#
Oxford
#
13-15
 years old
#
Maximum class size of 8
#
From £6,495
#
This course is selling fast

Biology and Chemistry

The Biology and Chemistry summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, hosted at Oxford colleges, is designed for 13-15-year-old students and is priced from £6,495. The first course begins on 29 June 2025, with limited places available across June, July, and August. Each course has only 8 places available, and they are filling up quickly. Many students have already secured their place—apply now to avoid missing out.

Student Avatar Images
Filling Fast
Limited Spaces Available

Learning

Outline

Biology and Chemistry is designed for 13–15-year-olds who want to explore the science of life and matter through both theory and hands-on discovery. Students will develop key skills in scientific thinking as they explore topics such as genetics, molecular biology, organic chemistry, and environmental science. They’ll be encouraged to question ideas, analyse data, and apply the scientific method to real-world challenges. We don’t follow a fixed curriculum—our tutors tailor the course to the group’s interests, making every learning experience engaging, relevant, and thought-provoking. The course also includes a masterclass focused on essential life skills like teamwork and problem-solving, along with a reflection session to help students track their goals and progress

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

What happens if the course I want is full?

Since spaces are limited, once a course is full, we are unable to accept additional students. We recommend applying early to avoid disappointment.

How soon should I apply to secure my place?

We recommend applying as soon as possible. Spaces are in high demand, and many courses fill up well in advance. The earlier you apply, the better your chance of securing your preferred course dates and accommodation type.

How many spaces are available for each course?

Each course has a limited number of spaces available across multiple accommodation options—Plus, Superior, and Premier. With two-week courses running from 29 June to 30 August 2025, we recommend securing your spot early as spaces fill up quickly.

When do courses begin, and how long do they run for?

Courses begin on 29 June 2025, with two-week courses running until 30 August 2025. Spaces are already filling up fast, so apply now to avoid missing out.

The Oxford Summer Courses experience

Get ready to explore life at its most fascinating. On our Biology and Chemistry course for ages 13–15, your child will delve into the wonders of living organisms and the building blocks of matter. From genetics and ecosystems to atoms and reactions, they’ll develop a strong foundation in the sciences — and their curiosity will guide the way. With no fixed curriculum, students are encouraged to share their interests when they apply, and our expert tutors will tailor lessons to reflect those passions wherever possible.

With classes capped at no more than 8 students (and often fewer), they’ll benefit from close support and meaningful discussion in every session. Through interactive learning, tutors introduce new concepts and guide students through structured tasks, including group work, debates, and independent research. Directed study sessions also provide time for homework and consolidation, with support from on-course staff.

Outside the classroom, the summer experience continues with social and cultural activities, off-site excursions, and evening events — all culminating in a graduation ceremony and celebratory disco. It’s a summer of discovery, connection, and scientific exploration.

Oxford Summer School Accommodation

Lady Margaret Hall
Find out more
St Benet’s at St Hilda’s
Find out more
Worcester College
Find out more
British Museum

The British Museum, located in the heart of London, is one of the world's most renowned museums, housing a vast and diverse collection of over 8 million historical artefacts from all corners of the globe. Founded in 1753, the museum covers over 2 million years of human history, from ancient civilisations to modern times.

Warwick Castle

Visiting Warwick Castle is an opportunity to explore the rich history of this magnificent medieval fortress. It dates back to the 11th century and has played a significant role in English history. Students can explore the castle's impressive collection of buildings and exhibitions, as well as witness jousting tournaments, falconry displays, and other live shows.

Ashmolean Museum

The Ashmolean Museum in Oxford, is one of the world's oldest and most prestigious museums, founded in 1683. Its collection of over 1 million objects spans from ancient Egypt to contemporary art, including archaeological treasures, fine art, and rare manuscripts, making it a must-see destination for art, history, and culture enthusiasts.

Tower of London

The Tower of London is a historic castle and fortress that has served as a royal palace, prison, and even a zoo over the centuries. Visitors can explore its impressive collection of buildings and exhibitions, including the iconic White Tower, the Crown Jewels, and the medieval palace. They can also learn about the infamous prisoners who were held in the tower over the centuries, including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes.

Westminster, London

Visiting Westminster in London is a must-see for anyone interested in the city's rich history and iconic landmarks. This historic district is located in the heart of London and boasts several of the city's most famous attractions, including the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace.

Bath

Visiting Bath is a must-see attraction, as it is home to some of the best-preserved Roman architecture in the world and the ancient Roman Baths. Visitors can also explore Georgian architecture, such as the Royal Crescent and the Jane Austen Centre, which celebrates the life of the famous author.

Blenheim Palace

Blenheim Palace is an impressive example of baroque architecture in Britain, home to Sir Winston Churchill. Visitors can explore the state rooms, stroll through the gardens, and try their hand at the challenging maze. It also houses a butterfly house, model village, and miniature train, providing entertainment for all ages.

Oxford

Oxford is a world-renowned university city with stunning architecture, idyllic cobblestone streets, and rich history. It is home to some of the most iconic university buildings in the world, such as the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College, which inspired the Hogwarts dining hall in the Harry Potter movies. Visiting Oxford is like taking a step back in time and discovering the quintessential beauty of England.

Portsmouth

Visiting Portsmouth offers an opportunity to explore the rich maritime history of the UK. The city has played a significant role in the country's naval history, and students can learn about this at the historic dockyard, which is home to several iconic ships. They can also explore the Mary Rose Museum, which houses the remains of Henry VIII's flagship, and the National Museum of the Royal Navy.

Bristol

Discover the wonders of Bristol, one of the UK's coolest cities, as you explore its many attractions. Step aboard Brunel's engineering marvel, the SS Great Britain, and delve into its fascinating history. Get hands-on with science at We The Curious, gaze in wonder at the Planetarium, and uncover even more of Bristol's secrets as you explore this vibrant and eclectic city.

Typical outings

1
/
5
Aryaman
India
"Chemistry has always been my favourite subject, and my tutor made me love it even more. He shared insights not in books. An incredible learning experience."
Erin
Canada
"The course at Oxford Summer Courses made me realise that chemistry is all around me and there is much more than just the classroom."

Reviews

1
/
5
See our 323 review on
Trustpilot logo

Stay in the City of Oxford

Stay in the City of Oxford

Stay in our Oxford Summer School

Stay in our Oxford Summer School

Stay in our Oxford Summer School

We know how important it is for young learners to feel confident, independent, and supported — and our summer school experience in Oxford is designed with that in mind.

While they study Biology and Chemistry this summer as part of our 13–15s programme, your child will stay at one of the Oxford colleges where we host our courses. With shared living spaces, on-course staff available to support academic and personal needs, and a warm, welcoming environment, it’s an inspiring place to experience life in a world-renowned academic city.

Whether they’re relaxing after class, taking in the city’s rich scientific heritage, or spending time with new friends, it’s all part of the Oxford experience.

Accommodation

For students attending the Oxford 13-15 course, accommodation is based on the selected tier. In the Classic Tier, students will stay in a single or twin room, with final room assignment confirmed by us at a later date. In the Plus Tier, students can select their preferred single or twin room. The Superior Tier guarantees an ensuite room, providing additional comfort and privacy. For the Premier Tier, our concierge service will help select the best available accommodation based on the student’s preferences.

Food and catering

Meals are provided on a full-board basis, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals are served at the accommodation or at local restaurants, ensuring a variety of dining options.

Ofentse M
DPhil Materials, University of Oxford - Ofentse specialises in Applied Chemistry, Materials Science and Electron Microscopy. His research work focuses on innovative and advanced in-situ gas-phase and ex-situ STEM-EELS and ADF imaging techniques in the characterization of metal catalysts in the Biomass-to-Liquid technology for the production of clean fuels using aberration-corrected electron microscopy.

Tutors

1
/
5

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

What is included?
  • Teaching: Academic tuition.
  • Meals: Full board includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Sunday to Thursday. Friday includes breakfast only, and Saturday no meals are provided.
  • Accommodation: Housing in Resa Vallehermoso.
  • Extracurricular Activities & Excursions: Included activities and excursions are available every afternoon, evening, and throughout the weekend.
  • Transportation: Transportation for included activities.
  • Use of Athletic and Recreation Facilities: Access to athletic and recreation facilities during the program.
  • Safety & Supervision: Safety and supervision are provided for students throughout the course.
Spain
What is included?
  • Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
  • Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
  • Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
  • Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
  • Airport Transfer: Included.
  • Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
  • Merch: Backpack, notepad, and water bottle.
  • Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
  • Customer Service: Standard.
  • Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
Private
What is included?
  • Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
  • Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
  • Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
  • Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
  • Airport Transfer: Included.
  • Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
  • Merch: Backpack, notepad, and water bottle.
  • Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
  • Customer Service: Standard.
  • Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
Standard
What is included?
  • Teaching: 13-24: Tutorials (1-2 students per tutor), seminars, and workshops.
    • Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
  • Accommodation: Single or twin room (confirmed by us at a later date).
  • Certificate: Digital.
  • Customer Service: Standard.
  • Merch: Notepad, pen.
  • Airport Transfer: Not included.
  • Insurance: Not included.
  • Flexibility: Not included.
  • Future Coaching Session: Not included.
  • Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
Classic
What is included?
  • Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
  • Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
  • Accommodation: Concierge helps select the best available option.
  • Certificate: Framed, signed (wet signature).
  • Customer Service: Enhanced (OxSC concierge).
  • Merch: Bottle, notepad, pen, backpack (premium merch).
  • Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only. No time restrictions.).
  • Insurance: Platinum coverage (top-level protection on cancellation, medical, baggage).
  • Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
  • Future Coaching Session: Included (1 session).
  • Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
Premier
What is included?
  • Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
  • Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
  • Accommodation: Guaranteed ensuite room.
  • Certificate: Paper.
  • Customer Service: Standard.
  • Merch: Bottle, notepad, pen (enhanced merch).
  • Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
  • Insurance: Enhanced coverage (higher limits on cancellation, medical, baggage).
  • Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
  • Future Coaching Session: Not included.
  • Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
Superior
What is included?
  • Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
  • Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
  • Accommodation: Select your preferred single or twin room.
  • Certificate: Paper.
  • Customer Service: Standard.
  • Merch: Notepad, pen.
  • Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
  • Insurance: Standard coverage (cancellation, medical, baggage).
  • Flexibility: Not included.
  • Future Coaching Session: Not included.
  • Friends & Family Discounts: Not included.
Plus
If you don't see the course you want to apply for in the list, please contact us.
First name
This field is required
Last name
This field is required
Email
Please enter a valid email address
Date of birth
This field is required
Country
This field is required
Phone number
This field is required
Accommodation
This field is required
Course date
This field is required
Course tier
This field is required
Subject
This field is required
Personal statement
Please explain why you or the applicant want to join the course(s) at Oxford Summer Courses. Include any academic, personal, or career interests, goals, or achievements. We require this information to join our waitlist to ensure that you are a candidate for one of our courses. (All personal statements must be written in English.)
This field is required
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.