English Literature Summer School

Enriching Literary Minds: Your Summer of English Language and Literature Beyond the Syllabus

Explore the world of English literature with Minds Underground's English Summer School, tailored for Year 12 students, providing a gateway to delve into the intriguing realm of literary exploration and linguistic discovery.

Are you deeply passionate about the nuances of English language and literature? Enhance your Top UK University/ Oxbridge applications by participating in our Online English Literature Summer School. Students will have the chance to immerse themselves in a wide spectrum of literary genres and linguistic studies beyond the standard school curricula. Facilitated by top English graduates from Oxford and Cambridge, delve into captivating topics such as Critical Lenses, Shakespearean Works, Literature and the Machine, and the Romanticism movement.

Especially beneficial for those approaching top-tier UK English university applications e.g. Oxbridge, our tutors will assist you in articulating your reasoning, refining your critical thinking and literary analysis skills ahead of potential university interviews. Our interactive classes will enhance your communication and presentation skills, ensuring you're well-prepared for the challenges of university admissions and beyond.

Location: Online

Student Age: 15 - 18

Duration: 8 Weeks

Hours: 12 hours (Weekly 1.5hr session)

Dates: July - August

Why Join the Minds Underground English Summer School for Top UK & Oxbridge English Applicants?

Craft a Compelling English Personal Statement

All sessions are tailored to provide cutting-edge personal statement content and impressive talking points during interviews, helping you to stand out in the competitive university application process.

Expand Your Literary Horizons Beyond the School Curriculum

Our Oxbridge English tutors devise material that verges on 1st year university level content. Develop an extended reading repertoire and broaden your understanding of various literary works, enriching your academic journey in English language and literature.

Master Literary Analysis and Criticism For University Application Success

Acquire the ability to engage in literary analysis and criticism, learning to discern, form opinions, and articulate your insights with confidence, a crucial skill for university-level studies.

Create Cultural Awareness Through Exploration of World Literature

Develop heightened cultural understanding by exploring authors and themes from diverse cultures. English degrees today ensure students go beyond ‘English’ literature to encompass the global. Gain an insight into different approaches to literature and consider authors and literary theorists from across the globe.

Create Meaningful Connections Between Texts and Eras

Learn the art of forming links and connections between texts, deepening your comprehension and critical thinking abilities, fundamental for success in university applications, especially Oxbridge.

Boost Critical Discussion and Debating Skills for Oxbridge Interviews and Beyond

If preparing for Oxbridge English interviews, engaging in thought-provoking discussions on a range of complex literary ideas will set you up naturally for success. Our Oxbridge English tutors will pose interview-style questions throughout, stimulating high level discussion and debate.

A Taster of English Summer Course Topics

A promotional image for our English Literature Summer School showing a dictionary entry for literature

The Genre of the 'Defense' of Literature

In 2016, Ben Lerner's 'The Hatred of Poetry' caused a stir in English departments worldwide. He argues that literature is intertwined with hatred and defense. We'll examine this defense throughout history in three texts: Philip Sidney's 'The Defense of Poesy' (1595), Shelley's 'A Defence of Poetry', and Lerner's work. Lerner emphasises Sidney's role in establishing poets' and critics' defensive stance, tracing it back to ancient Greek culture. Plato's critique of poetry as deceptive and corruptive reveals literature's historical defensiveness. Despite ongoing attacks, literature continues to endure.

Critical Approaches: New Criticism/ Formalism vs Historicism. Is Content Vs Form A False Dichotomy?

In the literary academy, the 'Theory wars' debated formalism and historicism in the 70s/80s. Historicism sees texts in their context, while formalism focuses on the page. Practical Criticism analyses poems on their own merit. The battle raises questions about agency and meaning. Newer approaches merge these theories. Decide for yourself which you prefer: this lesson will greatly prepare you for the ongoing debates going in Oxbridge English university departments and gives you a chance to try reading through different critical lenses.

Shakespeare's Place in the Canon

Shakespeare is widely regarded as the most important English writer in history. The idolatry of Shakespeare, known as 'bardology', has existed since his death. The Cambridge English department has a paper dedicated to Shakespeare, but there is debate about keeping it. This concerns the need to make space for post-colonial literature and decolonise the canon. This class will explore Shakespeare's significance in English literature and whether his relevance is waning in a modern and politicised canon. Shape your own opinions ahead of university life and engage in one of the most hotly contested topics that circle the England’s infamous bard.

Literature & The Machine

Using technology/ machines in literature has fascinated people for centuries. Examples of machine-created literature include Ramon Llull's 'thinking machine,' Swift's 'The Frame' in Gulliver's Travels, Borges's 'The Library of Babel,' and Roald Dahl's 'The Great Automatic Grammatizator.' In the digital age, computer-generated poetry, like J.M. Coetzee's, explores the relationship between literature and machines. These examples raise important questions about intention, agency, and meaning in literature - these theoretical ideas are fantastic to explore ahead of university applications.

Introduction to Caribbean Literature

We will look at a selection of writers from the African and Indian Diaspora in the Caribbean. We will cover 20th and 21st Century authors, from novels and essays to reggae music. Music plays an important role in the literatures we will explore. In the second half of the class, there will be an introduction to the field of Postcolonial theory through Stuart Hall and other cultural theorists. ‘Postcolonialism’ is a highly popular optional module for Oxford English students, and fantastic to gain early exposure to as a key aspect of literature study today.

Practical Criticism: Unseen Analysis 101

Building on the theory covered in previous classes, this session will be focusing on the practice of Practical Criticism (and trying it out). This lesson will look at how to read and analyse unseen texts at a high level, and how to come up with an essay that contains a natural and organic argument. This will particularly suit students who are preparing for Oxbridge admissions and pre-interview tests, as well as offering an insight into the workings of an Oxbridge English degree.

Learn From Inspiring English Graduates From Oxford and Cambridge

cambridge english tutor

Example Cambridge English Tutor: Zoe

Zoe graduated with a Double First in English Literature at the University of Cambridge, taking modules including Medieval Literature, Shakespeare, Early Modern, American Literature, Literary Theory, and Tragedy. Her exceptional academic performance at Cambridge saw Zoe awarded the Cressingham Prize for English Literature, University of Cambridge, Trinity Hall, in 2019. She then achieved a Merit in her Master's degree in English Literature at University College London. Zoe's MA focused on 'Issues in Modern Culture': post-colonial and contemporary English literature. She wrote her thesis on Richard Stern and literary style. Zoe is also a highly experienced university/ Oxbridge application mentor for prospective English appllicants.

oxford english tutor

Example Oxford English Tutor: Katya

Katya is a graduate from the University of Oxford, where she studied English and German literature as a joint honour degree at St John’s College. Throughout her studies Katya was lead student ambassador, using her academic experiences to help with access and outreach. The German English sides of her course gave a study of literature fantastic breadth and enabled her to achieve perspective with regards to literature and literary movements across Europe. Comparative literature was something that was not taught at school, and the opportunity to work among some of the top professors in German writers like Kafka, or more traditionally Goethe, as well as English professors who were leading in the field of Milton studies or in the Romantics, broadened the approach to literature that she now brings to her teaching work.

Booking the English Summer School

Book now to ensure your spot in the Summer School. Our booking page includes 2024 dates and pricing. We limit class sizes to facilitate group discussion, tailored support and individual feedback.

English tutor books

Are You Looking For Further Support For Your English Application?

  • The English Literature Summer School is designed to provide exciting talking points for your personal statement. If you are looking for some one-to-one tuition tailored to your specific application, contact us to arrange sessions with an Oxbridge English tutor!

  • We offer specialised preparation for medicine admissions tests, including the English Literature Admissions Test (ELAT) and other relevant assessments. Visit our Admissions Test page on the U2 Tuition website to learn more.

  • Are you preparing for future interviews at Oxford, Cambridge or other top universities such as UCL? Our Oxbridge English tutors prepare students for all formats of interview question, hosting preparatory sessions and mock interviews. Learn more here.

Frequently Asked Questions FAQ – English Summer School

  • The Minds Underground English Summer School is an immersive educational programme designed for Year 12 students who have a keen interest in English language and literature. It offers a unique opportunity to explore a wide range of literary genres, critical analysis techniques, and cultural themes in an engaging and interactive environment.

  • Attending the Minds Underground English Summer School can significantly benefit prospective university applicants in several ways:

    Personal Statement Enhancement: All sessions are curated to provide impressive personal statement content and interview talking points, giving students a competitive edge during university applications.

    Expanded Reading Repertoire: Students develop a broader reading repertoire, enriching their understanding of literary works, which is invaluable for university-level studies in English.

    Literary Analysis and Critical Thinking: Participants acquire the ability to engage in literary analysis and criticism, learning to discern, form opinions, and articulate insights confidently—an essential skill for university studies.

    Interconnecting Texts: The programme teaches the art of forming meaningful connections between texts, enhancing comprehension and critical thinking abilities, crucial for success in the field of English studies.

    Strong Foundation for Humanities Degrees: Students can build a solid foundation for their personal statements when applying for Humanities degrees, backed by comprehensive content and insights from engaging discussions.

    Cultural Awareness and Communication Skills: Delving into authors and themes from diverse cultures, students enhance their cultural understanding, and the highly interactive classes hone their communication and presentational skills, preparing them for the academic rigours of university.

  • No prior knowledge of English literature is required to attend the Summer School. The programme is designed to accommodate students at various levels of familiarity with the subject, providing a supportive and enriching learning experience for all.

  • The classes are structured to be interactive and engaging, encouraging active participation and collaboration. They include lectures, discussions, group activities, and opportunities for students to present their ideas and perspectives, fostering a dynamic learning environment.

  • Registration details and enrolment information can be found on the Summer School booking page. Complete the registration process and we will send you logistical details a month or so before the course commences.

  • The English Summer School sessions take place weekly, with each session lasting 1.5 hours. The course runs from July to September, providing a flexible and comprehensive learning experience.

  • Participants who successfully complete the programme are able to request a certificate of participation, which can be a valuable addition to your academic achievements and university applications.

  • If you have any questions or require additional information, please feel free to contact us through the contact form on our website or send an email to enquiries@mindsunderground.com, quoting your contact number in case your email ends up in our Spam folder! Our team will be happy to assist you with any queries.

  • Absolutely. Our Summer School is designed to provide personal guidance and support. We keep class sizes small to ensure lots of interaction and individual attention. You'll have the opportunity to interact with our team of experts, ask questions, and receive assistance with your academic and university preparation needs.

  • Yes, we understand that scheduling conflicts can arise. We offer an offline programme option where students unable to attend live sessions can receive full session recordings and materials. This allows you to engage with the content at your own pace and convenience.

    How does the offline programme work, and what materials will I receive?

    Students opting for the offline programme will receive access to recorded sessions, lecture materials, assignments, and resources related to each session. You can review the content at your own convenience, ensuring you don't miss out on any valuable information.

    Can I still interact with instructors and ask questions if I choose the offline option?

    While the offline Summer School doesn't provide real-time interaction with instructors, we encourage participants to reach out with questions through email. Our team is committed to providing support and addressing queries to enhance your learning experience.

    Are there specific deadlines or timelines to follow for the offline programme?

    The offline programme is designed to be flexible, allowing you to set your own pace within the programme's overall duration. However, we recommend staying on track with the programme schedule to ensure you have ample time for completion and any potential follow-up questions.

    How do I enrol in the offline programme, and is there a separate registration process?

    To enrol in the offline programme, simply follow the same registration process as for the live sessions on our website. During registration, you can indicate your preference for the offline option. You will receive access to the programme materials upon completion of each session.

    Is there a difference in the cost between the live and offline programme options?

    The cost for both the live and offline programme options remains the same. We aim to provide a flexible learning experience that accommodates different needs and schedules without additional cost considerations.

    Can I switch from the live programme to the offline programme (or vice versa) if my circumstances change?

    Yes, you can switch between the live and offline programme options based on your circumstances. Please contact our team to discuss any changes or transitions in your programme participation.

    How do I access the recorded sessions and materials for the offline programme?

    After registering for the offline programme, you will receive instructions on how to access the recorded sessions and materials through our online platform. This information will be provided to you before the start of the programme.

  • The summer school primarily focuses on immersive learning and skill development rather than formal assessments. The emphasis is on exploring advanced topics, problem-solving, and honing essential skills for future academic pursuits.

  • Explore essential English concepts, review A-Level and IB topics and literary devices, and cultivate an inquisitive mindset for advanced curriculum engagement. Come prepared to actively participate, ask questions, and collaborate with peers to make the most of the learning experience.