Summer School Frequently Asked Questions

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International Summer School

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FAQs

Booking and Requirements

1. Could you specify the total number of students you intend to accommodate in this course?

We are currently accommodating 40 families per week.

2. What is the nationality mix?

We aim to maintain a balanced and inclusive international community, and therefore we manage the proportion of students from any single nationality to ensure diversity and integration.

3. Will there be Chinese speakers on site?

Yes there will be.

4. Language requirements: Are there any requirements for English capabilities for children? Do they have to take a test beforehand?

Pupils are tested on their first day. To ensure each pupil enjoys the best experience, teaching is tailored to each student's abilities. Our staff are experienced and are able to provide the right provision.

5. Are discounts offered for a third child?

Unfortunately not.

6. What is the minimum age and maximum age for children?

Our English lesson programme accommodates children from the age of 3 to 12. We can provide nursery places, on a case by case basis, for children younger than 3 who are accompanying older siblings but this will be on the basis of a phased introduction as it is often unsettling for young children to be left with unknown adults. Parents need to be aware this might mean one parent has limited involvement in the English lessons at the start of the week, and for this reason we would encourage a two week booking as a minimum. If you have a child younger than 3 please ask for availability; cots are available. We cannot accommodate children 13 and older in the standard Summer School programme unfortunately.

7. Is it possible for a parent to live in the school and not attend the lessons?

We’ve found that once parents try a lesson, they’re eager to continue as it offers a valuable experience. If parents choose not to participate in the lesson, they are still required to remain on-site. Please note that the price remains the same regardless of participation.

8. When are we required to pay?

To secure your booking a 20% deposit must be paid straight away. Bookings will not be secured without it. The final balance needs to be paid one month before arrival and any further expenses such as optional activities during the stay must be settled before departure. We have card payment options onsite for the final bill settlement.

9. Does the course fee include insurance?

No.

10. What is the pricing for Bespoke Group Courses?

Pricing is on a case by case basis so please contact us to discuss; and will include a free agent/teacher place.

Arrivals, Departures and Transportation

1. Is Arrival and Departure Sunday to Sunday Strictly?

Yes. However, we can assess case by case on a very limited basis. You can check in to your accommodation from 4pm on the Sunday and check-out of rooms by 10am. Please note there is no lunch provided on Sunday for arrivals or departures.

2. Are you able to provide private transport during the week?

We aim to accommodate your needs to the best of our ability but also have to balance the needs of everyone else on site. If you require transport such as to the supermarket, the doctors or elsewhere then we can discuss, however this option will not be available on the arrival and departure days as priority is given to airport and rail transfers. Private transport will incur an additional cost.

3. Buggies, car seats and boosters

We are not able to provide buggies or car seats for young children so please bring these with you if required. If transport of this is too difficult then you are welcome to purchase and have them delivered to be ready for your stay. Please contact us to discuss.

Accommodation and Catering

1. Are there ensuites?

We offer family rooms with ensuites. Family rooms can take up to 5 people. If you wish to bring a larger group then please talk with us as we have other accommodation options also.

2. Do you provide cots?

If you have a young child with you then please let us know your requirements and we can discuss. We do have a limited number of cots available.

3. What are the meals like?

Guests are provided with three meals a day during the stay. Please note there is no lunch provided on the Sunday of arrival or departure. We try to ensure there is a variety of options to accommodate all dietary or medical requirements. Please notify us of any specific needs when booking. All common rooms collocated with the accommodation will be stocked with fruit, bread and tea/coffee making facilities.

English Lessons and Weekly Structure

1. Do we have sample timetables?

A sample timetable is included in our Summer School brochure

2. Are the English classes taught by British teachers?

Where possible the teachers are British, or at the least first-language English. We provide a comprehensive curriculum that has been proven and tested over the many decades we have hosted our International Summer School.

3. Are parents required to attend every lesson, every day?

Parents are encouraged to take part in classes, and we consistently receive excellent feedback about the quality of the lessons, along with the unique opportunities they offer to form international friendships. As we support tourist visas on the basis of participation in our Summer School, we do expect parents to remain on site if they are not attending lessons or participating in organised trips. Of course, we understand that parents may occasionally need to take work calls or attend to other commitments during their stay.

4. How many students in each class?

12 - 15 students per class

Activities and free time

1. Do you have a list of activities for children and parents?

Our wide range of activities, included as part of all of our Summer Courses, provides pupils with the opportunity to develop their communicative English skills while forming lasting global friendships. Parents can expect a balanced weekly schedule that includes morning fitness such as swimming or pilates, English lessons, cultural activities like etiquette workshops and local excursions like spa trips, bookshop visits, and free time. Evenings feature social events such as welcome cocktails, film nights, and cultural briefings. A full-day escorted trip is included on Saturday. Meals are provided daily in the dining hall. Children aged 8 to 13 enjoy a structured week, combining fun and learning. Mornings include fitness varying between swimming or pilates. Following breakfast, academic subjects like English, Maths, and Science. Afternoons feature activities such as Holiday Club where children will be able to mix with our British Holiday Club children, excursions, and creative sessions such as Art, DT or Drama in our on-site state-of-the-art theatre. Evenings include games, team-building, and film nights. Saturday includes a full-day escorted trip. Meals and free time are built in throughout the week. Younger children, aged between 3 and 7, follow a gentle routine with a balance of learning and play. Mornings include light exercise and English lessons. Afternoons feature Holiday Club activities with British Holiday Club children and a cultural excursion midweek with family. Evenings are filled with age-appropriate games like treasure hunts, team building, and a film night. Saturday includes a full-day trip. Meals and free time are scheduled throughout the day. An example of activities and trips can be found on our website, Here.

2. Do you have a list of excursions week by week?

Excursions vary from week to week, midweek trips include visits to local heritage sites such as Chirk Castle, Attingham Park and Powys Castle. Saturday day trips are for the whole family and can vary from visits to Stratford-upon-Avon, aquarium visits, and Manchester, offering a blend of cultural and historical experiences.

3. What is the cost for the optional excursions and activities?

The costs vary depending on the provider but there is a range offered each day to suit all needs. Any costs will be added to the final bill to be paid before departure and will be clearly advertised before sign-up during the week. The cost of the main Wednesday and Saturday trips are included in the programme cost.

4. Are parents allowed free time?

Yes, absolutely. In the mornings they have lessons and in the afternoon there will be a selection of trips they can sign up for or they can have free time before collecting their children at the end of the school day.

5. Can parents skip courses/is there any flexibility for work commitments?

Lessons for parents are only on in the morning. We do encourage parents to attend as they are always very popular, and is a chance to meet many friends. However, it is acceptable to miss a few sessions, provided you remain on site during lesson times while your child is attending classes.

Social Media

1. Social media and image sharing policy:

Participants are asked to share permissions to have their images taken and shared on our social media platforms as it is of legitimate interest of the school. Pictures can be distributed to the families.

2. What about taking photos and sharing on my social media?

We would love it if you would share your positive experience on your social media channels, however please do not take photos of other children who may be sharing the school site or share any photos of others without their permission.