English Literature

To be eligible, applicants should:

• Be between 16-17 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:

1. Choose a Course: Select your subject, location, dates, and accommodation. You can add additional courses if you wish.
2. Provide Student Info: Fill in your name, contact details, and a short personal statement about why you'd be a great fit.
3. Enter School Info: Provide the name and address of your most recent school.
4. 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 typically structured over two weeks, with each week focusing on different aspects of English literature.

Week 1: Exploring Literary Themes and Genres (Example)

• Novel openings: Analysis of works by Dickens and Woolf.
• Sonnets: From Shakespeare to Auden.
• Texts related to paintings and other cultural objects.

Week 2: Literary Techniques and Critical Analysis (Example)

• Nature poetry: From medieval works to Seamus Heaney.
• Texts about death: Charlotte Bronte and Kate Atkinson.
• Themes of power and oppression in literature.

Note: This is an example structure. The actual content may vary based 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 in-depth understanding of English literature, covering different genres and themes.
• Analyse literary techniques and how they are used in novels, poetry, and essays.
• Explore various literary periods, from the 12th to the 21st century.
• Refine critical thinking and analytical skills through seminar discussions and tutorial assignments.

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:

• Readings of key novel openings: Dickens' David Copperfield and Woolf's To The Lighthouse.
• Additional reading: Virginia Woolf’s essay, Modern Fiction.
• Poetry handbook: John Lennard's The Poetry Handbook (2006) for preparation in seminars on poetry.

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 further studies in English literature, journalism, or creative writing. You will develop critical thinking, essay writing, and analytical skills, which are valuable for careers in writing, publishing, academia, and media.

Note: Career exploration opportunities may vary based on the session and guest speaker availability.

You are not required to have prior knowledge of English literature, but you are expected to:

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research and reading assignments.
• Engage in discussions about literary techniques, genres, and critical approaches.

The course is designed to deepen your appreciation of literature while improving your analytical and writing skills.

Note: The level of participation and engagement can be adapted to suit individual needs and preferences.

At Oxford Summer Courses, the safeguarding and wellbeing of our students aged 16-17 is our highest priority. All staff are fully trained in safeguarding policies and procedures, including enhanced DBS checks. We provide a safe and supportive environment with 24/7 on-site security, supervision when necessary, and curfews to ensure a secure atmosphere. Our policies are designed to offer age-appropriate care, balancing independence with safety.