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Creative Writing Course in Oxford

Oxford Summer School 2026 | Ages 15-18

Passionate about creative writing? The Experience Creative Writing Academy offers the perfect chance to refine your skills and experience university life.

Discover storytelling, elevate your craft and bring your ideas to life in Oxford – a city that inspired legends like C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Immerse yourself in its rich history and timeless charm as you hone your writing.

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Key Facts

Location
Oxford University campus

Ages
15-18 year olds

Class Size
Maximum 15 students

Dates
5th July - 18th July 2026
19th July - 1st August 2026
2nd August - 15th August 2026

Tutors
Typically Oxford and
Cambridge academics

Fees
£7,495

Duration
Two weeks

Graduation & Certification
Letter of Recommendation and
Certificate of Achievement

Awards & Accreditation
British Accreditation Council and
King's Award

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Experience Creative Writing Academy

You’ll learn to craft dialogue, build fictional worlds and even create a book series. You’ll be guided by expert tutors from leading universities such as Oxford and Cambridge.

The Nature of Creative Writing

In the first class, you’ll explore the key characteristics of creative writing, analyse famous first lines and paragraphs, and identify different techniques used by creative writers to engage their readers.

View Curriculum

Storytelling

Learn the defining features of narrative writing and consider the unique issues raised by narrative, including memory, the performance of the self and the representation of others. Then, apply your understanding to your own piece of writing.

Short Stories & Novels: Plot & Genre

Examine different models of plot development in stories and novels, understand how plot and genre work together, and apply your existing knowledge of popular media to develop your own genre descriptions.

Character Development

In this class, you’ll analyse the representation of characters in a range of media to better understand how to characterise with believability and relevance. You’ll identify techniques used by writers for introducing and developing characters, before applying these techniques to your own writing.

Journalism & Nonfiction Writing

Explore different types of nonfiction writing, including journalism, and learn the key differences between fiction and nonfiction writing. Understand how to identify bias within news reporting and critically consider implicit bias in your own writing.

World-Building

This class will focus on how to build a fictional world, including how to set the scene and how to use all five senses in scene descriptions to create an immersive world.

Dialogue & Scriptwriting

Understand the difference between written dialogue as it appears in novels and short stories versus scripts and screenplays. Consider what makes effective or less effective dialogue and identify techniques used by writers in creating engaging dialogue.

That’s a Wrap

In the penultimate class, you’ll learn strategies that authors use to make writing part of their everyday life. You’ll also identify various ways of sharing your own writing, explore a range of exercises to help you improve your skills over time and discover potential future career paths related to creative writing.

Class X

Your final class is based on the tutor’s own expertise, offering a glimpse into the latest thinking and research shaping the field. You’ll gain insight into how to use writing as a means to advocate for change and explore the role of writing in community-building.

The Book Series Challenge

Your learning won’t just take place in the classroom. Beyond the daily classes, you’ll also experience an intensive, four-hour academic Challenge: a chance to put theory into practice, and a highlight for many students.

Immerse yourself in the art of storytelling with our Book Series Challenge. Working in a team, you’ll tackle the challenges of creating a compelling book series that captures readers’ imaginations and leaves them eagerly awaiting the next instalment.

You will work collaboratively to develop an exciting and captivating book series. Together, you’ll navigate the complexities of plot, character development and world-building to create an engaging literary journey.

You will determine the series’ name, overarching theme, target audience and purpose. You’ll experience first-hand the unique challenges that arise when writing multiple books, such as maintaining consistency, keeping readers engaged and evolving the story over time.

Meet Your Tutor

Sarah Marshall

BA Hons, MSt (Oxon), DPhil (Oxon) (Candidate)

Sarah was awarded a Master of Studies with Distinction in Classical Languages and Literature by the University of Oxford in 2021.

She subsequently taught English and Classics at Wycombe Abbey School and returned to Oxford in 2023 to pursue a DPhil in Literature. She won the Avril Gilchrist Bruten Award for Creative Writing in 2024 in recognition of her work.

Please note that tutors may be subject to change.

Apply Today

Nurture Your Creative Writing Skills

Experiment with new writing techniques under an expert tutor, meet a successful professional writer and develop strong academic skills in masterclasses.

Master Key Writing Concepts
Learn key concepts such as crafting vivid settings, developing authentic dialogue and structuring compelling narratives – all under the guidance of one of our expert tutors from leading universities like Oxford and Cambridge.
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Meet an Established Writer
Gain insights from our Creative Writing Hero, a successful young writer. Discover their journey, ask all your questions about a career in writing and publishing, and be inspired to take the first steps toward your own creative future.
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Level Up With Masterclasses
Build essential practical life skills such as public speaking, critical thinking and teamwork through our Masterclasses, developing tools that will benefit you long after the programme ends – no matter which academic path you take.
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Still Curious?
We’d Love to Talk.

Stephanie, our Head of Admissions, would be happy to answer all your questions. Let us know a time that works for you.

Arrange a Call

Build an International Network

Study and experience Oxford alongside passionate, curious and motivated young people like you from all over the globe. Our students are eager to elevate their academic ambitions and seize their future.

Pippa Manning
Pippa Manning

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: Nottingham Girls' High School

COURSE: Experience Medicine Academy

 

 
I have found the classes so insightful and interesting and have learnt more about Medicine than I ever have in school, as well as new topics I had never considered. I'm sure this knowledge will be invaluable in my application to medical school and it has made me feel much more confident in my own abilities.
Eliah Cibambo
Eliah Cibambo

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: Lycée Prince de Liège

COURSE: Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

 

 
This was a very enriching and rewarding experience both academically and socially. We explored key business concepts, which provided me with new insights into the business world. It also helped me identify and understand the challenges of tomorrow’s world, which will be very important for my future.
Adela Jung Foncillas
Adela Jung Foncillas

AGE: 17

SCHOOL: FES Lörrach

COURSE: Experience Psychology & Neuroscience Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has given me the confidence to determine my own future. I learned to step out of my comfort zone and try incredible new things, even when they seemed scary at first. I've also had the amazing opportunity to build a network of kind and open-minded people, all from different countries.
Juanita Sele-Matthew
Juanita Sele-Matthew

AGE: 15

SCHOOL: Meadowhall School

COURSE: Experience Business & Enterprise Academy

 

 
Oxford Scholastica has taught me to always reach for the stars. The programme has really opened my eyes to what I want my life to look like. I've learned academic skills but also social and emotional skills, like how to network, how to live away from home and how to make new friends.

Make Memories to Last a Lifetime

Outside the classroom, you'll take part in a packed schedule of social, cultural and sporting activities alongside your new friends, designed to push you beyond your comfort zone and give you a real taste of university life. Embark on an unforgettable journey.

Excursions
Socials
Sports
Graduation
Inspiring Cultural Excursions

Discover the timeless allure of Oxford as you wander its historic, picturesque streets, soaking in the city’s rich heritage and charm. Experience inspiring day trips to iconic destinations that offer a deeper connection to culture and history.

Day Trips: Visit Windsor Castle, an official residence of the Royal Family, and explore Blenheim Palace, the birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill
Oxford Experiences: Enjoy a guided walking tour of Oxford, discover its renowned museums, and experience a traditional college brunch. Watch a Shakespeare play in the grounds of the ancient Oxford Castle
Unique Activities: Try Scottish ceilidh dancing and go punting on the River Thames, a favourite Oxford pastime

 

Exciting Social Events

Beyond the classroom, engage in vibrant social activities designed to create lasting memories and friendships, fostering a sense of community and shared experiences.

 

International Boat Ball: A highlight of the programme, this unforgettable evening takes place aboard a boat on the River Thames, celebrating friendships and experiences in true Oxford style
Oxford’s Got Talent: Take to the stage and showcase your talents in this fun and informal event
Movie, Quiz & Games Nights: Enjoy relaxing evenings in the common rooms with your new friends, and take part in a variety of entertaining activities 
Unique Sporting Activities

Stay active during your time in Oxford with a variety of sports and outdoor activities, and enjoy some friendly competition.

 

Football Tournament: Take part in the annual football game held at Oxford's historic Iffley Road campus
Lunchtime Running Club: Explore Oxford's scenic routes on our regular running club for students keen to keep their fitness up
Local Gyms: If you prefer gym workouts, you can sign up to a nearby fitness centre during your time with us

 

An Unforgettable Graduation

Celebrate your graduation with a memorable ceremony, recognising your hard work and achievements in front of friends and family.

 

Graduation Ceremony: Formally graduate from the programme in a ceremony with friends and family
Barbecue Celebration: Attend a garden BBQ, take graduation pictures and reflect on your summer memories
Ceilidh Dance: Finish the programme with a traditional British ceilidh dance and a live band. Don't worry - the band will teach you all the steps!

 

Hear From a Graduate

Juanita Sele-Matthews

Experience Business & Enterprise Academy (2024)

“Oxford Scholastica has taught me to always reach for the stars, no matter how far away they seem. I was able to try so many new things, and it gave me new opportunities and opened up doors that I didn’t even know existed.”

Apply Today

Strengthen Your University Application

You’ll leave with a Certificate of Achievement, a Letter of Recommendation and the opportunity to join our Ambassador Programme – all designed to help your application stand out to top-tier universities at home or abroad.



Celebration certificate of achievement oxford scholastica
Earn a Certificate of Achievement
All students who successfully complete the course will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.
Get a Letter of Recommendation
Students who meet our criteria will be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.
Join Our Ambassador Programme

Want to continue learning? Apply for our one-year Ambassador Programme to gain valuable skills in marketing, networking, entrepreneurship and more. With monthly virtual meetings, you'll develop practical skills to shape your future.

Your Questions,
Answered.

Still need help? Book a call
What are the entry requirements for the course?

We have three entry requirements:

i) You must be aged between 11-18 years old at the start of your chosen course.

ii) You must be motivated to learn more about the subject you wish to study (there's space for you to write a personal statement on our registration form). We find that when students are self-motivated and eager to make the most of the opportunity, the summer school can be a truly transformative experience.

iii) You must be able to speak, read and understand English well. Though we require no formal testing, our minimum English level is Common European Framework Level C1, which equates to IELTS 6.5. If you’d like to arrange a call to check whether you have the right level of English, please feel free to contact us.

What should I write in my Oxford Scholastica personal statement?
Our admissions panel reads through each student's personal statement to determine if they'd be a good fit for our programme. We welcome bright and intellectually curious students from around the world – those who are passionate about their subject and eager to challenge themselves.

We don't have any academic prerequisites, as many of our students have never been exposed to their chosen subject before, so instead we're looking for motivation and mindset.

I'm 11 years old. Can I join a course for 12-14 year olds?

We do accept bright, mature eleven year olds onto our Discover Academy courses (designed for ages 12-14), so please do submit an application here. If you’d like to discuss your specific situation, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.

I'm 14 years old. Can I join a course for 15-18 year olds?

We do sometimes allow bright, mature 14 year olds to join our Experience Academy courses (designed for ages 15-18), so please do submit an application here. If you’d like to discuss your specific situation, please contact us and we’ll be happy to advise you.

Do you accept students who are at university?
We can only accept students who are not at university. If you've just finished school and have yet to start higher education, you're welcome to join us. Unfortunately, if you've already started at university, then we're unable to offer you a place at our summer school.
How do I secure my place?

Please click here to apply for your place and pay your deposit (£995). Our admissions panel will assess your application and will be in touch to confirm whether you have been accepted onto the programme. If for any reason you're not accepted, your deposit will be refunded in full.

Who will my tutor be?

We carefully select and train the best qualified tutors for each course. Our tutors are subject experts from world-class institutions, including the Universities of Oxford and Cambridge. Learn more about our tutors here.

Will I get a certificate or accreditation at the end of the course?

All students who successfully complete one of our courses will receive an Oxford Scholastica Academy Certificate of Achievement upon programme completion.

Students who meet our criteria will also be awarded a personalised Letter of Recommendation from their tutor, highlighting their strengths, participation, personality and more.

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