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Debate & Public Speaking Course in Oxford

Oxford Summer School 2025 | Ages 15-18

Passionate about debating? The Experience Debate & Public Speaking Academy offers the perfect chance to sharpen your public speaking skills and explore university life.

Master the art of argument, refine your persuasive techniques and engage in lively debates in Oxford – a city that has hosted influential speeches from leaders like Winston Churchill and the Dalai Lama.

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Key Facts

Location
Oxford University campus

Ages
15-18 year olds

Class Size
Maximum 15 students

Dates
6th July - 19th July 2025
20th July - 2nd August 2025
3rd August - 16th August 2025

Tutors
Typically Oxford and
Cambridge academics

Fees
£6,995

Duration
Two weeks

Graduation & Certification
Letter of Recommendation and
Certificate of Achievement

Awards & Accreditation
British Accreditation Council and
King's Award

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Experience Debate & Public Speaking Academy

You’ll learn to construct arguments, rebut opposing views and captivate an audience in a Model UN Council. You’ll be guided by expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.

Debate & Public Speaking
Which speaking techniques are most effective? On the first day, you’ll explore techniques used by renowned public speakers to captivate their audience.

View Curriculum

Explore Critical Thinking
Explore key features of critical thinking by looking through a range of real-life speech excerpts to help you logically defend your argument.
British Parliamentary Debating
What is British Parliamentary (BP) debating? We’ll discuss the rules, styles and strategies of this format of debate – and you’ll be able to test it out yourself.
Rebuttal
What makes an effective rebuttal? Explore examples of rebuttal used in a range of real-life speeches and master how to effectively deconstruct opposing arguments.
Politics & International Relations
What’s the role of the United Nations (UN) in international crises? Discover how the political system of democracy works and explore the roles of international bodies in relation to conflicts.
Schools’ Mace Debating
What’s the difference between BP and Schools’ Mace debating? We’ll outline the difference in rules and styles between the two, and you’ll give Schools’ Mace debating a try.
Debate Human Rights
Debate the ethics of international human rights legislation and consider the impact it has had on governments around the world.
Balloon Debating
Can you persuade others not to throw you out of a sinking hot air balloon? Pit your wits against your classmates as you take on the role of famous historical figures to justify your worth.
Class X

Your final class is based on your tutor’s personal expertise in the field, focusing on the cutting-edge research that they’re passionate about.

The Model United Nations Challenge

Your learning won’t just take place in the classroom. Beyond the daily classes, you’ll also experience an intensive, four-hour academic Challenge: a chance to put theory into practice, and a highlight for many students.

Immerse yourself in a collaborative debate challenge. Our Model United Nations Challenge invites you to step into the role of a diplomat in a simulated UN Security Council.

Debate global issues, navigate conflicting interests, and negotiate solutions to build consensus. Work alongside International Relations, Politics & Leadership students as you refine your public speaking, critical thinking, and persuasion skills. This challenge is a great way to gain experience in structured debate and apply everything you’ve learned throughout the programme.

Meet Your Tutor

Abhishek Ranjan Datta

BA Hons, MA, MSc (Oxon), DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)
Abhishek holds both a Bachelor of Arts with Honours and a Master of Arts in English Literature from the University of Delhi. He was also awarded a Master of Science with Distinction in Modern South Asian Studies from the University of Oxford. 

Abhishek is a Clarendon and Kingsgate Scholar at Lincoln College, University of Oxford, where he is currently pursuing a DPhil in International Relations. His research focuses on youth, education, democracy and development in South Asia.

Please note that tutors may be subject to change.

Apply Today

Nurture Your Debating Skills

Engage in dynamic debates under an expert tutor, meet a successful public speaker and develop strong academic skills in masterclasses.

Master Key Debate Tactics
Learn key concepts such as constructing persuasive arguments, delivering impactful speeches and refining critical thinking skills – all under the guidance of one of our expert tutors from leading universities like Oxford and Cambridge.
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Meet a Professional Public Speaker
Gain insights from our Public Speaking Hero, a successful young speaker and debater. Discover their journey, ask all your questions about public speaking, persuasion and leadership, and be inspired to take the first steps toward your own future.
Learn More
Level Up with Masterclasses
Build essential practical life skills such as public speaking, critical thinking and teamwork through our Masterclasses, developing tools that will benefit you long after the programme ends – no matter which academic path you take.
Learn More

Still Curious?
We’d Love to Talk.

Stephanie, our Head of Admissions, would be happy to answer all your questions. Let us know a time that works for you.

Arrange a Call

Build an International Network

Study and experience Oxford alongside passionate, curious and motivated young people like you from all over the globe. Our students are eager to elevate their academic ambitions and seize their future.

Pippa Manning
Pippa Manning

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: Nottingham Girls' High School

COURSE: Experience Medicine Academy

 

 
I have found the classes so insightful and interesting and have learnt more about Medicine than I ever have in school, as well as new topics I had never considered. I'm sure this knowledge will be invaluable in my application to medical school and it has made me feel much more confident in my own abilities.
Eliah Cibambo
Eliah Cibambo

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: Lycée Prince de Liège

COURSE: Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

 

 
This was a very enriching and rewarding experience both academically and socially. We explored key business concepts, which provided me with new insights into the business world. It also helped me identify and understand the challenges of tomorrow’s world, which will be very important for my future.
Adela Jung Foncillas
Adela Jung Foncillas

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: FES Lörrach

COURSE: Experience Psychology & Neuroscience Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has given me the confidence to determine my own future. I learned to step out of my comfort zone and try incredible new things, even when they seemed scary at first. I've also had the amazing opportunity to build a network of kind and open-minded people, all from different countries.
Juanita Sele-Matthew
Juanita Sele-Matthew

AGE: 15

SCHOOL: Meadowhall School

COURSE: Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has taught me to always reach for the stars. The programme has really opened my eyes to what I want my life to look like. I've learned academic skills but also social and emotional skills, like how to network, how to live away from home and how to make new friends.

Make Memories to Last a Lifetime

Outside the classroom, you'll take part in a packed schedule of social, cultural and sporting activities alongisde your new friends, designed to push you beyond your comfort zone and give you a real taste of university life. Embark on an unforgettable journey.

Excursions
Socials
Sports
Graduation
Inspiring Cultural Excursions

Discover the timeless allure of Oxford as you wander its historic, picturesque streets, soaking in the city’s rich heritage and charm. Experience inspiring day trips to iconic destinations that offer a deeper connection to culture and history.

Day Trips: Visit Windsor Castle, an official residence of the Royal Family, and explore Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill
Oxford Experiences: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Oxford, discover its renowned museums, and experience a traditional college brunch. Watch a Shakespeare play in the grounds of the ancient Oxford Castle
Unique Experiences: Try Scottish ceilidh dancing and go punting on the River Thames, a favourite Oxford pastime

 

Exciting Social Events

Beyond the classroom, engage in vibrant social activities designed to create lasting memories and friendships, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.

 

International Boat Ball: A highlight of the programme, this unforgettable evening takes place aboard a boat on the River Thames, celebrating friendships and experiences in true Oxford style
Oxford’s Got Talent: Take to the stage and showcase your talents in this fun and informal event
Movie, Quiz & Games Nights: Enjoy relaxing evenings in the common rooms with your new friends, and take part in a variety of entertaining activities 
Unique Sporting Activities

Stay active during your time in Oxford with a variety of sports and outdoor activities, and enjoy some friendly competition.

 

Football Tournament: Take part in the annual football game held at Oxford's historic Iffley Road campus
Lunchtime Running Club: Explore Oxford's scenic routes on our regular running club for students keen to keep their fitness up
Local Gyms: If you prefer gym workouts, you can sign up to a nearby fitness centre during your time with us

 

An Unforgettable Graduation

Celebrate your graduation with a memorable ceremony, recognising your hard work and achievements in front of friends and family.

 

Graduation Ceremony: Formally graduate from the programme in a ceremony at Oxford's Said Business School or St Anne's College
Barbecue Celebration: Attend a garden BBQ, take graduation pictures and reflect on your summer memories
Ceilidh Dance: Finish the programme with a traditional British ceilidh dance and a live band. Don't worry - the band will teach you all the steps!

 

Hear From a Graduate

Juanita Sele-Matthews
Experience Business Academy (2024)

“Oxford Scholastica has taught me to always reach for the stars, no matter how far away they seem. I was able to try so many new things, and it gave me new opportunities and opened up doors that I didn’t even know existed.”

Apply Today

Strengthen Your University Application

You’ll leave with a Certificate of Achievement, a Letter of Recommendation and the opportunity to join our Ambassador Programme – all designed to help your application stand out to top-tier universities.



Earn a Certificate of Achievement
All students who successfully complete the course will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.
Get a Letter of Recommendation
Students who meet our criteria will be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.
Join Our Ambassador Programme

Want to continue learning? Apply for our one-year Ambassador Programme to gain valuable skills in marketing, networking, entrepreneurship and more. With monthly virtual meetings, you'll develop practical skills to shape your future.

Course Availability (Summer 2025)

You can find availability for our upcoming summer courses in Oxford for 2025 below.

Oxford Summer School Dates

6th July - 19th July 2025

20th July - 2nd August 2025

3rd August - 16th August 2025

Apply Today
What’s Included in Your Tuition Fee

ACADEMICS

  • 10 days of classroom learning
  • 12 hours of Masterclass sessions
  • Industry Q&A Hero session
  • Practical academic Challenge

OXFORD LIFE

  • University accommodation
  • Breakfast and dinner every day
  • Safety protocols and supervision
  • Support from qualified staff

CULTURE

  • Oxford walking tour and museum trips
  • Trips to Blenheim Palace and Windsor Castle
  • Punting on the River Thames
  • Traditional ceilidh dance

GRADUATION

  • Ceremony at Said Business School
  • Personalised Letter of Recommendation
  • Certificate of Achievement
  • Invitation to the Ambassador Programme

SOCIALS

  • International Boat Ball
  • Oxford’s Got Talent show
  • Movie, games and quiz nights
  • Football, running, volleyball etc.
£6,995

Your Questions,
Answered.

Still need help? Book a call
What are the entry requirements for the course?

We have three entry requirements:

i) You must be aged between 11-18 years old at the start of your chosen course.

ii) You must be motivated to learn more about the subject you wish to study (there's space for you to write a personal statement on our registration form). We find that when students are self-motivated and eager to make the most of the opportunity, the summer school can be a truly transformative experience.

iii) You must be able to speak, read and understand English well. Though we require no formal testing, our minimum English level is Common European Framework Level C1, which equates to IELTS 6.5. If you’d like to arrange a call to check whether you have the right level of English, please feel free to contact us.

What should I write in my Oxford Scholastica personal statement?
Our admissions panel reads through each student's personal statement to determine if they'd be a good fit for our programme. We welcome bright and intellectually curious students from around the world – those who are passionate about their subject and eager to challenge themselves.

We don't have any academic prerequisites, as many of our students have never been exposed to their chosen subject before, so instead we're looking for motivation and mindset.

I'm 11 years old. Can I join a course for 12-14 year olds?

We do accept bright, mature eleven year olds onto our Discover Academy courses (designed for ages 12-14), so please do submit an application here. If you’d like to discuss your specific situation, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.

I'm 14 years old. Can I join a course for 15-18 year olds?

We do sometimes allow bright, mature 14 year olds to join our Experience Academy courses (designed for ages 15-18), so please do submit an application here. If you’d like to discuss your specific situation, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.

Do you accept students who are at university?
We can only accept students who are not at university. If you've just finished school and have yet to start higher education, you're welcome to join us. Unfortunately, if you've already started at university, then we're unable to offer you a place at our summer school.
How do I secure my place?

Please click here to apply for your place and pay your deposit (£995). Our admissions panel will assess your application and will be in touch to confirm whether you have been accepted onto the programme. If for any reason you're not accepted, your deposit will be refunded in full.

Who will my tutor be?

We carefully select and train the best qualified tutors for each course. Our tutors are subject experts from world-class institutions, including the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Learn more about our tutors here.

Will I get a certificate or accreditation at the end of the course?

All students who successfully complete one of our courses will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.

Students who meet our criteria will also be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.

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