Empowering Change Through Education

At Oxford Summer Courses, we believe learning should make a meaningful difference — not only in the lives of our students, but in the world around them. Our responsibility extends beyond the classroom, shaping how we teach, how we operate, and how we care for people and the planet. As a Certified B Corporation with a score of 102.4 (well above the benchmark of 80), we’re recognised for meeting exceptional standards of social and environmental performance. From sustainability initiatives to community partnerships, we’re committed to ensuring that education can be a force for positive change. Every decision we make — whether academic, operational, or environmental — is guided by a long-term vision of responsibility, fairness, and impact.

Our Sustainable Education Vision

We believe that world-class learning and sustainability belong together. Education should strengthen not just academic skills, but global awareness, responsibility, and a sense of personal agency. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to helping young people see how their learning connects with real-world progress.

Our sustainability efforts go beyond the classroom — from reducing operational emissions where possible to supporting low-carbon and community-focused initiatives at home and abroad. As our Co-Founder Harry Hortyn says, “We’re proud to deliver exceptional teaching while making a positive mark on the world.”

a guy in suit

Our Sustainability Pledge

Being a B Corp reflects our commitment to balancing purpose and performance. It holds us accountable to the highest standards of social and environmental responsibility, ensuring that our operations, partners, and policies support meaningful, measurable change. Our team works continuously to embed responsible choices into everything we do.

We invest in initiatives that protect ecosystems, support sustainable development, and encourage environmental awareness among our students. Every young person who joins an Oxford Summer Courses programme contributes to our wider impact — helping us fund projects that promote a cleaner, fairer, and more sustainable future.

Our Commitment to Continuous Improvement

Sustainability is an ongoing journey, and we are committed to evolving year after year. We review our operations regularly to identify opportunities to reduce waste, lower our footprint, and collaborate with partners who prioritise responsible practices. From travel choices to materials and suppliers, we aim to lead with integrity and purpose.

We also explore new initiatives that help us operate more responsibly, such as low-emission transport schemes and more sustainable product choices. Our goal is simple: to create a model of education that benefits students today while protecting opportunities for future generations.

Transforming Futures with Universify Education

We’re proud to work alongside our sister charity, Universify Education, to increase access to higher education for students who face systemic barriers. Through mentoring, workshops, and residential experiences, Universify empowers young people from underrepresented backgrounds to achieve their aspirations.

Since 2016, we’ve supported more than 900 students through financial contributions, volunteering, and shared resources. Many of these young people have progressed to leading universities — including Oxford and Cambridge — showing how meaningful support can shape a brighter, more inclusive future.

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Sustainable Choices for Branded Items

We carefully consider the environmental impact of the materials we use across our programmes. From eco-friendly backpacks made of recyclable materials to bamboo stationery and stainless-steel bottles, we prioritise products that reduce waste and encourage sustainable habits.

These small but meaningful choices underline our belief that sustainability should be part of everyday life. By integrating environmentally responsible materials into the student experience, we help reinforce positive behaviours that extend far beyond the summer.

Partnering with Climate Impact Partners

We contribute to a range of environmental initiatives that protect ecosystems and promote sustainable livelihoods. These projects include forest conservation efforts and low-carbon community programmes that reduce emissions while supporting long-term economic stability. Each initiative helps students see the global impact of collective action.

By supporting these projects, we encourage our community to recognise that sustainability is not theoretical — it is lived, practical, and urgently needed. These initiatives allow our students to connect their learning with real-world environmental challenges and understand the role they can play in shaping positive change.

Empowering Ghana with Gyapa Cookstoves

We carefully consider the environmental impact of the materials we use across our programmes. From eco-friendly backpacks made of recyclable materials to bamboo stationery and stainless-steel bottles, we prioritise products that reduce waste and encourage sustainable habits.

These small but meaningful choices underline our belief that sustainability should be part of everyday life. By integrating environmentally responsible materials into the student experience, we help reinforce positive behaviours that extend far beyond the summer.

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FAQs about Our Corporate Social Responsibility

What does Oxford Summer Courses do to operate responsibly?

We’re a Certified B Corporation, recognised for meeting high standards of social and environmental performance. Our approach includes responsible operations, sustainable materials, and partnerships that support positive global impact.

How does Oxford Summer Courses support access to education?

We partner with Universify Education, our sister charity, to widen participation in higher education. Since 2016, we’ve supported 900+ students through funding, office space, and volunteer time, helping more young people access top universities.

What environmental initiatives do you support?

We contribute to projects that protect ecosystems and reduce emissions — including rainforest conservation, cleaner cooking initiatives, and community-based sustainability programmes. These efforts help students see how education can contribute to global change.

How does sustainability show up in the student experience?

Sustainability is built into everyday choices, from recyclable backpacks and reusable water bottles to responsible suppliers and transport initiatives. Students learn in an environment that encourages awareness, responsibility, and thoughtful decision-making.

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With limited spaces and high demand, early applications give you the best choice of course, date, and location. Apply now to guarantee your summer with our award-winning programmes.

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