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Cambridge
13-15
years old

Cambridge Natural Sciences (Ages 13-15)

academic insights
2 weeks • July & August 2024
Gain advanced pre-university insights into Natural Sciences at Cambridge University colleges.
Prepare for your future on the Immerseâ„¢ Natural Sciences programme.
Enrol now
Natural Science

Advanced pre-university course in Natural Sciences in Cambridge colleges

Immerse Education’s Natural Sciences Summer Programme in Cambridge offers an immersive experience where participants explore multiple scientific disciplines, gaining expertise across various fields and uncovering dynamic connections between them. The program aims to equip participants with a profound understanding of the intricacies of the natural world.

Through hands-on engagement with a diverse range of scientific domains, participants sharpen their analytical skills and unravel mysteries spanning the entire scientific spectrum. By fostering a multidisciplinary perspective, the programme encourages research, critical thinking, and practical application, demonstrating the transformative potential of weaving together various scientific threads. Participants will depart with a deepened comprehension of the inner workings of the natural world.

Overview
Academic

Learn directly from expert academics from world-class universities

You will explore novel concepts and share ideas in small groups of like-minded and ambitious peers from around the world. In small class sizes averaging 7 students, you will be guided by expert tutors who have honed their expertise through teaching undergraduate students at world-class universities, including the universities of Cambridge, Oxford, and Harvard.

Our rigorous vetting process guarantees that all participants are taught by engaging and supportive educators who are, most of all, enthusiastic about sharing their expertise to ensure our summer school teaching is of the highest quality. Immerseâ„¢ is an unrivalled academic experience.

  • Average class size of 7

    Maximum class size of 10 students
  • 1:1 tutorials

    Supportive, challenging and engaging
  • Academic workshops

    Develop a practical understanding of your subject
  • World-class tutors

    Academics from Oxford and Cambridge

Boost your confidence and develop key attributes in academic skills workshops

Our workshops are geared towards unlocking participants’ potential, giving them the tools to prepare for the next steps of their education and future goals. Build upon existing study skills to support future university-level learning.

These workshops explore a diverse and enriching range of topics – past examples have ranged from ‘Productivity tips’ to ’21st Century Technology Skills’. We’re sure that you’ll learn something completely new. Unlike traditional schools, Immerse allows you to learn beyond the traditional curriculum.

This programme is designed for students with at least an upper-intermediate level of English (B2). If you are unsure if you meet this requirement, please contact advisor@immerse.education.

  • Certificate & detailed participant evaluation

    All participants receive an individual report from their tutor
  • Personal project or Creative portfolio

    Develop a personal project or a creative portfolio to present at the end of the course
  • Experience Oxbridge life

    Live and learn like an Oxbridge undergraduate
  • Enhance key academic skills

    Interview skills, academic writing and presentation

Guest speakers from previous summers

Each week, Academic Insights participants will hear from an influential guest speaker from a variety of inspiring backgrounds. Meet some of our previous guests:
Neuroscientist & entrepreneur

Dr Lynda Shaw

A journey in personal development - how to create your own set of tools to fast track success
Former Olympian

Abi Oyepitan

A two-time Olympian and Commonwealth Gold and Silver winning track and field athlete.
Philosopher, author & journalist

Dr Nigel Warburton

How do great people find answers to deep and meaningful questions?
Tutors & Speakers
Reviews
Our Alumni Says

The best thing in Immerse must be my biology lecturer; the tutor was very helpful and responsible and he imparted knowledge clearly.

Yixuan C
Attended Immerse in 2017
Residential Summer Programme (Biology) Student
5/5

Work hard, play hard.

Action-packed social programme

Outside of lessons, we are proud to offer a busy and diverse social programme to help you get the most out of your time in Cambridge. This includes activities such as punting on the River Cam, zorb football and a murder mystery night in the college.

There are also two excursions during the programme, one day trip to visit Oxford and its constituent colleges, as well as an optional day out in London, seeing the city’s most famous landmarks as well as some free time for shopping. Those who choose not to travel to London are invited to afternoon tea in Cambridge.

Activities and excursions are run by our team of friendly mentors – whose main job is to maximise your enjoyment.

Work hard, play hard.

A unique social programme.

Experience traditional 'Formal Hall'

Formal Hall is a traditional weekly meal that takes place in every college. This is an opportunity for students to dress up, dine by candlelight in the magical surroundings of a Cambridge college’s dining hall.

As an Immerse student, you will experience formal dinner three times during your stay – once per week in Cambridge, as well as in an Oxford University college on the excursion day.

Formal hall is truly a memorable occasion, so remember to bring some smart clothes!

A unique social programme.

Activities

Live and study in a
Cambridge University College

Experience life as a Cambridge University undergraduate

All participants will be allocated to a college a few weeks before arriving, based on their dates and subject choice.

If you would like to stay in the same location as a friend/sibling – please let us know and we will do our best to arrange this, where possible.

Males and females have separate accommodation in every college, and there is wi-fi available throughout.

For more information, please visit this page.

Accommodation

Student Welfare & Safety

An accredited provider of academic short courses

Immerse Education is accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), the leading mark of educational quality for the academic sector. Our accreditation with the BAC sends a positive and clear message to students and partners that they are studying with a trusted and reliable provider who has met a series of globally recognised quality assurance standards, both in terms of academic provision and student welfare.

The safety and well-being of our participants is our number one priority, and all staff undergo enhanced background checks and receive thorough safeguarding training before interacting with any students.

For more information, please visit our Pastoral Information page.

Pastoral Care

Meet some of our mentors and
college managers

All mentors on the Academic Insights programme are past/current students at Oxford or Cambridge University, whilst College Managers have experience running academic short courses. All of our support staff are background-checked and receive training in providing an unforgettable experience for every Immerse student. Meet some of our previous team:
  • Freya
    Freya is a third year Medical student at St John's College, Oxford University. She is a keen runner and cyclist and has recently enjoyed taking up college rowing.
  • Jem
    Mentor
  • Lily-Mae
    Mentor
  • Poppy
    Mentor
  • Photo of a female student on university grounds
    Sophie
    Mentor
Pastoral Care

Immerseâ„¢ Natural Sciences Sample Modules

To see how the programme is structured, download the Academic Insights timetable here.
  • Module 1 - Exploring the Diversity of Life: Evolution and Biodiversity

    Exploring the Diversity of Life: Evolution and Biodiversity
    From the process of natural selection to the classification of species, participants will explore how life has diversified and adapted to various environments over millions of years. By examining real-world examples and engaging in the most topical debates on the topic, participants will gain a deeper understanding of the mechanisms driving the evolution of life on Earth.
  • Module 2 - Microbiology and Cell Biology

    Microbiology and Cell Biology
    Participants will journey into the realm of microscopic life and cellular structures. Through the study of microbiology and cell biology, participants will uncover the fascinating world of microorganisms, their role in ecosystems, and their impact on human health. By observing microscope slides, participants will gain practical insights into the building blocks of life and the hidden intricacies of the microbial world.
  • Module 3 - Geology and Earth Science

    Geology and Earth Science
    From plate tectonics and rock formations to geological hazards, participants will gain insights into the processes that have sculpted our planet’s landscape. Through interactive simulations and using data from sophisticated analytical techniques such as mass spectrometry, participants will unravel the geological history of Earth and its influence on the natural world.
  • Module 4 - Quantum Mechanics and Astrophysics

    Quantum Mechanics and Astrophysics
    Through the exploration of quantum mechanics and astrophysics, participants will unravel the mysteries of the universe at both the smallest and largest scales. From the behaviour of subatomic particles to the dynamics of galaxies, participants will engage in thought experiments and group activities to deepen their understanding of the fundamental laws governing the cosmos.
  • Module 5 - Neuroscience and Cognitive Science

    Neuroscience and Cognitive Science
    Participants will explore topics such as neural networks, brain function, and cognitive processes. By examining the latest advancements in neuroscience and engaging in interactive exercises, participants will gain insights into how the brain shapes human behaviour, perception, and decision-making.
Want to learn more?
Request syllabus overview
Want to learn more?
Request syllabus overview
Modules
  • 21st July – 3rd August 2024

  • 4th August – 17th August 2024

13 nights accommodation in a central college of the University of Cambridge or Oxford
Breakfast and dinner included on campus (lunch included for students aged 13-15)
Accommodation in an individual bedroom
40 hours of academic sessions from Oxford University and Cambridge University tutors
Carefully designed study and lecture materials
Mentor programme and access to support material
All excursions- including formal dinner at Cambridge/Oxford colleges, punting, croquet
Comprehensive summer school insurance
2 coach excursions including a trip to London
Graduation ceremony and certificate
Detailed evaluation written by tutor
Immerse notebook and pen
Mentor family photograph
Free premium membership to UniPrepare's 'Nurture' plan

Natural Sciences

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