The Oxford Philosophy Summer Schools for Teens provide a unique opportunity for young minds aged 13 to 18 to engage with philosophical concepts and critical thinking in an intellectually stimulating environment. With multiple providers such as ISSFT, Immerse Education, and Oxford Royale, these programs are designed to foster analytical skills and encourage discussions on fundamental questions of existence, ethics, and knowledge. Participants will benefit from the rich academic heritage of Oxford, guided by experienced educators committed to nurturing the next generation of thinkers.
Oxford offers a focused set of Philosophy summer programmes for 13-15, providing early exposure to structured study and subject-specific development.
The teaching approach in Oxford’s philosophy summer schools for teens emphasizes critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and the exploration of complex ideas. In contrast to the often rigid structure of typical school curricula, these programs encourage open dialogue and debate, allowing students to engage deeply with philosophical texts and concepts. Themes may include ethics, metaphysics, and the philosophy of mind, among others. This environment nurtures curiosity and fosters a genuine love for learning, positioning students to think independently and analytically.
Students can expect a dynamic study rhythm that combines lectures with interactive discussions and group activities. The classroom atmosphere is collaborative, where diverse perspectives are valued and encouraged. Independent work often involves reading and reflecting on philosophical texts, promoting a sense of ownership over one’s learning. Overall, the experience is designed not just to impart knowledge but to cultivate a vibrant intellectual community, where students learn to articulate their thoughts and challenge themselves and each other.
Aimed specifically at students aged 13 to 15, these summer schools cater to young minds eager to explore philosophical questions and concepts. Participants are expected to have a genuine interest in philosophy and a willingness to engage in thoughtful discussion. The programs are structured to accommodate the developmental stage of this age group, fostering both critical thinking and emotional intelligence.
What sets these summer schools apart is their integration of Oxford’s rich philosophical tradition with a focus on adolescent development. Unlike more generalized summer programs, these offerings are tailored specifically for younger teens, ensuring that discussions and materials are age-appropriate and relevant. This unique blend of rigorous academic exploration within a supportive environment distinguishes the experience, providing students with not only knowledge but also the confidence to express their ideas.
Fees vary by provider and course.
When you’re ready, you can browse providers or compare courses that match your interests.
Last updated: 27/01/2026
| Course | Provider | Subject | Location | Duration | Fees | Short Description | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Philosophy, Humanities, Social Sciences | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Philosophy summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Global Leadership (Politics, Philosophy & Economics) | ISSFT | Politics, Philosophy, Economics, Leadership, Social Sciences, Humanities, Business | Oxford, St Andrews | 2 weeks | £5950 – £6995 | Explore how the world works through the lens of politics, philosophy, and economics. This thought-provoking course helps students develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills while examining real-world issues, global systems, and ethical decision-making. | View |
| Arts and Humanities (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Arts, Humanities, History, Philosophy | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Arts and Humanities summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning and is priced from £5,495. | View |
| Philosophy, Politics & Economics in Oxford for Ages 16-18 | Immerse Education | Philosophy, Politics, Economics, Social Sciences, Humanities | Oxford | 2+ weeks | 7495 | Analyse society's core systems in Oxford, where interdisciplinary thinking shapes global leaders. | View |
| Law and the Pursuit of Freedom | Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford | Law, Philosophy, Politics, Economics, Humanities, Social Sciences | Oxford | 3 Weeks | 4384 | Does the law protect or undermine our freedom? Which legal doctrines govern our speech, assembly, property, and personal autonomy? | View |
| History, Philosophy & Literature (Oxford) | Oxford Royale | Humanities, History, Philosophy, Literature | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Oxford Royale’s History, Philosophy & Literature Summer School offers an immersive exploration of key thinkers and ideas from Aristotle to Nietzsche, examining how philosophy, history, and literature intersect. Students engage in critical discussion, creative thinking, and experience authentic Oxford life—staying in a historic college, enjoying a graduation dinner in a medieval hall, and punting on the River Cherwell—while expert teaching deepens their understanding of how past thought shapes our world. | View |
| Critical Thinking (The Oxford Summer Seminar) | Oxbridge Academic Programs | Humanities, Philosophy, Social Sciences | Oxford | 1 or 2 weeks | $3,995 for one session; $7,395 for the combined session | How might the rise of the "selfie stick" be related to the popularity of first-person video games? What does our obsession with professional sports say about us? | View |
| PPE: Leadership in Business and Society | Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford | Leadership, Business, Philosophy, Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities, Economics, Psychology, History | Oxford | 3 Weeks | 4384 | Whether it is a politician guiding a nation through crisis, a visionary tech entrepreneur disrupting the global business landscape, or an inspirational activist campaigning for social justice, great leaders have the power to change the world. But what makes a great leader, and how do you become one? | View |
| Philosophy (18-24 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Philosophy, Humanities, Social Sciences | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Philosophy summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Globalisation, Populism, and the Politics of Identity | Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford | Politics, Social Sciences, Humanities, Philosophy, Economics | Oxford | 3 Weeks | 4384 | While the world has been moving increasingly towards greater inter-connectivity through trade, infrastructure, communications, and migration, criticism of ‘globalisation’ has been growing ever louder, with many blaming it for inequality, cultural marginalisation, and political disaffection. Through the lenses of philosophy, politics, and economics this course will explore these competing dynamics and equip you to understand some of the most significant political phenomena of our time. | View |
| Philosophy (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Philosophy, Humanities, Social Sciences | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Philosophy summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 13-15 years old students, provides seminars and small group learning and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Classical Civilisation (18-24 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Classical Civilisations, Humanities, History, Philosophy, Politics, Arts | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Classical Civilisation summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £5,495 for Non Residential option. | View |
