Who are summer schools for?
UK summer schools are short programmes that combine English lessons with activities and excursions during the summer. There are two main groups:
- Children and teenagers: summer courses at accredited English language centres for students aged 8 to 17.
- Adults: summer courses at language schools for people aged 18 and over, and academic summer programmes for adults at some universities.
Types of programme
Residential summer schools
Students stay on the campus where the programme runs, in school or university accommodation. Lessons, activities and excursions are planned as one programme. A good option for families looking for a safe, structured setting without daily travel across a city.
City programmes
Students attend lessons at a language school in a city and stay in one of the school’s accommodation options, for example with a host family (homestay). It is a more independent experience, closer to everyday city life; age limits and supervision arrangements vary from school to school.
University academic summer programmes
Some universities run summer programmes that let adults study a subject in a university setting. For example, the University of Oxford offers many one-week summer courses for people aged 18 and over, and the University of Cambridge’s International Summer Programme lets participants aged 18 and over choose from 1 to 4 weeks. These programmes need a good level of English.
Age groups and length
Each school sets the age range and age groups it accepts. Lengths vary too, from one-week programmes to programmes lasting several weeks. At some schools students can choose a start date and join for one or more weeks.
What to look for when choosing
- Age and level: the programme’s age range and how classes are formed.
- Supervision: day and night supervision for under-18s, and staff numbers.
- Accreditation: whether the school is accredited under Accreditation UK, the scheme run jointly by the British Council and English UK.
- Programme content: lessons per week, activities and excursions.
- Accommodation: campus accommodation, a host family or other options.
- Total cost: which of tuition, accommodation, activities and transfers are included in the price.
Popular places to study
Summer schools run in many UK cities and campuses, from London to Edinburgh. University cities such as Oxford and Cambridge, seaside cities such as Brighton, and London are among the places families often look at.
Application timeline
- Winter and spring: we talk about your child’s age, level and interests, and compare programmes.
- Once a programme is chosen: the enrolment form is completed and the school’s deposit or payment is made.
- When the place is confirmed: the school sends enrolment and programme details, and any parental consent the school asks for under-18s is prepared.
- Before the summer: we go through travel, arrival and the first day together.
To get the programme and dates you want, we suggest starting early.
How Point Consultancy helps
- In a first consultation we talk about the student’s age, level and interests, and what you expect.
- We explain the difference between residential and city programmes and compare suitable options.
- We prepare enrolment forms and the documents the school asks for with you.
- We follow up with the school and answer your questions in Turkish.
- We help you get ready before the journey.
Frequently asked questions
My child is going abroad for the first time. Which programme suits them best?
For a first experience, what matters most is how accommodation, supervision and the daily programme are organised. We explain how residential and city programmes differ on these points and decide together, based on your child’s age and your expectations.
Which age groups are summer schools for?
Junior summer courses at accredited English language centres are for students aged 8 to 17, and adult summer courses are for people aged 18 and over. Each school sets its own age range and groups.
How many weeks does a summer school last?
It varies by school. There are one-week programmes as well as programmes lasting several weeks, and at some schools students can choose their start date and how many weeks to stay.
My child’s English is weak. Can they still join?
Improving English is what summer schools are for. Because schools have different level and entry conditions, we choose a programme that suits your child’s level together.
Are there summer schools for adults?
Yes. Language schools run summer courses for people aged 18 and over, and universities such as Oxford and Cambridge run academic summer programmes for adults. We will find the option that fits your goals together.
How early should we book?
As early as you can. Starting to plan in winter or spring leaves you more choice of programmes and dates.
To choose the right summer school for you or your child, just send the enquiry form.