Oxford China Summer Program brings together students from around the world for a unique educational adventure in Chengdu. This city is China’s vibrant cultural capital. Known for its giant pandas, spicy Sichuan hotpot, traditional opera, and a seamless blend of ancient traditions with modern energy, this 7th‑largest Chinese city offers the perfect setting for an immersive summer learning experience.
Origins of the Oxford China Summer Program
The Oxford China Summer Program was launched in 2019 with a clear vision. Its objective was to fuse Oxford’s academic excellence with China’s rich cultural heritage. In its early years, the camp primarily welcomed local Chinese students aged 5–18. However, from 2025 onwards, it opened its doors to international participants as well. Consequently, it becomes a true cultural exchange, with students from across China and abroad coming together in Chengdu for a 9–10-day residential program.
Teaching Approach and Class Structure
A dedicated team of Oxford tutors and scholars travels from the UK to deliver all academic teaching in English. Moreover, local Chinese staff also support them for better communication. Classes are intentionally kept small, with one Oxford tutor and two Chinese teaching assistants in each group, ensuring personalised attention and a supportive environment. Age groups include 7–9, 10–12, 13–15, and 16–18-year-olds. Therefore, content and activities match students’ developmental stages.
Core Academic Modules
Students study four future‑focused academic tracks that build essential skills for the modern, AI‑driven world:
AI and Innovation – introducing key AI concepts, ethics, and creative problem‑solving.
Public Speaking & Debate – developing confidence, persuasive communication, and presentation skills.
Critical Thinking – strengthening logic, reasoning, and analytical decision‑making.
Business & Entrepreneurship / Business Studies – exploring creativity, teamwork, and real‑world business planning.
University of Oxford ‑ affiliated scholars lead all modules, and expert tutors travel specifically to Chengdu to deliver the program locally in China.
Residential Summer School Experience
The Oxford China Summer Program is a fully residential summer school where the academic team lives on campus with the students, creating a safe, closely supervised environment. The program takes place at Malvern College Chengdu or similar world‑class campuses—secure, gated schools with excellent sports, arts, and boarding facilities. Each student has their own room. Moreover, the program fee includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and all extracurricular activities. These make it a comprehensive, all‑inclusive experience for families.
Extracurricular and Cultural Activities
Beyond academics, the Oxford China Summer Program offers a rich mix of extracurricular and cultural activities that encourage confidence, well-being, and cross‑cultural friendships. Students can take part in:
Board games, chess and Chinese chess (Xiangqi), and other strategy games.
Sports and exercise, such as team games, hockey‑style activities, and fitness sessions.
Kung Fu and martial arts workshops, drama and theatre sessions, and dance performances.
Cultural experiences include Sichuan opera elements, calligraphy, bamboo weaving, and exploration of local cuisine.
Both Oxford tutors and local staff co‑deliver these activities, ensuring a genuine bridge between British and Chinese perspectives. The result is a truly international summer camp in China that combines academic challenge, cultural immersion, and unforgettable personal growth.
Hear From Our Students
"The Oxford China Summer Program was the best adventure ever! I was very scared to come here and attend this program, but everyone here was so kind. The teachers from Oxford made classes super fun with games, debates, and stories about the world!” (Aiia Tuktarova, Russia)
“This was one of the best experiences of my life. I loved everything about this program. Thank you very much for giving me this opportunity.” Samantha Kent, USA
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Apply to the Oxford China Summer Program?
Head over to the " Enrol Now" button on the official website of The Oxford Institute and select Oxford China Summer Program as the program of interest.
Is the Oxford China Summer Program affiliated with the University of Oxford?
The programme takes academic inspiration from Oxford-style teaching methods and is led by expert tutors. However, it is not a degree programme of the University of Oxford.
Who is the Oxford China Summer Program designed for?
The program targets 7–18-year-olds who are curious and motivated to develop academic skills such as critical thinking, effective communication, and subject exploration.