University of Oxford – History, Philosophy & Literature Summer School in Oxford, UK

Course Description: University of Oxford – History, Philosophy & Literature Summer School in Oxford, UK

Programme Overview

Explore centuries of human thought, culture, and conflict at one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the world. The History, Philosophy & Literature Summer School at the University of Oxford immerses students aged 16–18 in an intensive, interdisciplinary experience that challenges them to think critically about the forces that shaped the modern world.

Through small-group seminars, analytical writing workshops, and vibrant debates, students trace the connections between philosophy, literature, and historical events—from classical antiquity to the 20th century. They learn to interpret primary sources, argue philosophical positions, and explore literature as a reflection of political and cultural moments.

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📍 Location The programme is based at Jowett Walk College, part of the University of Oxford. The secure residential campus provides an inspiring setting in the heart of the city, offering full supervision, historic surroundings, and access to university libraries and cultural institutions.

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✅ What’s Included

✔️ 2-week residential stay at the University of Oxford ✔️ 20+ hours of academic teaching per week ✔️ Seminars led by university-level subject specialists ✔️ Full board: breakfast, lunch, dinner included ✔️ 24/7 student supervision and welfare support ✔️ Course materials and academic progress report ✔️ Certificate of completion ✔️ Cultural excursions and guided tours ✔️ International student community with 170+ nationalities

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*� Academic Focus

• Study influential philosophers such as Aristotle, Rousseau, Nietzsche, and Locke

• Analyse literary texts and how they reflect historic movements

• Explore themes in political philosophy, metaphysics, epistemology, and ethics

• Develop persuasive writing and critical thinking skills

• Debate philosophical responses to major events like revolutions and world wars

• Build a university-level academic portfolio and oral presentation confidence

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*�️ Sample Daily Schedule

History, Philosophy & Literature Summer School – Oxford Ages 16–18 | 2-Week Programme

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Week 1

Sunday 🕒 Arrival Day – Student Arrival, Welcome Tour & Orientation

Monday 🕗 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Introduction to Critical Thinking & Logic 🕐 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Literary Analysis – Texts from Enlightenment Era 🕖 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Icebreaker Games & Campus Tour

Tuesday 🕗 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Seminar – Ethics & Political Philosophy 🕐 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Historical Case Study – The Reformation 🕖 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Movie Night 🎬

Wednesday 🕗 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Workshop – Essay Structure & Argumentation 🕐 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Visit to Bodleian Library & Oxford College Tour 🕖 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Quiz Night 🧠

Thursday 🕗 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Philosophy Seminar – Epistemology & Belief 🕐 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Workshop – Textual Analysis & Discussion 🕖 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Debate Night 🗣️

Friday 🕗 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM: Historical Turning Point – French Revolution 🕐 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Literary Reflections on War 🕖 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM: Chess Tournament ♟️

Saturday 🕗 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM: Full-Day Excursion to London (British Museum, Parliament Tour) 🕖 7:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Return to Campus & Free Time

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*� Cultural & Social Activities

• Guided tours of Oxford colleges & museums

• Improv theatre, sports tournaments, quiz nights

• Art & creative expression sessions

• Day trips to London and/or Stratford-upon-Avon

• Graduation party and photo ceremony

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*� Guest Speakers from Past Years

• Julian Baggini – Philosopher & Author (The Ego Trick)

• Sir Andrew Motion – Poet Laureate (1999–2009)

• Jason Bradbury – Author & BBC Presenter (The Gadget Show)

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✈️ Airport Transfers

London Heathrow: £215 one-way Includes: airport meet-and-greet, supervision, unaccompanied minor support, snack pack on arrival

Flight times:

• Arrivals: Between 06:00–18:00 BST

• Departures: Between 08:00–22:00 BST

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*� Graduation & Farewell

Students are celebrated in a formal graduation ceremony held in a historic Oxford venue. Each participant receives a certificate of completion and a personalised academic report. The event concludes with a social farewell and final reflections on an unforgettable summer of thought, dialogue, and discovery.