Oxford Summer Courses Safeguarding Guide
A Safe and Supportive Learning Environment
At Oxford Summer Courses, your child’s safety and well-being are our highest priorities. We know that sending your child to a summer school can feel daunting — which is why we’ve created a secure, structured, and inclusive environment where every student feels supported.Our safeguarding policies cover every stage of the journey — from application to departure — with experienced staff, clear behavioural guidelines, and a dedicated 24/7 welfare team ensuring students are well cared for. Students and parents receive detailed pre-arrival information to feel prepared, and a full safeguarding briefing on arrival outlines expectations, rules, and support systems. Apply with confidence, knowing your child will be in expert, caring hands.
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Our Safeguarding Commitment
At Oxford Summer Courses, student safety is at the heart of everything we do. We have a strict zero-tolerance policy for bullying, discrimination, and harassment. Every student is expected to contribute to a respectful and positive learning environment. Students and parents receive a clear set of rules before arrival through the Medical and Consent Form, which they must read and confirm before attending. These policies ensure that every student feels safe, respected, and supported throughout their course.
Our safeguarding commitment extends beyond policies — it shapes how we create an environment where students can thrive. Students are encouraged to speak up about any concerns, knowing that they will be taken seriously and handled with care. Immediate dismissal may occur for serious disciplinary issues to ensure that student welfare always comes first. Respect and inclusivity are fundamental expectations, and every student is encouraged to contribute to a positive, welcoming atmosphere.
Dedicated Safeguarding Team
Our safeguarding team is made up of highly trained professionals who are available 24/7 to provide support. Every tutor, teacher, and seasonal staff member undergoes DBS checks to meet the highest safeguarding standards. Each course location has dedicated safeguarding staff, offering age-appropriate supervision and tailored support to create a safe, structured, and inclusive environment.
Staff roles are clearly defined to ensure consistent support. House Parents are available at St John’s Beaumont and Eton to provide pastoral care for junior students (ages 9–12), while Welfare Officers are responsible for student well-being at our Oxford and Cambridge locations. Course Directors oversee overall student safety and support, while Activity Coordinators and Study Leaders ensure that students remain engaged and supported throughout their course. Our team is also trained in conflict resolution, student support, and emergency response, ensuring that any issues are handled swiftly and professionally.
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Student Safety Measures
We take proactive steps to ensure student safety at all times. Our team monitors well-being and behaviour, enforces strict safety protocols, and intervenes when necessary to maintain a respectful and positive atmosphere. Male and female students are housed separately in college or dormitory buildings, and junior students (ages 9–12) are always accompanied during free time.
On arrival, students receive a full safeguarding briefing from the Course Director, explaining rules, expectations, and safeguarding procedures. Staff closely monitor student behaviour and respond to any concerns quickly and effectively. Regular fire drills are conducted during the course to familiarise students with safety protocols. Supervised free time is structured to ensure that younger students remain in safe groups while still having the opportunity to explore and engage with their peers.
Safeguarding Roles by Age Group
Ensuring student safety requires age-appropriate supervision and dedicated professionals who understand the unique needs of different student groups. Our safeguarding team provides tailored support, ensuring that every student receives the appropriate level of care and protection.
For ages 13–24, Course Directors and Deputy Course Directors are responsible for site functionality and student welfare, supported by Welfare Officers who handle day-to-day safeguarding compliance. Course Leaders manage small student groups, ensuring personalised attention and structured activities. Study Leaders support tutors and oversee the academic experience.
For ages 9–12, House Parents provide consistent pastoral care, while Welfare Managers ensure that all safeguarding protocols are followed. Activity Managers oversee planning and excursions, ensuring that students remain engaged and safe.
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Travel and Arrival Support
Arriving in a new country can feel overwhelming — but we're here to ensure a smooth, stress-free journey for every student. From airport transfers to immigration guidance, our team provides structured support every step of the way. Before arrival, students and parents receive detailed travel information, including airport transfer options, travel requirements, and arrival procedures. Our dedicated team is available 24/7 to assist students through every stage of their journey. Learn more in our Airport and Travel Guide.
We offer complimentary airport transfers for students arriving at London Heathrow. For students registered as unaccompanied minors with their airline, we provide a dedicated service where staff meet students at the airport, assist them through check-in and security, and ensure they are safely handed over to the airline’s staff. This service is available at a cost of £145 for departures. Students are also given a visa support letter and full guidance on immigration procedures to make the arrival process as smooth as possible.
Student Rules and Behaviour Expectations
We maintain high standards of behaviour to ensure every student feels safe, respected, and supported throughout their course. Our expectations foster a positive and inclusive environment where students can focus on learning and personal growth.
Bullying or harassment, including discriminatory behaviour based on race, religion, gender, age, disability, sexuality, or appearance, is strictly prohibited. Any serious breaches of the rules may result in immediate dismissal at the student’s own expense. Respect and inclusivity are non-negotiable — every student is expected to contribute to a welcoming and positive atmosphere. Students receive a full code of conduct before the course begins, and staff are trained to respond quickly and effectively to any behaviour issues.
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Reporting Concerns
We take every concern seriously, ensuring a swift and professional resolution to maintain a safe and supportive environment. Students and parents receive all relevant contact details before the course begins so they know how to reach our safeguarding team at any time.
Students are encouraged to speak up about any issues regarding safety, discrimination, or well-being. Concerns can be reported confidentially and will be handled with professionalism and care. Our safeguarding team is trained to provide expert guidance and reassurance, ensuring that students feel supported and valued throughout their time with us.
Why Parents Trust Us
With over a decade of experience, we are trusted leaders in delivering safe, structured, and enriching summer programmes. Parents choose us not only for our academic excellence but for the outstanding welfare and safeguarding measures we provide.
Our proven track record speaks for itself — thousands of students have attended our courses since 2010, and many return year after year. Every tutor and staff member is DBS-checked and safeguarding-trained, ensuring the highest standards of student care. Our dedicated welfare team is available 24/7, providing constant supervision and immediate assistance whenever needed. Parents trust us because they know their child will be safe, supported, and well cared for.
Apply with Confidence
After applying, an advisor will personally reach out to answer your questions and guide you through every step of our safeguarding policies and support systems. If your child is accepted, you will receive regular updates on supervision, safety guidelines, and pastoral care. Before arrival, we provide a detailed welcome pack outlining our safeguarding measures, emergency contacts, and the dedicated welfare team available 24/7. Apply now and secure your place — knowing your child will be fully supported and cared for throughout their time with us.
