Westonbirt Summer School
Highlights
- Integration with students from Westonbirt School
- 3 Academic options, 8 high-quality Academies
- Experience British Boarding School life
- 3 trips per week including London, Oxford + Bath
Focused on Academics for an enriched camp experience.
Overview
Based in one of England’s most beautiful stately homes in the glorious Cotswolds, our students build their English-language skills and apply them with confidence through conversations with UK host students.
Westonbirt School has been welcoming overseas pupils for almost 100 years. This, together with its ethos of tailoring education to the individual child, ensures that students at every level will be supported to develop and extend their English-language skills through either lessons in Language, Artificial Intelligence, Leadership in Action or Adventure Challenge.
Participants can choose from an exciting range of Academy options, including Robotics, Polo, Flying, Horse Riding, Golf, Tennis, Cookery and Performing Arts, or take part in our Multi-Activity programme.
Each booking includes one on-site Academy, ensuring every child enjoys both specialist learning and a fantastic summer holiday at Westonbirt Summer School.
10-16 yo
From July 5 to August 2, 2026
1 week
From $2,139
Max 100 campers
Co-Education
Shared
Activities
Westonbirt’s outstanding facilities, extensive grounds and specialist teaching staff allow us to offer professional tuition in a wide range of high-quality Academy opportunities on 4 afternoons each week. Students receive up to 8 hours of coaching in their chosen Academies per week and are joined by UK student hosts, who will provide lots of opportunities for conversation and extending English-language skills.
Academy Options
Students can choose one Academy each week from those listed below. (one on-site Academy included per booking)
Students who do not wish to specialise in 1 specific Academy each week can choose the Multi-Activity option where they will usually do 3 activities each afternoon – where possible they will be able to choose their favoured activities.
Multi-Activity Option
Those students not wishing to specialise can take part in this Multi-Activity Programme, where they will have the chance to try different activities every afternoon. Students enjoy up to two activities per day from the list below, with a choice of at least two. Options may include Fencing, Basketball, Swimming, Football, Touch rugby, Badminton, Kwik cricket, Arts and crafts, Water polo, Softball, Rounders and Volleyball. The Multi-Activity Programme is included in the standard package.
Available: All weeks
Cookery (on-site Academy)
Westonbirt School is a provider of highly regarded cookery courses, and our summer school students have access to our newly refurbished cookery room to enjoy the Cookery Academy. Students will learn a range of classic cooking techniques, creating a different dish each day.
Golf (on-site Academy)
Westonbirt School has its very own 9-hole golf course. Our Golf Academy helps students learn and improve their game. Focus is on the core aspects of this increasingly popular sport, such as driving, iron play, chipping, putting and bunker shots. Experienced players can play on the golf course.
Polo
Beaufort Polo Club, right next to Westonbirt, is one of the UK’s leading polo venues, offering top-class facilities and a rich heritage in the sport. Established in 1872, the club is renowned for hosting prestigious tournaments, and it’s just the perfect place for our advanced riders to play or practice the sport.
Horse Riding
The Cotswolds is famous horse-riding country, and home to the internationally renowned Badminton and Gatcombe Horse Trials. Students get the chance to develop their riding skills (walking, trotting and cantering), and enjoy a hack in the beautiful Gloucestershire countryside.
Flying (14+)
Our most adventurous students can experience the thrill of flying in microlight aircraft at Cotswolds Airport, with the expert instructors. Sessions will introduce students to the theory and practice of flying, including the effect of controls and basic flight manoeuvres. The experience is complemented by a guided visit to the airport’s facilities. The Flying Academy is excluded from the cover offered by Westonbirt Summer School’s insurance, and students will need to arrange their own insurance cover.
Performing Arts (on-site Academy)
Westonbirt School boasts vibrant and exciting Music and Drama departments. This Academy is a creative combination of music, drama and dance, leading to a short performance at the Talent Show, using the school’s performing arts facilities and expert tuition.
Robotics (on-site Academy)
Westonbirt School offers excellent STEM provision. Our Robotics Academy is a crash course in block-based programming, making use of micro:bits and LEGO® education kits. Students can learn to control a robot and build up more complex functionality during the week.
Tennis (on-site Academy)
Expert coaching for players of all abilities in this hugely popular sport, using Westonbirt’s hard courts. Students will learn all aspects of the sport, from understanding grip, forward and backhand strokes, serving, volleying, and court positioning.
Dates & Pricing
Dates:
Week 1 5-12 July
Week 2 12-19 July
Week 3 19-26 July
Week 4 26 July – 2 August
Arrival and departure days are Sundays.
Minimum 2-week booking
Ages:
10-16 years
Price:
From £1595 per week
Included in the price:
– English Language learning programme
– Multi-Activity programme
– Accommodation
– Three meals a day and snacks
– Two or three excursions a week
– Weekly laundry
– Travel insurance
Additional costs:
– Flights and transfers
– Pocket money
Academies
Transfer costs:
Standard Transfer Cost per way
London Heathrow (LHR) £100
London St Pancras International£150
Premium Transfer Cost per way
London Heathrow (LHR) £240
London St Pancras International£395
London Gatwick (LGW) £280
London Stansted (STN) £395
London Luton (LTN) £315
London City (LCY) £395
Bristol (BRS) £100
Free on-site Academy worth £150 with 2-week bookings
From July 5 to August 2, 2026
From $2,139
Academics
Summer School Academic Options
Students take part in formal lessons in five mornings a week in groups of maximum 12.
We ensure that all students are happy, challenged and grow in confidence.
Students can choose from:
English Language
Artificial Intelligence and Future Technologies
Leadership in Action
Adventure Challenge
Further information on all options can be found below
English Language Programme
Our core programme helps students develop their English language proficiency. We offer tuition to all students from beginners who are just starting their language journey to fluent speakers looking to enhance their skills, further expanding their vocabulary and refining their communication style.
English Language Programme Key Facts
Age groups:
Juniors: 10-13 years
Seniors: 14-16 years
Hours:
15 hours of lessons per week
Class sizes:
Maximum of 12 students per class
Levels:
Beginner to fluent speakers
Our programme develops:
Practical language skills in an English-speaking environment
Listening and reading skills in an exciting way, using as many authentic materials as possible (depending on students’ abilities)
Speaking and writing skills using a topic-based approach, focusing on students’ experiences through reflective writing and on oral communication skills through debates and presentations
Critical thinking skills by helping students reflect on their language use
Intercultural awareness
Course materials:
A mix of General English and IB English textbooks and authentic materials
Levels:
Students receive an online placement test and questionnaire prior to arrival so that they can be placed in the best class for their needs. If necessary, we carry out further tests on arrival.
Students are placed into English language groups dependent on age and English ability.
The ages, number and ability of students change week to week, and we adapt class levels to ensure they match students’ needs.
Fluent Speakers:
Our approach to teaching is topic-based, inspired by IB English (rather than General English) for higher level learners, which means that fluent speakers at C1 & C2 levels enjoy a high-level, practical engagement with the English language.
It ensures that students with particularly advanced standards of English (for example, those who attend international schools, have studied English for a long time or have, in fact, grown up speaking English) are still challenged at the right level in class.
Artificial Intelligence and Future Technologies
Our Artificial Intelligence programmes are designed to improve students’ technical knowledge as well as critical thinking skills, while focussing on hands-on learning. Through block coding or Python programming, students will develop essential skills while exploring the fascinating concepts of AI in a supportive environment.
Artificial Intelligence and Future Technologies Key Facts
Age groups:
Juniors: 10-13 years (Programming with Machine Learning for Kids)
Seniors: 14-16 years (Coding with Python)
Hours:
15 hours of lessons per week
Class sizes:
Maximum of 12 students per class
Levels:
Minimum CEFR B1 (Intermediate) level of English
No coding experience needed
Our programme develops:
Improving English language skills related to AI
Practical skills to deal with real-world applications of AI
Ethical thinking about the responsible use of technology
Future-proof skills, including programming, critical thinking, problem solving and innovation
Innovative and entrepreneurial thinking
Understanding of AI
Leadership in Action
Our Leadership Programme gives students the chance to build essential leadership skills through interactive sessions and hands-on experiences. The programme focuses on developing teamwork and leadership abilities, guiding teams through challenging or unfamiliar environments, emergency response, navigation and survival skills, as well as understanding key leadership theories and frameworks.
Leadership in Action Key Facts:
Summary
Lead through action! Each week, students tackle a fresh, real-world-inspired leadership challenge.
Hands-on projects build strategic thinking, teamwork, innovation and communication skills.
Sessions are interactive and dynamic, combining classroom learning with exciting outdoor problem-solving activities.
Every session kicks off with an expert-led briefing and wraps up with reflection to refine leadership skills.
Age group:
Seniors: 14-16 years
Hours:
15 hours of lessons per week
Class sizes:
Maximum of 12 students per class
Levels:
Minimum CEFR B1 (Intermediate) level of English
Our programme develops:
Strategic Thinking and Decision-Making
Effective Communication and Public Speaking
Project Management and Responsibility
Conflict Resolution and Negotiation
Innovation and Creative Problem-Solving
Self-Reflection and Personal Growth
English Language Skills related to Leadership
Adventure Challenge:
Students build teamwork, resilience and confidence through exciting challenges like raft building, orienteering, bushcraft, high ropes, archery and climbing while developing problem-solving skills and environmental awareness.
Adventure Challenge Key Facts
Summary
Focuses on developing leadership through outdoor adventure challenges
Each day features an outdoor activity linked to a leadership skill
Activities are either on-site or off-site
Each session includes instructor-led introduction and reflection
Age group:
Juniors: 10-13 years
Hours:
15 hours of lessons per week
Class sizes:
Maximum of 12 students per class
Levels:
Minimum CEFR B1 (Intermediate) level of English
Our programme develops:
Teamwork and Collaboration through trust-building exercises and raft building
Resilience and Perseverance through orienteering and navigation
Problem-Solving through bushcraft and survival skills
Confidence and Leadership through raft building and other team challenges
Focus and Concentration through archery and climbing
Environmental Awareness and Responsibility
English Language Skills related to Leadership
Schedule
Weekly Timetable ⏰📚
The programme follows a carefully structured weekly schedule designed to balance academic learning, activities, excursions, and social time, ensuring students remain engaged, energised, and supported throughout their stay.
Weekday Structure (Monday – Friday)
08:00 Breakfast 🍽️ A relaxed start to the day with a nutritious breakfast.
08:50 – 12:30 Academic Programme 📚 Students take part in their chosen academic pathway (English, AI, Leadership, or Adventure Challenge), delivered through interactive and engaging lessons.
12:30 – 13:30 Lunch 🥗 A social and relaxed break with a wide variety of meal options.
13:30 – 15:15 Activities with Integration 🤝 Students work alongside UK host students in collaborative sessions, developing communication, teamwork, and confidence in a natural English-speaking environment.
15:15 – 15:45 Refreshment Break ☕ Time to rest and recharge before the afternoon programme.
16:00 – 18:00 Academies & Activities 🎯 Students participate in their chosen Academy or Multi-Activity programme, developing new skills while enjoying a dynamic and social environment.
18:00 – 18:30 Dinner 🍽️ A balanced evening meal shared with peers.
18:30 – 19:30 House Time 🏡 Relaxation time in boarding houses, allowing students to unwind and connect with friends.
19:30 – 21:00 Evening Activities 🎉 A lively programme including talent shows, games, discos, and team challenges.
Midweek & Weekend Variation 🌍
Wednesday: Half-day excursion (local cultural visits and experiences)
Saturday: Full-day excursion (e.g. London, Oxford, Cardiff)
Sunday: Activities, half-day trips, or arrivals/departures
This structure provides the perfect balance between routine, exploration, and adventure.
Accommodation & facilities
A huge part of the experience of the Westonbirt Summer School is the opportunity to live in a breathtaking historic building set in over 200 acres of landscaped grounds.
Staying with us
Westonbirt House is a beautiful place to live.
It reminds many of our pupils of Hogwarts with its extraordinary architecture and amazing interior decoration. Our bright and cosy single rooms and 2-5 bed dorms provide a comfortable and reassuring space for students to relax and sleep.
Rooms are allocated depending on numbers, but in general older students have priority for the single rooms.
Students are fully supported and cared for by experienced and friendly house staff, who make sure that their stay is safe and fun, with medical support available if necessary
Food
Westonbirt School pupils all agree that meals here are absolutely delicious!
Our school caterers serve a varied and nutritious range of meals, with enough choice to meet a wide range of dietary requirements.
Each day, students will enjoy a hearty breakfast, a mid-morning snack, lunch, afternoon snacks and an evening meal, with some more late-night snacks available in the dorms.
Main meals are taken in the beautiful and ornate dining rooms at Westonbirt.
For full-day and some half-day excursions, a packed lunch is provided.
Video
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Q&A
All staff are trained in safeguarding, specifically designed for Westonbirt Summer School. The staff are supported by a highly trained and experienced Safeguarding Team. Children are supervised and looked after by house parents and dedicated welfare support
staff and are invited to approach any member of the team at any time.
Undergraduate degree
Basic safeguarding qualification
Advanced safeguarding qualification
First Aid training
TEFLI qualification (CELTA, Trinity CertTESOL or similar)
TEFLQ qualification (DELTA, Tritinity DipTESOL or similar)
Experience:
Experience working with children
Experience overseeing a high quality a summer school centre
Safer recruitment practices
We follow safer recruitment processes to ensure all staff members are assessed as suitable for working with children. This includes conducting relevant background
and reference checks, This applies to any third parties that we work this, such as Transfer providers.
We offer a thorough induction and management process throughout the course where staff are supervised and supported by the Centre Manager
This is managed at the interview stage – we ensure all staff are given opportunities to apply for roles at our Summer School.
We provide a positive, supportive and nurturing environment, where every child can feel safe during their stay. While we have clear expectations for behaviour and conduct, we believe in positive behaviour management, which helps students adapt their behaviour to an environment that may be completely new to them.
Mobile phone policy
While staying with us, students’ mobile phone use is monitored and permitted only for a limited time in the evening and only when connected to Westonbirt School’s safe student network. As well as ensuring that students use their time to communicate with each other, this also helps prevent safeguarding issues linked to the online world. Students do have access to their phones on trips.
Location
The nearest airport to Westonbirt Summer School is London Heathrow. Airport pickup is available upon request. Transfers We provide two levels of airport transfer service: a Standard Transfer Service from London Heathrow Airport and Gatwick, and a Premium Transfer Service available from several other airports too. Prices range from £100 – £395
