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Applications are now open for the She Talks Science STEP Summer School.

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Dates:
📅 Monday 4th August – Thursday 8th August 2025
📍 Murray Edwards College, University of Cambridge

 

Official programme information:
👉 She Talks Science STEP Summer School

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

❓ What should I bring?

Please bring something to write with and something to write on.

🚆 How do I get to the college?

Travel guidance is available here.
Students traveling by train from the north should note that the East Midlands Railway service from Liverpool Lime Street to Norwich is often cancelled mid-journey at Nottingham, particularly on return trips. Consider alternative routes via Peterborough, Leicester, or Stevenage, which tend to be more reliable. If you experience delays, remember to claim Delay Repay.

💸 Is there travel support available?

Yes. Travel support is guaranteed for students who are:

  • In receipt of Free School Meals

  • In receipt of Pupil Premium

  • Receiving the 16–19 Bursary

  • Care-experienced

If you don’t meet these criteria but travel costs may prevent you from attending, email outreach@murrayedwards.cam.ac.uk — we may still be able to help.

💰 How much does it cost?

The summer school is completely free. Meals and accommodation are provided at no cost.

📉 I wasn’t accepted – does this reflect on my chances at top universities?

Not at all. The summer school is highly competitive. In 2023–24, over 200 students applied, with more than 100 shortlisted — many strong candidates couldn't be offered places due to space limitations.
Admissions to top mathematics courses involve interviews, entrance tests (e.g. STEP, MAT, TMUA), and more detailed data than we use for the summer school.
Not receiving an offer from the STEP Summer School does not reflect your potential or chances at elite universities.

🗓️ I can't attend one of the days – can I still come?

Unfortunately, we ask that students only accept a place if they can attend the full programme.

📚 What happens during the summer school?

Core sessions:

  • STEP Workshops (4 total) – Small group sessions focused on solving STEP problems, with tutor support.

  • Supervisions – One-to-one or one-to-two tutoring sessions to refine workshop solutions.

  • Mathematical Writing Seminars – Develop clarity in written mathematics, with peer and tutor feedback.

Additional sessions:

  • Plenary Lecture.

  • Lectures – Broader mathematical topics for enrichment and variety.

  • Combinatorics Sessions – Demystifying Olympiad-style content and STEP probability.

  • Mechanics Sessions – Focused, one-hour problem-solving sessions.

  • Admissions Talks 

  • Evening Social Activities – Time to relax and connect with other students.

👥 How big are the class sizes?

  • STEP Workshops: ~10 students

  • Supervisions: 1–2 students per tutor

  • Writing Seminars, Plenary, and Enrichment Talks: Full group (~50 students)

  • Combinatorics & Mechanics: ~25 students per group

📝 How are applications assessed?

Selection is based on academic merit in mathematics. If two applicants are academically equal, priority may be given to those from underrepresented backgrounds.

🛏️ Can I stay the night before the summer school?

Yes, we offer free accommodation the night before for students with long journeys. If demand exceeds room availability, we will prioritise those traveling the farthest.
To request this, email outreach@murrayedwards.cam.ac.uk.

🏫 Do you accept applications from privately educated students?

Yes. We assess all applications using the same academic criteria, regardless of school type. About 8% of last year’s cohort attended private schools. Exceptional achievement, especially beyond standard school provision, is viewed favourably.

📥 How does the application process work?

  1. Students apply online.

  2. The nominated teacher provides a reference.

  3. Offers are made based on academic merit and eligibility.

👩‍🏫 Who can apply?

We welcome applications from women and non-binary students who:

  • Are currently in Y12 (England/Wales), Y13 (NI), or S5 (Scotland)

  • Are studying or planning to study:

    • A Levels in Maths and Further Maths

    • IB Higher Level Maths

    • Scottish Higher Maths (and planning Advanced Higher if available)

  • Are strongly considering applying to mathematics courses requiring STEP

📨 When will I hear back?

All applicants should have received an update. If not, check your spam folder or email outreach@murrayedwards.cam.ac.uk for clarification.

📝 I'm on the reserve list – what does that mean?

We keep a reserve list of 20 strong applicants. If a confirmed participant withdraws, we’ll offer the spot to the next student on the list.
Last year, 10 reserve list students were eventually offered a place. Final decisions will be made by Monday 15th July.

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