Oxford Scholastica Academy’s Online Psychology & Neuroscience Course is a live, online summer school for young people interested in how the mind works and how psychologists and neuroscientists study human behaviour. The course introduces core ideas such as memory, learning, emotions, personality, love and attachment, mental illness, and the science behind thought and behaviour.

Students learn through interactive live classes, masterclasses and research-focused activities. The programme includes opportunities to conduct experiments, debate ethical questions, analyse how the brain is studied through modern imaging, and present ideas to the group. It is designed to be engaging, intellectually challenging and accessible to motivated students who want to explore psychology in more depth.

Participants can choose to attend for one or two weeks, with live tutorials running daily online via Zoom. The course is intended to help students build confidence, develop academic skills and strengthen university applications, and successful completion leads to a Certificate of Achievement. Outstanding students may also receive a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor.

Levelling Up: STEM is a free support programme run by the University of Portsmouth for A-level (or equivalent) students who are under-represented in STEM. It is aimed at students who want to study Physics, Mathematics or Computing at university and is designed to run alongside students’ A-level studies, giving participants access to a dedicated tutor and a mentor from the University of Portsmouth. Participants take part in regular guided tutorials, mentoring sessions and subject-focused activities to prepare them to apply for and succeed at university. Most sessions are delivered online, with two dedicated in-person visits to the University of Portsmouth. Students join one of three parallel subject streams (Mathematics, Physics or Computing/Computer Science) and must meet the subject-specific entry criteria (A-levels or equivalent) for their chosen stream. The programme is targeted primarily at Year 12 students (Year 13 in Northern Ireland / S5 in Scotland) and prioritises applicants from Portsmouth and the surrounding area, those eligible for Free School Meals or the 16-19 bursary, care-experienced students, first-generation university applicants, students from low-progression neighbourhoods (POLAR/ACORN criteria), and students attending schools with low progression rates to higher education. The university also particularly welcomes applications from Black heritage students, female students in some STEM subjects, and disabled students.

Faculty of Science & Technology (STEM) is a summer school for young students who want to explore science and technology in an English-speaking environment. The programme is based in Cambridge and combines academic study with language development, helping students build confidence while discussing evidence, solving problems and presenting technical ideas.

Across the fortnight, students explore themes from physics, chemistry, biology, computing and engineering. Learning is interactive and practical, with discussion, accessible investigations, collaborative challenges and project work designed to strengthen subject vocabulary as well as communication skills. The focus is on scientific thinking and clear explanation rather than specialist laboratory training.

Students can attend as residential or non-residential participants. The experience also includes activities, excursions, a social programme and a final project presentation through the Time to Shine element, giving students a chance to bring together teamwork, STEM ideas and English-language confidence.

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 School of Journalism runs free journalism masterclasses, workshops, Q&A sessions and open days designed as tasters for those considering a journalism degree. Sessions are led by award-winning editors and the School’s training team (News Associates) and aim to give a practical insight into industry work and the training students receive on the BA (Hons) Multimedia Journalism degree.

Workshops cover practical skills such as news and feature writing, data and digital journalism, social media, photography and broadcast journalism, with talks from industry guest speakers. Participants may have the chance to produce stories for partner publications and receive individual feedback on exercises. Events are delivered both remotely (via Zoom) and in person at the News Associates newsroom in Twickenham/London.

The events are free and aimed primarily at sixth form and gap year students (those planning to start a degree in 2026 or 2027). To book, email [email protected], call 0203 026 3781 or complete the sign-up form linked on the page. University students, graduates and career changers are directed to a separate News Associates events sign-up.

The Duke of Wellington Medal for Military History is an annual award administered by the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) recognising the best English-language writing on military history. The remit is interpreted broadly to include the role of the armed forces, the conduct of wars, and the impact of conflict on nations and societies across any historical period up to the present day.

Books published by any living author are welcome to enter. Submissions are made by sending an online PDF copy to the RUSI contact named on the page, with title, author and publication date included. Drafts and proof copies are acceptable and alternative postal submission arrangements can be provided if an online copy cannot be sent. A board of judges decides the winning entry; certain parties (sponsors, judges, RUSI staff and recent previous winners) are excluded from eligibility.

Young woman interested in economics, politics or global affairs?

The Agora Papers may be for you. Run by young women in sixth form and university, The Agora Papers is a platform for young women to publish analytical pieces on economics, politics, global affairs and beyond - areas from which, despite their significance, female perspectives have too often been underrepresented.

Read by people across the world, the publication aims to amplify female perspectives in these fields. Whether you would like to become a regular contributor or write a one-off piece, The Agora Papers offers a unique super-curricular opportunity to explore a broad range of subjects, from economics and politics to the humanities, science and technology, and their growing influence on our everyday lives.

And if writing isn't your thing, The Agora Papers is also a resource for reading and engaging with these subjects, often through perspectives you may not encounter elsewhere.

This online taster morning introduces prospective Year 10 and 11 students to physics and related subjects at university. It is designed for young people who are thinking about their A-level choices and want a clearer sense of what studying physics or astrophysics beyond school could look like. The session features interactive workshops that showcase some favourite parts of the subject, along with a talk about studying physics at university. Students will also have the chance to put questions to a panel of current undergraduates, making it a useful opportunity to hear directly from people already studying the subject. The event is delivered live online and will also be available as on-demand videos for later catch-up. Those joining the live session can take part in the discussion and interact with speakers through the webinar platform.

The Fashion School offers Arts Award qualifications (Bronze and Silver) that are nationally recognised and operate at a similar level to GCSEs. The programme is open to anyone aged 11+ and is designed for young people interested in fashion, sewing, design and textiles. Students develop leadership, independent learning, communication, planning and fashion knowledge through project-based work and tutor support.

Work for the Arts Award is completed across weekly term classes and at home, supported by an Arts Award trained tutor. Bronze typically involves four 15-minute one-to-one sessions and up to 60 hours of work; Silver involves six 15-minute one-to-one sessions and up to 95 hours. Students are expected to document their process (sketchbooks, diaries, photos), research designers, attend at least one fashion event or trip, and present their project to others.

The programme prepares students for further education and employment in creative fields. Parents and students should note that enrolment requires attendance in a weekly term class; some additional one-to-one tutorials are available at extra cost. For questions or to sign up, contact the school directly.

Creative Industries Week at Southampton Solent University is a two-day taster experience for college and school groups interested in creative subjects. Students get a real taste of university-level study through practical workshops and guided projects across areas such as art, design, fashion, beauty, interiors, media, film, and production. The programme is built around hands-on learning in real university settings, with support from academics and industry professionals. Participants use professional-grade facilities and create tangible work they can use for UCAS applications and creative portfolios. Each student selects one workshop per day, making the experience varied and highly practical. The week is split into Creative Arts and Creative Media, giving students the chance to explore different branches of the creative industries and experience a campus environment. College tutors can book groups through the registration form, and individual students who are not attending with a college group can contact the university directly for more information.

Queen Mary University of London’s Department of English invites students in Years 11, 12 and 13 from across the UK to enter its annual writing prize competition. Now in its third year, the prize celebrates imaginative and original writing and gives young writers the chance to submit either creative writing or an essay inspired by the year’s theme. For the 2026/27 competition, the theme is “Borders”. Creative writing entries can take the form of poetry, extended prose or a playscript, while essay submissions should explore the idea of borders in literary writing in inventive and thoughtful ways. Entries are reviewed by an expert panel from the Department of English, and winners are chosen by author Costanza Casati. All entrants receive tailored feedback from an expert reader, and shortlisted writers are also recognised with a certificate of commendation.

This youth volunteer day gives young people the chance to get hands-on with practical conservation work and learn about coppicing in a supportive outdoor setting. Participants will meet members of the reserves team, connect with other young volunteers, and take part in activities that help manage woodland habitat. The day begins with a safety briefing and a short talk explaining how coppicing works and why it matters for conservation. After that, attendees will get stuck into practical tasks on the reserve and have time to ask questions during the lunch break. It is an outdoor event with uneven, muddy ground and inclines, so participants should be comfortable standing and walking for extended periods. All equipment and safety gloves are provided, but attendees should bring wellies, long trousers, waterproofs, lunch, water, and snacks. Those under 18 must attend with a legal guardian.

This virtual work experience provides a comprehensive introduction to the Royal Air Force (RAF). Through videos, interactive activities and quizzes delivered by serving RAF personnel, learners will explore the RAF’s purpose, history, structure, core values, and the range of roles across regulars, reserves, civilians and partners. The programme also covers training, career progression, pay and benefits, and routes into the RAF including apprenticeships and graduate pathways. The course includes insight into the Air Cadets and how young people can get involved, earn qualifications and develop skills relevant to future education and careers. Content is a mix of on-demand modules and live webinars (recordings are made available). Participants who complete the programme earn Rockets and can enter prize draws, and receive a certificate of completion. The programme is delivered on the Springpod platform as a remote/on-demand experience so students can complete material at their own pace within the programme timeframe. Live talks take place during weekday working hours but are recorded for later access.

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.

Christ Church is participating in Oxford Open Doors in partnership with the Oxford Preservation Trust, offering visitors the chance to explore one of Oxford’s most famous college sites. The day is designed for self-guided visits and gives access to the quads, cloister, Hall, Cathedral and gardens, with entry managed by pre-booked tickets.

Alongside the self-guided route, the programme includes demonstrations, short talks and family activities taking place across the site during the day. Visitors can also sign up on the day for selected guided tours, including the Library, the Cathedral and the Bell Tower, subject to availability and capacity. The event also features a music programme with organ recitals, a community singing session and Cathedral music events.

CPDN (climateprediction.net) is a University of Oxford-based volunteer computing project that runs climate modelling experiments using the spare processing power of volunteers' home computers. Volunteers install the BOINC client, join the Climateprediction.net project, and allow climate models to run in the background on their machines. The project is not-for-profit and is run by a team of climate scientists, computing experts and graduate students in partnership with researchers worldwide.

Volunteers help run large ensembles of global and regional climate models which are computationally intensive and require many small contributions from ordinary computers. Participation is suitable for anyone with a compatible personal computer and an interest in supporting climate science; no formal qualifications are required. Key practical steps are to download and install the BOINC client, register a CPDN account, add the Climateprediction.net project to BOINC, and configure preferences (for example to suspend work while the computer is in use).

Participants can access technical FAQs and community message boards for setup help and discussion. The role offers engagement with climate research, opportunities to learn about modelling and data, and membership of a global volunteer community, but it does not provide a formal qualification or paid work.

Immerse Education’s Chemistry Summer School in Cambridge is a university-style summer programme for students aged 16-18 who want to explore chemistry at a higher level. The course covers core areas of the subject, including organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry, and is designed to give participants a deeper understanding of chemistry in an academic setting. Students study in small classes and take part in expert-led sessions, personal research work, and 1-on-1 tutoring. The programme is built to develop critical thinking, independent study skills, and confidence with university-level learning. It is intended to give ambitious students a genuine taste of Cambridge-style study before applying to university. Alongside the academic content, the experience includes campus living, formal dining, guest speakers, and a graduation ceremony. Participants receive a certificate of achievement, and they may also opt in to an extra UCAS points add-on during application, which can strengthen a future university application.

The Practical Ethics and Responsibility Competition invites school students to explore a real ethical issue and think critically about the role responsibility plays in addressing it. Entrants take part by creating a video that explains an ethical problem and presents their ideas on how responsibility is involved. The competition is designed to encourage discussion, reflection and careful argument, while giving young people a chance to develop communication and analysis skills. It is open across the UK to teams of school students in the relevant year groups. Entries are judged, and the top five teams are invited to the final in Oxford. The organisers provide travel costs for all participants, and accommodation costs for teams travelling more than two hours from Oxford. Finalist schools receive a cash prize, making the competition both an academic challenge and a recognised opportunity for students interested in ethics and public debate.

Film of the Month is an ongoing monthly competition run by Into Film to celebrate young filmmaking talent across the UK. It is open to all young people aged 5–19. Each month one winning film is selected to receive a £100 gift voucher, certificate(s), a feature interview on the Into Film website, and placement on the Into Film YouTube Shorts channel. Runner-up films are also showcased.

The competition accepts any film genre or theme (fiction, non-fiction, live action, or animated). Films must be a maximum of 10 minutes in length, and entrants must ensure any third-party music, images or footage are cleared for use. If you are aged 17 or under, a parent or guardian must provide consent and complete the entrant details when submitting. Educators may submit curricular films on behalf of their students; curricular entries are judged with slightly different criteria to ensure a level playing field.

Entrants must disclose any use of AI tools in the film's creation. Judges assess films on idea, story, sound and look rather than technical kit, and emphasis is placed on originality and creative decisions. There is a new round every month and entries are accepted on an ongoing basis via the Into Film website.

Expert Wealth Management offers structured work experience placements designed to introduce sixth form students to the world of financial planning. The programme is aimed at students who are interested in finance, business, economics, or related subjects and want to learn more about careers in the sector. Students can expect a mix of practical and observational experience, including administrative tasks, research projects, insight sessions, team meetings, training sessions, and opportunities to see how different parts of the business work together. The placement also includes guidance and mentoring from experienced professionals who want to support the next generation. The programme is intended to build confidence, professional skills, and career awareness, giving participants a clearer understanding of the workplace and the role financial planners play in helping clients. Placements take place at Expert Wealth Management’s office in High Cogges, Witney, and are available during school breaks, including Easter and summer holidays.