Cambridge Architecture Summer School (Ages 13-15)
Exceptional introductory course in Architecture in Cambridge colleges
Throughout the Immerse Education summer program in Architecture for 13-15-year-olds, you will be introduced to the topics that form the foundation of architecture, reside at a Cambridge University College, and develop new skills as you work through a carefully constructed syllabus combining theory with practical experience.
You will gain a better perception of the history and trends behind modern architecture, as well as an insight into the real-world challenges of a practising architect. You’ll also gain an in-depth understanding of the theory of architecture and acquire hands-on experience by crafting your design ideas.
Undecided on which subject to choose? Check out our summer school in Cambridge, UKÂ page to see them all!
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.
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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.
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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
Example tutor:
Konrad H
Konrad has worked for a number of high-end architecture firms internationally, including Snohetta Oslo, Kengo Kuma Tokyo and KPF NYC. Combining a broad work experience with a multi-disciplinary approach to architecture (having for example worked as an archeologist in Greece) allows for teaching architecture as both a professional and theoretical subject that can allow for a broad range of interests.
Guest speakers from previous summers
Dr Lynda Shaw
Abi Oyepitan
Dr Nigel Warburton
The lessons I’ve been participating in have definitely been different to what I’m used to and class back home. There’s been more discussion-based activities with a different lecture style. It’s a broad range of different types of ways to learn. And there’s also some time for us to learn and independently some time to work on our personal projects.
My tutor is Panos. He’s an architect from Greece, who’s a lecturer at Cambridge. He’s been teaching us about architectural history, the concepts in architecture and how to work as an architect. He’s been combining parts from the architecture course with his own prior experience in the industry. This programme has definitely solidified my chosen university and what course I should take.
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.
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.
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.
Meet some of our mentors and
college managers
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FreyaFreya 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.
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JemMentor
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Lily-MaeMentor
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PoppyMentor
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SophieMentor
Immerseâ„¢ Architecture Example Modules
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Module 1 - Introduction To Architecture/Tour of Cambridge
The introduction to architecture will provide you with an overview of what it is like to study the subject at the university level and an insight into current practice. Following this, you will embark on a tour of Cambridge to sketch moments and details of architectural interest. -
Module 2 - Foundations of Architecture
The foundations of architecture are examined through some of its early historical examples. The elevation is perhaps the most familiar and accessible form of architectural depiction, and this will be examined in reference to the variety of architectural styles found in Cambridge. You will apply what has been learnt by constructing an elevation of your own ‘found object’. -
Module 3 - Architectural Styles Through Time
This session traces the evolution of architectural theory through an examination of the architectures between the 16th and 19th centuries, including Palladian architecture and the Gothic Revival. Practical exploration will focus on the plan which will then inform a practical workshop in which you will delineate your own plans to scale using found objects, with particular emphasis on the use of line weights and the notations of architectural drafting. -
Module 4 - Theoretical Design Project
After presenting your work on a chosen topic, you will be taken to the site of your theoretical design project. Whilst there, the tutor will present the requirements of the design brief and suggest points of interest to begin a design discussion. The remainder of the session will be spent on-site sketching ideas and key aspects of contextual value.
Request syllabus overview
Request syllabus overview
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7th – 20th July 2024
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21st July – 3rd August 2024
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4th August – 17th August 2024