The Cambridge Chemistry Challenge is a UK school competition designed to stretch and challenge students interested in chemistry and to give insight into studying chemistry beyond the school syllabus.

The competition is set by an experienced team of teachers and university chemists and is designed to be accessible to Year 12 students while encouraging university-style scientific thinking. The assessment takes the form of a 90-minute written paper, consisting of two or three questions, which is sat at school under supervised conditions within a specified time window after AS exams.

Registered schools (those entering at least one student) are sent the paper at the beginning of June. Teachers may enter as many candidates as they wish; for schools submitting more than five scripts, teachers should mark these themselves, while schools entering five or fewer may submit papers unmarked. Students who perform well receive certificates, and the highest performers are invited to a residential camp at the University of Cambridge at the end of August.

Study Mind runs a 1-week Economics work experience programme designed to give school students practical, hands-on exposure to economic concepts and real-world applications. The programme is led by experts and focuses on interactive simulations, economic modelling and data analysis to help participants bridge the gap between classroom learning and professional practice.

Participants take part in Economics Practice Days featuring case studies, group exercises and role-play scenarios that develop analytical and decision-making skills. The programme also offers UCAS application support and interview coaching, helping students prepare stronger university applications and demonstrating their experience with a certificate on completion.

The Study Mind programme runs in multiple UK locations (London, Manchester and Birmingham) and is explicitly presented as suitable for ages 15-18, with a focus on Year 12 students. Interested applicants are invited to book or find out more via the Study Mind website link provided on the page.

Youth Rangers is a regular volunteer programme for young people run by Gloucestershire Wildlife Trust. It gives participants hands-on experience in nature conservation through practical tasks such as scrub clearance, surveying and habitat creation, while developing wildlife skills and teamwork. Sessions run 12:30-16:30 on the third Saturday of each month at Robinswood Hill in Gloucester. Sessions are suitable for beginners with no prior experience; they are run outdoors in all weathers and are useful for personal development and for young people completing volunteering hours for awards such as Duke of Edinburgh. Places are free but limited. Young people must register their interest (online) and book individual sessions via the Trust's events/Eventbrite booking system; sessions open for booking on the first Monday of each month. If a member turns 18 while involved there are opportunities to take on volunteer youth leader responsibilities.

Join this online open event to learn more about UCL’s undergraduate European and International Social and Political Studies provision. The session is designed for prospective applicants who want a clearer sense of the course structure, the range of disciplines available, and what studying this interdisciplinary degree at UCL involves. The event highlights how students can explore one of nine disciplines within the humanities and social sciences, while building a broad foundation in history, law, politics, and philosophy. It also touches on opportunities to become fluent in another language and to enrich the degree through international experience. Attendees will hear a short presentation about the programme and have time to ask questions. It is a useful opportunity to find out more about the European Social and Political Studies dual degree route, as well as the wider BA offer within the department.

The Experience Engineering Academy is a two-week on-campus summer course run by Oxford Scholastica Academy on the Oxford University campus. Students tackle real-world engineering challenges-building an engine, designing hydraulic and pneumatic systems, exploring aerodynamics and thermodynamic cycles-and are guided by tutors typically drawn from Oxford and Cambridge.

Beyond daily classes, the programme includes an intensive four-hour Bridge Building Challenge that tests teamwork, budgeting and structural design. Masterclasses, visits from an established engineer, cultural excursions and a full social programme (including an International Boat Ball, punting and college experiences) give participants a taste of university life alongside academic learning.

Class sizes are capped (maximum 15 students). All successful participants receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement, and qualifying students may be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation and access to the Ambassador Programme for follow-on activities.

The Bartlett Promise Undergraduate Scholarship is UCL Bartlett’s flagship scholarship programme for prospective undergraduate students from backgrounds underrepresented in the Faculty of the Built Environment. It is designed to widen participation in built environment study at UCL and support students who meet the eligibility criteria and demonstrate financial, personal or educational need. Successful scholars receive full UK-rate tuition fees plus an annual stipend to help with living and study costs for the full expected length of their course. In addition to financial support, scholars are offered mentoring, personal support and careers advice throughout their studies, and become part of a wider community of current and former scholars, benefactors and supporters.

Uptree’s FuturesUP Interactive Law Application Bootcamp is a London-based in-person event designed to support Year 13 students who are preparing to apply for solicitor apprenticeships. It is aimed at young people who already have a strong understanding of the law profession and are clear about the legal areas they want to explore further. The bootcamp offers tailored advice, expert guidance and practical application support to help participants strengthen every stage of the apprenticeship process. Attendees can expect focused preparation on what law firms look for, how to approach applications effectively, and how to build confidence for interviews and presentations. The event also creates a chance to meet solicitors, recruiters and other professionals from multiple UK law firms, as well as current apprentices, graduates and Uptree alumni. Through interactive sessions and direct conversations, participants can learn about different practice areas, hear first-hand experiences, and gain insider insight into what makes an application stand out.

Anglia Ruskin University’s Subject Taster Days give schools, colleges and sixth forms the chance to bring students to campus for an immersive introduction to university study. The sessions are designed to help young people explore subject areas, experience university life first-hand, and think more confidently about progression into higher education and future careers. The day typically includes a welcome, a university introduction, hands-on subject activity, time to explore the campus, and opportunities to meet current students and academic staff. Students can see facilities, hear about progression routes, and take part in practical activities that link classroom learning to real-world pathways. The programme is aimed mainly at mainstream schools and colleges, with group bookings welcomed and individual places available through school staff. Taster Days are free to attend, usually last about 4.5 hours, and may offer support with transport costs. ARU also provides booking options for different academic-year cycles and can arrange personalised sessions on request.

The British Physics Olympiad Senior Physics Challenge (SPC) is a national competition aimed at Year 12 (first year of A-level or equivalent) students. There are two routes: SPC Online, a quiz-style competition made up of two 30-minute multiple-choice sets designed to encourage wider reading and interest in physics; and the traditional paper SPC, a one-hour problem-based paper that challenges students' problem-solving and application of core physics principles.

Both competitions are intended to be taken in school under teacher supervision and are not permitted to be sat remotely. The online event is run via the BPhO Competition Platform and is accessible to capable students (not an Olympiad-level paper). The paper competition uses a problem-set format with past papers recommended for preparation; teachers download papers from the Competition Platform and mark scripts in school using the provided mark scheme.

Entry arrangements vary: SPC Online charges £20 for a school entry (up to 999 students), the paper competition is free for (UK) schools while international schools have a £20 fee for up to 100 students. Results, reports and supporting materials (sample questions, past papers, mark schemes) are available on the Competition Platform. Selected top performers may be invited (with their teacher) to the Royal Society awards.

The mA*ths Online Programme at The University of Manchester is an outreach programme for A-level Mathematics students aimed at supporting those with the potential to achieve A/A* in A-level Maths. It is delivered in collaboration with Mathematics in Education and Industry (MEI) and Imperial College London, and combines online study with tailored mentoring and face-to-face masterclasses on the University of Manchester campus.

Participants receive online mentoring from current University of Manchester students and take part in two structured Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) focused on challenging A-level topics, with practice questions and assessments to track progress. The programme also includes one-day introductory masterclasses (on campus) to meet mentors and one-day closing masterclasses to consolidate learning and prepare for final A-level examinations.

The programme targets pupils from communities underrepresented in higher education and is restricted to applicants from eligible north west postcodes. Applications for Year 12 programmes are open via the application link; applications for the Year 13 programme are marked as closed on the page. For further information applicants can contact mathsonline@manchester.ac.uk.

The Modern Architecture Summer Course by Lite Regal Education is a residential, on-campus summer programme for students aged 15-18 considering studying Modern Architecture at university. Based in university colleges in London, Cambridge or Oxford, the course combines hands-on studio workshops, technical drawing and CAD sessions, model-making, field visits to iconic buildings and guest lectures from industry professionals. Students produce a portfolio and final design project and receive academic reports and a graduation certificate.

The programme is delivered over an immersive timetable of lessons, workshops and excursions: morning lessons, afternoon practical sessions, and visits to architectural landmarks such as the Shard, the Serpentine and major university facilities. The course emphasises portfolio development, university application guidance and practical skills (sketching, technical drawing, 3D modelling and construction materials). Social activities, coach excursions and pastoral support are provided throughout the stay.

Accommodation is on university campus with shared twin rooms, three meals daily and 24/7 pastoral supervision. Applications are processed after payment of a 15% deposit (or full payment); the balance is due 60 days prior to course start. The course is open to UK and international students and is designed to nurture creativity, build confidence and provide insight into architecture study and careers.

Join tutor2u’s subject experts for a full-day Geography exam booster designed for Year 13 students preparing for AQA A-Level Geography. The workshop is built around fast-paced, interactive sessions in a cinema setting, with a strong focus on exam technique, core topic revision, and the skills needed to perform well in the final assessment.

Across the day, attendees work through geographical systems, key content development, AO1 and AO2 understanding, and a range of exam-style question strategies, including approaches to 20-mark, 9-mark, and 6-mark questions. Students also receive a workshop booklet packed with practical advice, access to a supporting online course, and additional downloadable resources to help them continue revision after the event.

The TeenTech Awards are a national competition for young innovators that invites students to develop and showcase projects addressing real-world problems. Participants may work individually or in teams of up to three across a wide range of innovation, skills and research categories, exploring areas such as transport, healthcare, energy efficiency, digital media and more. Every submitted project receives feedback and is awarded bronze, silver or gold; the strongest entries progress to the TeenTech Awards Final for judging. The programme supports schools with suggested structures and industry contacts, and TeenTech connects teams with industry mentors to help develop projects. TeenTech also runs live, interactive 'Top Tips' sessions for teachers and students to explain how to run the Awards successfully and to help with research, IP protection and practical project development. Winners of the Final receive a cash prize and finalists take part in the showcase and judging events. Registration for the TeenTech Awards 2027 is open via the Stage 1 Form, with full submissions opening in early 2027.

Oxford Scholastica Academy’s Experience Medicine Academy is a two-week summer school in Oxford for young people interested in medicine and medical school. The programme is designed to build confidence, deepen understanding of clinical practice and give students a realistic taste of life in the field through a mix of academic teaching, practical activities and discussion-based learning.

Students explore a wide range of medical topics, from clinical skills and patient history-taking to cardiology, respiratory medicine, surgery, neurology, emergency medicine and medical ethics. A major highlight is the Hospital Challenge, where participants work in pairs in a real clinical setting, interview patients with chronic conditions, gather information and present their findings to a doctor.

Alongside the academic programme, students meet a tutor who is also a practising doctor and gain insight into medical training and career pathways. The course finishes with graduation and certification, and successful students receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement. Some students may also receive a personalised Letter of Recommendation.

This is a virtual politics work experience programme designed to introduce students to a range of careers within politics and related fields. Through videos, interactive activities and workplace-style projects you will explore what MPs do, the role of political assistants, the variety of careers within the civil service, and the skills required for political journalism. The programme finishes with a downloadable portfolio of your work.

The course includes modules that cover careers beyond parliament - for example roles in charities, the not-for-profit sector, human rights and law - and provides practical activities to build students' understanding and transferable skills. Live webinars supplement the online content; these take place during weekday working hours but are recorded and made available afterwards.

There is no strict cut-off deadline for completing the programme once you have access. After completing the required tasks and assignments you will receive a certificate of completion. The programme is run on Springpod's platform and is available on demand.

Surrey County Archaeological Unit offers a range of volunteering opportunities across fieldwork and post-excavation activities. Summer community projects include excavations, surveys and field walking; no previous experience is needed and training is provided. Volunteers can join digs during the warmer months to gain hands-on experience in archaeological field techniques.

Year-round Wednesday sessions are held at the Surrey History Centre in Woking, focused on processing finds and samples; these sessions run 11:00-16:00 and require booking. The unit also provides limited work experience placements targeted at students in Year 11, sixth form and college, and publishes career resources online for those considering heritage and archaeological careers.

To get involved or for further details about placements, sessions and summer projects, contact the Surrey County Archaeological Unit directly. Note that placement availability can be limited, so early enquiries are recommended.

This in-person workshop is designed to help prospective applicants prepare the optional portfolio for NCAD’s BA Interaction Design and BA Product Design programmes. It is strongly recommended for students who are planning to submit a portfolio as part of their application. The session focuses on portfolio preparation for these two design degrees, with guidance intended to support applicants as they develop and refine their work. It is not intended for students preparing a portfolio for Fine Art or Communication Design. The event lasts 5 hours 30 minutes and takes place at the National College of Art and Design in Dublin.

Fitzwilliam College is partnering with Zero Gravity to deliver a series of online masterclasses for its students. The sessions are designed to give young people practical guidance about Cambridge, the application process, and what student life is like, helping them feel more confident about applying and preparing for university. The programme includes talks on topics such as Cambridge Foundation Year options, an introduction to Cambridge and Fitzwilliam College, preparing for the Cambridge interview, and a student panel sharing first-hand experiences. The sessions are intended to be informative and supportive, with advice tailored to students who are exploring Cambridge or getting ready for the admissions process. The opportunity is aimed mainly at sixth form students, especially Year 12 and Year 13 students. It is delivered online, making it accessible to students who want to learn more about Cambridge from wherever they are based, while benefiting from guidance from current students and staff connected to Fitzwilliam College.

Immerse Education’s Medicine Summer Programme in Oxford is a university-style summer school for students who want an early introduction to medicine and healthcare. The course is offered in two age groups, with tailored study for younger and older participants, and is designed to build academic confidence while giving students a feel for future study in the field.

Students explore human anatomy, medical sciences, and wider healthcare topics through expert-led academic sessions. The older age group also looks at advanced themes such as neuroscience, epidemiology, clinical skills, and ethics. Across the programme, participants take part in a personal research project and receive 1-on-1 tutoring to support their learning and development.

The experience is based in Oxford and combines study with residential college life, helping students experience an authentic university environment. Participants also receive a certificate of achievement on completion, and there is an optional opportunity to earn UCAS points or college credits.

Heeley City Farm offers volunteering and training opportunities across the farm, food-growing areas, café, administration, site maintenance, and community support. The activities are designed to help people build practical skills, confidence, and friendships while contributing to a local charity focused on nature, wellbeing, and inclusion.

The farm welcomes volunteers from age 8 upwards, with different options for different ages and interests. There is a dedicated 16–24 volunteer group, plus roles for ages 16+ in the farm kitchen, finance, reception and administration, and site maintenance. Sheffield Safe Places is available for volunteers aged 18+.

Applicants should complete the online volunteer form. The farm says some departments have waiting lists, placements cannot always be guaranteed, and successful applicants may be invited to a “Try it” day. For some roles, a criminal records check may be requested because the farm works with vulnerable people.