Social Sciences Summer School
Are you interested in business, sociology, politics or geography but are struggling to decide what to study at university? Do you want to explore the social sciences? Apply for the Social Sciences Summer School!
Our three-day, two-night Social Sciences Summer School, running from Tuesday 23 June - Thursday 25 June 2026, is the perfect opportunity for Year 12 students to explore a variety of social sciences subjects (including Environment, Geography, Sociology, Education, Politics and International Studies and Business) and live life as a university student.
Through a series of academic workshops relating to our theme of 'Creating Change', students will experience university-level teaching including lectures, seminars, and workshops; supporting them to make informed higher education course choices. Participants will stay overnight in university accommodation and take part in social activities supported by our Student Ambassadors, gaining valuable insight into the extracurricular opportunities available to them as an undergraduate student.
Following the event, participants will also be invited to take part in a series of online sessions supporting their UCAS application and transition to university.
Applications for the 2026 Social Sciences Summer School are now closed.
We invite applications from all Year 12 students, but priority will be given to those who live in an area of low progression to higher education and/or those who meet 1 or 2 of the following criteria:
- Your parents or carers did not go to university
- You are from a household with a gross annual income of £25,000 or below
- You attended or attend a school which achieved below the national average Attainment 8 score at GCSE
- Your studies have been disrupted due to personal circumstances
- You are/were eligible for Free School Meals during your GCSE studies or later
- You are care experienced
- You are estranged (separated) from your parents or guardians
There may be a contribution of up to £100 towards travel costs for eligible students. When we send confirmation on whether students are successful in their application to attend the summer school they will also be informed if they are eligible to claim for travel.