Natural Sciences
Cambridge College | Ages 15 - 17
Embark on a captivating scientific journey with SBC’s Natural Sciences course, and immerse yourself in the wonders of biology, chemistry and physics, discovering how these disciplines interweave to power life on Earth.
Explore the world of cell biology and biochemistry, and engage in enlightening discussions with academics who will illuminate the path of scientific discovery. And that’s just the beginning: participate in our Time To Shine projects and share your passion for Natural Sciences through engaging group presentations and inspire your peers.
We also offer access to a variety of scientific institutions, where you can dive into computing history, astronomy and even zoology! Every year, we curate unique experiences that connect you with the heart of contemporary scientific exploration. Our Natural Sciences course ensures a holistic view of science and provides exclusive insight into the forefront of scientific progress, and making theoretical concepts come alive through real-world perspectives.
With its history, culture and record number of Nobel Prize winners, few places can capture your imagination as much as Cambridge. Making it a perfect place to study Natural Sciences for the summer.
✔ 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 embark on a journey through the fundamental principles of natural sciences. They’ll explore the core concepts of biology, chemistry, and physics, gaining a deep understanding of the natural world and its underlying laws.
Through engaging experiments and interactive discussions, students will develop a solid foundation in scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Module 2 focuses on the intersection of science and the environment. Students will delve into environmental science, examining topics such as ecology, climate change, and conservation biology.
They’ll learn how scientific research contributes to understanding and addressing pressing environmental challenges. Through fieldwork, data analysis, and discussions on sustainability, students will explore solutions to some of the most critical issues facing our planet.
In this forward-thinking module, students will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge scientific frontiers and emerging fields. They’ll delve into areas such as biotechnology, astronomy, and nanotechnology.
Through hands-on experiments, discussions with leading scientists, and visits to research institutions, students will gain insights into the latest breakthroughs and the potential for scientific innovation. They’ll also have the chance to propose and conduct their own scientific research projects, fostering creativity and a passion for discovery.
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.
Over the two-week programme, you will participate in two Time To Shine Projects.
In the first week’s “Time to Shine” project, students will embark on a Scientific Discovery Expedition. They will form teams and select a specific scientific topic or phenomenon to investigate, such as biodiversity in a local ecosystem, geological formations, or climate patterns. Students will conduct field research, collect data, and analyze their findings. They will then present their discoveries to the class, explaining the scientific significance and implications of their research. This project encourages hands-on scientific inquiry, data analysis, teamwork, and presentation skills.
In the second week’s “Time to Shine” project, students will collaborate to organise a Sustainable Solutions Symposium. Each team will focus on a particular environmental or sustainability issue, such as renewable energy, conservation, or waste reduction. Students will research innovative solutions and develop proposals for addressing their chosen problem. They will create informative presentations and interactive exhibits for the symposium, which will be open to the school community. This project not only highlights the importance of environmental stewardship but also encourages students to explore practical solutions to pressing global challenges. It fosters research skills, communication, and a sense of responsibility towards sustainability and the natural world.
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 on-campus 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.
Over the course of the two-week Natural Sciences programme, students explore renowned scientific institutions, offering students the chance to learn about the diversity of animal life, astronomy, and beyond. Each year, we seek out opportunities that amplify the learning experience, ensuring students connect with the heartbeat of contemporary scientific exploration.
In previous Industry Experiences, students on this course visited the Museum of Zoology, and the Institute of Astronomy. They also took part in Natural Sciences themed ‘escape room’ experience.
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.
The field of Natural Sciences spans a vast range of topics, from the study of cells to stars in the sky. At SBC, we aim to mirror this vast spectrum, providing students with a holistic view of the multifaceted world of science. Students can expect sessions with leading figures across various scientific disciplines. These engagements provide a unique chance to glean insights from those at the forefront of their fields, from social science to cutting-edge research, making theoretical concepts come alive through real-world perspectives.
Stand out and shine
Whether you’re looking to apply for 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 7th July 2024 | Saturday 20th July 2024 | 2 Weeks | £4,900 |
| Sunday 7th July 2024 | Saturday 3rd August 2024 | 4 Weeks | £9,800 |
| Sunday 21st July 2024 | Saturday 3rd August 2024 | 2 Weeks | £4,900 |
| Sunday 21st July 2024 | Saturday 17th August 2024 | 4 Weeks | £9,800 |
| Sunday 4th August 2024 | Saturday 17th August 2024 | 2 Weeks | £4,900 |
*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.
With its good academic programme and friendly staff, we are very happy to be a member of SBC. My daughter returned with unforgettable memories from the course.
With its combination of biology, physics, and chemistry, Natural Sciences will keep students on their toes, however the teacher can adjust the level of challenge so that all students feel included in the class if they are finding it too challenging. At SBC our Natural Sciences program is designed so that students not only learn from the teacher but are also supported by each other.
A minimum of B2 is advised in order for students to fully participate in this programme and to gain all the benefits. Before the summer, your Admissions Manager will send your child(ren) an online placement test to complete. This will help us to ensure that this course is suitable for your child to participate in and benefit from.
In acknowledgement of our students’ success we perform a graduation ceremony at the end of the two weeks, where each graduate receives a certificate of completion.
Students receive a wide variety of SBC handouts created by our in-house academic team.
Although students do not need to bring notebooks or folders to class, they are best to bring their own stationery.
No required reading is necessary for participation in the course, however it would be helpful for students to review what they have learned this year in order to feel comfortable with their English.
Evolve your knowledge of Natural Science, growing deeper roots for a whole ecosystem of scientific careers. Contact our friendly admissions team today and they shall take care of the rest.
