International Relations & Politics Summer Coursein Oxford

Welcome to Bucksmore's Pre-University Preparation International Relations and Politics summer course in Oxford.

This programme prepares students to excel in their chosen subjects within the highly competitive higher education environment. Students will be taught International Relations & Politics at a first-year undergraduate level within a prestigious Oxford University setting.

Students will develop key skills for success by learning from expert tutors and immersing themselves within a UK university environment.

Course start datesJune 30, 2026 or July 14, 2026
Duration2 or 4 weeks
Minimum English level B2 (Upper Intermediate)
Ages 15 to 17 years old
Class size 12
Hours per week 23
Certificates
- 8 UCAS Tariff Points
- Personalised report card
- Bucksmore Letter of Recommendation
- Bucksmore certification
LocationSt Hilda's College
Fully inclusive price £3,195 per week

The Bucksmore International Relations and Politics course experience

This course offers the ultimate University experience through expert tuition and supercurricular workshops.

You will get to experience life as an Oxford University student throughout your stay with us, whether they are attending guest lectures from inspiring speakers, sitting in aspirational lecture halls and auditoriums, graduating in a formal hall or to waking up in your University accommodation, you'll be immersed in university life, and lots of history!

Safe and secure University campus location close to Oxford city centre.

An international home-from-home in a nurturing and safe environment.

Students are eligible to be awarded 8 UCAS tariff points on this programme

Small international groups and world-class teaching.

Separate male and female accommodation on site.

Simple and all inclusive pricing including complimentary airport transfers. No hidden extras.

2 full-day and 1 half-day excursion per week to fun and varied attractions.

What is a International Relations and Politics course?

The Pre-University International Relations & Politics course at Bucksmore introduces students to the theory and practice of politics in the modern world, exploring the role of power in international relations and how the global community operates through rules, interests, and institutions.

Students explore core concepts such as power, sovereignty, governance, and globalisation, while developing critical skills in debate, analysis, and comparative political thinking. The programme combines lectures, case studies, and debates of contemporary issues including international security, global governance, migration, and climate change.

Students live on campus and take part in excursions around Oxford and top UK destinations, ensuring a well-rounded learning experience that blends academic study with real-world applications.

Download our Course Overview for more details.

A group of students look with interest at an unseen speaker in class.

The Course in Detail

This course provides a strong foundation in political theory, international relations, and global governance. Students analyse how states, organisations, and individuals interact in an interconnected world, and consider the challenges of diplomacy, conflict, and cooperation. The programme balances theory with real-world application, encouraging students to question power structures and evaluate responses to pressing international issues.

Key Subject Areas

Political Theory and Ideologies: Explore key debates such as realism, liberalism, and Marxism, and their relevance to contemporary politics.
The State, Sovereignty, and Governance: Analyse how states are created and maintained, and the role of supranational organisations like the UN, EU, and WTO.
Globalisation and International Relations: Examine how globalisation shapes trade, culture, diplomacy, and inequality.
International Security and Conflict: Investigate the causes of war, civil unrest, terrorism, and peacebuilding efforts.
Human Rights and Global Challenges: Discuss migration, climate change, and humanitarian crises in a global context.

Example Lessons

Debating the role of the UN in modern conflicts
Analysing the causes and consequences of the Russia–Ukraine war
Comparing political systems: democracy, authoritarianism, and hybrid regimes
Exploring globalisation through case studies in trade and cultural exchange
Workshop on climate politics and international cooperation

Final Outcome

By the end of the course, students will have developed a broad understanding of international relations and politics, gaining the ability to critically analyse global issues, evaluate competing political perspectives, and communicate ideas effectively.

The programme equips students with academic skills and insights that provide excellent preparation for university-level study in politics, international relations, law, or related fields.

A group of students sit round a table in library space and listen attentively to a speaker.

Guest lectures and other academic events

Guest Lectures and Workshops

Each week, you will attend a Guest Lecture by a renowned scholar or professional who shares their expertise and insight. Lectures topics often include sharing cutting-edge research, a discussion of current events, or exploring the future of one area of academic study.

Formal Hall and Graduation

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

It’s a moment to reflect on the challenges you’ve overcome, the friendships you’ve made, and to look forward to the future.

University Preparation Masterclasses

These sessions help build essential skills for successful entrance to universities. You will participate in masterclasses designed to connect your skills, strengths and interests to potential careers.

You 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 Pre-University Programme mirrors Oxbridge university learning in many ways, including your participation in small group tutorials.

The tutorials are a key educational strategy that reflects the active, student-centered learning model of Bucksmore Education. This method encourages active exploration and autonomous learning whilst facilitating peer collaboration and team building.

Debate Society

Debate Societies are an integral part of university life. Debate sessions give you a chance to explore and discuss a range of topics you are passionate about, outside of the subjects you are studying.

Debating encourages you to develop strong critical thinking and analytical skills, plus building teamwork, leadership and communication skills.

Our Students

"The opportunity to debate in the Oxford Union was a really special experience."

Marco, Germany

"Every moment of this experience was formative for my personal growth."

Gianmaria, Italy

Your home from home

You'll be staying in St Hilda's College a charming campus which is part of University of Oxford, situated on the banks of the River Cherwell, just a short walk from the city centre. The college's gardens and greenery provides a picturesque backdrop for studying in a peaceful setting with an auditorium and onsite punting station available.

A large group of students walk through the grounds of St Hilda's College accompanied by their teacher surrounded by flowers and greenery.

A picture of St Hilda's College main building and the flower beds adjacent to the building and pathway.

Keeping you safe in Oxford

A summer residential camp in Oxford 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 we 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.

Do you need any help?

If you have any questions, you can send us a message, book a call with us or, if you’re ready to proceed, you can apply now.

Send Us a Message

Book a Call

Apply

Our Teachers

Our teachers are selected to replicate the premium educational experiences of top UK universities and boarding schools. They also know how to take learning and teaching outside the classroom and see every input and experience as an opportunity to learn and grow.

Here are some examples of the teachers you might meet on this programme:

A head and shoulders picture of Pre-university preparation tutor and lecturer Justin Raey.

Justin Reay

CertFAET DipHistA (Oxon), FSA FRHistS

Justin Reay studied History of Art and Architecture at the University of Oxford and researched his doctoral thesis on medieval naval history with the University of Exeter.

Justin was invited by University of Oxford to tutor the University’s international programmes and became a senior academic manager for the Bodleian Library. A qualified teacher, Justin tutors in art history, classical studies, critical thinking and academic writing, and has taught with Bucksmore for the last 10 years.

A head and shoulders picture of Roald, one of the course tutors.

Roald Morgan

BA HONS AND MA (OXON.)

Roald has been a teacher in the UK and Spain for over 30 years. He currently teaches A-level Economics, Business Studies and History at an independent school in Oxford.

He has also lectured for postgraduate courses in International Marketing at Murcia University, Spain and worked for Oxford University by providing consultancy services in the field of economics.

Excursions

The Bucksmore Pre-University preparation course in Oxford includes 2 full-day and 1 half-day excursion per week. You can see a selection of excursions options below and an example two-week programme.

London: Natural History Museum & Kensington Palace

The world-famous Natural History Museum is a centre for research and exploration into a vast range of specimens from various segments of natural history.

You will also visit Kensington Palace, a royal residence since the 17th century. Explore the state rooms open to the public in this historic building.

Windsor

Visit the oldest and largest occupied castle in the world, home to 1,000 years of royal history.

Then explore the rich history of Windsor including visits to the Theatre Royal, Eton College, and time for shopping.

Oxford: Museum of Oxford

On this half-day excursion you will visit the only museum all about Oxford. The Museum tells the story of Oxford and its people through a range of social history objects and interactive displays.

Thames River Boat Cruise & Royal Museums Greenwich

Step aboard a cruise to Greenwich via the River Thames, taking in some of London’s world-famous sights along the way.

After lunch, you will explore the Cutty Sark, a historic sailing ship which was the fastest of its time!

Thorpe Park

Thorpe Park is a theme park located in Surrey, England with over 30 rides, attractions and live events.

You will be able to experience record-breaking roller coasters, water rides, and seasonal events alongside your new friends!

Cambridge

Visit Cambridge and experience its historic waterways via a punting trip on the River Cam.

You will also have time to explore one of the 31 Colleges that make up the University of Cambridge – King’s College – founded by King Henry VI in 1441.

The International Relations and Politics course timetable

The Bucksmore Pre-University preparation courses are designed as two week programmes to ensure you see improvement in your chosen specialist subject. Whether you decide to select a two or four week option we will have different and varied excursions each week.

Example Timetable

Week 1

Times	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday
07:45-08:30	Breakfast
08:45-13:00	Arrivals	Subject Tutorials	Excursion: London Royal & Politics Walking Tour	Subject Tutorials	Subject Tutorials	Excursion: Bath: Roman Baths	Subject Tutorials
13:00-14:00	Lunch
14:00-17:15	Arrivals Activity	Excursion: Oxford Ashmolean Museum	Excursion: London Buckingham Palace State Rooms	University Masterclass	University Masterclass	Excursion: Bath: Walking Tour & Shopping	Debate Society
18:00-19:00	Dinner
19:00-21:00	Welcome games	Oxford Lecture Series	Activity: Sports or Arts and Crafts	Activity: Mini Olympics	Project Presentations	Activity: Movie Night	End of Week Party

Week 2

Times	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday	Sunday	Monday
07:45-08:30	Breakfast
08:45-13:00	Arrivals Lazy Tuesday	Subject Tutorials	Excursion: Cambridge Walking Tour	Subject Tutorials	Subject Tutorials	Excursion: Thames River Boat Cruise & Royal Museums Greenwich	Subject Tutorials
13:00-14:00	Lunch
14:00-17:15	Arrivals Activity / Private Study Time	Excursion: Oxford Walking Tour	Excursion: Cambridge Punting	University Masterclass	Essay Preparation	Excursion: Thames River Boat Cruise & Royal Museums Greenwich	University Masterclass
18:00-19:00	Dinner
19:00-21:00	Activity: Arts and Crafts	Oxford Lecture Series	Activity: Pamper Club	Activity: Talent Show	Activity: Sports	Project Presentations	Formal Hall Graduation and Party

Do you need more information? Take a look at our International and Politics – Full Programme Details.

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.

See more details about arrivals and departures.

Got questions? We have answers.

We have selected some of our most commonly asked questions. See if they address what's on your mind.

And if not… Send Us a Message or Book a Call

Yes, you can attend as a day student. We would recommend our residential options as a great way to meet other students and get involved in all the activities, but we understand that sometimes a day camp may be the best option. It would be the responsibility of the parent or guardian to bring students to the camp each day before the first lesson of the day. The price for day students will be quoted at a discounted rate, please contact us for more information.

Everything is included in the price, from the moment you arrive to the moment you leave. When you book onto a Bucksmore course, your accommodation, food (three meals a day and packed lunch on excursion days), tuition and academic materials, activity fees, entrance costs to excursions, insurance and UK airport transfers (conditions apply) are included as part of your course fees. Flights and visa costs are not included.

Yes, you can keep your phone with you however you can't use it during lessons and activities where you are engaging with other students. Sometimes you'll use you phones to research information for projects during class time, in which case it would be supervised and you will need to follow the teacher's instructions. Of course, for a lot of the time, we'll expect your phones to be away so we can concentrate on speaking, discussing, laughing and having device-free fun in English!

Yes! The skills and experiences you gain will strengthen your university applications, particularly for subjects related to your course. You'll also receive guidance on how to present your Bucksmore experience in personal statements or interviews. This programme also makes students eligible to be awarded 8 UCAS tariff points to assist with university applications. So if you needed one more reason to apply, you now have 8!

Apply to reserve your place

Our online application process takes around 5 minutes to complete. You will need to enter the details of the student, including their passport number and current school. It's also important that we gather parents and guardians information as well.

To reserve a space on this course, a £500 reservation fee is required, payable by credit card or online bank transfer. See our cancellation and refund policy. Upon completion of your application, we can provide pre-enrolment documents including a visa support letter.

Apply Now