Politics & Economics at Oxford College
Oxford College | Ages 16 - 17
At SBC this summer, why not join us on a thought-provoking journey into the world of politics at Oxford Summer School? Immerse yourself in advanced concepts of political theory, engage in insightful discussions about the ever-evolving landscape of globalisation and uncover the root causes of political conflict and instability, examining both local and global implications.
It’s not all theory, however! Dive into the world of practical politics with our Time To Shine project, where you will participate in an election campaign with your classmates and apply your knowledge to real world scenarios. You will participate in workshops where you will debate, discuss and design mock policies, learning the intricacies of governance and advocacy. And you will gain insights into decision-making and policy formulation through simulated exercises and scenario-based learning.
You will also participate in illuminating sessions with guest speakers, gaining firsthand insights into the world of politics and economics. Led by experts in politics, our programme will introduce you to the intricacies of global affairs, and equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex world of politics.
✔ 25 hours of subject-specific academic content per week with an experienced subject tutor, delivered through interactive seminars and hands-on practical workshops
✔ Opportunities to apply and share this knowledge with your peers through dynamic group projects, culminating in the end-of-the-week Time to Shine Ceremony
✔ An action-packed programme of guest speakers and industry experiences each week designed to give you first-hand insight into your chosen field
✔ Dedicated academic coaching sessions designed to support you in applying for a UK university, whether that’s writing a personal statement or preparing for a presentation
✔ Numerous opportunities throughout your academic program to develop your English language skills, whether that’s building vocabulary to talk about your subject, or developing your speaking skills to present your Time To Shine project
Subject + skills + language = success
At the core of our student-centered academic approach is a commitment to nurturing not just your subject knowledge, but also your communication, critical thinking, and collaboration skills through interactive lectures, dynamic seminars, and hands-on practical workshops.
We also emphasise the development of your public speaking and teamwork through group work and our Time to Shine projects. And finally, our programme of engaging guest speakers and industry experiences brings real-world relevance to your learning. This immersive learning journey will empower you with the skills you need for success in the 21st century.
Over the course of this two-week programme, you will:
In this foundational module, students will delve into the world of political science. They’ll explore the basics of political theory, government systems, and the dynamics of international politics. Through engaging discussions and case studies, students will gain a solid understanding of the key concepts, ideologies, and historical events that have shaped political landscapes worldwide.
Module 2 focuses on comparative politics and the intricacies of global governance. Students will examine different political systems, ideologies, and issues that influence societies and nations. They’ll learn how international organisations, diplomacy, and global policies impact our interconnected world. Through case analyses and discussions on global challenges, students will develop critical thinking skills and a broader perspective on political issues.
In this practical module, students will engage with contemporary political issues and advocacy. They’ll explore topics such as human rights, environmental policy, social justice, and civic engagement. Through debates, research projects, and discussions with experts and activists, students will gain insights into how individuals and groups can advocate for change within political systems. They’ll also have the opportunity to develop their advocacy and communication skills, fostering a sense of social responsibility.
Over the two-week programme, you will participate in two Time To Shine Projects.
Week One: Model Parliament Simulation
In the first week’s “Time to Shine” project, students will immerse themselves in a Model Parliament Simulation. They will take on the roles of legislators, advisors, and policymakers, mirroring the functions of a parliamentary system. Students will be divided into political parties, each with its own policy platform. They will research and draft bills, engage in lively debates, and vote on proposed legislation. Through this immersive experience, students will gain a deep understanding of the workings of parliamentary democracy, parliamentary procedures, and the art of compromise in politics. This project fosters critical thinking, negotiation, teamwork, and an appreciation for the complexities of the legislative process.
Week Two: Political Campaign and Debate
In the second week’s “Time to Shine” project, students will step into the roles of political campaigners and candidates. They will form political parties, develop campaign strategies, and create persuasive speeches and promotional materials. Students will organise a mock election campaign, complete with campaign rallies and debates, where they will articulate their party’s platform and engage in spirited debates with their opponents. This project encourages students to apply their knowledge of political systems and ideologies in a practical context, fostering critical thinking, public speaking, and political engagement skills. It also emphasizes the importance of informed and active citizenship in the political arena.
Develop your public speaking skills. Share your passion. Inspire your classmates.
Today, giving great presentations are a vital skill for achieving academic and professional success. Our programmes reflect this by having the ‘art of presenting’ at the heart of their content, and allow you to discover new confidence when using English in public situations.
It’s more than just a chance to enhance your public speaking skills, though; it’s an opportunity for you to share your passion and subject knowledge with your fellow classmates. Through your presentations, you will become sources of inspiration, and encourage others to delve deeper into your subject.
Dive deeper into your field beyond the classroom
Enhance your academic foundation with our comprehensive Industry Experience sessions. These sessions are both on-site, in which you will participate in workshops that are led by an industry professional and blend practical engagement with immersive learning, and off-site, in which students engage in excursions that complement your course content and will broaden your horizons.
During the programme, students participate in workshops where they debate, discuss, and design mock policies, learning the ropes of governance and advocacy. They gain insights into decision-making and policy formulation through simulated exercises and scenario-based learning, understanding how economies adapt, evolve, and respond to global challenges.
In previous Industry Experiences, students visited Blenheim Palace and participated in a workshop with a member of the Financial Times.
Leaders of today inspiring the Leaders of tomorrow
Every Wednesday morning, students can interact with leading professionals and academics. These sessions offer insightful discussions, expert views, and Q&A sessions that promote intellectual growth.
On the Politics programme, students are introduced to the intricacies of global affairs and economic trends. With lectures from experts in public policy and politics, they delve into the machinery of governance, diplomacy, and global affairs
Stand out and shine
Whether you’re looking to apply to a UK university or just keen to make sure your university application is as strong as possible, our academic coaching sessions aim to ensure you stand apart from your peers. These workshops will not just focus on writing personal statements and preparing for university, but also help you to develop your public speaking skills, an integral skill for university courses.
| Start Date | End Date | Duration | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday 30th June 2024 | Saturday 13th July 2024 | 2 Weeks | £5,995 |
| Sunday 30th June 2024 | Saturday 27th July 2024 | 4 Weeks | £11,990 |
| Sunday 14th July 2024 | Saturday 27th July 2024 | 2 Weeks | £5,995 |
| Sunday 14th July 2024 | Saturday 10th August 2024 | 4 Weeks | £11,990 |
| Sunday 28th July 2024 | Saturday 10th August 2024 | 2 Weeks | £5,995 |
*Earlscliffe fee includes return transfers to/from London Heathrow and London Gatwick for flights/trains scheduled to arrive/depart between 9am-3pm on published arrival and departure day.
For other locations, we provide all our students with the option of using our Shared Transfer Service from/to London Heathrow Airport and St. Pancras International. The fees are:
| Campus | Single (one-way) | Return |
|---|---|---|
| SBC at Twyford School | £130.00 | £250.00 |
| SBC Canford | £130.00 | £250.00 |
| Headington | £130.00 | £250.00 |
| Eton | £85.00 | £160.00 |
| Oxford College | £130.00 | £250.00 |
| Cambridge College | £130.00 | £250.00 |
| Earlscliffe | Included in fees* | Included in fees* |
When a student arrives, an SBC staff member wearing a bright yellow t-shirt will be waiting to greet her/him and accompany them to our Welcome Club. At our Airport Welcome Club, she/he will have the chance to meet other students arriving, have some light refreshments and relax. After a little rest, students will be accompanied by students and SBC staff to board the coach and be taken directly to the school in a private coach.
The Shared Transfer Service can be used by students using the following flight and train times:
Flight lands on arrival day: 06:00-17:00
Flight take-off time on departure day: 08:00-18:00
The times outlined above also apply to students arriving and departing from Kings Cross St. Pancras train station.
If you book a flight outside of these times or to/from another UK airport, we can look at sending a staff member in a taxi to collect or drop off your child, but it will cost more than the Shared Transfer Service. Quotes are available upon request.
If you book a train or flight outside of these times or from another London airport, please contact your Admissions Manager for a private taxi quote. Please note this will cost more than our Shared Transfer Service from Heathrow, Kings Cross St. Pancras (& Gatwick for Earlscliffe students)
Important:
Flights must be booked on the arrival and departure dates so that all students can arrive and depart the course at the correct times.
The course deals with fairly advanced subject matter, but our experienced teachers can tailor the material to suit the needs of the class. At SBC we do all we can to maintain a high morale in class and for all students to feel comfortable with their learning experience.
A minimum level of B1 is advised in order to participate effectively in this programme.
We perform a graduation ceremony at the conclusion of the two weeks, where each graduate receives a certificate of completion.
Students are given access to a wide variety of SBC materials that were created by our very own academic team.
Students don’t have to worry about bringing notebooks or folders, but they are advised to bring their own pens.
Although there is no required reading for participation in the course, it would be useful for students to refresh what they ve learned this year to feel more secure with their English.
“After a summer with SBC I feel a lot different. When I came here I wasn’t quite sure what I wanted to do with my future…by experiencing all of these subjects I’ve got a better picture of what I want to do now. I have learnt a lot and I am ready for my future”
Enhance your knowledge of politics and economics in the city where more than twenty former British prime ministers once studied.
Complete the form below and our friendly admissions team will take care of the rest.
