Attending an academic, international summer school can take a lot of organisation, from finding the best summer school option to sorting flights, which may lead you to wonder whether an Oxford school is worth it.
Given the unique opportunities for academic and social enrichment on offer, we’re confident that an Oxford summer school is more than worth it, and we’ve put this article together to share exactly why.
What Is an Oxford Summer School?
An Oxford summer school is a short programme for teenagers that takes place over the summer in the city of Oxford. At the Oxford Scholastica Academy, our summer school offers academic courses for students aged 12-18 who are intending to apply to top universities or colleges around the world.
It’s important to note that the University of Oxford does not offer an official summer school for international students. Although Oxford summer schools generally use university facilities, accommodation and teaching spaces, they do not have a direct affiliation with the university.
There are many benefits of attending an Oxford summer school, including gaining cultural exposure, increasing your independence and building an international network of like-minded students. You’ll be studying in one of the most famous intellectual cities in the world, so you can take advantage of countless museums, art galleries and exhibitions. In addition, there are a wealth of academic benefits when attending a summer school, including small class sizes, the opportunity to explore subjects not often offered at high school and more immersive, hands-on teaching.
What Can You Expect from an Oxford Summer School?
Whether you choose to study a medicine course or take a law programme with us, your Oxford Scholastica summer will be unlike any other. Many of our alumni cite their experience as one of the best of their lives and we’re rated 4.9 stars out of 5 by our alumni community.
In addition to stimulating and engaging classes, led by expert tutors and mentors from top universities, you’ll experience a range of cultural activities. Amongst other social activities, students visit King Charles III’s home, Windsor Castle, experience punting on the River Cherwell and take a Debate & Public Speaking Masterclass in the historic Oxford Union.
Alongside this, students have access to 24/7 pastoral support from our on-site staff team, including full-time matrons who ensure that students are looked after, confident and having the best summer they possibly can.
What Should You Consider Before Applying?
If you’re thinking about attending an Oxford summer school, it’s important to weigh up different considerations and determine whether it’s the right choice for you.
Advantages of attending
Here are the top advantages for students:
1. Improve your soft skills. Develop communication skills and confidence that will help you stand out in future university or college interviews and beyond.
2. Gain clarity on your future. Gain a clearer sense of what you would like your future to look like and narrow down the options you wish to pursue after you leave school.
3. Ask your questions. Ask questions about the application process and receive valuable feedback on your work from tutors and staff who study at Oxford University and other top UK universities.
4. Boost your credentials. Earn a Certificate of Achievement and personalised Letter of Recommendation to add to your college applications, proving your commitment to academic excellence.
5. Experience a historic city. Become familiar with one of the most famous, historic sites of learning in the world and feel a sense of achievement like no other.
Potential concerns
It’s also important to realistically consider any concerns you may have before applying. These might include:
1. Homesickness. Attending an Oxford summer school is a fantastic experience, but being away from home for an extended period of time can also be challenging, especially for international students travelling alone for the first time.
We know this can be a real worry, which is why we have constant pastoral support available during the summer school, from both our house teams and our residential matrons, who have plenty of experience helping young people overcome homesickness to make the most of their summer school experience.
2. Making friends. Making friends in a new environment can also be a concern for some students. It’s important to remember that most students travel to summer schools alone and the programme is structured to help you make new friends. For example, we organise ice-breaking activities on the very first night, so you’ll have gained a new circle of friends before you even step foot in your first class.
Our staff are experienced and we’re confident we will be able to answer all of your questions and concerns, both in Oxford and before you arrive. If you have any specific worries you would like to discuss in advance, please do get in touch with Stephanie from our team who will be more than happy to help.
A Worthwhile Investment
Attending a summer school like Oxford Scholastica is an investment, but it is an entirely worthwhile one. The opportunity to explore academic passions alongside like-minded students and highly capable tutors is unique and invaluable. Outside of the classroom, there’s ample chance to socialise with peers from around the world and make fantastic memories in a historic city. Add in some day trips, social events and a supportive alumni community, and it’s clear to see why students have a truly transformative summer in Oxford.
At the Oxford Scholastica Academy, our programmes are designed to provide you with a comprehensive and enriching experience that will stay with you long after your flight home. You can browse some of our Oxford summer school reviews to see our alumni’s thoughts on how worthwhile an Oxford Scholastica summer school can be.
By Oxford Scholastica Academy
The Oxford Scholastica Academy was founded in 2013 by Jamie and Sophie, two former University of Oxford students, who have built a dynamic education company dedicated to empowering young people to chart their path in the world and make it better.
