English Literature and Creative Writing
Join the English Literature and Creative Writing summer school at the award-winning Oxford Summer Courses in 2026. Hosted in historic Cambridge colleges for ambitious 13–15-year-olds, each class is limited to just 8 places. Apply now to secure your place.
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Learning
Outline
English Literature and Creative Writing is designed for 13–15-year-olds who want to develop their writing and analytical skills. Students will explore classic and contemporary literature, learning how to create compelling characters, develop engaging plots, and find their own writing style. They’ll study the power of language and poetry while improving their ability to communicate ideas clearly and creatively. We don’t follow a fixed curriculum—our tutors tailor the course to the group’s interests, making learning both inspiring and relevant. The course also includes a masterclass on teamwork and collaboration, 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.
The city of Cambridge, with over 800 years of academic tradition, has long inspired writers, poets, and thinkers who shaped the way we tell stories and interpret literature. From its historic libraries to its role in fostering generations of creativity, Cambridge has been a home for literary imagination. As part of the 13–15 English Literature and Creative Writing programme, your child will live in a city where scholarship and creativity come together. The city of Cambridge provides the perfect backdrop for learning, with its historic colleges, atmospheric streets, and a tradition of exploring the written word.
Accommodation is in single or twin rooms. In the Classic Tier, rooms are assigned; in the Plus Tier, students can choose between single or twin. All include shared spaces and on-course staff support.
Meals are provided on a full-board basis, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner included. Students eat in the college dining hall or at local restaurants. All dietary requirements are catered for.
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The Oxford Summer Courses Experience
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Get ready to read, write, and create. On our English Literature and Creative Writing course for ages 13–15, your child will explore literary classics while developing their own writing style. They’ll study novels, poetry, and plays, while also learning to craft their own stories, poems, and essays. Whether they’re passionate about writing fiction, poetry, or exploring literary techniques, there’s room for every creative voice. With no fixed curriculum, students are invited to share their interests when they apply, and our expert tutors will tailor the course content to reflect those passions wherever possible.
With no more than 8 students per class (and often fewer), they’ll receive personalised support, allowing each student to share ideas, develop their voice, and engage in meaningful discussions. Sessions combine tutor-led analysis with creative workshops, peer feedback, and independent writing tasks. Dedicated study sessions give students time to reflect on their learning and work on their writing, with guidance from on-course staff.
Beyond the classroom, students enjoy a full summer experience — including social events, excursions, and a final graduation ceremony and celebratory disco. It’s a summer that fuels imagination, builds confidence, and inspires a love of words.
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.
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.
Visiting Canterbury is a journey back in time to the heart of medieval England. The charming city boasts a rich history and stunning architecture, including the iconic Canterbury Cathedral, which has been a place of worship for over 1,400 years. Visitors can also immerse themselves in the world of Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, and even try on clothing from the era for a truly authentic experience.
Greenwich is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, science, or exploration. The Royal Observatory offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of space, time, and navigation, while the Cutty Sark provides a unique opportunity to step aboard a historic tea clipper from the 19th century. At the National Maritime Museum, visitors can uncover stories about how the modern world was shaped by centuries of seafaring exploration.
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.
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.
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.
Typical outings
Timetable
Dates & Prices
- 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.
- 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.
- Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not 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.
- Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not 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).
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Related Courses
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Frequently Asked Questions
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!
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!
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.
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.
The course is structured over two weeks, focusing on how writers explore the self and use personal experiences as a foundation for creative writing.
Week 1: Beginnings (Example)
- How (and why) do we write the self?
- Writing exercises based on diaries, prose, and poetry.
- Creating personal reflections and life writing.
Week 2: Complications (Example)
- Case study of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes.
- Literary theory: Poststructuralism.
- Writing the self in the 21st century.
- Recap and group feedback on creative writing pieces.
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.
By the end of the course, students may:
- Develop an understanding of life writing and how personal experience influences literary creation.
- Gain skills in writing and critiquing poetry, prose, and creative nonfiction.
- Explore literary theory and how it applies to understanding self-expression in writing.
- Build confidence in sharing and receiving feedback on creative work.
Note: Learning objectives may vary based on student interests, which will be discussed during the admissions process.
Students are encouraged to do pre-course preparation to maximise their learning. Suggested resources include:
Read:
- Jeannette Winterson, Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit: Google Books
- Jay Parini, Life Writing in The Cambridge Companion to Prose (2021).
- Explore Writers Toolbox with tips from Neil Gaiman: Writers Toolbox
Optional Extension:
- Begin brainstorming your own life writing piece, reflecting on a personal experience or memory that resonates with you.
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.
This course provides an excellent foundation for students interested in English literature, creative writing, and self-expression through writing. It helps build analytical skills in interpreting literature, as well as practical experience in writing prose and poetry. The feedback-based approach will also develop confidence in sharing and critiquing written work.
You are expected to:
- Actively participate in seminars, writing workshops, and group discussions.
- Complete independent reading and writing assignments, including diary entries and life writing exercises.
- Engage with peer feedback and contribute to group critiques in a respectful and constructive manner.
The course is designed to encourage creativity, self-expression, and collaboration, helping students refine their writing skills and deepen their understanding of literary techniques.
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.
Since spaces are limited, once a course is full, we are unable to accept additional students. We recommend applying early to avoid disappointment.
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.
