Cambridge Creative Writing Program (2026): Best Parents

The Cambridge Creative Writing Pre-College Summer Program is a two-week on-campus summer school for 13 6-year-olds run in historic Cambridge or Oxford colleges. Over the course students take around 30 hours of academic sessions, work on an extended Personal Project (a portfolio of creative pieces or a novella), and receive written and verbal tutor feedback culminating in a graduation ceremony and certificate.

Teaching combines creative practice with critical skills: modules cover starting projects, character creation, plot mapping and producing a written portfolio. Students take part in independent and group work, regular tutor feedback, and a mentor programme.

The course also includes a full social activity programme, two excursions (one to Oxford and an optional trip to London), and two Formal Hall dinners in college dining halls. Accommodation is provided for 13 nights in central Cambridge or Oxford college residences (single occupancy; some twin rooms possible), with breakfast, lunch and dinner included.

Practical arrival information is provided (arrival Sunday 14:00 6:00 with rooms ready by 15:00) and organised shared Heathrow transfers are available for an additional fee. Comprehensive summer school insurance and pastoral support are included.