🚀 OxBright Futures Digest – 20 November | Creating the Perfect Careers Fair
📝 Welcome to OxBright’s Weekly Insight!
In this week’s edition, we bring you the latest trends, insights, and expert advice to enhance your career guidance programme.
Dive into our podcast with a leading Head of Careers, explore potential changes in career education policy, and discover how to host an impactful career fair.
Plus, get the scoop on virtual work experience opportunities and building strong industry partnerships.
About OxBright
At OxBright, we run online Courses, Internships and Conferences in a range of academic subjects for students aged 12-18, as well as a scholarship programme for students from less advantaged backgrounds.
Most of all, we’re passionate about giving pupils the edge to help them succeed, find their purpose and make a difference in the world, so we engage in research and develop free resources to help students, teachers and schools to thrive in an ever changing world.
🎙️ Resource: CareerPod – Best Practice for Heads of Futures
This week on CareerPod, we’re delighted to feature Alison Jeffreys, Head of Careers at Winchester College. Dive into the secrets behind Winchester’s award-winning careers programme, where Alison discusses:
- The transformative role of AI in careers advice
- Top careers software for effective guidance
- Strategies for engaging local employers in work experience opportunities
🌟 Insight: Gatsby 2.0? The Future of Career Education
The UK government’s commitment to career education has often been questioned by educators. Recent developments, however, could signal a significant shift. Education Secretary Gillian Keegan, in undereported remarks, has tasked Ofsted with evaluating the Gatsby Benchmarks’ effectiveness, with a view to strengthening them.
Introduced with considerable acclaim, the Gatsby Benchmarks set forth eight standards for effective career guidance, which have been broadly well-received within the education sector. Despite this, there’s been a growing perception over the past decade that these benchmarks have slipped from the government’s priority list. Keegan’s recent statements suggest that schools should proactively assess their alignment with these standards, preparing for a likely increased emphasis in the foreseeable future.
💡 Advice: Crafting the Perfect Careers Fair
Discover the secrets to organising a successful career fair in our latest blog – gain expert insights on creating engaging, impactful events that truly resonate with students.
📊 Trend Watch: Virtual Work Experience & OxBright Internships
In the ever-evolving world of career education, virtual work experience programmes are rapidly becoming a game-changer. Schools are increasingly adopting these innovative programs to offer students real-world work experiences right from their digital devices.
The OxBright Careers Report research highlights how students struggle to access work experience. Remote opportunities break down geographical barriers and open up a world of diverse professions to students, regardless of their location. Through virtual internships, students can engage with industry professionals, work on actual projects, and gain insights into various career paths – all while developing essential digital communication and remote working skills.
A number of schools are reaching out to parents to ask them to host students. An alternative is OxBright’s online internship initiative which provides a platform for students to connect with leading organisations and gain valuable experience in fields ranging from technology to finance, healthcare to creative arts.
Discover OxBright’s latest virtual internship opportunities.
Oxford Summer School
Join our Oxford summer school to master your subject, gain clarity on your future and prepare for a changing world. Our Oxford summer courses are your chance to learn on the famous Oxford University campus this summer.
What is Oxford Summer School?
Rooted in the city of Oxford’s spirit of academic excellence, the Oxford Scholastica Academy’s 2024 Oxford summer school is your chance to learn on the famous Oxford University campus this summer.
At our Oxford summer school you’ll learn from the best and brightest minds, build relationships with like-minded students to last a lifetime, and have the chance to benefit from the very best this remarkable city has to offer.
Our summer courses are for 12-18 year olds across a range of exciting subjects, including Medicine, Business and Technology.
Joining one of our acclaimed Oxford summer courses is your chance to live the university experience before you graduate from high school.
Find Your Perfect Programme
Course Selector
Benefits of Attending Summer School in Oxford
Improve Your Grades
Stimulate, stretch and challenge your academic skills – whatever your subject knowledge.
Learn from Expert Tutors
Learn from top tutors from world-class institutions such as Oxford, Cambridge and Harvard.
Prepare for College and University
Designed to prepare students aged 12-18 for future academic and career success.
Experience University Life
Hosted in the prestigious city of Oxford, using University facilities. See what studying in Oxford is like.
Our Oxford Summer Courses
Courses for 15-18 Year Olds
Oxford Summer School Dates & Fees
| Length | Start Date | End Date | Price From | Next Step |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two Weeks | 6th July 2025 | 19th July 2025 |
£6,995 |
Reserve |
| Two Weeks | 20th July 2025 | 2nd August 2025 |
£6,995 |
Reserve |
| Two Weeks | 3rd August 2025 | 16th August 2025 |
£6,995 |
Reserve |
| Four Weeks | 6th July 2025 | 2nd August 2025 |
£13,690 |
Reserve |
| Four Weeks | 20th July 2025 | 16th August 2025 |
£13,690 |
Reserve |
Oxford Summer School Testimonials
Going to classes every morning was an exciting experience as we were all on edge as to what we would learn. From classroom discussions to exploring Oxford during free time, the whole Oxford summer camp experience was unforgettable. The friendships I made will last me a lifetime.
It just surpassed our expectations in every way – pre-attendance organisation, facilities, high level of the programme, challenging course, interesting and diverse attendees from all around the world, dedicated creative teachers, great balance of time working and time for personal endeavors and friend making, supportive staff, teamwork oriented, family-like atmosphere, caring and nurturing environment, academically and personally challenging, true college campus experience…in short, just exceeded all expectations.
I have taught with Oxford Scholastica for a number of years and am consistently impressed by the excellent experience students are offered at their Oxford summer school. As both a former teacher of A Level economics and university admissions advisor at a leading UK school, I can say with confidence that OSA students are offered an invaluable opportunity to explore what really interests them, and prepare for their path to university. It really does give students an advantage.
Why Choose Oxford Scholastica?
Oxford Scholastica Academy, founded by Oxford graduates, offers all international high school students a glimpse into university life through our Oxford-based summer schools.
Our mission is to empower students with deep subject understanding, future clarity, and readiness for a changing world.
Our courses, taught by expert faculty, blend Oxford’s academic excellence with practical learning on the University of Oxford campus. We provide a comprehensive range of courses for all levels, from introductory to advanced university preparation, ensuring personalized academic and future success.
Beyond academics, we offer a full Oxford experience—culturally and socially, supported by 24-hour care from our experienced residential team for a secure and enriching summer.
Top-Rated Programme by Students from Around the World
Each summer, high school students from over 85 different nationalities choose to experience our Oxford summer programme & study abroad:
out of 10 students said our Oxford summer programme was one of the most memorable summers of their life
out of 10 students said that their experience at our Oxford summer courses gave them greater certainty about their future direction
out of 10 parents said they would recommend our Oxford summer school to other parents
Accredited Oxford Summer Camp
We have been independently accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC) as a short course provider for Independent Further and Higher Education. The BAC have assessed our teaching quality, pastoral care, and overall standards.
Frequently Asked Questions about Oxford Summer School
Is an Oxford Summer School worth it?
Attending an Oxford Summer School is considered highly valuable for students. They offer an immersive educational experience, expert tuition from leading tutors, and a chance to explore future career options. The programmes are tailored for young learners, aiming to provide clarity on their future direction and prepare them for success. Still not sure? Read our article on “Are Oxford summer courses worth it?”.
Who is eligible for a summer school in Oxford?
Eligibility for our Oxford Scholastica Summer Schools primarily includes students aged 12-18. The programme caters to a diverse range of young learners from countries around the world, interested in exploring different academic fields and gaining a pre-university experience. There are no geographical restrictions, making the programmes accessible to international students.
Can I apply for two courses?
Participants can apply for up to two consecutive summer schools at Oxford Scholastica. Students who join us for four weeks study two different subjects with us, and get to meet two cohorts of international students. Lots of our four week students also report feeling more at home in Oxford by the end of their stay with us.
How old do you have to be to go to an Oxford summer school?
Our Oxford summer school is designed for students aged 12 to 18, who have not yet started at university or college. This age range allows both younger and older high school students to participate in tailored courses that align with their educational level and interests.
How long is the summer school programme?
Our Oxford Scholastica Summer Programmes take place in two week blocks, with some students opting to study two different subjects and join us for four weeks. Each two-week course runs in three sessions throughout the summer. For a more extended experience, the four-week courses are also offered. This flexibility allows students to choose a programme length that best fits their schedule, interests and learning objectives.
Where do the high school students who attend the Oxford summer school come from?
Our students come from the UK and all across the globe to join us on our Oxford summer camp. Last year, we had over 70 nationalities on the Oxford Scholastica Academy, ranging from Brazil to China, America to India, Holland to Malaysia – and more.
What accommodation options are available?
We provide accommodation in college rooms used by University of Oxford students during termtime, offering a true taste of university life. Students stay in one of several buildings, including St Anne’s College, St George’s Gate, Paradise Street, St Thomas’, and the Lampl Building. All rooms include a wardrobe, desk, and access to bathroom facilities. These accommodations blend historic charm with modern amenities, providing comfortable rooms and common spaces for socialising. Learn more about summer student accommodation in Oxford.
Please note, Oxford Scholastica is separate from Oxford University, and it is important to understand that we have no formal connection with the University. You can read more about our relationship with the University here.
What do the programme fees include?
The programme fees include a range of services and experiences to ensure a fulfilling and educational stay. These include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Course materials
- Activities and excursions
- Support and supervision
- Certificate of Achievement
What is a typical day of Oxford summer school like?
In the morning you’ll typically attend your classes and complete your independent study work. After lunch, you will normally have a mixture of either workshops, seminars, and activities, while the evening will usually involve fun social activities. For a more detailed outline, visit our Oxford summer courses page.
Will I get a certificate/accreditation at the end of the course?
All students who successfully complete the course will be given an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate at our Graduation Evening on the last night of their Oxford summer courses at the Saïd Business School. Family and friends are very welcome to attend this event.
Who will my tutor be?
We dedicate an enormous amount of time to carefully selecting and training the very best tutors for each course. Our tutors are subject experts from world-class institutions, including Oxford and Cambridge. You can find examples of our Oxford summer programme’s previous tutors on the course page for your specific course.
Does Oxford University have an official summer school?
Oxford University doesn’t run summer schools for international students. However, the University runs a highly respected summer school for UK students from disadvantaged backgrounds, called UNIQ, but it’s not offered to international students.
Our summer courses at Oxford Scholastica Academy give all students around the world the opportunity to explore subjects of interest in small-class settings with Oxford-style teaching on the Oxford University campus. However, We have no formal connection with Oxford University.
Read more about our relationship with Oxford University.
What happens if I need to cancel my enrolment?
You can cancel your enrolment within 14 days of booking for a refund of your deposit, minus any incurred charges.
Cancellation Dates and Refund Amounts:
- On or Before April 30th: Full refund of the balance paid.
- May 1st to May 15th: 50% refund of the balance paid.
- May 16th to May 31st: 10% refund of the balance paid.
- After June 1st: No refund available for the balance.
Our Favourite Hotels
Our Directors, Jamie and Sophie, have lived in Oxford for much of their lives. They have hand-picked their favourite hotels below to help parents find the best place to stay in Oxford while their children study with us.
It’s worth noting that Oxford is very busy in the summer, and these hotels can get booked up very early each year.
If you’d like more information about our student accommodation, including room types and locations, please see our Accommodation page.
Accommodation & Food
What are the arrangements for food?
We provide both breakfast and dinner. A continental breakfast will be provided at the accommodation, and for dinner we eat in local restaurants as a group. At lunchtime, our students have the opportunity to explore Oxford where there are lots of cheap and healthy lunch options (we have created our own Guide to Oxford’s Best Lunch Spots for your convenience, and also a guide to where the best halal lunch spots are).
I have dietary needs – can this be accommodated?
We are used to accommodating most dietary requirements – including vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, lactose intolerant, as well as religious dietary requirements and other dietary needs. We’ll ask you to let us know what your dietary requirements are so we make sure we can cater to your needs.
I have an allergy - can this be accommodated?
A number of our students have allergies. If you have an allergy, please inform us when you book so we can talk you through how we can best support you, and so we can make sure we can cater to your needs. We have an Allergies Policy which is available on request.
How does laundry/washing work?
There are washing machines and drying machines (and washing powder) available to use for free. If you aren’t used to doing your washing, our friendly team of Activities Coordinators will be on hand to help you and provide you with training!
Will boys and girls be separately housed?
We make every effort to place boys and girls on separate floors within the accommodation, within any limitations due to the layout of the accommodation.
I'm coming with a friend, can we be put in the same building?
If you have a friend or family member attending and would like to register an interest in being in the same building, you’ll be able to let us know their names on the Student Information Form, which we’ll send after you’ve confirmed your place.
Please note that building allocations depend on a variety of factors, including age (12-14 year olds are in a different building to 15-18 year olds), sex (we allocate males and females to different areas within the buildings), course choice and room type (standard rooms may be in different buildings to ensuite rooms). We’ll do our best to take your preference into account, but due to these various factors it’s not always possible to guarantee that we’ll be able to accommodate the request.
I'm coming with a friend, can we be put in the same room?
If you have a friend or family member attending and would like to share a twin rom, you can let us know their names on the Student Information Form, which we’ll send after you’ve confirmed your place.
Please note that room allocations depend on a variety of factors, including age (12-14 year olds are in a different building to 15-18 year olds), sex (we allocate males and females to different areas within the buildings), course choice and room type (standard rooms may be in different buildings to ensuite rooms). We’ll do our best to take your twin preference into account, but due to these various factors it’s not always possible to guarantee that we’ll be able to accommodate the request.
Does everyone have lunch at the same time?
Yes. This means you can meet up with your friends in different classes for lunch.
Business (15-18) - Two Weeks
Business (15-18) - One Week
If your school is not an Oxford Scholastica Partner School, or you’re not sure, please fill in the form below and we’ll get in touch to sign them up as a Partner School (it’s free!).
Scholarship Application Form
Browse our Oxford Medicine Internships
Our Oxford medicine internships enable you to get a taste of real-life work experience – which can be very hard to find. Medical work experience is crucial in helping you to further your passion for medicine, and essential for applying to university for medicine.
Live Online | 15-18 Year Olds
Medicine Internships
Guided by your Mentor, an academic researcher, you’ll collaborate with interns from around the globe. You’ll co-author a research paper on a cutting edge medical topic for publication in an academic journal.
You’ll conclude the internship having gained hard-to-find medical work experience, as well as a Letter of Recommendation.