In partnership with universities and employers, we run engaging programmes that give students practical advice and leave them feeling inspired and more confident about their future.

Our programmes are completely free to attend. All costs – including travel, accommodation, food and activities – are paid for by the Trust and our partners.

Apply for a programme

Our impact

What do our programmes do for young people?

10,000

The number of students we support through our programmes each year.

62%

The proportion of UK Summer School students that enrol at a leading university.

4x

How much more likely our students are to receive an offer from a leading university in comparison to their peers.

My time on the UK Summer School was a completely transformational experience. Beyond what I learned in the classes, the whole experience raised my confidence.

Sam, Whitley Bay, UK Summer School 2008 - University of Cambridge
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The experience taught me that I preferred learning on the job and that I wanted to work, instead of going to university to just study. A year ago, I wouldn’t have thought of doing an apprenticeship and this option would have been completely off the cards, however this time I received support and encouragement – from my parents and my teachers.

Hannah-Mai Flynn, Tadworth, Pathways to Law 2014
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The programme helped show me that university is definitely the right choice for me and that I can cope with moving to an entirely new place and make friends without having to worry at all. If you’re still on the fence, I'd say go for it. You have nothing to lose and an amazing experience waiting for you and you will meet the best people.

Jacob, Warrington, UK Summer Schools 2019, University of Nottingham

My week at Cambridge University was game-changing. I absolutely loved the vibe: everyone’s curiosity and passion for the topics. Learning from and discussing human behaviour with world leaders in the field was awe-inspiring.

Emily Gotch, the Cotswolds, UK Summer Schools 2013
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Join our alumni community

Have you taken part in one of our programmes over the years?

Find out more about how you can get involved with our thriving alumni community.

Join our alumni community

Information for parents and teachers

Find out how you can support a young person to apply to a Sutton Trust programme.

Other programmes we run

Teacher Champions

Training and support for teachers to improve their school’s progression rates to leading universities.