Course Overview & assessment

The Inspire Scholars Programme is a three-year initiative for students entering Year 9, running through Years 9, 10, and 11. Developed by St John’s College, Oxford, the programme is designed in partnership with schools across the southern regions of the UK to provide sustained academic enrichment.

Through a blend of activities – including Inspire Clubs, academic challenges, and parent information sessions – the programme encourages students to explore ideas beyond the curriculum, develop advanced academic skills, and build confidence in considering higher education. Inspire Scholars are supported throughout the programme as they engage with new subjects, stretch their thinking, and connect with like-minded peers.

This is the first year we are offering this opportunity. For this year only, we will be offering places to students in both Years 9 and 10. Moving forward, the programme will be available exclusively to students as they enter Year 9.

The aims of this programme, as set out by St John’s College, are shown to the right.

PROGRAMME COMPONENTS

Component 1: Inspire Club Classes

Inspire Club classes are extracurricular sessions and workshops designed by education professionals and delivered by in-school teachers. These classes introduce students to topics and themes not typically covered in the standard curriculum, encouraging curiosity and independent thinking. Students are invited to attend workshops that provide further opportunities for exploration across a range of subjects.

Click here to view the class options booklet. It is important that students read this carefully, as it will inform one of the questions in the application process.

The workshops will run throughout the academic year, and students are expected to attend the majority of sessions. The days on which these take place will vary to minimise clashes with other programmes and to ensure maximum accessibility. Once the cohort is confirmed, we will finalise the subjects covered and agree on the most suitable days for sessions.

Component 2: Inspire Beyond

Inspire Beyond ensures that all scholars have an in-person experience at St John’s College, Oxford. These visits typically take the form of fully funded day trips, during which scholars receive information, advice, and guidance about higher education. They also take part in critical thinking sessions, meet current undergraduates, and participate in interactive workshops at one of Oxford’s renowned gardens, libraries, or museums.

St John’s College aims to tailor each visit to reflect the academic interests of the scholars and continues to develop new workshops to keep the experience engaging and intellectually stimulating.

Inspire Scholars also have access to additional opportunities designed to deepen their engagement with St John’s College, Oxford. Students may apply to take part in either a residential summer school or a virtual summer school, both of which offer enriching academic experiences. Participation is optional and based on student application. Funding is available to support those who may need it, ensuring the opportunities are accessible to all eligible scholars.

Component  3: Inspire Critical Thinking

Inspire Critical Thinking is an online programme that explores a central theme through a variety of subjects. Each virtual session includes critical thinking activities, academic articles, interviews, recorded lectures, and challenges created by University of Oxford academics and students.

Students have the opportunity to submit responses to ‘super challenges’ and learn more about the university through Oxford Spotlights. Participation in a range of these sessions throughout the year is expected to maximise the benefits of the programme.