The Oxford Physics Summer Schools offer a unique opportunity for teenagers aged 13 to 18 to engage deeply with the principles of physics in an academic environment. Participants will explore a range of topics, guided by experienced educators and researchers, fostering a strong foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical applications. This program is designed to inspire a passion for science, encouraging critical thinking and collaborative learning in an intellectually stimulating setting.
Oxford offers a focused set of Physics summer programmes for 13-15, providing early exposure to structured study and subject-specific development.
The teaching approach in Oxford’s physics summer schools emphasizes inquiry-based learning, allowing students to engage deeply with fundamental concepts. In contrast to the often rigid curricula of traditional schools, these programs foster curiosity and analytical thinking. Students explore themes such as mechanics, electromagnetism, and modern physics through hands-on experiments and collaborative projects. This immersive environment cultivates not only knowledge retention but also a genuine passion for the subject, laying a strong foundation for future academic pursuits.
Structured around a blend of lectures, group discussions, and practical sessions, the experience is designed to keep students actively engaged. Classroom dynamics promote interaction, with a strong emphasis on peer collaboration and independent problem-solving. Each day typically combines focused study with opportunities for experimentation, enabling students to apply theoretical knowledge in tangible ways. This rhythm not only enhances understanding but also encourages resilience and adaptability, essential traits for budding scientists.
These summer schools cater specifically to students aged 13 to 15. This age group is crucial for nurturing interest in physics, as young learners are often at a stage where they seek deeper understanding and critical thinking skills. Participants are expected to have a basic grasp of physics concepts, ideally supported by a budding enthusiasm for scientific inquiry. Such a foundation allows them to fully engage with the curriculum and derive maximum benefit from the experience.
The distinctiveness of these summer schools lies in their integration of rigorous academic content with a vibrant, interactive learning environment. Unlike many other programs, which may prioritize rote memorization, Oxford’s offerings focus on developing critical thinking through exploration and experimentation. This creates a richer educational experience, encouraging students to not only learn physics but also to appreciate its relevance and application in the real world.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Future Scientist at Headington Oxford | Summer Boarding Courses | Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Sciences, STEM | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 4595 | Future Scientists is designed for students aged 13–16 who want to challenge their understanding of the natural world and take their curiosity further. Across biology, chemistry and physics, you’ll carry out experiments, test ideas, and develop the skills that make science meaningful: observation, analysis, and clear communication. | View |
| STEM Pioneers | Sapphire Education | STEM, Engineering, Technology, Coding, Physics, Climate & Sustainability | Oxford | 2 weeks | 5590 | This course invites younger students to explore the exciting world of STEM through hands-on challenges, creative problem-solving, and teamwork. From engineering basics to environmental innovation, learners will discover how science and technology shape the future – and how they can help build it. | View |
| The Higgs Boson and the Future of Particle Physics | Lady Margaret Hall University of Oxford | Physics, Computer Science, Coding, STEM, Sciences | Oxford | 3 Weeks | 4384 | Join this course to explore the universe at the smallest distances and highest energies where quantum mechanics and special relativity collide. Over the course of 3 weeks of lectures from world-experts and hands on seminars, students will join the particle physicists from the Large Hadron Collider's ATLAS experiment in analysing real proton collisions from the world’s largest machine – uncovering the secrets of the building blocks of the universe. | View |
| Mechanical Engineering (18-24 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Engineering, Mathematics, Physics, STEM | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Mechanical Engineering summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Physics (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Physics, Sciences, STEM | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Physics 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 |
| Engineering (13-15 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Engineering, STEM, Sciences, Mathematics, Physics | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Economics 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 |
| Explore Engineering (Oxford) | Oxford Royale | Engineering, STEM, Sciences, Mathematics, Physics | Oxford | 2 weeks | 6995 | Oxford Royale’s Explore Engineering Summer School at Oxford offers students a dynamic introduction to civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. Through hands-on workshops, design simulations, and real-world challenges like the ‘Mission to Mars Design Challenge,’ students build practical skills in mathematics, physics, problem-solving, and collaboration. | View |
| Physics (16-17 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Physics, Sciences | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Physics summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 16-17 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,995. | View |
| Physics (18-24 years old) | Oxford Summer Courses | Physics, Sciences, STEM | Oxford | 2 Weeks | 6995 | The Physics summer school at Oxford Summer Courses, designed for 18-24 years old students, provides tutorials and is priced from £6,395. | View |