Summer schools provide a taste of university life to year 10, 11 and 12 students who might not realise their potential or whose circumstances could lead them to consider a limited range of subjects/institutions, or not apply for higher education at all. In a recent review of widening participation undertaken by HEFCE for the DfES, 71 out of the 90 institutions that responded (79%) included summer schools in their list of the five most important activities, while 12 (13.3%) rated summer schools as the most important WP activity overall.

Format

The programmes vary considerably from one institution to another but most include subject tasters, a session on graduate employability/employment skills, an opportunity for HE/careers advice and guidance, and sporting/social activities. The vast majority of the places are provided on a residential basis, although there are a number of non-residential places at some urban HEIs. All course and travel costs, as well as meals and accommodation, are provided free of charge to students.

Participating students can attend a university or college of their choice in their region (subject to availability) and gain an introduction to the academic and social aspects of higher education. Some regions also engage in swapping regional places, which enables pupils to attend a summer school outside of their region.