Cambridge History Summer School (Ages 16-18)
Advanced pre-university course in History in Cambridge colleges
In its 800 year existence, Cambridge has welcomed some of the greatest names in the world. Oliver Cromwell, Isaac Newton, Charles Darwin, John Milton, Francis Bacon, Stephen Hawking, Rosalind Franklin, Florence Nightingale to name but a few, all studied at Cambridge and contributed to the academic prestige of this famous centre of academic learning. Between the alumni and the stunning architecture, it truly is the most inspiring location for study for a historian.
From the performative nature of medieval European courts, to present socio-political conflicts, on the History Summer School, you will explore fascinating historical themes as well as concepts of best historical practice. This programme was specially developed for those considering studying history and related disciplines at the university level. In addition to covering material that is studied at A-level and IB-level, you will also discover the university-level study of historical practice and essay skills.
In Partnership with Historical Association
The Historical Association is the UK’s voice for history and works to support the history of all for all. As a registered charity incorporated by Royal Charter, it supports the teaching, learning and enjoyment of history at all levels and brings together people who share an interest in and love for the past.
All students joining a History programme with Immerse will be signed up for Historical Association student membership, giving them access to a wealth of resources that will help support them through their studies. This includes resources such as podcasts, articles and webinars, sources for personal study and revision, essential guidance on the transition to university and more.
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. Immerse™ 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
Example tutor:
Richard M
Guest speakers from previous summers
Dr Lynda Shaw
Abi Oyepitan
Dr Nigel Warburton
We had deep discussions about politics, different views on history and philosophy, as well as some controversial current events; it was all very interesting.
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
-
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. -
JemMentor
-
Lily-MaeMentor
-
PoppyMentor
-
SophieMentor
Immerse™ History Sample Modules
-
Module 1 - Science And Discovery
You will explore science in the context of the 15th century and seek to understand how and why scientific exploration took on new significance within the time period. Through this exploration, you'll evaluate existing historiography and debate a narrative that the developments of the 15th century constitute a scientific revolution. -
Module 2 - Gender And Witch-Hunting
Discuss the rise of gender history and its own historical context before exploring gender through the lens of witch-hunting. You will be encouraged to critically analyse existing research and evaluate primary source material in order to develop your own nuanced understanding of how gendered roles were expressed, defined, or blurred, and how these roles might change under different circumstances. -
Module 3 - Court Festivals
Court pomp, ceremony and celebration was prevalent across Western Europe in the 15th Century. You will explore the performative nature of the ceremony and symbolism of these processes, seeking to understand how states and individual actors legitimised their power and authority to rule in the Early Modern period. -
Module 4 - Essay Presentation
You will apply the historical theory and context that has been explored throughout the programme to create an essay on a topic of your choice. This will incorporate the elements of best historical practice discussed early in the programme and enable you to develop research skills as you analyse both primary and secondary source material.
Request syllaus overview
Request syllaus overview
-
7th – 20th July 2024
-
21st July – 3rd August 2024
