Law & Justice Summer School

This programme is designed for bright, ambitious students who are dedicated to advancing their knowledge of Law & Justice with an international group of similarly minded peers. It works as extensive preparation for a degree in law, politics or a related social science degree, but students do not need to be certain that they want to follow a degree or career in the field. They just need to be enthusiastic and willing to learn new things.

Previous subject knowledge is not essential. While this course provides an excellent addition to advanced study of Law & Justice at school it also forms a great introduction to the formal study of the subjects. Thanks to small class sizes and personalised feedback, students are supported while they encounter new ideas and academic challenges.

The course is highly academic. It is designed to stretch and challenge ambitious students by introducing them to university-level concepts and teaching styles, while offering them lots of opportunities to put this learning into practice. Students are introduced to concepts which expand their intellectual horizons and push them to new limits, all within a supportive environment led by expert tutors.

The course forms excellent university preparation. Students are exposed to concepts and skills which are not normally taught until undergraduate level, so their university applications benefit from an advanced set of demonstrable knowledge and skills. Students have the opportunity to ask their tutors and legal and political professionals for application advice. They also receive a certificate, grades and a report which make excellent supporting materials for a strong university application.

The course complements academic rigour with hands-on experience, bringing learning to life and consolidating new skills. Through activities like practical mediation workshops and mock trials, students experience life as a legal or political professional. As well as providing an opportunity to develop an excellent portfolio of skills, this hands-on experience helps students to make informed decisions about their future careers.

A typical morning involves a lecture and two seminars or workshops. In the afternoon students have another extended workshop or practical session. The rest of the day is spent socialising with friends during activities, enjoying delicious meals in inspiring campus settings and exploring the city.

The programme takes place in one of two inspiring campuses in the historic colleges of the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Whichever location they choose, students have access to university-level facilities and teaching spaces.

By teaching in small groups, we ensure that each student has a personalised relationship with their tutor. This means they receive high-quality constructive feedback and any support they need in class. It also means that students bond with their classmates, creating a friendly atmosphere in which students get involved and ask questions with confidence.

Our students come from all over the world. Since our first summer school in 2004, we have welcomed students from over 175 countries. They speak a wide range of languages and come from a wide range of backgrounds, creating a vibrant community perfect for international students.

At the end of the course, students receive a graduation pack which contains a certificate acknowledging their academic achievements during the course. They also receive a personalised report and detailed grades.