A Summer School is a great way to keep children happy and occupied during the long summer holidays. For parents who remain busy during vacation periods, it is reassuring to know their children can spend this time productively, away from screens, learning skills, investigating culture and making friends in a fun and safe environment. 

In recent years, a vast range of exciting programmes have sprung up at some of Britain’s most prestigious boarding schools. Most are residential although there are a few day options available in London. Courses are available for children as young as 5, and run during the summer months of June, July and August. Some schools also offer opportunities for parents to study at the same time as their young children, which can be an excellent way for adults too to brush up their English skills in preparation for a stay in the UK.

For native English speakers, or those wishing to try something different, there are some fantastic programmes on offer in Spain’s sunny Costa del Sol and other great European destinations.

Language Plus Sports and Activities

These are the most popular programmes, and there is a fantastic range of courses on offer. The majority offer language classes plus a varied programme of activities and fun excursions to famous cities and attractions. Other courses offer specialist tennis, football or golf academies, robotics, horse riding, cookery, and performing arts, to name but a few. Whatever your children are into, there is likely to be a suitable course for them. If you’re confused by the choice just send us an enquiry and we’ll recommend the best programmes.

Getting Ready to Join a UK Boarding School?

There are plenty of programmes where children can take a range of academic subjects to help prepare them for studying in a British classroom. As well as giving children a great taste of boarding school life, these courses are brilliant for introducing them to the more interactive teaching style which is common in UK schools, providing them with the skills and confidence to ask questions and take part in class discussion. For a child used to learning in a class of 50+ children where student participation is neither encouraged nor expected, this can be a very daunting prospect. It goes without saying that they also introduce the key vocabulary which needs to be mastered in order to study the subject in English.

Lin from China, who spent four weeks on an academic preparation course before joining a girls’ boarding school in Year 9, says, “Attending a summer school before I started boarding school really helped me. I started school knowing what it would be like to board and, although I was still really nervous, it gave me confidence knowing that I would be able to understand the key words in each lesson and chat with the other girls during break times. I also realised that there would be other students feeling like me which made me feel more relaxed.”

Friendship, Confidence, Communication Skills

A summer school experience, particularly a residential programme, is ideal for instilling confidence in children, and developing communication skills. Vacation courses offer genuine communicative experiences for children as they negotiate day to day tasks with their peers and staff members. They are exposed to a variety of accents and styles, which improves their listening skills and awareness of English pronunciation. Children have the opportunity to make friends from all over the world in a fun, safe and stimulating environment. It’s not surprising that many choose to return year after year. Not only do the students see how useful their English can be in a context beyond the classroom, but they have meaningful practice in a way it is impossible to experience at home as well as gaining valuable insights into English customs. For a family planning to move to the UK or enrol their children in a British school, a summer school can be an excellent first step to ensure a smooth landing.

Exam and University Preparation

For students looking to boost their chances of exam success, whether it be GCSE, A Level, IB or university entrance tests, there is bound to be an ideal course. Some combine English language tuition with academic subjects and others concentrate on specific subject areas or on preparing applications for degree courses in Medicine, Art, Engineering etc. Many courses are run on the campuses of famous universities, including Oxford and Cambridge so students can enjoy the experience of living and learning in these inspiring academic cities.

Spanish Language and Culture

This year, we are introducing a range of exciting programmes in Spain, which combine language study with a full range of social and cultural activities in various locations in the beautiful region of Andalucia. These courses are a wonderful way to boost your child’s language skills and ensure they have a fun-filled summer and forge friendships with children from all over the world. Have a look at the selection here, and do get in touch if you need some advice on choosing the best programme.

See www.bestsummerschools.co.uk for more details or contact us on enquiries@eduationadvisers.co.uk