Study Mind logo Study Mind
Official UK Government Partner

Join our Physics Summer Career Camp today!

Physics Summer Career Camp for students aged 15–18 offers hands-on experience in physics, space science, engineering principles, and scientific problem-solving. Through interactive experiments, workshops, and demonstrations, students explore core concepts while building academic skills. The programme also includes UCAS support, personal statement guidance, and career mentoring for future STEM pathways.

On this page you can find

What Is the Physics Summer Career Camp?

The Physics Summer Career Camp introduces students to the core principles of physics through practical, hands-on learning and real-world applications. Students explore topics such as mechanics, electricity, forces, waves, energy, and modern physics through experiments, workshops, and problem-solving activities. The programme helps students understand how physics is used in engineering, space exploration, technology, and scientific research. Alongside academic learning, students develop key skills in analysis, critical thinking, teamwork, and communication. The camp also provides UCAS support, personal statement guidance, and university preparation to help students confidently progress toward physics-related degrees and careers.

  • Ages: 15 - 18 years old
  • Duration: 1 - 3 weeks
  • Class size: 10-12 students
  • Location | Central London
HIGHLIGHTS

Highlights and Skills Students Will Learn

The Physics Summer Camp helps students explore physics through experiments, workshops, and practical STEM-based activities. Scroll to see some of our highlights:

Mechanics and ForcesStudents explore motion, energy, and forces through experiments that demonstrate real-world physics principles in action.
Electricity and MagnetismUnderstand how electrical circuits, magnetism, and energy systems work through hands-on lab activities and demonstrations.
Waves, Light and SoundExplore how waves behave, how light travels, and how sound is produced and measured in scientific environments.
Modern Physics and Space ScienceStudents discover key ideas in relativity, atomic structure, and space physics through interactive discussions and simulations.
Plan Your Path

Choose from a 1, 2 or 3 week programme

Pick a date that suits you and kickstart your career in physics today.

Tutors

Meet your professional mentors

Our Physics Summer Career Camp is led by experienced physicists, engineers, researchers, and STEM educators who are passionate about helping students understand physics and explore future STEM pathways.
Students benefit from small group teaching, one-to-one mentoring, and personalised feedback from professionals with academic and industry experience across physics, engineering, and applied sciences.

Siddharta A.
Physics with Theoretical Physics | Imperial College London

Siddharta recently completed an MSci in Physics with Theoretical Physics at Imperial College London, graduating with top marks and researching the intersection of physics and artificial intelligence. With a background in debate and public speaking, he combines strong analytical thinking with clear communication to make complex topics like quantum theory and advanced maths engaging, accessible, and enjoyable for students.

Judith Corp
UCAS Advisor | English Teacher

Judith Corp is a highly successful accredited UCAS adviser with a wealth of experience in helping students to establish their goals and enjoy success. Judith has served as Head of English, Head of Creative Arts and Head of 6th Form in grammar schools in Kent for many years and specialises in UCAS admissions and university preparation.

WHY STUDY MIND

Hands-on learning: physics in practice

Students take part in hands-on experiments, lab simulations, engineering challenges, and interactive STEM activities designed to bring physics concepts to life.

Students conducting real-world physics experiments using laboratory equipment and practical science apparatus
Real-world physics experiments
Students conduct practical experiments involving motion, energy, electricity, and waves to understand how physics applies in everyday life.
STEM professional leading an interactive physics workshop with students in a classroom setting
Learn from STEM professionals
Meet physicists, engineers, and STEM mentors who provide insight into academic and career pathways in science and technology.
Student discussing academic opportunities during a biology summer camp career guidance session.
Academic and university preparation
Students receive expert guidance on UCAS applications, personal statements, interviews, and STEM degree choices.
Students developing transferable skills through hands-on physics activities and practical classroom problem-solving
Develop transferable skills
The programme builds problem-solving, analytical thinking, teamwork, communication, and data interpretation skills.
Students exploring physics career pathways during a guided educational visit with a STEM professional
Explore physics career pathways
Students discover careers in engineering, astrophysics, robotics, renewable energy, and scientific research.
Chemical engineering mentors providing personalised guidance and feedback during a laboratory research activity.
Personalised feedback and mentoring
Students receive ongoing feedback to improve academic performance, problem-solving ability, and confidence in STEM subjects.
Students holding certificates after completing a biology summer camp programme and celebrating their achievement.
Certificate of attendance
All students receive a certificate of completion recognising their participation and practical STEM learning experience.
WHY STUDY MIND

Why choose our Physics Summer Career Camp?

Our programme combines academic physics, hands-on experiments, and career-focused mentoring to give students real insight into STEM pathways and university study.

1Practical physics and STEM experience

Students take part in experiments, simulations, and problem-solving activities that demonstrate real-world physics applications.

2Small group learning and personalised support

Small class sizes ensure personalised mentoring, academic guidance, and interactive learning throughout the programme.

WHY STUDY MIND

Academic & career preparation for aspiring physicists

  • Our curriculum connects school-level physics with real-world STEM applications through experiments and hands-on workshops.
  • Students receive UCAS guidance, personal statement support, and university application preparation for STEM degrees.
  • The programme includes physics experiments, engineering challenges, space science discussions, and research-based learning.
  • Students develop confidence, teamwork, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills while connecting with like-minded peers.
Contact Us

location UCL Ramsay Hall
UCL Ramsay Halls View Location
ACCOMMODATION

Where do students stay?

Students experience university-style living in central London through accommodation at University College London’s Ramsay Hall.

Located close to key scientific and cultural landmarks, the accommodation provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment while students complete the programme.

We offer:

  • Private rooms and shared social spaces
  • 24/7 safeguarding, supervision, and support
  • Meals and essential amenities
  • Excursions and evening activities
  • Networking opportunities with international students
  • Safe accommodation for UK and international participants
Contact Us
ALUMNI

Hear from Students

Get inspired and read firsthand feedback from students around the world on how they enjoyed the physics placement.

 

Toby
Toby
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I’ve been really enjoying the physics school. I’ve been able to talk to professionals and researchers who are currently doing something that I find really exciting because I haven’t been exposed to it yet. My favourite part was being able to see the labs at UCL because it’s equipment I’ve never been able to see before. And it got me really excited about what I’d be able to do in the future. The teachers have been really good – most of them are professors so they’ve been really engaging and great speakers. It’s opened my eyes to the huge numbers of possibilities of areas that you can go into in Physics which is great to see.

Amar
Amar
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I think the physics school was amazing. I’ve learnt a lot over the week. My favourite part was learning first hand from very intelligent teachers that are very experienced. I think it’s great to learn from them and their experiences. They way they taught I found really good. We’ve had a look around the labs at UCL, we visited the science museum and also had first hand learning experiences from teachers. I think it’s made me want to do physics more because I’ve found more things that interest me about physics.

Tara
Tara
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

The physics school has been really interesting because we get to learn from university professors which is a completely different way of learning to what I’m used to at school and also the content is a step above what you learn at school as well. My favourite part was going to the Science Museum and learning more in detail how things work. Because even though there’s writing at the museum, learning the proper engineering behind it was really interesting. It’s made me want to do physics more because it’s exposed me to more parts of physics that I wouldn’t have known as much about and wouldn’t have had the interest in. So now I have been exposed to them, I’m more likely to look into them. Just being able to get that breadth of knowledge and new things that I wouldn’t usually have experienced has been really good.

Joseph
Joseph
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I’ve been finding the physics school really enjoyable. My favourite part was where we learnt to code python. We’ve had a series of lectures about different areas and topics in physics and what you’d study at university in relation to physics and how you can use it in a career and the wider world. The lecturers have all been good, knowledgeable and informative and given us a lot of information we can use. I think it has definitely heightened my interest in Physics.

Isaac
Isaac
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

The physics school has been quite varied so far. I liked some of the more engineering stuff and some of the more theatrical stuff like Dark matter detection, especially seeing the actual lab and equipment, that was really cool. My favourite part was probably the lab work because you get to see how the science is actually being done as opposed to just hearing the numbers.

Zara
Zara
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I’ve found the physics school really interesting, it’s been really interactive and I’ve been getting a lot of insight into potential physics careers so it’s been really good. I enjoyed doing coding and learning how to do python. I like all of the tutors. I always felt that I wanted to do physics but now I’m really looking forward to studying it at university.

Cheuk
Cheuk
China ChinaEnrolled in 1st week

The physics school has been really exciting and we’ve done many different stuff that I haven’t done at school. We visited the science museum and I found it really fun. My favourite part was learning about Python and then going to the Science Museum. I’ve met some professors from UCL and students from Oxford. They know many things about the physics courses at different universities and they’re really friendly. After taking this course, it’s helped me to reassure me that I really enjoy Physics and that it’s OK to take on a 4 year course in Physics at university!

 

Felix
Felix
United Kingdom United KingdomEnrolled in 1st week

I found the physics school really informative and interesting to learn all about the different careers and what you can do in physics like research and the academic side. My favourite part has been when we were taught how to do python and how we can use python to code programmes in order to model problems and solutions to lots of different things. The teachers have all been really good. They’ve all had different things to tell us, whether its been astrophysics or geophysics. They’ve all been able to provide their own personal insight into how they’ve got to where they are and if we want to pursue that path, how we could get there as well.

Trustpilot avatar 1 Trustpilot avatar 2 Trustpilot avatar 3 Trustpilot avatar 4
Trusted by 452 students
Pricing

Physics work experience 2026 packages

Whether you choose 1, 2 or 3 weeks, we’ve got you covered.

1 week
Rising Talent £1799.00

Kickstart your career with confidence

Book Now

  • Introduction to Physics
  • Roller Coaster Design
  • Astrophysics: The Scale of the Universe
  • An Introduction to Python
  • Greenwich Observatory
  • UCAS Application & Careers
3 weeks
Future Leader £3999.00

Build a solid foundation for a brighter future

Book Now

  • The Ultimate Immersive Experience
  • Included:
  • Week 1
  • Career & Life Skills
  • Another related career week
  • Professional Networking
HOW TO BOOK

How to Apply for the Physics Summer Career Camp?

Applying is simple, fully online, and designed for both students and parents.

1Choose your programme

Visit the Study Mind website and select your preferred dates and accommodation option.

2Receive confirmation and preparation materials

Students receive confirmation, reading resources, and pre-course guidance.

3Complete your experience

Take part in physics workshops, experiments, and STEM activities while building academic and career skills.

DOWNLOAD A BROCHURE

See how this experience can transform your life

Gain real-world experience and kickstart your future today

  • Gain real-world, hands-on experience
  • Enhance university applications and career goals
  • Experience life as a university student
  • Connect with experts to boost future opportunities
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

You can find commonly asked questions below. If you have other questions, please contact us and we’d be happy to answer them.

Do I need previous physics experience?

No prior physics experience is required to join the Physics Summer Career Camp. The programme is designed for both beginners and students already studying physics at school. It starts with core concepts and gradually introduces more advanced topics through guided learning. Students are fully supported with workshops, experiments, and interactive activities throughout.

What physics topics will I explore?

Students will explore key topics such as mechanics, electricity, waves, energy, and thermodynamics. The programme also introduces modern physics concepts including space science and atomic structure. Learning is delivered through practical experiments, demonstrations, and interactive workshops. This helps students understand how physics applies to real-world STEM fields.

Can this programme help me prepare for university applications in Physics?

Absolutely! The programme provides a practical understanding of core physics topics such as astrophysics, electromagnetism, and geophysics. This hands-on experience in physics work experience will make your university applications stand out, as it demonstrates both your academic interest and practical involvement in the field of physics.

How is the content delivered, and will I receive formal certification?

The programme includes interactive workshops, expert-led sessions, and visits to locations like the Science Museum. You’ll engage in exciting topics such as dark matter detection and materials physics. Upon completion, you will receive a certificate, showcasing your achievement and enhancing your UCAS application or CV.

What physics topics and skills will I learn during the programme?

Throughout the week, you will cover diverse physics topics, including geophysics, electromagnetism, and dark matter detection. You’ll also build critical problem-solving skills and gain insight into how these concepts apply to real-world situations. The programme provides a deep dive into both theoretical and practical physics.

How many students are in a group?

There will be no more than 12 students in every programme group. This allows for small group teaching and workshops to ensure that you get the best out of your experience.

Does Study Mind have a bursary scheme?

As part of our widening participation scheme, Study Mind runs a bursary scheme for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. These include full bursaries, as well as 75% and 50% bursaries. Applications are now being accepted and students will be informed from the 16th June if they have been accepted into a programme. This scheme is on a first come, first served basis. Students wishing to apply for the scheme will need to:

  • provide proof of receipt of Universal Credit, Free School Meals and Pupil Premium. 
  • Fill in the Bursary Application Form
  • complete an essay task.
  • provide a reference from a teacher (either head of sixth form or relevant subject teacher). This can be a character reference and include information on general work ethic and grades if applicable.

Students who partially meet this criteria are welcome to apply, and may be offered discounted places where free places are already assigned.

If you feel you may be eligible, kindly email camps@studymind.co.uk with evidence attached. Alternatively, you can contact us via phone at +44 (0) 203 305 9593 to discuss any questions you have. Please note, we will not be able to provide accommodation.

How can I customise my physics work experience?

You can customise your work experience in several ways with two or three week options available:

Career & Life Skills: You can choose to add a second week with our Career & Life Skills week. In this experience you will learn all about digital literacy and creating your personal brand to market yourself to future employers with LinkedIn profiles and standout CVs. You will also learn about Financial Literacy, including loans, mortgages and taxes. You will navigate the world of AI and find out how to optimise it when using it to assist you with documents like your personal statement.

A Related Work Experience Week: You can also choose to extend your work experience by choosing one of our related programmes including Chemical Engineering, Engineering or Maths. Or if you're thinking about a different career as well, you can choose something completely different!

Are international students welcome?

Yes. International students are welcome and fully supported throughout the programme. Guidance is provided for travel, accommodation, and settling in, ensuring a smooth transition to living and learning in a new environment.

Language support is also available if needed, helping students participate fully in coding exercises, workshops, and collaborative projects. The inclusive environment ensures that students from all backgrounds can gain valuable skills, confidence, and networking opportunities in computer science.

When should I start looking for physics work experience?

Many physics work experience placements will be advertised in the autumn for the following summer so it is recommended to start looking for a suitable experience as soon as you can. However, don't worry if you have not secured a place by January. Many employers and companies will also advertise placements later in the year. Study Mind's physics work experience programme continues to take applicants right up until the week before the course starts - if there are any available spaces!

What is the eligibility criteria for the physics work experience programme?

In order to book this opportunity, you will need to meet the following criteria:

  • You are a student in Year 10, Year 11, Year 12 or Year 13 (ages 15-18)
  • You have a genuine passion for Physics
  • You have obtained consent to attend from a parent/carer
  • You are able to attend one of the weeks advertised
  • While we do not assess for language understanding, you will need a good level of English (minimum equivalent of CEFR B1 or IELTS 4.0-5.0) to allow you to make the most of the programme

If you have questions about the above criteria, you can reach out to us via email at camps@studymind.co.uk or contact us via the form to speak to one of our programme advisors.

How can this programme help me decide whether a career in physics is right for me?

By immersing yourself in topics like astrophysics and materials physics, as well as engaging in work experience in physics, you will get a clear idea of what a career in physics entails. This exposure will help you assess if you enjoy the challenges and problem-solving aspects of the field.

Are there any guest speakers or special events included in the programme?

Yes! You’ll have the opportunity to hear from experts in various physics fields, such as astrophysics and geophysics, who will share their experiences. These professionals will provide invaluable career insights and practical advice, giving you a realistic view of what working in physics involves.

Will I have the opportunity to network with physics professionals?

Throughout the programme, you’ll be able to interact with leading physicists, researchers, and professionals from the industry. You can ask questions, gain advice, and explore potential career paths in physics during dedicated networking sessions, offering a rich opportunity for mentorship and professional growth.

What should I bring to the work experience week?

We recommend that students bring a notepad and pen to take notes (or a device to write on). In addition, students should bring a water bottle for the day. Students do not need to bring lunch as this will be provided but they might want to bring a couple of snacks to eat throughout the day. Please make sure these snacks are NUT FREE to take into account any students that may have nut allergies.

If students are travelling to different venues or excursions, all transport costs will be covered. All residential evening activities are also covered. Residential students (especially those on a two-week programme) may wish to bring some spending money with them.

Students on certain programmes such as Computer Science, will need to bring their own device. If you have not got a laptop, one will be provided - please communicate this via email camps@studymind.co.uk in advance of the programme start date. A specialised list will be communicated nearer to the time.

Where is the work experience located?

The summer school takes place in London, offering a blend of university-style laboratory sessions and outdoor field trips to nearby ecosystems and biodiversity research sites.

Where is the accommodation?

Students opting for the residential programme will stay in Ramsay Hall, part of the University College London (UCL) campus. Students will stay in single occupancy rooms with shared bathroom facilities. Male and female students will be placed in separate floors.

When do I check in and check out of the accommodation?

Students will be able to arrive on the Sunday before the start of the programme. There will be a member of the Study Mind team to greet you. Students will check out on the Friday after the programme has ended. If you would like to book an extra night accommodation (e.g. Friday night), please contact us and we can arrange this for you (dependant on availability).

When will I receive a schedule of activities?

Students can expect to receive a finalised timetable of their work experience week by the end of May. Students will also receive further information on what to pack/bring and pre-preparation materials by mid June so that they can prepare themselves for the programme and get the most out of their experience.

How do you ensure the programme is a safe space for all students?

We are committed to fostering a welcoming and inclusive learning environment. All students are encouraged to participate and share their ideas, while our team enforces a strict anti-bullying policy. If you have any concerns during the programme, our staff are available to support you.

Is the Physics programme suitable for students with additional learning needs or disabilities?

We are dedicated to making the programme accessible to all students. If you have any specific needs, please inform us in advance so we can make the necessary accommodations to ensure you get the most out of your work experience in physics.

What support is available if I have questions or concerns during the programme?

Our experienced support team is on hand throughout the programme to assist with any queries you may have. Whether you need academic guidance or personal support, we’re here to help and ensure you have a fulfilling experience.

How do you ensure student safety during the programme?

All sessions take place in a secure environment, with DBS-checked staff ensuring your safety. If you are staying in accommodation, our team is available 24/7 to assist with any issues. Additionally, university security is on hand at all times to ensure your well-being during the programme.

Is accommodation supervised?

Yes. Residential accommodation is fully supervised by trained staff to ensure the safety and well-being of all students. Residential students stay in secure housing with 24/7 support, including structured daily schedules, meals, and academic guidance.Non-residential students also benefit from structured support during the day, including access to teachers, mentors, and learning facilities. The camp’s supervision ensures that students can focus on learning and projects in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment.

How do I book, and what are the entry requirements?

Booking is easy! You can select the programme length and book directly through our website. For any additional queries, feel free to contact us via email. The programme is open to students aged 15-18, and no prior experience in physics is necessary. International students will need a good level of English to fully participate.

How does the programme compare to traditional physics work experience?

Traditional placements can be difficult to secure and may lack the structured learning opportunities we provide. Our programme ensures that every student gets meaningful exposure to physics topics, hands-on experiments, and real-world applications, offering a much more dynamic experience than typical placements.

Does Study Mind offer any additional support after the programme ends?

Yes! After completing the programme, we continue to support you with UCAS application assistance, personal statement guidance, and interview preparation to help you secure a place at your desired university.

Who are the professionals leading the Physics programme?

The programme is led by experienced physicists and educators with expertise in various physics disciplines, such as astrophysics, materials physics, and electromagnetism. They provide invaluable guidance and mentorship, ensuring you receive expert advice throughout the physics work experience.

What makes Study Mind’s Physics programme unique?

We offer a unique blend of academic learning, practical experience, and exposure to cutting-edge topics like dark matter detection and materials physics. Our programme allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world contexts while developing critical skills that will enhance both your academic profile and your future career prospects.