Philosophy

Be argumentative – but do it with such confidence that the ideas your put forward are simply too convincing to be challenged. Learn how on our insightful Philosophy course.

Oxford

Maximum class size of 8

13-15 year olds

From £4845

Learning

Outline

Where better to explore Philosophy than Oxford – where it has been the pinnacle of study for over 800 years? Study Philosophy with us and you’ll build a solid knowledge and develop the skills you need to both create and deconstruct strong arguments while closely analysing famous philosophers through the ages.

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 Experience

You’ll have time to explore Oxford for yourself, as well as forging new friendships for the future, and there’s an action-packed programme of social activities, field trips and excursions to help bring your learning to life. We might even head to London for the day.

You’re not a tourist, so we won’t treat you like one. Instead we’ll help you uncover genuine local treasures and show you what life here is really like, from the inside.

Typical outings

Westminster, London

The Houses of Parliament, Big Ben, Westminster Cathedral, St James’s Park and Buckingham Palace – just a few of the world-famous landmarks in this part of London. Enjoy being at the heart of our vibrant capital.

Typical outings

Bath

Explore the cobbled streets and Georgian architecture of this historic English city. And discover the secrets of the literary world of Jane Austen, the Roman Baths, and its lively shops and cafés.

Typical outings

Blenheim Palace

Uncover the amazing history of the palace where Winston Churchill was born. And explore incredible state rooms, the tricky garden maze, the butterfly house, the beautiful grounds, and much more.

Typical outings

Ashmolean Museum

This world-famous museum of art and archaeology in the heart of Oxford University unveils a world of incredible historical artefacts, Egyptian mummies, Picasso, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and much more.

Typical outings

Warwick Castle

1,000 years of jaw-dropping history, magic, myth and adventure merge at the medieval castle built by William the Conqueror. Discover dragons, dark dungeons, and spectacular history brought brilliantly to life.

Typical outings

British Museum

Discover amazing treasures and the history of people from around the world. Then explore the heart of London from Covent Garden and Trafalgar Square, to the National Gallery and St James' Park.

Reviews

"I enjoyed our conversations about religion and ethics in philosophy class because I was able to form a more complex opinion on those topics with the help of our in-depth discussions."

Alisha India

Reviews

"My tutor was really insightful and helped us ease into the subject. We had many debates on our views on certain philosophical debates such as ‘Do we really have Knowledge?’ The best part was that we were in a small class, about 3 of use, so everyone was included in the discussions and nobody was left out."

Chamanda United Kingdom

Reviews

"My course, philosophy, even though very dense and challenging, has opened my mind to so many new perspectives of certain ideas that I hadn't even considered."

Narkiz Turkey

Reviews

"The course gave me an insight into how to make arguments in support of or against certain positions which is useful in Law and the tutor assisted me in how to structure these arguments."

Alexandra Greece

Stay in Oxford

Where it all began. Oxford is home to the oldest university in the English-speaking world, and it’s also where Oxford Summer Courses was born. Known as the city of dreaming spires, Oxford has educated and inspired world-changing thinkers through the ages. And its renowned tutorial teaching keeps the university among the global elite. But it’s so much more than books. This is a lively, cosmopolitan and open-minded place. There’s room for everyone, with something new (or very old) to discover at every turn.

Accommodation: All of the accommodation in Oxford is based within Oxford University college grounds, and the beautiful buildings that date back in some cases to the 13th century, present a real sense of the traditional university. Although the bedrooms have been appropriately modernised, they remain in-keeping with the college surroundings with lots of character and charm. Accommodating full-time students during term time, the rooms are practical and usually have some desk space for quiet study time. Each corridor houses a pastoral member of staff, who oversees students throughout the night. We are able to offer twin or single bedrooms with either shared or private bathroom facilities.

Food and catering: You will get the chance to eat at a range of Oxford's best restaurants and cafes during the week, and each Friday evening you will experience an Oxford University formal hall. As an Oxford Summer Courses student, you will get to attend two formal halls per course, where you can expect an excellent dining experience and an electric atmosphere, as students and staff celebrate the achievements of the week together. Usually followed by a traditional party and graduation ceremony it really is an experience of a lifetime, so don’t forget your cameras for this one!