When choosing a summer school for your child, numerous questions can arise—what extracurricular activities are offered? What does the supervision look like? Will the curriculum be suitable for my child? These are just a few of the issues you might be thinking about. In this article, we will answer the 15 most frequently asked questions to help you navigate through this decision-making process with confidence and ease. Get ready for a comprehensive guide that will clear all your doubts!

What should you consider when choosing a UK summer school for your child?

Deciding on a summer school in the UK can be quite a challenge. First and foremost, consider what’s important for you and your child in this type of experience. Here are some helpful criteria to consider when making your decision:

  • Quality and Range of Program: It’s advisable to choose a school that offers diverse activities matching your child’s interests and goals. Together, determine whether improving English skills, learning new artistic or sporting abilities, or looking for a program that combines all these aspects is key.
  • Extracurricular Activities: Summer school is not just about learning but also about fun and developing passions. Make sure that the chosen school offers a wide range of extracurricular activities that allow your child to actively spend time and develop interests.
  • Location: The location of the school is hugely significant for the overall experience. Do you prefer a vibrant city, a charming town, or quiet countryside? Each of these places offers different attractions and opportunities. If your child is flying in from another country, also consider how far the boarding school is from the airport and how the travel to the destination is arranged.
  • Staff: Instructors and staff are the heart of every summer school. When choosing, check if the school employs experienced and qualified teachers and caregivers who are passionate about what they do and can inspire your child.
  • Accreditations and Reviews: Accreditations confirm the high quality of education and services. It is also worth looking for reviews from other parents or participants to understand how the school meets expectations and what its strengths are.

At Samiad, we ensure that our summer programs are tailored to the diverse needs of our participants. We offer a combination of English learning with activities such as tennis, performing arts, and horse riding, located in beautiful and safe locations near England’s major airports. Our experienced team ensures every year that your child’s summer is full of unforgettable experiences! Learn more about our programs on the Samiad Programs page.

Is the school accredited?

In addition to formal accreditations, partnerships with respected organizations also add to a school’s credibility. At Samiad Summer School, we’re proud to continue our collaboration with the Paris Saint-Germain Football Academy for another year. This gives participants a unique chance to learn football from one of the world’s top clubs, with a focus on teamwork, self-discipline, and respect. 

What’s more, Oratory School, one of the locations for our camp, is renowned for its achievements in Real Tennis and has become a favorite spot for the royal family, who have visited multiple times to play with both staff and students.


What is the reputation of the school?

The reputation of a school speaks volumes about the quality of its education and the care it provides. Testimonials, reviews, and awards are great indicators of how well a school meets the expectations of parents and students. A strong reputation is often built on having highly qualified staff and the supportive atmosphere they create during the program.

At Samiad Summer School, a decade-long track record combined with award nominations highlights our commitment to excellence. With a staff-to-student ratio of 1:6, we ensure every participant receives personalized attention and care. Our team includes highly qualified EFL (English as a Foreign Language) teachers, who specialize in teaching non-native speakers and have the expertise to help students improve their English in an engaging and effective way. By focusing on communication, cultural understanding, and tailored learning strategies, our EFL teachers create a vibrant and enriching learning environment where students thrive academically and socially during their stay.

What types of programs do boarding school summer camps offer?

Boarding school summer camps are designed to cater to a wide range of interests, providing children with the opportunity to explore new activities, develop their passions, and enhance their skills in a supportive environment. These camps typically combine educational programs with fun and engaging activities, ensuring a well-rounded experience.

Common offerings include:

  • Language Learning: Many camps focus on teaching English through interactive lessons and immersive experiences, helping children improve their language skills while building confidence in communication.
  • Sports and Physical Activities: From team sports like football, basketball, and tennis to individual pursuits like horse riding or swimming, these programs encourage physical fitness and teamwork.
  • Creative Workshops: Camps often provide art, music, or performing arts programs where children can express themselves creatively and develop their artistic talents.

STEM and Technology: Robotics, coding, and science experiments are increasingly popular, allowing children to develop practical skills in innovative fields.

What are the costs? Are there any extra expenses you should know about?

When considering the costs of a summer school, it’s important to understand what is included in the tuition fee and whether there are any additional expenses. Some schools may have hidden charges for activities like excursions, airport transfers, extra classes, or even meals. Reviewing these details in advance helps avoid surprises and ensures the program fits your budget.

At Samiad Summer School, we offer all-inclusive packages that cover tuition, meals, accommodation, and exciting excursions, giving parents peace of mind that there are no unexpected costs. That said, we recommend bringing some spending money for souvenirs, sweets, drinks, or gifts. A suggested amount is approximately £50 per week, which should be more than enough for your child’s personal expenses.

Where is the school and how will your child get there?

The location of a summer school is a crucial factor, especially for international students. Proximity to major airports and the availability of organized transfers can significantly ease travel logistics. Additionally, the surrounding environment—be it a bustling city or a serene countryside—greatly influences the overall experience.

Samiad Summer School operates across six carefully selected UK boarding schools, each offering a unique blend of traditional architecture, expansive grounds, and modern amenities:

  • Box Hill School (Surrey): Nestled in rural Surrey, this school is ideally situated approximately 30 minutes from both Heathrow and Gatwick airports, providing easy access for international travelers.
  • Caterham School (Surrey): Located just 20 minutes from London Gatwick Airport and 40 minutes from London Heathrow Airport, this prestigious institution offers quick access to London, with direct train services to London Bridge in only 45 minutes.
  • The Oratory School (Oxfordshire): Set in the picturesque Oxfordshire countryside, this campus provides a tranquil learning environment and is approximately 45 minutes from London Heathrow Airport.
     
  • Trent College (Nottingham): Situated near Nottingham, this location combines historic charm with modern facilities and is about 15 minutes from East Midlands Airport.
  • Wells Cathedral School (Somerset): One of the oldest schools in the world, located in Wells, Somerset, offering a rich historical backdrop and is approximately 45 minutes from Bristol Airport.
  • Malvern St James School (Worcestershire): Nestled at the foot of the Malvern Hills, this school is in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is about 60 minutes from Birmingham Airport.
     

Each of these locations provides organised airport transfers, ensuring a smooth and secure journey for your child. Whether they prefer the dynamic atmosphere of a city or the peacefulness of the countryside, Samiad offers a setting that caters to diverse preferences, enhancing the overall summer school experience.

What does the English teaching program look like?

The structure and quality of an English teaching program play a significant role in ensuring a fulfilling summer school experience. When evaluating a program, consider the teaching methods, the qualifications of the educators, and the balance between structured lessons and practical conversational practice. An ideal program should also incorporate cultural elements to enhance learning and provide real-world context.

At Samiad Summer School, we offer 15 to 27 hours of English tuition per week, delivered by highly qualified and experienced educators. Our teaching methodology combines interactive lessons, engaging materials, and immersive activities to make language learning both effective and enjoyable. Lessons are tailored to students’ proficiency levels, ensuring everyone can progress at their own pace. Additionally, we provide regular feedback to help participants track their progress, stay motivated, and build confidence in using English in real-life situations.

Beyond the classroom, our program integrates conversational practice through social activities and excursions, giving students the chance to apply their skills in authentic settings. This approach not only accelerates learning but also fosters meaningful connections with peers from around the world.

Is the course multinational?

The diversity of a summer school’s student body is an important factor in creating a rich and immersive learning environment. A multinational group promotes cultural exchange, encourages language immersion, and helps students form connections with peers from around the globe. When choosing a course, it’s worth confirming the range of nationalities represented and ensuring there is a cap on the number of students from a single language group to maintain diversity and get the most out of the school experience!

At Samiad Summer School, we welcome students from a wide array of countries, creating a truly international experience. With participants from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and beyond, our courses foster a vibrant multicultural environment where students can exchange ideas, share traditions, and practice English with peers who speak different native languages. This diversity not only enhances language learning but also broadens students’ perspectives, making their summer both educational and memorable.

What kind of accommodation is provided? What are the living conditions?

When considering a summer school, it’s important to understand the type of accommodation provided and the living conditions your child will experience. Check whether the rooms are dormitory-style or single occupancy and what amenities are included. What should also be taken into account to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay are user reviews regarding the cleanliness of the facilities, dining options, and available recreational spaces.

At Samiad Summer School, we provide high-quality residential accommodations in school boarding facilities. Students can stay in single, twin, or quad rooms, with boys and girls housed separately. Children are grouped with peers of a similar age to encourage social bonding and create a supportive environment. If siblings or friends wish to share a room, this can be arranged prior to arrival.

The facilities also include common areas for relaxation and access to sports amenities, ensuring that students have plenty of opportunities to unwind after their lessons. Our catering teams are well-equipped to handle a wide range of dietary requirements, ensuring every child’s needs are met. Whether your child needs a special diet or simply a welcoming place to call home for the summer, Samiad ensures a comfortable and inclusive living experience.

What is the age range?

When choosing a summer school, it’s essential to ensure that the program is designed with your child’s age group in mind. Activities, lessons, and accommodations should be tailored to suit different developmental stages, ensuring that each participant feels comfortable and engaged. Additionally, being grouped with peers of a similar age fosters better social interaction and helps build lasting friendships.

At Samiad Summer School, we welcome students aged 7 to 18, offering tailored programs and activities that cater to each age group. Younger children benefit from a supportive environment with fun and creative activities, while older students enjoy more advanced challenges and opportunities for personal growth. Participants are grouped with peers of a similar age to ensure a positive and inclusive experience for everyone.

Is the setting safe and secure?

The safety and security of a summer school setting are crucial considerations for parents. A secure campus with robust child protection policies ensures peace of mind. High staff-to-student ratios further enhance safety by providing personalized supervision and immediate support when needed.

At Samiad Summer School, all our campuses are equipped with comprehensive security measures, including CCTV monitoring and campus security on site. Additionally, we maintain an industry-leading overnight staff-to-student ratio of 1:6, ensuring that students are well looked after at all times. These measures, combined with our dedicated and experienced staff, create a safe and supportive environment where children can learn and explore with confidence.

How are the children supervised?

Child supervision is a top priority when organizing summer camps at boarding schools. Good institutions ensure constant oversight during both activities and free time. It is crucial for every child to feel safe and have access to adult support 24/7. Detailed supervision policies include care during sports activities, workshops, or excursions, as well as a calm and secure environment during evenings and overnight stays.

At Samiad, with a low teacher-to-student ratio of 1:6, we can keep an eye on all participants throughout the day! Additionally, the dedicated welfare team provides continuous supervision, both day and night, ensuring the well-being of every participant.

What are the available activities?

When choosing a summer school, it’s essential to consider the available activities to ensure they align with your child’s interests. A well-organised program should offer a mix of physical, cultural, and creative activities, providing a comprehensive experience.

At Samiad Summer School, we proudly offer a variety of activities tailored to diverse interests:

  • Horse Riding: In collaboration with professional riding schools, this program caters to all skill levels, allowing students to enhance their riding abilities and learn about horse care.
  • Tennis: Our tennis program is designed for aspiring young players, with sessions led by qualified coaches focusing on all aspects of the game.
  • Golf: Open to all skill levels, our golf program aims to improve abilities in various areas of the game, including approach play, short game, and tee-shot mechanics.
  • Performing Arts: This course offers an interactive way to enhance language skills through engagement in the performing arts, fostering creativity and confidence.
  • Paris Saint-Germain Football Academy: Experience what it’s like to be a professional footballer with training sessions led by PSG coaches, focusing on teamwork and skill development.
  • Art: Develop your artistic talents and improve language skills through our interactive art program, designed to foster creativity.
  • Robotics and Coding: In this interactive hands-on program, students learn coding and robotics skills from experts. They design, build, and program Edison robots, developing STEM skills in an engaging manner.
  • Multi-Activity Program: Our award-winning program combines high-quality English language instruction with a wide range of sports and social activities, including football, arts and crafts, swimming, and climbing.

Additionally, Samiad is renowned for its exclusive excursions, offering students unique experiences such as a visit to Warwick Castle, thrilling moments at Alton Towers and Thorpe Park theme parks, as well as trips to central London and historic cities like York, Cambridge, Oxford, and Stratford-upon-Avon, providing a perfect blend of history, culture, and entertainment.

What is a typical day’s schedule?

When choosing a summer school, it’s important to understand how the day is structured. A well-balanced schedule should include a mix of learning, activities, and relaxation to keep students engaged and energised throughout their stay. Flexibility is also key—students should have time to explore their interests, socialise, and unwind, alongside structured lessons and planned activities.

At Samiad Summer School, each day is thoughtfully designed to ensure a balance between education, fun, and rest. Mornings start with a hearty breakfast, followed by engaging English lessons tailored to each student’s level. The afternoons are filled with exciting activities and excursions, such as cultural tours, sports, or creative workshops, depending on the chosen program. Evenings offer the perfect opportunity to relax and connect with peers through social events like movie nights, quizzes, or themed parties. Every day is structured to provide a fulfilling and enriching experience while allowing students to feel at ease and enjoy their summer to the fullest.

What is their behavior policy?

When choosing a summer school, it’s important to understand the behavior policy. Schools should have clear guidelines on acceptable behavior, bullying prevention, and discipline to ensure a safe and positive environment for all students. It’s also worth confirming that the school’s policies align with your values and expectations. For example, it’s good to know how the school regulates the use of mobile phones and other electronic devices and whether children are allowed to call home.

At Samiad Summer School, we foster an atmosphere of respect and support where every student feels valued and safe. We encourage students to limit the use of their phones and fully immerse themselves in the unique experiences we offer. While we don’t prohibit the use of electronic devices, we believe that stepping away from screens allows students to build stronger connections, engage in activities, and make the most of their time with us.

To give parents peace of mind, we maintain regular contact through WhatsApp, sharing updates and photos that capture the fun and excitement of their child’s day. This way, parents stay connected and informed, while students can focus on fully enjoying their summer experience.

What is the emergency policy?

Emergency preparedness is a critical aspect of choosing a summer school. Schools should have clear protocols in place for handling medical emergencies, safety concerns, and travel disruptions. It’s also essential to know how parents will be informed and what measures are taken to ensure the well-being of all students in unforeseen circumstances.

At Samiad Summer School, we prioritise the safety and well-being of our students by maintaining clear and efficient emergency procedures. Parents are promptly informed of any issues, ensuring transparency and peace of mind. All students are required to have travel insurance, which covers potential situations such as medical expenses, lost luggage, or flight delays and cancellations.

For travel disruptions, minor delays of less than an hour do not require additional arrangements, as our staff will wait to meet the student(s). In cases of longer delays exceeding an hour, new transfer arrangements can be made. With these measures in place, Samiad ensures that students and parents are well-supported throughout their journey.

Are English summer camps worth attending?

Yes, English summer camps are definitely worth attending. They offer a unique combination of language learning, adventure, and personal development, allowing children and teenagers aged 7 to 18 to not only improve their language skills but also build confidence and independence. In an international environment, participants form valuable friendships with peers from all over the world while learning teamwork and openness to different cultures.

If you want to discover all the benefits of attending an English summer camp, read our article: Are English summer camps worth attending?