Wycombe Abbey Summer Programme
Highlights
- Experience life at a leading UK boarding school
- Intensive Academic programme for high achievers
- International community and cultural exchange
- Unforgettable excursions to London and beyond
Focused on Languages for an enriched camp experience.
Overview
Wycombe Abbey is a very prestigious UK boarding school. Located in the beautiful town of High Wycombe - just 23 mins away from London by train and 25 minutes from Heathrow. Our summer programme offers a rich blend of academics and extracurricular activities for high-achieving students.
The age range is 11-17 and is open to both native and non-native English speakers whose min level must be A2. It’s designed for ambitious, high-achieving students seeking an academically stimulating programme and an authentic British boarding school experience.
This course allows students to engage in three hours of lessons per day, exploring: British Culture, English for Academic Purposes and Exams, Projects and Creations, and 21st Century Skills. In addition to classes, students select one elective for the duration of the course. Through these electives our students’ journey :
1) Leadership and Sustainability - enables them to become global ethical leaders
2) Coding and Game Design - learn the principles of computer coding and game design
3) Performing Arts - create and produce a dramatic performance
4) Sports, Health and Wellbeing - understand how to maintain an active lifestyle
We have 3 sets of fixed dates in summer 2025 as follows:
Wed 2nd July - Wed 16th July
Wed 16th July - Wed 30th July
Wed 30th July - Wed 13th August Duration: 2 weeks
11-17 yo
From July 6 to August 17, 2026
2 weeks
From $5,677
English
Max 120 campers
Co-Education
Private
Activities
Taking Advantage of Wycombe Abbey’s Unique Location
Students will have at least three full days of excursions to explore the UK’s favourite destinations, including London and Oxford. These excursions provide cultural enrichment and extend thematic learning, enabling students to experience and appreciate lessons beyond the classroom and school site.
The excursions will be both educational and entertaining. Students will also enjoy full access to the School’s sports facilities, including:
• A 25m swimming pool
• A large sports centre
• A dance studio
• A climbing wall
• A golf simulator
Each day, there will also be time dedicated to sports and activities.
London Excursion
Explore the best of London’s attractions and experiences:
• Hop-on-Hop-off Bus Tour: Discover iconic landmarks at your own pace.
• London Eye: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
• Museums: Choose between the British Museum’s cultural treasures and the Science Museum’s interactive exhibits covering early technology to space travel.
Experience London’s world-class entertainment and culture:
• West End Theatre District: Enjoy spectacular theatrical productions, musicals, and performances.
• Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre: Step back in time with a live performance in the open-air amphitheatre, immersing yourself in the spirit of Shakespeare’s era.
Oxford Excursion
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Oxford with the Christ Church College and University of Oxford Harry Potter Tour:
• Explore Christ Church College, where scenes from the Harry Potter films were brought to life.
• Wander through halls and courtyards that inspired Hogwarts.
• Experience a magical journey through the University of Oxford’s settings that fuelled J.K. Rowling’s imagination.
Windsor Excursion
Embark on a regal adventure at Windsor Castle:
• State Apartments: Marvel at opulent furnishings and priceless art.
• St. George’s Chapel: Admire Gothic architecture and visit the final resting place of monarchs.
Cambridge Excursion
Go on an intellectual and scenic journey to Cambridge:
• Roam cobblestone streets adorned with historic architecture.
• Marvel at world-famous colleges along the River Cam.
• Explore the halls of the University of Cambridge, where Newton and Darwin studied.
• Admire iconic landmarks like King’s College Chapel and the Bridge of Sighs.
Academics
This course allows students to engage in three hours of English lessons per day, exploring: British Culture, English for Academic Purposes and Exams, Projects and Creations, and 21st Century Skills. In addition to classes, students select one elective for the duration of the course (16 hours). Through these electives our students’ journey : Leadership and Sustainability – enables them to become global ethical leaders, Coding & Game Design – learn the principles of computer coding and game design, Performing Arts – create and produce a dramatic performance Sports, Health and Wellbeing – understand how to maintain an active lifestyle
Language lessons
All of our students receive four hours of language lessons every day. The immersive programme consists of several thematic English language studies. We apply content and language-integrated learning methodology to the teaching, allowing students to learn and develop their language proficiency while studying a range of topics and applying their skills to something interesting and relevant.
The teachers will also adopt a problem-based learning model to facilitate the students in applying their language proficiency and knowledge and skills to meaningful real-life tasks and challenges. Language learning is supported by the electives, which create a holistic learning approach that supports the overall progression of each student.
BRITISH CULTURE
During these lessons, students will learn about contemporary themes in British culture and politics. They will delve into British history, geography, and literature and will enhance their critical and presentation skills. This part of the lesson will be brought to life during the London full-day trip.
ENGLISH FOR ACADEMIC PURPOSES AND EXAMINATIONS
These lessons aim at empowering students’ linguistic awareness and capabilities to better understand and produce different texts (e.g., reports, essays, scientific articles). By working on all language skills, accuracy, vocabulary, and pronunciation, students will increase their chances of being successful when taking an English examination (PET, FCE, CAE, CPE, TOEFL, IELTS, GESE). This part of the lesson ties in with the visits to Oxford and Cambridge’s renowned universities.
PROJECTS AND CREATIONS
During these lessons, students are encouraged to complete a project. Language emerges naturally as the result of the student’s communicative needs. All projects are focused on global topics and students will have the chance to work creatively and collaboratively towards a shared end.
21ST CENTURY SKILLS
These lessons specifically are tailored to provide participants with the 21st-century skills they need to become the global leaders of tomorrow. During the first week (A Future For All), students engage with themes like sustainability and global issues. In the second week (There’s No Business Like Showbusiness), students learn effective and engaging communication strategies through performing theory and techniques (voice projection, presentation skills, audience engagement). The latter theme is further explored during the students’ visit to the West End/or Shakespeare’s Globe.
All of our students receive eight hours of electives weekly. Students have the opportunity to choose from four electives. Each one is designed to stretch and challenge our students so they learn, develop, and grow in confidence. We want our students to have an unforgettable experience and to return home from our Summer Programme better prepared for their future.
LEADERSHIP AND SUSTAINABILITY
Embark on a transformative journey, delving into essential leadership skills while exploring the principles of sustainability. Students will learn the most important skills needed to succeed in the modern world of business and work.
The Leadership and Sustainability elective grants students the perfect opportunity to explore a wide range of interesting topics and is perfect for those who dream of making a difference in the world. Drawing from real-life examples of inspirational leaders throughout history, students will understand what made them great leaders and how they managed to leave their footprint on society.
Students will transform this understanding into practical skills through research, debates, interactive discussions, presentations, and interviews. The module also allows students to delve into the critical aspects of sustainability, covering environmental, social, and economic dimensions by examining success stories in creating viable and sustainable alternatives in different industries.
Students will develop critical skills in creative thinking, problem-solving, research and analysis, presenting important information, and managing a team, enabling them to enhance their spoken English while honing leadership abilities and preparing them for future roles as responsible and influential leaders.
DIGITAL AND BEYOND
Through a dynamic exploration of digital tools, technological trends, presentation design, and visual media, this elective allows students to immerse themselves in the cutting-edge world of technology.
This module will focus on design methodology, developing, designing, and costing a presentation, and the fundamentals of photography and visual editing. This elective is perfect for students who are interested in digital technology, visual design, or computer science and will enable students to develop essential skills that can be used in the future.
From the basics of UX and UI design to creating a powerful presentation to launch a new product, students will explore emerging technologies, gain insights into how they shape our world, and foster a deep understanding of digital advancements that drive innovation.
With a focus on practical application, students will apply their newfound digital skills in real-life scenarios. Through project-based learning, presentations, and collaborative activities, this elective promises a holistic and immersive experience, preparing students for a tech-driven future.
PERFORMING ARTS
Embark on a captivating journey through the realms of creativity and expression. This elective offers a unique fusion of language development and artistic exploration through acting, dance, singing, musical performances, choreography, and staging.
Perfect for anyone interested in drama, dance, singing, or expressing themselves creatively, this course will build students’ confidence as well as their ability to express themselves in English.
Creativity comes in many forms, and encouraging students to showcase their passion and express themselves in different ways is something that we strongly believe in promoting. With our state-of-the-art theatre, we have the perfect modern facilities to allow students to go through the creative process before bringing their production to life.
Students will explore a wide range of creative mediums, including writing, staging, acting, improvisation, voice projection and control, movement on stage, staging, as well as writing and producing a show.
SPORTS, HEALTH, AND WELLBEING
This transformative course integrates language development with the essential principles of physical health, mental wellbeing, and the importance of adopting an active lifestyle.
Students will dive into foundational aspects of fitness, exploring various exercises and sports, vocabulary related to health and fitness, and understanding the science behind nutrition.
This elective also extends its focus beyond physical health to encompass mental wellbeing. Students will delve into mindfulness techniques, stress management, and the correlation between physical activity and mental health.
Engaging in discussions and presenting information, students will learn a wealth of skills that go beyond everyday English. Outside of the classroom, students will benefit from the modern facilities available at Wycombe Abbey as they engage in different sports and activities, from swimming and volleyball to football and hockey.
Students will work together as a team and immerse themselves in an active lifestyle. The sports, health, and wellbeing elective ensures that students will not only improve their language skills but also cultivate a foundation for a healthier and more balanced lifestyle.
23hours of lessons per week
Schedule
Typical Day at Wycombe Abbey Summer School
Morning
08:00–09:00 — Breakfast in the dining hall
09:00–10:15 — Morning Lessons
10:15–10:30 — Tea Break
10:30–12:30 — Lessons Continue
Afternoon
12:30–13:30 — Lunch with friends and staff
13:30–15:15 — Elective Classes (choose from Leadership & Sustainability, Performing Arts, Coding & Game Design, Sports, Health & Wellbeing)
15:15–15:30 — Tea Break
15:30–16:45 — Sports & Activities (football, tennis, swimming, drama, creative writing, arts, etc…)
Evening
18:00–19:00 — Dinner
19:30–21:00 — Evening Events such as Talent Show, Bowling, Karaoke, or British Culture Night
21:00–22:00 — House Time – relax before bedtime
Excursion Day Schedule at Wycombe Abbey
Morning
08:00 — Early Breakfast
09:00 — Depart for Excursion (e.g., London, Cambridge, Oxford)
Daytime
Explore cultural landmarks, museums, and historic sites
Enjoy guided tours and free time for shopping or sightseeing
Evening
17:00–18:00 — Return to campus
18:00–19:00 — Dinner
19:30–21:00 — Evening Activities
21:00–22:00 — House Time – relax before bedtime
Accommodation & facilities
Students will stay on the school campus within amazing dedicated boarding houses, Pitt and Rubens. Bedrooms either sleep one, two or four and all have en-suites. There are also communal areas for students to socialise together. We allocate rooms according to students’ age, gender and group where possible. We take into consideration any specific requests, e.g. friends who want to be close to each other. Room allocation is normally done on arrival. Common rooms are accessible to the students throughout their stay.
Video
Reviews
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Q&A
Each centre has a management team in place that includes a Course Director. It is the responsibility of the Course Director to supervise and support all of the teachers. The Course Director is supported by a Regional Academic Manager and the Academic Director from the Senior Leadership Team.
For Course Directors, we hire TEFLq managers that hold a DELTA qualification or Level 7 equivalent, or an MA in EFL.
All of our teachers must hold a Level 6 qualification (a university degree) as well as a level 5 teaching qualification (CELTA or TEFLi certificate). Where teachers do not hold a CELTA or similar, we accept QTS or PGCE in addition to teaching experience.
Yes, all staff are required to do this as well as provide police checks and references.
After being hired, staff are given access to our online training platform. Before the start of the course staff will attend an online induction and then an in-person induction at their centre. This includes a centre induction, academic or activity and excursions induction. Managers will attend an in-person management training prior to the start of the course.
We recruit people based on their suitability and ability to do the job. We aim to recruit people who are enthusiastic, motivated, appropriately qualified and above all else are keen to work with children. We require them to understand the importance of safeguarding in our organisation and how promoting the welfare of young people in our centres is a high priority. We are committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment. Our employees and any job applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. It applies to all aspects of employment with us, including recruitment. Please see our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion policy for further details
We have a code of conduct which is included in our handbooks, induction and welcome talks for students. This also includes our safety protocol. At each centre, there is a Safeguarding & Welfare Coordinator responsible for maintaining a safe working environment for staff as well as the students.
Phones will be with the students at all times as they may be needed during specific classes. The internet is firewalled and supervised
My son (14) was very happy at Wycombe this summer. He made lots of friends from different countries. He also loved excursions, especially Oxford and returned a lot more confident as a person and speaking English!