The Oxplore Festival
The Oxplore Festival takes Oxplore – the University of Oxford’s home of Big Questions – on the road, bringing a day of curiosity, discovery and inspiration to life. This free, interactive event invites young people to dive into thought-provoking questions, take part in hands-on activities, and meet the researchers behind the ideas. It’s a special opportunity to explore new subjects, challenge perspectives, and experience the excitement of Oxford learning beyond the classroom.
Oxplore Festival sign. Copyright © University of Oxford / UAO
On the road again
- A free enrichment event for KS3 students on 8 and 9 July 2026
- Interactive workshops, shows, and challenges led by Oxford staff and student ambassadors.
- Big Questions that spark curiosity and debate.
- A buzzing exhibition space full of hands-on activities.
- A chance for students to see Oxford — and higher education — as exciting and achievable.
- We’ve already brought the Oxplore Festival to Bodmin, Bradford and Warrington, where hundreds of students got stuck into big ideas, new experiences, and unforgettable conversations. Now it’s Birmingham’s turn!
Oxplore Teach
Classroom-ready sessions and CPDL to support academic enrichment. Our first set of Oxplore Challenges are for learners aged 11-14 (Key Stage 3 in England and Wales, S1-S3 in Scotland, Years 8-10 in Northern Ireland). We hope to introduce Challenge materials for older and younger learners in the future.
Oxplore - Home of Big Questions
Big questions tackle complex ideas across a wide range of subjects and reflect the kind of critical thinking students undertake at university. Our goal is to raise aspirations, promote broader thinking and encourage intellectual curiosity, so everything you see is underpinned by the latest discoveries and research from the University of Oxford.
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