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Explorer Programmes Ages 8-12

Camp Dragon

AN ADVENTURE THEY’LL NEVER FORGET

A supportive, adventure-filled summer at the Dragon School in Oxford — where children aged 8 to 12 build confidence, and discover new interests through a pedagogy of learning through play. All while making friends from around the world and supported by staff in a safe and caring environment.

  • First Boarding Experience
  • Safe, Secure Environment
  • Oxford Location

At a glance

Fees from
£4,095 2-wk residential · Day Programme £2,995
Ages
8–12 Explorer Programmes tier
Start dates
19th Jul & 2nd Aug Two-week sessions, 2027
Class size
15 Max Students per class
English level
A2+ Minimum English level to enrol
Academic hours
15 hrs Lessons per week
Location
Oxford Camp Dragon

What’s included: tuition, accommodation (residential option), meals, excursions, social programme, student report, certificate and student insurance. Transfer service available for an additional fee.

Children enjoying bubbles at summer boarding camp in outdoor setting.
Bright young girl engaging in a fun science experiment with a teacher at a summer boarding course on a lush green field.
Bright blue fencing mask and red protective gear worn by children during fencing class at summer boarding course
Creative children engaging in arts and crafts at a summer boarding school.
Archery activity at summer boarding courses for kids and teens on lush green outdoor field.

Courses

Young Explorers

Link

Excursions


Legoland

Optional: Harry Potter

A view of Oxford Radcliffe building with bright blue skies and other buildings surroning it

Oxford

Warwick Castle

Activities

Arts & Crafts

Basketball

Benchball

Board Games & Puzzles

Combat Archery

Dance

Den Building

Disco

Dodgeball

Dragon Quest

Drama

Fencing

Film Night

Football

House Night

Karaoke

Lego

Marble Run Rollercoaster Challenge

Music

Planetarium

Rainbow Tag

Robotics Workshop

Rounders

Silly Olympics

Superstar Sendoff

Swimming

Tag

Tag Rugby

Talent Show

Trashion Show

Zorbing

What's included

15 Hours Tuition Per Week

Accommodation

Certificate

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Course Materials

Excursion Programme

Extracurricular Multi-Activity Programme

Meals

Progress Report

For children discovering what they’re capable of

FIRST STEPS IN THE WIDER WORLD

Our summer camp offers a unique and engaging experience for children aged 8–12 from around the world. At Camp Dragon, we provide an immersive environment where students are encouraged to be Safe, Brave, and Curious, ensuring they make the most of their time with us.

We have built a vibrant community that celebrates the joy of learning English through fun topics, and where students are supported in using new language skills with confidence. At Camp Dragon, we don’t teach traditional English lessons and we don’t use coursebooks. Instead, every moment at Camp Dragon is seen as an opportunity to learn, fostering a spirit of exploration and helping students find the language they need in real-life situations.

From the classroom to the playground to the cafeteria, our goal is to create a nurturing environment where students feel empowered and supported to try new things, make mistakes, and grow in their language journey.

Meet children around the world on our action-packed Oxford Summer Camp.

Accommodation

Camp Dragon

Facilities

Adventure Playground

Art Studio

Boys & Girls Housed Seperately

Classrooms

Dorm Rooms

House Common Rooms

Laundry Service

Modern Dining Hall

Playing Fields

Shared Bathrooms

Sports Hall

Swimming Pool

Theatre

Wifi

Speak To Lucy

Camp Dragon Admissions Manager


Is this programme for them?

Does this sound like your child?

Students arrive with different interests and ambitions, but many recognise themselves in at least one of these.

  • Your child is ready for their first time away from home

    They are excited to try it, and you want them somewhere safe and caring while they develop their confidence.

  • Your child loves making and discovering things

    They enjoy practical activities, being creative, and finding out how things work.

  • Your child is looking for a summer of adventure and new friends

    They will do best somewhere warm and welcoming, surrounded by children from around the world.

Sound familiar? This programme was built for you

Immersive Learning Experience

The Young Explorers programme is designed to enhance language skills through exciting topics and play-based learning. At Camp Dragon, we don’t rely on traditional English lessons in the classroom. Instead, we focus on teaching the functional language students need to fully engage with the programme each day in fun and creative ways. Our learning programme is rooted in primary school subjects, and we spark imagination through our dynamic Discover, Develop, and Dare sessions.

We are guided by our core Camp Dragon values: Safe, Brave, and Curious. Students learn to look out for one another, promote kindness, and create a community where making mistakes in English is embraced as a key part of the learning process. We nurture a supportive environment where students feel empowered to be brave and try new things. We also encourage curiosity—whether it’s about each other’s cultures, the topics we explore, or the language they need in the moment.

  • Explorer Programmes

    Young Explorers

    A supportive, adventure-filled summer at the Dragon School in Oxford, where younger children learn through play, make friends and grow in…

    • Location:Camp Dragon
    • Ages:8 – 12
    • Duration:2 or 4 weeks
    • English Level:A2+

Programme Overview

Sample Two-week Timetable

Discover what a typical two-week course looks like for our students, from morning sessions through to evening activities — plus a full overview of the programme. Please note our sample timetable is given as an example and can be subject to change.

  • How the academic programme is structured
  • Sample two-week timetable
  • Trips, activities and evening life

How you'll learn

A day structured around Discover, Develop, Dare and Showtime

Every day is carefully structured to spark curiosity, build confidence and create lasting memories, opening with ‘Rise and Shine’ before moving through hands-on learning and themed activities.

  • Stage 1

    Discover

    The day’s theme is introduced through creativity and play. Children might design a coat of arms while practising how to describe themselves in English on History Day, or investigate different biomes around the world on Geography Day. Every session is designed to spark curiosity — not test it.

  • Stage 2

    Develop

    Students take the morning’s theme further — working together to build mini catapults, design rollercoasters, or experiment with different artistic techniques. English develops naturally because children are too busy collaborating, problem-solving and laughing with their teammates to notice they’re learning.

  • Stage 3

    Dare

    Afternoons are where children step outside their comfort zone. Fencing, combat archery, dragon den building — activities chosen because they quietly build communication, resilience and the confidence that comes from trying something new and finding out you can do it.

  • Stage 4

    Showtime!

    Teams present, perform and celebrate the day’s learning together. It might be a castle siege, a dramatic performance or a group presentation — but the result is always the same: children proving to themselves, their peers and their teachers that they are more capable than they thought.

More Than Just Fun

Awesome Activities

Learning doesn’t stop when the lessons end. From art and sport to outdoor adventures and evening performances, every activity is chosen to build teamwork, confidence and friendships — proof that some of the biggest lessons happen outside the classroom.

The evening brings a fresh choice — football, badminton, dance, den building, arts and crafts, or quieter options like board games and drawing. Every child finds something that suits them.

Camp Dragon Excursions

 

Adventure awaits our young explorers! Our excursions are more than just trips; they’re a gateway to new experiences, learning, and fun. Our adventures are integrated into the Learning Programme, allowing campers to explore topics in the classroom and then experience them firsthand on the adventure.

From award-winning museums, theme parks, and castles to the bustling streets of the historic city of Oxford, each journey is designed to ignite curiosity and create unforgettable memories. Join us as we embark on these extraordinary adventures, tailor-made for our vibrant and inquisitive campers. Get ready for a summer filled with discovery, excitement, and the joy of exploration!

 

  • Oxford Radcliffe surronded by bikes

    Oxford

    All aboard! Explore the historic city of Oxford on an exciting open-top bus tour. Oxford is home to the world-renowned university, stunning architecture, and centuries of academic tradition, and at Camp Dragon, we see it all in style.

  • Warwick Castle

    Warwick Castle

    Step back in time with a visit to Warwick Castle, a spectacular medieval fortress offering history, scenic grounds, dungeons and epic shows that bring tales to life.

  • LegoLand-UK

    Legoland

    An exciting day of adventure awaits at LEGOLAND Windsor, filled with themed rides, creative fun, and interactive LEGO experiences.

Optional Extras

Enhance your experience by choosing an optional adventure of visiting Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studios. Campers will experience the magic of film-making, see spellbinding sets, and uncover the secrets behind beloved characters.

  • Warner Bros Harry Potter Studios

    Enter the enchanting world of Harry Potter Studios! A must-visit for every young wizard and witch. The magic of filmmaking with a behind-the-scenes look at spellbinding sets and beloved characters.

    Due to popular demand, we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment.

    Limited Space Popular
    • Price:£250

Accommodation

At Camp Dragon, all students live in purpose-built accommodation with shared dormitories and shared bathroom facilities. Dormitories have from four to nine beds which gives students lots of opportunities to practise speaking English all day. Everyone has their own area for storing their belongings.

Staff are available in the accommodation throughout the day and night to provide pastoral support. Boys and girls live in separate houses. Each house hosts a large communal area and garden where students can play and unwind together during MeTime.

Dragon School

Camp Dragon is located at The Dragon School in North Oxford. Established in 1877, it began as a small school for Oxford University lecturers’ children. It is now a preparatory school for day and boarding students aged 4-13.

The Dragon School boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including science labs, art studios, a theatre, and extensive sports fields. With its combination of rich history, modern facilities, and an ideal location close to Oxford’s city centre, Camp Dragon offers an inspiring environment for students and staff alike. With the aim to “inspire, encourage and develop free-thinking, confident young people who reach for the sun”, the Dragon School’s ethos is central to Camp Dragon.

Find your perfect summer programme

155 +

Nationalities represented from around the world since 2008

21,000 +

Ambitious student alumni welcomed to SBC since 2008

No.1

EL Gazette ranked us the UK’s number 1 multi-campus summer school

Dates and Fees

Two Options. One transformative fortnight.

Whether your child boards with us or returns home each evening, your fee covers everything in their programme. See what’s included with each option below.

Residential

From £4,095

per 2-week course · Boarding — full days plus evenings and weekends

  • Full board — all meals & accommodation included
  • Multi-activity programme
  • Evening activities & excursions
  • 24/7 pastoral care

Day Programme

From £2,995

per 2-week course · 09:00–20:00 daily · varies by campus

  • Same academic programme as residential
  • Lunch & evening meals included
  • Full activity programme and excursions
  • Return home in the evening

2027 dates

Flexible lengths 2 or 4-week options available
Programme start dates 19th July and 2nd August

Places are limited and allocated on a first-come basis. Check availability before you plan.

Places can start to fill from spring — book early

Camp Dragon FAQs

At Camp Dragon staff are available 24/7 to support students with anything they might need because student safety is our highest priority. We have a high ratio of staff to students throughout the summer. At Camp Dragon our Houseparents are responsible for the day-to-day care of students and are a first point of contact if any student feels upset in anyway. They are always a familiar and friendly face whose priority is to make sure students feel settled and safe during their time at Camp. They are supported by an experienced team of managers and Camp Dragon will have a dedicated Admissions Manager who will be the main point of contact for families with any issues or concerns.

All SBC staff are trained in Safeguarding and many are trained in giving First Aid. We pride ourselves on offering the best possible care to students and achieved British Council area of strength in ‘care of students’ and ‘safeguarding under 18s’.

We recognise that it’s important for students to be able to contact home during their time at Camp. Before summer, your dedicated Admissions Manager will share our Parent Welcome Pack. This includes a document called ‘Keeping in Contact,’ which will let you know the best time of day to contact your child and provide a contact number for the Camp Dragon team if further support is required.

Yes. Our transfer service varies across our different campus locations. Information on our transfer service can be found here.

Camp Dragon is located at The Dragon School in leafy North Oxford. The Dragon School enjoys the best of both worlds – there are expansive playing fields alongside the banks of the River Cherwell but you are also a short walk into the inspiring City Centre of Oxford.

We know that sometimes parents/guardians will want to visit their child while they are at Camp Dragon, so we ask that you arrange this via your dedicated Admissions Manager with at least 24 hours’ notice. Where possible we want to make sure that students don’t miss too much of their exciting Summer School day so your Admissions Manager will be able to advise you on the best time to visit.

Arrange a Free Consultation with Our Student Experience Team

We’re here to help you choose the ideal summer experience. Schedule a no-obligation call with a member of our friendly team to explore your options, ask questions, and receive expert guidance tailored to your child’s interests and goals.

College Pathways Ages 15-17

Oxford College

Where ambitious students develop the academic skills needed for university, explore subjects they might study in the future and experience life in one of the world’s most famous university cities.

EXPERIENCE UNIVERSITY BEFORE UNIVERSITY

At a glance

Fees from
£6,295 2-wk residential · Day Programme £3,495
Ages
15–17 College Pathways tier
Start dates
5th & 19th July Two-week sessions, 2027
Class size
15 Max Students per class
English level
B1+ Minimum B1 required
Academic hours
25 hours Academic content per week
Location
Oxford Oxford College

What’s included: tuition, accommodation (residential option), meals, excursions, social programme, student report, certificate and student insurance.
Transfer service available for an additional fee.

oxford-college-students-punting
Male-Student-taking-part-in-academic-coaching-at-Oxford-College
three-sbc-students-smiling-using-laptops-at-oxford-college

Courses

Future Scholars: Humanities

Future Scholars: Science

Excursions

London

A view of Oxford Radcliffe building with bright blue skies and other buildings surroning it

Oxford

Activities

Arts & Crafts

Badminton

Basketball

Board Games & Puzzles

Circuit Training

Creative Writing

Cricket

Film Festival

Football

Karaoke

Murder Mystery

Museums

Photo Challenge

Picnic in the Park

Punting

Rounders

Silent Disco

Taskmaster

Trashion Show

Volleyball

Yoga

What's included

25 Hour Tuition per week

Accommodation

Certificate

College Ball

College Masterclass Series

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Course Materials

Excursion Programme

Extracurricular Multi-Activity Programme

Graduation Ceremony

Guest Lectures

Industry Experience

Letter of Reference

Meals

Discover Oxford 

Join us at the ultimate pre-university experience, Oxford College summer school,  a stepping stone designed to prepare you for entry into top universities. Our Oxford Summer School gives you the chance to experience this inspiring environment, connect with like-minded students from around the world, and create memories that will support both your education and your future career.

Our Oxford Summer School offers you a unique opportunity to live and study on campus at the world-renowned Oxford University.

Facilities

Laundry Service

Modern Dining Hall

Oxford College Campus

Shared Bathrooms

Single Bedrooms

Student Common Room

Twin Rooms

Wifi

London Summer School

Is this programme for you?

Does this sound like you?

Students arrive with different interests and ambitions, but many recognise themselves in at least one of these.

  • You want to be ready for university-style learning

    You want to experience lectures, research, academic writing and presentations before university begins, and develop practical approaches you can take into future study.

  • You want a clearer idea of where you are heading

    You are not certain what to study or what career to aim for, and you want to hear from people already working in the fields that interest you.

  • You want to develop greater independence

    You are ready to live and study in central Oxford, develop confidence and take more responsibility for your own learning.

Sound familiar? This programme was built for you

Our Oxford Courses

Studying in Oxford provides students with an unparalleled undergraduate experience. Learn in a traditional higher education setting, through a series of lectures, seminars, tutorials and hands-on practical workshops. Benefit from accessing facilities of one of the world’s leading universities, as well as lessons led by inspirational tutors, plus the opportunity to prepare for your future studies and career.

Programme Overview

Sample Two-week Timetable

Discover what a typical two-week course looks like for our students, from morning sessions through to evening activities — plus a full overview of the programme. Please note our sample timetable is given as an example and can be subject to change.

  • How the academic programme is structured
  • Sample two-week timetable
  • Trips, activities and evening life

Beyond the classroom

Our Academic Approach To Your Future

The immersive Oxford University style summer school programme will empower you with the skills needed to succeed at university and in your future career.

At the core of our student-centred academic approach is a commitment to nurturing not just subject knowledge, but also 21st-century skills including communication, critical thinking, and collaboration. Through interactive lectures, seminars, and workshops, we seek to engage and inform students in a variety of ways.

  • Academic experience

    Academic Experience & Guest Lectures

    Learning moves beyond the seminar room through Academic Experiences, guest lectures and subject workshops. Students might take part in a mock trial, clinical simulation or parliamentary debate, hear from professionals working in their field, or visit museums and colleges where academic ideas come to life.

  • Oxford University

    Inside the classroom

    Academic Programme

    Students learn in small seminar groups of no more than 15, exploring university-style topics through discussion, case studies and academic enquiry. Alongside new subjects, they develop the study habits that universities expect, including notetaking, critical thinking and academic writing.

  • Summer boarding courses presentation with a young girl explaining on a digital screen.

    Public Speaking & Presentations

    Time to Shine

    Students will investigate a research question linked to their chosen pathway, evaluate evidence, refine their ideas through tutor feedback and prepare an academic poster and presentation for the Future Scholars Showcase. The project develops the independent research skills expected at university.

Excursions

 

As part of their enriching two-week experience, students will enjoy two full-day excursions designed to complement their academic journey with cultural exploration and relaxation. These outings offer a well-balanced opportunity to engage with iconic British destinations, providing both stimulating and restorative experiences outside the classroom.

 

  • London

    See famous landmarks, visit world-class museums and cultural attractions, take epic photos, shop some big-name stores, and soak up London's unforgettable energy.

  • Historic Oxford University Radcliffe Camera, an iconic building in summer with students and tourists.

    Oxford

    Explore the historic city of Oxford! Students can choose to enjoy guided walks and museums visits, take part in outdoor activities around the city and university parks, or choose a trip to nearby Bicester Village for a world-class shopping experience.

Graduation

We’re proud to celebrate our students’ achievements in style with a graduation and awards ceremony. At the end of each two-week summer course the graduation ceremony offers moments of reflection and an opportunity to recognise achievements, both personal and academic, alongside new friends.

Graduation is often the highlight of many students’ experience. It offers the chance to dress up, have fun and celebrate the amazing friendships that have been formed during their stay.

oxford-college-student-at-graduation

Letter of Reference and Certificate

At the end of the programme, students receive a certificate of completion and a personalised reference letter from their tutor. This letter highlights their achievements over the two-week programme, and provides evidence of their passion and commitment to the subject as they prepare for admission to the university of their choice or applying for their chosen career.

Letter-of-reference-for-SBC-colleges-Mock-Up

Optional Extras

Enhance your summer with our academic optional extras, available at an additional cost with limited spaces – add them to your package when you book.

  • Oxford Research Scholars

    Take an academic interest further with a one-to-one research programme from Oxbridge Applications. Students choose a subject and are matched with experienced academic mentors who guide them through the full research process — from developing a question and exploring sources to structuring arguments and responding to feedback. The programme continues beyond the summer school through individual online sessions, giving students the time and support to complete a 5,000-word research paper, receive feedback on their final work and have the opportunity to present at the Oxbridge Research Scholars Symposium.

    For academically ambitious students ready for the challenge of independent research beyond the school curriculum.

    New Course
    • Ages:15-17
    • Price:£1350

Campus Accommodation

Experience Authentic University Living in Oxford

Oxford College Summer School students are housed in a University of Oxford college, offering a comfortable and authentic taste of university life. With facilities close to the city centre and university parks, students can fully immerse themselves in Oxford’s academic and cultural atmosphere. In their free time, students can relax in the on-site common rooms or explore the historic city with friends.

  • Single room or twin rooms with shared bathrooms
  • Student common room & modern dining hall
  • Boys and girls housed separately

Find your perfect summer programme

155 +

Nationalities represented from around the world since 2008

21,000 +

Ambitious student alumni welcomed to SBC since 2008

No.1

EL Gazette ranked us the UK’s number 1 multi-campus summer school

Dates and Fees

Two Options. One transformative fortnight.

Whether your child boards with us or returns home each evening, your fee covers everything in their programme. See what’s included with each option below.

Residential

From £6,295

per 2-week course · Boarding — full days plus evenings and weekends

  • Full board — all meals & accommodation included
  • Multi-activity programme
  • Evening activities & excursions
  • 24/7 pastoral care

Day Programme

From £3,495

per 2-week course · 09:00–21:30 daily · varies by campus

  • Same academic programme as residential
  • Lunch & evening meals included
  • Full activity programme and excursions
  • Return home in the evening

2027 dates

Flexible lengths 2 or 4-week options available
Programme start dates 5th July and 19th July

Places are limited and allocated on a first-come basis. Check availability before you plan.

Places can start to fill from spring — book early

Oxford College Summer School FAQs

Residential ProgrammeDay Programme
AccommodationNot Included
Meals*All mealsLunch + Evening Meal
Tuition
Course materials
Sports, social activities and eventsDaytime and eveningDaytime and evening
Standard excursions, including entry costs
Wi-Fi
Weekly laundryNot Included
Graduation certificate and academic progress report
Student insurance
FlightsNot IncludedNot Included
Airport and Train TransfersNot IncludedNot Included
*We will do our best to meet all dietary needs, for example vegetarian, vegan and Halal.

See our campus sample timetable here. 

Our transfer service varies across our different campus locations. Information on our transfer service can be found here.

 

In order to submit your booking for Oxford College summer school, click on the ‘Enrol’ tab in the right-hand corner of our home page and fill out our booking form.

Your dedicated Admissions Manager will then contact you via your preferred method of contact to confirm any outstanding details. This will be the perfect opportunity to ask any questions before a deposit is paid. Once your details are confirmed, you will be sent a booking confirmation email, which serves as formal confirmation of your child’s place.

 

Your Admissions Manager will send a booking confirmation containing an invoice and the flywire payment link.

 

The fee includes all accommodation, meals*, lessons, academic materials, general sports, social activities and events, all standard excursions including admission costs, Wi-Fi, weekly laundry services, graduation certificate, academic progress report and travel insurance.

*We will endeavour to meet all dietary requirements, e.g. vegetarian, vegan, Halal etc. Please make your Admissions Manager aware of any requirements.

 

Arrange a Free Consultation with Our Student Experience Team

We’re here to help you choose the ideal summer experience. Schedule a no-obligation call with a member of our friendly team to explore your options, ask questions, and receive expert guidance tailored to your child’s interests and goals.

 

 

 

 

 

College Pathways Ages 14-17

Dukes Cambridge

YOUR FIRST STEP TOWARDS UNIVERSITY.

A pre-university experience in the heart of Cambridge — where students aged 14 to 17 explore academic subjects in depth, prepare for the next stage of their education, and develop the independence, critical thinking and communication skills that support future academic success.

At a glance

Fees from
£4,495 2-wk residential · Day Programme £3,495
Ages
14–17 College Pathways tier
Start dates
28 June, 12 & 26 July Two-week sessions, 2027
Class size
15 max Students per class
English level
B1+ Intermediate and above
Academic hours
20 hrs Academic content per week
Location
Cambridge Sancton Wood School

What’s included: tuition, accommodation (residential option), meals, excursions, social programme, student report, certificate and student insurance. Transfer service available for an additional fee.

Science
Summer boarding courses presentation with a young girl explaining on a digital screen.

Courses

English Pathways

Link

Faculty of Art & Design

Link

Faculty of Business

Link

Faculty of Global Leadership

Link

Faculty of Medicine

Link

Faculty of Science & Technology (STEM)

Link

Excursions

Cambridge_College_Summer_School

Cambridge

London

Activities

Arts & Crafts

Badminton

Ball Games

Basketball

Creative Writing

Cricket

Fashion Show

Fitness Class

Football

Karaoke

Photo Challenge

Quiz Night

Rounders

Secret Cinema

Tennis

Trashion Show

Yoga

What's included

20 Hours Tuition Per Week

Accommodation

Certificate

Comprehensive Travel Insurance

Course Materials

Excursion Programme

Extracurricular Activities

Extracurricular Multi-Activity Programme

Graduation Party

Letter of Reference

Meals

Progress Report

Dukes Cambridge gives students the opportunity to explore academic subjects in greater depth before making decisions about their future studies, and through university-style seminars, projects and discussion — before university applications and subject choices become more important.

Students leave with greater confidence using English in an academic context and a clearer sense of their direction. They also leave with a detailed tutor reference letter that supports future university applications — written by a tutor who has worked closely with them throughout the programme.

Accommodation

Tripos Court

Facilities

Auditorium

Laundry Service

Modern Dining Hall

Seminar Rooms

Student Common Room

Twin En Suite Rooms

Wifi

London Summer School

Is this programme for you?

Does this sound like you?

Students arrive with different interests and ambitions, but many recognise themselves in at least one of these.

  • You are starting to think seriously about university

    You want a head start — a clearer sense of how university study works before you reach that stage. Developing academic skills and study habits that support a successful transition to higher education.

  • You want to explore subjects in more depth

    You are curious about different subjects and want to go deeper into the ones that interest you, before you make choices about future study.

  • You want more independence, with support around you

    You are ready to manage more of your own time and learning in a structured, supportive environment that still looks after you.

Sound familiar? This programme was built for you

Our Cambridge Courses

Studying in Cambridge provides students with an unparalleled student experience. Learn through a series of lectures, seminars, tutorials and hands-on practical workshops, and benefit from lessons led by experienced and passionate tutors, plus the opportunity to focus on your future studies and career.

Programme Overview

Sample Two-week Timetable

Discover what a typical two-week course looks like for our students, from morning sessions through to evening activities — plus a full overview of the programme. Please note our sample timetable is given as an example and can be subject to change.

  • How the academic programme is structured
  • Sample two-week timetable
  • Trips, activities and evening life

Beyond the classroom

Our Academic Approach To Your Future

At our summer school, you build skills that will help you at university and in future careers. You learn your subject, and you also practise how to use it. You explain your ideas to a group. You question what you read and form your own opinion. You work with other students to solve problems. Classes are active: you listen, ask questions, discuss, and try things out for yourself.

  • Academic experience

    Industry Experience & Fieldwork

    On fieldwork days, tutors take students beyond the classroom — connecting theory to real-world settings through guided visits, practical experiments and exploration across Cambridge. On Industry Experience days, students step into professional scenarios: business simulations, medical workshops or creative briefs that show them how their subject connects to future careers.

  • Oxford University

    Inside the classroom

    Academic Programme

    Students work in small seminar groups of no more than 15 — analysing case studies, debating ideas and presenting their thinking. The pace is challenging. The support is constant. By the end of the first week, students have regular opportunities to contribute, discuss ideas and present their thinking with growing confidence.

  • Summer boarding courses presentation with a young girl explaining on a digital screen.

    Public Speaking & Presentations

    Time to Shine

    In small teams, students research, develop and build a project linked to their chosen faculty. It’s collaborative, creative and designed to stretch — requiring them to negotiate ideas, divide responsibilities and present their work to an audience at the end of the week. The skills it builds — communication, teamwork, critical thinking — support success in higher education and future careers.

Letter of Reference and Certificate

At the end of their experience, college students will receive a certificate of completion and a reference letter from their tutor that details their academic achievements during the two-week programme, character attributes and future aspirations, supporting their admission to the university of their choice or to their chosen career.

Letter-of-reference-for-SBC-colleges-Mock-Up

Excursions

 

As part of their enriching two-week experience, students will enjoy two full-day excursions designed to complement their academic journey with cultural exploration and relaxation. These outings offer a well-balanced opportunity to engage with iconic British destinations, providing both stimulating and restorative experiences outside the classroom.

 

  • London

    See famous landmarks, visit world-class museums and cultural attractions, take epic photos, shop some big-name stores, and soak up London's unforgettable energy.

  • Cambridge_College_Summer_School

    Cambridge

    Students will be able to take the day to explore the iconic city of Cambridge in detail, with a range of activities designed around discovery and recovery from an intense academic week.

Optional Extras

Level up your summer with our optional extras, available at an additional cost with limited spaces, so add them to your package when you book.

  • Rowing Team Cambridge

    Rowing Academy

    Give your summer an unforgettable Cambridge highlight. Our Rowing Experience invites students aged 14–17 to step into one of the city’s most iconic traditions and learn to row with expert coaches at a real Cambridge boathouse. No experience is required, just curiosity, teamwork and a willingness to try something new.

    Your session begins with a full safety briefing and hands-on training using indoor rowing machines, followed by a guided tour of the boathouse and a chance to handle real rowing equipment. Students then practise the rowing technique on land before taking to the water in a stable training boat designed for beginners. Under the guidance of qualified instructors, you’ll work together as a crew, build confidence stroke by stroke, and experience the thrill of rowing along the River Cam.

    The experience concludes with a group debrief and photo opportunity, and every participant receives an exclusive Cambridge Rowing Experience hoodie, a perfect reminder of their time on the river.

    Limited Space Popular
    • Ages:14-17
    • Price:£295
  • Private Oxbridge Applications Consultation

    A one-to-one consultation with a specialist from Oxbridge Applications, part of the Dukes Education family. The session is tailored to the individual student and their university plans, with guidance on relevant areas of the application process. Depending on the student’s needs, this may include course choice, application strategy, admissions tests or interview preparation. Designed for students considering Oxford, Cambridge or other highly competitive UK universities.

    Limited Space Popular
    • Ages:14-17
    • Price:£395

Graduation Party

We’re proud to celebrate our students’ achievements in style with a graduation party. At the end of each two-week summer course the graduation ceremony offers moments of reflection and an opportunity to celebrate achievements, both personal and academic, and say goodbye for now to new friends. A certificate of completion will be presented to students during the event. We’ll also provide a report outlining all accomplishments while studying with us, along with helpful tips to guide learners in the right direction towards future success. This party offers the chance to dress up, have fun and celebrate the amazing friendships that have been formed during their stay.

Cambridge College student at summer school

Accommodation

At Dukes Cambridge, students will be allocated to one of our six accommodation blocks, which are all purpose-built with modern facilities. They are located a short walk from the school, with bedrooms being either single or twin rooms. The majority of the rooms have ensuite bathrooms, with a small number of shared facilities in the smaller accommodation blocks. During free-time, students have the option of socialising in the on-site common rooms or spending time in Cambridge city centre.

 

Find your perfect summer programme

155 +

Nationalities represented from around the world since 2008

21,000 +

Ambitious student alumni welcomed to SBC since 2008

No.1

EL Gazette ranked us the UK’s number 1 multi-campus summer school

Dates and Fees

Two Options. One transformative fortnight.

Whether your child boards with us or returns home each evening, your fee covers everything in their programme. See what’s included with each option below.

Residential

From £4,495

per 2-week English course · £4,995 per 2-week subject course

  • Full board — all meals & accommodation included
  • Multi-activity programme
  • Evening activities & excursions
  • 24/7 pastoral care

Day Programme

From £3,495

per 2-week English course · £3,995 per 2-week subject course

  • Same academic programme as residential
  • Lunch & evening meals included
  • Full activity programme and excursions
  • 09:00–21:30 daily · Return home in the evening · Time varies by campus

2027 dates

Flexible lengths 2 or 4-week options available
Programme dates 28th June, 12th and 26th July 2027

Places are limited and allocated on a first-come basis. Check availability before you plan.

Places can start to fill from spring — book early

Dukes Cambridge FAQs

Residential ProgrammeDay Programme
AccommodationNot Included
Meals*All mealsLunch + Evening Meal
Tuition
Course materials
Sports, social activities and eventsDaytime and eveningDaytime and evening
Standard excursions, including entry costs
Wi-Fi
Weekly laundryNot Included
Graduation certificate and academic progress report
Student insurance
FlightsNot IncludedNot Included
Airport and Train TransfersNot IncludedNot Included
*We will do our best to meet all dietary needs, for example vegetarian, vegan and Halal.

Our transfer service varies across our different campus locations. Information on our transfer service can be found here.

 

No, Summer Boarding Courses is not affiliated with the University of Cambridge.

Our programmes take place in the city of Cambridge at independent school campuses nearby, but they are delivered solely by Summer Boarding Courses. Any references to Cambridge relate to the location and learning environment, rather than a formal partnership or endorsement from the University of Cambridge.

During their time at Dukes Cambridge students will be staying at one of six purpose-built student accommodation blocks, where students will be able to unwind in their cosy rooms, whilst enjoying all of the modern comforts of everyday student living. Tripos Court comes with communal social and study areas, on site laundry, communal kitchenettes, and is under a mile away on foot from Sancton Wood School, and within walking distance from the local shops and town centre.

 

The academic programme takes place at nearby Sancton Wood School, ranked as one of the UK’s Top 10 Independent Schools (Sunday Times, 2022). The recently developed school boasts an impressive campus which offers students the space for a stimulating learning environment with specialist facilities for science, art and drama. This family-orientated environment creates a homely feel which offers a calm and engaging place to learn. Students may also visit and learn at other Dukes Education facilities such as Cardiff Sixth Form College Cambridge and St. Andrews College Cambridge.

 

Arrange a Free Consultation with Our Student Experience Team

We’re here to help you choose the ideal summer experience. Schedule a no-obligation call with a member of our friendly team to explore your options, ask questions, and receive expert guidance tailored to your child’s interests and goals.