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, focusing on solar energy systems and broader sustainability concepts.

Week 1: Solar Energy Systems (Example)

• Solar radiation (geometrics and terminology).
• Components of solar thermal systems: solar panels, hot water tanks, pipes.
• Planning and calculation of solar thermal systems.

Week 2: Sustainability & Energy Transition (Example)

• Sustainability and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
• The energy transition and circular economy.
• Photovoltaic systems and biogas systems.
• Access to sustainable energy in refugee camps.

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:

• Understand the technical aspects of solar energy systems, including solar thermal and photovoltaic systems.
• Learn about sustainability principles and how they apply to engineering.
• Explore the role of renewable energy in global development, particularly within the UN SDGs framework.
• Develop skills in system planning, component analysis, and sustainable engineering practices.

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 the Introduction and Conclusion of this article on creating a sustainable business model: Sustainable Business Model.
• Write a short summary (no more than 300 words) on what you found interesting and why.

Optional extension:

• Review technical specifications of solar thermal system components to better understand the design and planning process.

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 engineering, sustainability, or renewable energy. You will develop practical skills in sustainable system design and gain knowledge of global energy challenges—valuable for careers in environmental engineering, renewable energy, or international development.

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

You are not required to have prior knowledge of sustainable engineering, but you are expected to:

• Actively participate in seminars and tutorials.
• Complete independent research on solar energy systems.
• Engage in discussions on sustainability and the role of engineering in global energy transitions.

The course is designed to encourage independent thinking and hands-on learning in the field of sustainable energy.

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.