Technology Explorers
The Technology Explorers summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, held at Harrow School, is designed for 9-10-year-old students and is priced from £2,395. The first course begins on 6 July 2025, with courses running throughout July and August. Each course has only 15 spaces available, and they are filling up quickly. Many students have already secured their place—apply now to avoid missing out.
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Learning
Outline
Technology Explorers is designed for curious 9–10-year-olds who want to understand how technology shapes the world around us. From the basics of programming and electronics to design, modelling, and engineering, students will get hands-on with creative problem-solving activities. Rather than just hearing about how things work, they’ll explore it for themselves—learning by doing. We don’t follow a fixed curriculum—our tutors tailor the course to the group’s interests, keeping it exciting, relevant, and engaging. Each day also includes a reflection activity to help students absorb what they’ve learned.
Teaching methodology
Our teaching for 9-10-year-old students is focused on interactive and task-based learning. You will be taught by experienced primary teachers, who are there to inspire and engage you with the subjects they are passionate about. Our courses run over a week, and during this time you will develop your subject knowledge through multimedia presentations, group work, games, problem-solving, and project work with a meaningful real-life focus.
Frequently Asked Questions
To be eligible, applicants should:
- Be between 9-10 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:
- Choose a Course: Select your subject, location, dates, and accommodation. You can add additional courses if you wish.
- Provide Student Info: Fill in your name, contact details, and a short personal statement about why you'd be a great fit.
- Enter School Info: Provide the name and address of your most recent school.
- 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 structured over one week, focusing on the basics of coding and technology through engaging, hands-on lessons and activities.
Example Topics Covered
- What is coding? Understanding algorithms and debugging.
- Creating simple games using platforms like Hour of Code.
- Learning about loops, sequences, selection, and repetition in coding.
- Understanding how computers follow instructions and how we can use code to solve problems.
Teaching Format
Students will participate in 12 hours of lessons and 4 hours of supervised study time. The course will focus on teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking, with students actively participating in group discussions, hands-on coding activities, and collaborative projects. Lessons will be fun and interactive, guided by a tutor who will ensure each student is supported.
Note: These are example topics. Actual content may vary depending on the expertise of the tutor.
By the end of the course, students may:
- Understand the basics of coding, including how to write algorithms and debug programs.
- Learn to create simple games and solve problems using code.
- Gain confidence in working both independently and in groups to solve coding challenges.
- Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through hands-on coding activities.
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:
Try coding exercises:
- Hour of Code: Hour of Code
- BBC Bitesize: Introduction to Coding BBC Bitesize Coding
Optional Extension:
- Think of a daily task and try to write an algorithm for it, such as tying your shoelaces or making a sandwich.
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 students interested in technology and coding. It introduces key concepts in coding and encourages creative problem-solving. The hands-on approach will help students develop critical thinking and coding skills, preparing them for future studies in technology and computing.
You are expected to:
- Actively participate in lessons, group discussions, and coding tasks.
- Complete homework assignments, such as writing algorithms for everyday tasks.
- Engage with peers and tutors, contributing to a fun and interactive learning environment.
The course is designed to encourage curiosity, teamwork, and problem-solving in the world of coding and technology.
At Oxford Summer Courses, the safeguarding and wellbeing of our younger students aged 9-10 is our highest priority. All staff are fully trained in safeguarding policies and procedures, including enhanced DBS checks. We maintain a safe and secure environment through 24/7 on-site security, strict supervision, curfews, and age-appropriate care. Our staff ensure that students feel supported both physically and emotionally throughout their time with us.
Since spaces are limited, once a course is full, we are unable to accept additional students. We recommend applying early to avoid disappointment.
We recommend applying as soon as possible. Spaces are in high demand, and many courses fill up well in advance. The earlier you apply, the better your chance of securing your preferred course dates.
Each course has only 15 spaces available, and they fill up quickly. With weekly courses running from 6 July to 9 August 2025, we recommend securing your spot now before they sell out.
The first course begins on 6 July 2025, with weekly courses running until 9 August 2025. Spaces are already filling up fast, so apply now to avoid missing out.
The Oxford Summer Courses experience
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From robots to circuits and everything in between — on our Technology Explorers course for ages 9–10, your child will take their curiosity to the next level through hands-on, tech-inspired challenges. It’s an exciting introduction to the world of innovation, designed to inspire creative problem-solving and critical thinking.
With 12 one-hour sessions per week and class sizes capped at 15, they’ll receive close guidance as they explore basic coding, engineering concepts, digital design, and the role of technology in everyday life. Whether they’re building, testing, or learning how things work, each session is packed with discovery.
The learning continues outside the classroom too — with reflection time, off-site adventures, group games, and social events like themed discos and a graduation ceremony. It’s a summer of tech, teamwork, and unforgettable memories.
Visiting Warwick Castle is an opportunity to explore the rich history of this magnificent medieval fortress. It dates back to the 11th century and has played a significant role in English history. Students can explore the castle's impressive collection of buildings and exhibitions, as well as witness jousting tournaments, falconry displays, and other live shows.
The Tower of London is a historic castle and fortress that has served as a royal palace, prison, and even a zoo over the centuries. Visitors can explore its impressive collection of buildings and exhibitions, including the iconic White Tower, the Crown Jewels, and the medieval palace. They can also learn about the infamous prisoners who were held in the tower over the centuries, including Anne Boleyn and Guy Fawkes.
The Harry Potter Studios Tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of the Harry Potter movies, with interactive exhibits and displays that showcase the artistry and craftsmanship that went into creating the magical world of Hogwarts. Students can explore the Great Hall, see the actual sets used in the films, and even step inside the Hogwarts Express.
Oxford is a world-renowned university city with stunning architecture, idyllic cobblestone streets, and rich history. It is home to some of the most iconic university buildings in the world, such as the Bodleian Library and Christ Church College, which inspired the Hogwarts dining hall in the Harry Potter movies. Visiting Oxford is like taking a step back in time and discovering the quintessential beauty of England.
Typical outings
Reviews
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We know how important it is for young innovators to feel safe, supported, and inspired — and our Junior summer school is built to offer just that.
While they dive into tech and problem-solving on our 9–10s Technology Explorers course, your child will stay at one of the prestigious UK boarding schools where we host our programmes, including Harrow School and St John’s Beaumont.
With friendly house parents, shared spaces, and a welcoming atmosphere, they’ll feel right at home from day one. Whether they’re reflecting on the day’s build or bonding over games with new friends, it’s all part of an experience designed to help them thrive.
For Juniors (ages 9-10) in the Classic Tier, students will stay in a Standard shared room at the accommodation.
Meals are provided on a full-board basis, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner. All meals are served at the accommodation.
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Timetable
Dates & Prices
- Teaching: Academic tuition.
- Meals: Full board includes breakfast, lunch, and dinner from Sunday to Thursday. Friday includes breakfast only, and Saturday no meals are provided.
- Accommodation: Housing in Resa Vallehermoso.
- Extracurricular Activities & Excursions: Included activities and excursions are available every afternoon, evening, and throughout the weekend.
- Transportation: Transportation for included activities.
- Use of Athletic and Recreation Facilities: Access to athletic and recreation facilities during the program.
- Safety & Supervision: Safety and supervision are provided for students throughout the course.
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
- Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Included.
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
- Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All interactive classes (15 students or less).
- Meals: Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided).
- Accommodation: Standard (shared room).
- Trips & Activities: All-day trips and activities included.
- Airport Transfer: Included.
- Insurance: Travel and medical insurance included.
- Certificate: Paper certificate awarded at the graduation ceremony.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: 13-24: Tutorials (1-2 students per tutor), seminars, and workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Single or twin room (confirmed by us at a later date).
- Certificate: Digital.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Not included.
- Insurance: Not included.
- Flexibility: Not included.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discount: Not included.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Concierge helps select the best available option.
- Certificate: Framed, signed (wet signature).
- Customer Service: Enhanced (OxSC concierge).
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only. No time restrictions.).
- Insurance: Platinum coverage (top-level protection on cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
- Future Coaching Session: Included (1 session).
- Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Guaranteed ensuite room.
- Certificate: Paper.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
- Insurance: Enhanced coverage (higher limits on cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: One-year free deferral.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discount: Discounted stay/meals for family in top Oxford/Cambridge hotels while on course.
- Teaching: All teaching, including small group seminars (8 students or less) and interactive workshops.
- Meals: Ages 13-15 are Full-board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner included), and ages 16-24 are Half-board (breakfast and dinner included). Meals are served at the accommodation or local restaurants.
- Accommodation: Select your preferred single or twin room.
- Certificate: Paper.
- Customer Service: Standard.
- Airport Transfer: Included (Heathrow Airport only, available for flights arriving/departing between 8:00 AM and 3:00 PM. T&Cs apply.).
- Insurance: Standard coverage (cancellation, medical, baggage).
- Flexibility: Not included.
- Future Coaching Session: Not included.
- Friends & Family Discounts: Not included.
