Programmes > The ACT Prize
The ACT Summer School
We invite students to engage with the rich tradition of critical Black thought and provide their own responses to questions dealing with culturally relevant themes.
Programme Content
Our flagship programme, the ACT Summer School, is a non-residential summer programme designed for Black Year 12 state-school students in London. It combines in-person lectures, workshops, mentorship and time to develop your own independent project.
Through interactive sessions and expert guidance, you'll build your skills, explore new ideas, and create a final project piece, this is typically a written project but we are open to other mediums too e.g. a presentation, academic poster or piece of art.
You'll work alongside curious, like-minded students while exploring themes like culture, power, and justice, across a range of subject disciplines - all through the lens of critical Black thought.
All students on this programme will receive a place on our Thinking Uni Aspire Programme.
Programme Timeline
In-Person Workshops (East London): Mon 10th August - Fri 14th August
Independent Project Time: 15th - 30th August
Final Submission Deadline: 31st August
Celebration Day: November at Pembroke College, Oxford University (we'll come together to celebrate your achievements and give out prizes!
How to apply
We've designed the process to feel simple, supportive, and focused on you:
1) Apply online @ https://thinkingblack.typeform.com/ACT-Sign-Up
Tell us about yourself, select your module, and let us know if you'd like to be considered for Thinking Black Ambassador opportunity. Don't overthink it - we just want to understand what drives you!
Applications close on 10th July 2026
2) Discovery Call
If your application is shortlisted, we'll invite you to a friendly, informal online call. It's an opportunity for us to get to know you better, answer your questions and see if the programme is a good match for you.
Interviews will take place on a rolling basis until 15th July 2026.
3) Final Decisions
Final offers for the programme selections will be sent out by 20th July 2026.
4) Secure your place
If you're successful, we'll get you all set up and ready to dive into a summer of learning and creativity!
Programme Structure
The programme takes place in four key phases, starting with lectures on module content and culminating in the submission of project pieces in response to your chosen module.
1 —
Introduction to programme content and skills
This is your Service description. Use this space to describe what the service entails, benefits for users and any other important information.
2 —
Specialist subject study mentorship and project planning
This is your Service description. Use this space to describe what the service entails, benefits for users and any other important information.
3 —
Essay writing/poster design feedback and submission
This is your Service description. Use this space to describe what the service entails, benefits for users and any other important information.
4 —
Winners announced and celebration day at Oxford University
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Programme Content
Students produce essays in response to questions from a choice of six modules.
A range of prizes are available from essay publication to cash prizes.
Prize Package
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Trophies
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Cash prizes
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Place on Thinking Uni - Aspire programme
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Journalism workshop at The Guardian
Prizes presented at a celebration day at Oxford University
Eligibility
Students must be:
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In Year 12 when applying for the programme
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Black heritage (this includes mixed-Black heritage)
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Attending a state-school
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Living in London
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Average of Grade 6 or above at GCSE (we consider extenuating circumstances)
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Motivated to explore social issues, cultural conversations and creative ideas!
FAQs
Can I apply if I live outside of London?
Unfortunately no, this programme is currently only open to London-based students.
Do I need to know exactly what I want to submit before I apply?
No not at all! While you do need to select your module before the programme, we're here to support you through the project process! We'll run workshops to help you explore different ideas before you choose your project focus.
What if I've never produced an academic essay or scientific poster before?
That's okay! The programme is designed to support you, whatever your starting point. We'll give you tools, workshops, and feedback to build your confidence.
Is there a cost to take part?
No - the ACT Prize is completely free for all selected students.
What's the time commitment like?
You'll need to be available for the in-person sessions in early August. After that, you'll work on your project independently throughout August, with a final submission deadline on 31st August. Expect to spend a few hours each week on your project during this time.
Is the programme accessible and supportive for all students?
We're committed to making the ACT Prize a welcoming and accessible space for all students. If you have any specific needs - whether that's adjustments to the sessions, communication preferences or support with deadlines - just let us know in your application or contact us directly.
What happens when the programme ends?
When you complete any of our programmes, you become part of our Thinking Black alumni network. That means you'll stay connected with us and with other past participants. We'll keep you updated about future opportunities, prizes and alumni events. All ACT Prize students will automatically given a place on our Thinking Uni Programme.
Can this help my university application?
Yes! The skills you develop on the ACT Prize can strengthen your university application. You'll gain experience in research, writing and critical thinking, as well as producing work you can reference in your personal statement. We also offer dedicated Personal Statement support as part of the prizes?
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