Overview

Applying to Oxford or Cambridge University? This course allows you to fine-tune your personal statement, practise your interview technique and visit potential Colleges. Course tutor is Barry Webb, a tutor of English at Oxford University and a former admissions tutor. He now works as a member of the Joint Oxford and Cambridge Admissions Council. (Details correct for summer school 2007).

What's the course all about?

The course is intended to give full information about the structure and organisation of Oxford and Cambridge Universities, their academic, social and extra-curricular structures and the details of the admissions processes. The aim is to give the students the confidence to know what is expected of them and what the Universities are looking for in a successful candidate. Emphasis will also be laid on filling in a good UCAS form (particularly the Personal Statement) and on preparing for a good interview.

How does the course work?

The course runs for one week, in which students receive 15 morning classes, in small groups (maximum size of 8 students to one tutor). Students will also attend 3 afternoon workshops, which they may choose from a range of academic courses.

Each day will focus on a certain aspect of applying to Oxbridge:

• Subject Choice - we will help to guide you through the available subjects and make sure your chosen subject is compatible with your skills, strengths, chosen high school subjects and career aspirations.

• Oxford/Cambridge College Selection - we will guide you through the process of choosing the College that is most suitable for you and with the highest chance of successful application.

• Personal Statement - this is an important part of your application, and you will work closely with your supervisor to draft and re-draft your essay.

• Interview Technique - if your paper application is successful, you will almost certainly be called to interview. The class will focus on the “dos and don’ts” of your interview technique.

• Mock Interview and analysis – this will give you a taste of what to expect at a real Oxbridge interview. Constructive feedback is given by your tutor.

How will this course help me in applying to Oxbridge?

This course does not aim to drill or coach students for inevitable success in their applicants to Oxbridge; it rather aims to show students what the whole process of applying to Oxbridge involves, so that they feel more confident and comfortable in making their application.

By understanding how interviews and entrance tests work and what tutors are looking for, students can maximise their potential in their application.

Location

July Accommodation: St. Catherine’s College

Single rooms on the campus are provided, which are modern, homely and well lit. The rooms are within short walking distance of the teaching rooms, dining hall and computer room. Internet access is available in the bedrooms with the appropriate cables. There is a common room with TV, pool table and comfy chairs for relaxing in the evenings. More information at www.stcatz.ox.ac.uk

August Accommodation: Oriel College

Oriel College is located right in the heart of Oxford in Oriel Square just off the High Street and is a short stroll through Christ Church Meadows to the river. The accommodation is single rooms with shared bathrooms that all look over the main quads and lawns. The third quad lawn has the distinction of being one of the few in Oxford on which you can walk, sit and study on. Oriel has some of the friendliest Porters in Oxford who keep the college safe and secure and are also invaluable sources of local information.

Visit the college website

Extracurricular Activities

Evening Social

Social events are organised every night in Oxford, including cinema, theatre, quiz evenings, debate contests and international student parties.

Coach Excursions

For students wishing to take part in coach excursions, there are optional trips to British heritage sites, giving students first-hand knowledge of Britain’s colourful past. Opportunities include London, Stonehenge, Roman Bath, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwick Castle and Broughton Castle.

Weekend Excursions

Students may also take part in expeditions to Paris, Brussels, Edinburgh and Cornwall, where students have the chance to learn more about each location’s history and cultural significance.

Oxford

The alma mater of many famous poets, scientists and politicians, Oxford is a magnificent town full of ancient colleges, museums and parks. It would be easy to spend a lifetime exploring without leaving the city: there is just so much to see and do!

Optional Extras

Taxi Collection and Drop-Off

If you or your child is travelling to or from a major airport, we are able to arrange taxi collection to or from Oxford. If your child is travelling alone, we are able to provide a Chaperone to assist with the transfer at additional cost.

OxfordSure Student Insurance

Students must come with comprehensive travel insurance, to cover eventualities such as illness, repatriation, course cancellation and personal effects. We offer OxfordSure specialist student cover, which is available when making your booking.

Additional Information

Arriving and Departing

Students arrive on a Sunday and depart on a Saturday. The first event is the Welcome Reception for students and parents at 5 pm on the Sunday of arrival. The last commitment is breakfast on the Saturday of departure.

Application

You can either book online or you can download a paper application form and send it back to us.

Deposit

There is a booking deposit of £395.00 to accompany your application. Confirmation of your place will be sent to you once your application form has been processed.

Further Information

If you require any support, please either email us or give us a call on +44 (0) 845 130 60 21.