Essay writing advice, online resources, classes/webinars etc .. ?

I’m a Year 12 student interested in Philosophy and the Royal Institute of Philosophy have an essay writing competition for 2026. I take A-level English Literature and Language as well as History, as I previously studied History at GCSE; I feel acclimatised to essay writing but I’d like to fine-tune my skills and improve further!!
Any advice is appreciated

I’m a Year 12 student interested in Philosophy and the Royal Institute of Philosophy have an essay writing competition for 2026. I take A-level English Literature and Language as well as History, as I previously studied History at GCSE; I feel acclimatised to essay writing but I’d like to fine-tune my skills and improve further!!
Any advice is appreciated

Just be aware that most Unis are not actually that impressed by 'competitions' - despite what teachers seem to believe. Not everyone has the chance to do this sort of stuff - so using it as a selection criteria would obviously be unfair/biased. And doing these does not actually make you a potentially better-student - and Unis know that.
So, do it if you want to but dont expect it to be a game-changer for any Uni application. They will be far more interested in your specific topic interests, and extra reading beyond just the A levels syllabus, than any competition 'medals'.

Hi! That's fantastic. It's great that you're already looking ahead to opportunities like the Royal Institute of Philosophy essay. I would say read beyond your syllabus, you don't need to dive into dense philosophy texts, try accessible sources.
Trenyce (Kingston Rep)

what can i do about the reading?? mention that i’ve read some reading lists?

Your need to be able to discuss specific topics that interest you as evidence that you are 'engaged with the subject'. You have lots of time to do this extra stuff so don't panic - next summer will be fine.
Suggestions from Cambridge - good for all Unis - suggested_preliminary_readings_updated_july_2023.pdf
You will be able to borrow many of these books from your local public library - ask the librarians for help - or 2nd hand via Ebay etc.
Subject Taster lectures - online - register to be sent the link
University of Dundee Event | Reality, Reason, and Really Hard Questions: Discover Philosophy at Dundee - 18th November 2025
University of East Anglia Event | Webinar: Philosophy taster lecture (Mind, body and soul) - 19th November 2025.
University of Sheffield Event | Philosophy taster session: What is Freedom and why should we value it? - 3 December 2025