Twelve is a fascinating age. Your child is old enough to do most things independently, is highly curious, and is maturing. However, if you are considering the Oxford Summer program for 12-year-olds, it can be slightly nerve-wracking. After all, they still need structure, surveillance, and reassurance.
So, if you are wondering if twelve is the right age for enrolling your child in the Oxford Summer Program, this blog post will give you the answer.
Is the Oxford Summer Program for 12-year-olds?
Parents interested in enrolling their children often ask us, "Is 12 too young for attending the Oxford Summer Program?" However, our answer remains constant-"It depends on the child". In fact, in most cases, this might be the ideal age to attend a summer school.
With technological advancements and greater awareness, young children are becoming considerably more mature and confident. They are also curious to explore the world further.
We have seen some twelve-year-olds who are way ahead of their years. Some, on the other hand, are not ready for the world ahead. However, both these students can thrive in the right environment.
12 is a critical age. It is the last year before you enter your teens. So, naturally, curiosity and passion are high, and confidence is shaping. Therefore, we believe that this is the best time to sow the seeds of resilience, love, mindset, and trust into a child.
At The Oxford Institute, our Oxford Summer Program provideses curriculum that effectively supports this pivotal age and delivers structure without excessive pressure.
Here are some of the reasons why your 12-year-old should enrol in the Oxford Summer Program:
1) Builds Academic Confidence and Curiosity
For many students in this age group, this is their first time outside their traditional classroom seThere is anefaim attempt to give themwith the best possible summer school experience, resulting in valuable academic and character gains.sparkThe Oxford Summer Program welcomes like-minded students from all around the world, and this enables stimulating discussions.
These discussions boost curiosity, and students fshow greaterinterest in the chosen subjects.additionIn aInadd this, our programs include discussion-based sessions that which encourage students to ask questions and share their ideas. All these measures promote independent thinking amongst learners.
Moreover, we use a tutorial-style teaching approach, which is central to Oxford's learning techniques. Expert tutors teach small cohorts of students and tailor their lessons to tach student's level. This allows each child to have some degree of personalised experience and equal attention. Hence, they leave with academic confidence.
2) Gentle Introduction to University-Style Learning
At 12, students are naturally not expected to be as mature as university students. However, getting to experience university life under some supervision increases their exposure and encourages responsibility and independence.
It also gives them an insight into what university-style learning looks like. The Oxford Summer Program takes place in Saint Anne's College, and students have access to Oxford's dining halls, lecture theatre, tutorial rooms, and other facilities.
As parents, a natural concern would be your child's safety. We are glad that we have been welcoming students for over 10 years, and no security issue has occurred so far. A residential dean looks after your child during the programme.
Also, St Anne's is a gated college, ensuring your child's safety.
3) Personal Growth and Independence
A summer program away from home is a big deal for a twelve-year-old. For some, it's the first time as well, and they get to make small age-appropriate decisions on their own. This experience is a huge confidence builder with lasting effects.
They navigate their daily life without parents and learn to be responsible, independent young learners. However, residential deans assigned to students ensure that they are being supervised. Therefore, you don't have to worry about their safety.
Students also learn to be a team player by working with different students and getting out of their comfort zone. Public speaking at the Oxford Union also allows students to express themselves. All these activities facilitate the personal growth of children.
4) Social and Emotional Development
One of the most important aspects of the programme with major transformative value is social interactions. Students develop relationships with students from all over the world and increase their network and social circle.
By learning together through contributing to projects and sharing experiences, learners will be able to create an environment that allows for the promotion of empathy, effective communication skills, and feelings of belonging within a secure and supportive community.
5) Cultural Enrichment and Inspiration
Living and learning in cities steeped in history, such as Oxford and London, offers great inspiration for young learners, as the surroundings evoke the imagination and create an interest in learning. We all know how Oxford has been a place where many great minds were trained. Oxford University has a special prestige tied to it.
As our programme takes place at St Annes College of the University of Oxford, we plan activities that immerse students in the city's culture.
As students gain exposure to ideas, cultural influences, and the environment of the city, they expand their outlook and motivation.
6) A Safe, Structured, and Supportive Environment
Above all else, it is intended with young students in mind. Its routines are simple and uncluttered, and as such, students are encouraged to feel secure as well as free.
Furthermore, it also gives a parental assurance that the child not only remains safe but is also flourishing in terms of academic, social, and personal growth.
As mentioned, St Annes is a gated college with security, and students are under the supervision of our staff members at all times. As we have been hosting our programme for 10+ years, we know the right protocols that residential deans and other staff members follow.
Is My Child Ready for the Oxford Summer Program?
So here's the real question-is your child ready? Parents can look for a few key signs to take the decision. Curiosity for learning about a subject area, emotional maturity, and comfort with taking small independent steps are some of them.
When these boxes tick, you know your child will have a well-rounded experience.
So, if you are ready for your child to have a safe, structured, and inspiring experience, explore the Oxford Summer School Program for 12-year-olds in detail.