommodations with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided. Ages 16-17 and 18-24: Half-board accommodations with breakfast and dinner. Lunch is not provided, but local restaurant recommendations will be offered by staff.
Timetable
Discover our sample timetable for learners aged 13-15 and experience the immersive learning of Oxford Summer Courses. Our small group tutorials and seminars, led by expert tutors, will help prepare you for future academic pursuits and professional careers while considering the experience you already have in your chosen subject. With a dynamic social and cultural programme, you'll get valuable insights of what it's like to study at Oxford and create unforgettable memories.
Dates & Prices
6 Jul 2025 - 19 Jul 2025
Standard (shared bathroom)
available
6 Jul 2025 - 19 Jul 2025
Premium (en-suite room)
available
13 Jul 2025 - 26 Jul 2025
Standard (shared bathroom)
available
13 Jul 2025 - 26 Jul 2025
Premium (en-suite room)
available
20 Jul 2025 - 2 Aug 2025
Standard (shared bathroom)
available
20 Jul 2025 - 2 Aug 2025
Premium (en-suite room)
available
27 Jul 2025 - 9 Aug 2025
Standard (shared bathroom)
available
27 Jul 2025 - 9 Aug 2025
Premium (en-suite room)
available
3 Aug 2025 - 16 Aug 2025
Standard (shared bathroom)
available
3 Aug 2025 - 16 Aug 2025
Premium (en-suite room)
available
10 Aug 2025 - 23 Aug 2025
Standard (shared bathroom)
available
10 Aug 2025 - 23 Aug 2025
Premium (en-suite room)
available
17 Aug 2025 - 30 Aug 2025
Standard (shared bathroom)
available
17 Aug 2025 - 30 Aug 2025
Premium (en-suite room)
available