Sutton Trust Summer School

The University of Edinburgh Sutton Trust Summer School lets you experience what being a real university student is like by exploring subjects you’re interested in and taking part in exciting social activities!

This year's Summer School will run from Monday 22 June to Saturday 27 June 2020, you will stay in real halls of residence and have plenty of time to explore Edinburgh and get to know like-minded students.  It is open for students from all across the UK currently in S5 (Scotland), Year 12 (England and Wales) or Year 13 (Northern Ireland), who have always attended a state-funded school or college.

What's involved?

Academic programme

Students will have the opportunity to try out four subjects throughout the week. Our academics will lead you in two fascinating subjects of your choice, including project work in one of these subjects. You will also be able to try out another two subjects not open for Summer School application during the subject taster sessions.

The programme changes from year to year. In 2020, students will be able to study two of the following subjects: Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Computer Science (Informatics), Engineering, English Literature, European Languages, Literature and Culture, History, Mathematics, Philosophy, Physics, Politics, Sociology (set combinations available, see the Sutton Trust’s website for further details).

Academic experts, supported by current University students, will present each subject using a series of lectures, tutorials, laboratory experiments and group work. Summer School staff will also deliver sessions on key aspects of the university experience, including studying in Scotland, UCAS and personal statements, student finance and student life.

Social programme

As well as the academic programme, you will also take part in a wide variety of social activities to help you get to know your fellow students and the city of Edinburgh. We are still finalising the activities for 2020, but previous activities have included; walking and bus tours, escape room, quiz night, Dungeons and Dragons, Arthur’s Seat trip, sports, crafting, and plenty of free time. You’ll also celebrate your graduation from the Summer School with a ceilidh and party.

Student Group Leaders will work with you throughout the week to make sure you feel at home and get the most out of your time in Edinburgh.

By the end of the week we hope you will have gained a better insight into university life and have had a lot of fun along the way!

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How do I join?

You can apply to join the University of Edinburgh's Sutton Trust Summer School if you are in S5 (Scotland), Year 12 (England and Wales) or Year 13 (Northern Ireland), and you always attended a state-funded school or college. 

You are more likely to secure a place if:

• you have achieved at least five grades at either A or 6 at GCSE, or five A or B passes at National 5, and where applicable have taken subjects relevant to the subject stream applied for
• your parents have not been to university
• you have been eligible for free school meals or EMA
• your school or college has a low overall Higher/Advanced Higher, A-level, (or equivalent) point score, a low rate of progression to higher education and / or an above average free school meal status
• you live in a neighbourhood with a low rate of progression rates to higher education and/or a high level of socio-economic deprivation

Priority will be given to applicants who are (or have been) care experienced or refugees.

Please apply through the Sutton Trust’s website:

Sutton Trust UK Summer Schools 

Applications will be open from midday 8 January 2020 and close midday 3 March 2020.

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Any questions? Contact us

Susan Deas

Widening Participation Events Officer

Contact details

• Work: +44 (0)131 651 5514
• Email: st-summer-school@ed.ac.uk