St Benet’s at St Hilda’s, Oxford
Experience an award-winning Oxford summer school for ages 13–15, hosted at one of the university’s most tranquil and supportive colleges. Discover new subjects, grow your confidence, and enjoy learning in a safe and inspiring riverside setting.
Our Approach to Summer Learning
At Oxford Summer Courses, we believe that where you learn matters. That’s why we host our programmes in some of the most prestigious and inspiring college settings in Oxford and Cambridge—giving students the chance to live and learn in world-renowned academic environments.
Unlike traditional programmes, we don’t follow a fixed curriculum. Instead, our courses are shaped by our students. Our expert tutors tailor the experience based on each group’s interests, goals, and curiosity, creating a learning journey that’s as personal as it is powerful. To make our programmes even more flexible, we offer a range of tiered pricing options—so you can choose the experience that’s right for you, from accommodation preferences to extra support and services.
Pricing
Payment plans are available, and you can apply for more than one course to extend your stay. For more details on what’s included, visit our what’s included page.
Studying at St Hilda’s College
Our Oxford summer school for ages 13–15 is hosted at St Hilda’s College, a peaceful and inclusive college set along the River Cherwell, just a short walk from the city centre. Founded in 1893 to support women’s education at Oxford, the college has since become co-educational and continues to promote curiosity, learning, and personal growth.
The college’s riverside setting and quiet green surroundings create an ideal environment for focused study, especially for younger learners. Whether working in the college library or relaxing outside, students benefit from the calm, secure atmosphere while still being within reach of Oxford’s cultural and academic landmarks.
Discover our available summer courses and prepare for the learning experience of a lifetime.
apply for a 2025 course
Who Studies Here and How They Learn
Our courses at St Hilda’s are designed for bright and inquisitive students aged 13–15 who are beginning to approach learning in a more independent and thoughtful way. Each course welcomes around 40 students and is structured to help them develop academic confidence, creative thinking, and collaborative skills.
Classes are capped at eight students (often fewer) to allow for maximum interaction. Tutors guide students through key concepts using discussion, problem-solving, project work, and short independent tasks. Homework is reviewed in class to support deeper understanding and debate. The learning environment is warm, supportive, and intellectually engaging—helping students feel empowered and included.
Accommodation and Facilities
Students are accommodated in newly refurbished buildings a short walk from the main college site. All rooms are single occupancy and include bed linen, towels, duvets, and pillows. Bathrooms are typically shared between 2–3 students. In line with college policy, kitchens are not available for student use, but all meals and care are managed on-site by our pastoral team.
Facilities at St Hilda’s are designed to support both study and wellbeing. These include the college library (used as a quiet classroom space), green outdoor areas for relaxation, and dedicated pastoral support throughout the course. Together, these features create a comfortable and enriching home for younger students as they take their first steps into a more academic setting.
FAQs about Venues and Tier Options
Sometimes. If you’re applying for a Junior (9–12), Eton (12–14), or Spain (15–17) course, your venue is fixed: Harrow School, Eton College, or Resa Vallehermoso in Madrid.For Oxford and Cambridge, your venue is assigned based on your age, subject, dates, and pricing tier. After you apply, an advisor will contact you to confirm the details — including your venue — and help with any questions before you confirm your place.
For Oxford and Cambridge courses, you can choose from four pricing tiers: Classic, Plus, Superior, and Premier. All tiers include teaching, meals, and activities, with higher tiers offering extras like ensuite rooms, airport transfers, and more flexibility. Junior, Eton, and Spain courses have one fixed price that includes everything you need for a safe, structured, and rewarding experience.
All tiers include your course, meals, activities, and support throughout your stay. Higher tiers add benefits like private ensuite rooms, return airport transfers, travel insurance, premium merchandise, and more flexible booking terms. You can compare all tiers on our Prices and Dates page.
You’ll be told your assigned venue after you apply. One of our admissions advisors will contact you directly to confirm your course details — including where you’ll be staying. This is your chance to ask any questions or discuss options before you accept and pay your deposit.
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