Why Choose Oxford Summer Courses
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Unlock Your Potential with Tailored Learning in Inspiring Locations
Choosing a summer programme is an important decision, and Oxford Summer Courses is trusted by families from over 120 countries each year. What makes us different is simple: no set syllabus, world-class teaching that adapts to every student, and an unwavering commitment to safety and wellbeing. From the moment students arrive, they are supported, inspired, and challenged to think independently, explore their passions, and make friendships that last a lifetime. Limited space available - apply now.
Teaching That Adapts to You
Our teaching is inspired by the Oxford and Cambridge tradition — small, discussion-based classes where curiosity leads the way. Unlike many summer programmes, we don’t follow a fixed syllabus. Instead, we encourage students to share their interests when applying, and tutors use this information to design courses shaped around the group. As lessons progress, tutors continually adapt their teaching style and content based on feedback, ensuring that learning remains useful, stimulating, and deeply relevant. Small class sizes make this possible, allowing tutors to give close attention and support to every student.
Learning Without a Set Syllabus
Unlike traditional courses, Oxford Summer Courses does not follow a fixed syllabus. Instead, we encourage students to share their interests and goals when applying, giving tutors valuable insight into what each individual hopes to gain from their summer. Using this information, tutors design courses that are shaped around the needs of the group, creating a learning experience that feels relevant, engaging, and personalised. As the course progresses, tutors continue to adapt their teaching style and content in response to student feedback, ensuring that every lesson remains useful, stimulating, and beneficial. Our small class sizes make this approach possible, allowing tutors to provide close attention and flexibility, so each student feels both challenged and supported throughout their academic journey with us.
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What Makes Our Tutors Different
Our tutors are more than subject experts — they are passionate educators who specialise in teaching specific age groups. Some are younger, offering relatable guidance on university applications, study skills, and life beyond school, while others are highly experienced academics with deep expertise in their fields. This diversity means students benefit from fresh perspectives and advice that is directly relevant to their stage of learning. More than simply passing on knowledge, our tutors inspire curiosity, independence, and confidence, equipping students with the skills and mindset to continue learning long after the course has ended.
Learn in Historic and Inspiring Settings
Where you learn matters. Our programmes take place in exceptional locations, including the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge and world-renowned schools such as Eton and Harrow. Each setting has been chosen for its academic prestige and cultural richness, offering students the chance to live, dine, and study in authentic historic environments while enjoying modern facilities. These inspiring surroundings spark creativity, curiosity, and ambition, creating an atmosphere where students feel part of something bigger than themselves.
The Right Challenge for Every Age
We carefully design our courses to evolve with each stage of learning. Younger learners aged 9–12 discover subjects through interactive and hands-on activities that spark curiosity. Teenagers aged 13–15 take part in seminars and group discussions that build confidence and sharpen analytical skills. Older students aged 16–24 engage in Oxford- and Cambridge-style tutorials that encourage debate, independent study, and intellectual exploration. With over 40 subjects to choose from, students can explore new interests or deepen existing passions in a way that suits their age and ambitions.
Can’t find the course you’re looking for? Explore award-winning courses across Oxford, Cambridge, Eton and more.
Search coursesFlexible Options to Suit Every Family
Every family has different priorities, so we offer a choice of programme packages — from Classic to Premier. The academic experience is consistently high-quality across all tiers, while the flexibility allows families to choose the level of accommodation, support, and added benefits that suit them best. This transparent structure ensures clarity, choice, and excellent value, whether you are looking for a straightforward academic programme or a premium option with additional services and extras.
A Truly Global Community
Each summer, we welcome students from more than 120 nationalities, creating classrooms alive with diversity. This global mix enriches discussions, broadens perspectives, and helps students develop cultural awareness and empathy. Beyond academics, friendships flourish during shared meals, cultural activities, and social events. Many alumni tell us that these connections remain some of the most valuable aspects of their summer, offering not only new perspectives but lifelong friendships across the globe.
Your Safety, Our Priority
Parents trust Oxford Summer Courses because student safety and wellbeing come first. We operate a zero-tolerance policy towards bullying, discrimination, and harassment, with a dedicated safeguarding team available 24/7. All staff, from tutors to seasonal team members, undergo enhanced DBS checks and safeguarding training. We maintain high staff-to-student ratios, provide round-the-clock supervision, and conduct regular risk assessments to ensure safe environments. Clear rules and expectations, parental consent, and age-appropriate care are in place from the start, giving families complete peace of mind.
Experiences That Go Beyond the Classroom
Our programmes are enriched with cultural trips, excursions, and activities that bring each location to life. Students might go punting along Oxford’s rivers, explore Cambridge’s historic colleges, visit museums, or discover nearby cities and landmarks. These experiences are designed not just for enjoyment, but to broaden horizons, encourage independence, and create lasting memories. Students leave with new skills, a stronger sense of self, and an appreciation for the culture around them.
An Experience That Lasts a Lifetime
Oxford Summer Courses is more than a summer programme — it is a transformative experience. Students return home with sharper critical thinking, stronger confidence, resilience, and a global outlook that prepares them for school, university, and beyond. Many of our alumni have gone on to excel in leading universities and careers, crediting their time with us as a turning point in their development. By combining rigorous academics, cultural immersion, and a supportive community, we provide an experience that continues to shape lives long after the summer has ended.
FAQs about Oxford Summer Courses
We offer a unique learning experience tailored to your interests—no rigid syllabi, no exam stress. You’ll join expert tutors in small groups (max. 8 students), dive into thought-provoking topics, and develop your critical thinking in a global community.
Every year, we welcome over 2,000 students from more than 100 countries. It’s a vibrant, multicultural community where you’ll learn from your peers as much as your tutors.
Inspired by Oxford’s academic style, our teaching focuses on small group seminars and one-on-one tutorials. It’s designed to spark debate, curiosity, and independent thinking.
Safeguarding is our top priority. All staff working with students aged 9–18 are fully trained and DBS-checked. We offer age-appropriate care and robust policies to ensure a safe, supportive environment.
Secure Your 2026 Place Today
With limited spaces and high demand, early applications give you the best choice of course, date, and location. Apply now to guarantee your summer with our award-winning programmes.
