15-17 Year Olds

NORD ANGLIA EDUCATION HEADSTART SUMMER PROGRAMME

The Nord Anglia Education University Headstart Summer Programme is an exclusive academic programme designed to provide unique access and valuable pre-university advice to students.

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INTRODUCTION

This course is designed and delivered in collaboration with Bucksmore Education, an industry-leading academic provider. It provides Nord Anglia students with an exclusive immersive university experience through a series of admissions talks and workshops, subject-specific tutorials, university masterclasses, and guided university tours. 

Students will gain unique insights into UK university life with an opportunity to make informed and prepared decisions on their future university applications.
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A LIFE-CHANGING EXPERIENCE

The University Headstart Summer Programme runs for a duration of two weeks. Students visit top universities, including Oxbridge, G5 and Russell Group univerisities and hear from university admissions teams and speak to current students to gain a unique insight into choosing the right pathway.

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PROGRAMME HIGHLIGHTS

Each day, students will take part in a unique combination of subject-specific tutorials, academic masterclasses, practical workshops and excursions.

University Insight Visits

Students will visit leading UK universities and receive exclusive tours designed to give a deeper understanding of what life at university is like. These tours aim to help students make a decision on the type of university they would like to attend in the future. Across the 14-day programme, students will visit a number of universities, such as: 

University Preparation Masterclasses

These sessions help build essential skills for successful entrance to universities. Students will participate in masterclasses designed to connect their skills, strengths, and interests to potential careers. They will gain insights into the various types of universities and acquire a comprehensive understanding of the full application cycle for UK universities, including detailed guidance on structuring a personal statement.

Small Group Tutorials 

Teaching on the The NAE University Headstart programme mirrors Oxbridge university
learning in many ways, including small group tutorials. The tutorials are a key educational strategy that reflects the active, student-centred learning model of Bucksmore Education. This method encourages active exploration and autonomous learning whilst facilitating peer collaboration and team building. Students will choose one subject to study for 2 weeks. These include:

Debate Society

Debate Societies are an integral part of University life. The debate sessions will give students the chance to explore and discuss a range of topics they are passionate about, outside of the subjects they are studying. They encourage students to develop strong critical thinking and analytical skills, plus building teamwork, leadership and communication skills.

Guest Lectures 

Each week, students will attend a Guest Lecture by a renowned scholar or professional
who shares their expertise and insight. These lectures are tailored to students’ interests and academic levels. Lecture topics often include sharing cutting-edge research, a
discussion of current events, or exploring the future of one area of academic study.

Activity Programme

Our on-site activities form a core part of the summer programme. Each week offers a balanced mix of social, creative, and active sessions – all designed to complement the academic sessions and help students unwind after classes.

Formal Hall and Graduation

Students will receive graduation certificates and experience a traditional formal dinner at the University. This event celebrates the end of your summer academic journey, recognising all the hard word and dedication you’ve put in. 

KEEPING YOU SAFE IN CAMBRIDGE

A summer residential camp in Cambridge is an exciting prospect, but you also need to know that you’ll be looked after from the moment you arrive in the UK. Here are just some of the ways that Bucksmore Education ensure your time with us is a safe and enjoyable experience.
Here are just some of the ways that Bucksmore Education ensure your time with us is a safe and enjoyable experience.
  • Private airport lounge at Heathrow Airport and a personal welcome when you arrive.
  • All centre staff have completed compulsory safeguarding training and background checks.
  • 24-hour security on campus.
  • At least 2 first-aid trained members of staff on site.
  • On-site management team available 24 hours a day.
  • MyConcern phone app for staff to report if they have any worries at any time
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TRAVEL AND TRANSFERS

The moment you touch down in the UK, you’ll be looked after by Bucksmore staff. At the arrivals gate you’ll be met by one of our representatives and be escorted to your complimentary transfer or exclusive airport lounge (Heathrow only) to wait for your transfer.

If you’re using an airline unaccompanied minor service, you’ll be accompanied by airport staff to the Bucksmore representative on arrival, and we’ll also assist you on departure and wait with you until handed over to airport staff for your flight home.
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KEY FACTS

Date: 7th – 21st July 2026

Accommodation: St. Catharine’s College, Cambridge

Duration: 2 weeks

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Download our Nord Anglia Education Short Courses Brochure

NAE University Headstart.pdf (3 MB)

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