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Science Scholars
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Join the Science Scholars Summer School
At Oxford Summer Courses, our Science Scholars summer school is designed for students aged 12–14 who are curious about how the world works and want to explore different areas of science in a fun and engaging way. This Science Scholars summer school introduces key ideas from subjects such as biology, chemistry, and physics, while helping students develop curiosity, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
Students learn in small groups through interactive sessions led by experienced tutors who specialise in working with younger learners. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and collaborative learning, students are encouraged to explore ideas, ask questions, and think like scientists. By engaging with real-world examples and experiments, students gain an exciting introduction to science. If you’re ready to explore science, you can apply now to be considered for a place.
About Science
Science helps us understand how the world works, from the smallest particles to entire ecosystems. It includes a wide range of subjects, such as biology, chemistry, and physics, and plays a key role in areas like medicine, technology, and environmental studies.
Students interested in science often also explore Maths Scholars and Technology Scholars, where they can develop the skills and knowledge that support scientific thinking. At our Science Scholars summer school, students are introduced to these connections in an accessible and engaging way.
Learning and Thinking Like a Scientist
Preparation for science is about curiosity, observation, and asking questions. Rather than following a fixed reading list, students on our Science Scholars summer school are introduced to concepts through guided activities and interactive learning during the course.
Students are encouraged to explore how things work, test ideas, and think critically about what they observe. This approach helps build confidence and curiosity, while developing foundational skills that are useful across subjects such as Maths Scholars and Technology Scholars.
How You’ll Learn
Our Science Scholars summer school is built around small-group teaching, allowing students to actively participate and explore ideas through discussion, activities, and collaboration. Tutors guide students through scientific concepts while encouraging them to share ideas and take part in group learning.
Academic time is structured around small group classes, with students receiving 12 hours of lessons over one week. The lessons are designed to be fun, interactive, and engaging, helping students develop curiosity and confidence in science. Teaching is based around interactive presentations, hands-on activities, group discussions, and Q&A sessions, ensuring that every student is involved in the learning process.
There is no fixed curriculum. Tutors adapt sessions based on their experience and the interests of the group, meaning that each course is slightly different and tailored to the students taking part.
Learn from Supportive Tutors
Our Science Scholars tutors are experienced educators who specialise in teaching younger students. They create a supportive and encouraging environment where students feel comfortable asking questions, exploring ideas, and trying new things.
Many of our tutors enjoy teaching science because it allows them to introduce students to exciting concepts and encourage curiosity about the world. This creates a positive and engaging learning environment where students can develop both confidence and interest in science. To learn more, explore our tutor profiles page and discover their backgrounds.
What You’ll Explore
Topics explored on our Science Scholars summer school vary depending on the tutor and the interests of the group, but are designed to introduce students to a range of scientific ideas. Students may explore concepts from biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as how science is applied in everyday life.
As the course develops, students may take part in practical activities and discussions that encourage them to think critically and solve problems. These sessions highlight how science helps us understand and improve the world around us.
Skills, Confidence, and Is This the Right Course for You?
Taking part in our Science Scholars summer school helps students develop important skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, teamwork, and curiosity. It also builds confidence in exploring new ideas and understanding how the world works.
This course is particularly suited to students who enjoy asking questions, experimenting, and discovering new things. Exploring science through a Science Scholars summer school allows students to build confidence and develop a strong foundation for future learning — you can apply now to take the next step.
Don’t see the course you’re looking for?
Explore our full range of courses by subject, age, and location using our course finder. With over 40 subjects available across top locations, there’s something for everyone.
FAQs about Our Summer Courses
No, Oxford Summer Courses is a private education company. While we host our programmes at prestigious venues such as Oxford and Cambridge colleges, Harrow School, and international locations, we are not affiliated with or endorsed by any university or institution.
Our teaching style is tailored by age group. Students aged 9–12 benefit from interactive, hands-on learning. For ages 13–15, we offer seminars and small group discussions. For students aged 16–24, we use a tutorial-style approach, where participants engage deeply with subjects alongside expert tutors.
Accommodation varies by location and age group. Students may stay in university college residences, prestigious boarding schools, or high-quality residential venues. All options are fully supervised and include meals, comfortable rooms, and access to common areas and facilities.
We recommend applying early to secure your place. Our courses tend to fill up quickly — particularly in popular locations and subjects — and early applicants are more likely to secure their preferred dates and accommodation.
Explore Our
Summer Courses
Choose from over 40 subjects taught through flexible, age-appropriate programmes. Our tutors adapt their teaching methodologies to different age groups and shape course content around students’ interests, rather than following a fixed curriculum.
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