Best summer camp ever? Our students reflect on ‘an unforgettable experience’
When it comes to choosing the best summer camp, our Academic Summer Camps of 2024 may just take the crown. Over July and August 2024, we welcomed students from across the world to three unique locations – London and Bristol in the UK and New Brunswick in Canada. The collective response from students was unanimous – “it was truly life-changing!” Here’s why our 2024 programme may have included the best summer camp experience ever for the children and teens who participated.
In the words of our students…
Everything we do at Academic Summer Limited is focused around inspiring 7 to 17-year-olds and it is their reflections that make our camps so memorable. Hadia, who attended our Sidcot camp in Bristol, expressed her enthusiasm: "The experience was amazing and I now feel more confident about my future studies. It wasn't just learning, I grew so much as a person.”
Mohammed from Afghanistan appreciated the experience of making friends from Latvia, the Czech Republic and Iran. He found a genuine sense of belonging that made the summer camp even more special. Mohammed thoroughly enjoyed the computer science workshops and outdoor adventures like kayaking, but above all, it was the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals in an innovative learning environment.
Sofia, a participant in our Career Pathways course in London, highlighted the importance of exploring her future: "For the first time I see what I want to do in life. The direction and support I received from the teachers was incredible." [Embed video]
David Game College, one of our partner schools, who hosted our London City camp praised the success of the summer: "We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the incredible students who attended. Their enthusiasm, dedication and eagerness to learn made this summer truly unforgettable. From engaging workshops and interactive lessons to new friendships and memorable experiences, it's been a fantastic journey."
Best summer camp in London
The UK capital is a vibrant hub of international culture and leadership, and our summer schools at London Westminster, held at DLD College, and near Tower Bridge, hosted by David Game College, provided students with the perfect balance of academic learning and recreational opportunities. With tailored programmes for Adventurers (7-12), Explorers (12-14), and Engagers (15-17), students were able to enhance their English skills while delving into their favourite subjects, all while experiencing the real-world context of famous British landmarks.
At the heart of our camps is a commitment to nurturing future leaders, and our 'Be a Leader' programme truly inspired students to discover and explore their potential. During her ‘Meet the Leader’ talk, our CEO, Helen, emphasised core leadership values such as integrity, vision, and service: “Don’t feel pressured to follow somebody else’s career path,” she advised, while sharing examples of great leaders. “You must choose a path that’s right for you. This is why we provide a career test to help you identify your strengths and discover the best options to move you forward.”
Best summer camp in Bristol
At Sidcot Independent Boarding School in Bristol, where nature meets academia, students were able to experience an ideal country setting where the tranquil backdrop was ideal for focusing on studies while enjoying outdoor adventures like horseriding and nature walks. The ‘Get Ready for Medicine’ and ‘Get Ready for Engineering’ programmes were particular highlights, giving students a head start for future studies. Hadia captured the experience perfectly: "I grew so much as a person and loved meeting people from all over the world."
Canada - bespoke learning and adventure
Academic Camp Canada 2024 offered a fresh and exciting opportunity for international students to see more of the world. Hosted at the prestigious Rothesay Netherwood School in New Brunswick, the camp combined thrilling adventures like whale watching and sea kayaking with academic courses in STEAM subjects, entrepreneurship and public speaking. This emphasis on blending education with adventure reflects our belief that the best summer camp experience is one that’s both informative and inspiring.
“Academic Camp Canada broadened my understanding of how to start a business, the dos and don'ts and how to prepare for and face risks,” said Chifumnanya Mezu. “One of the highlights was working with my peers to create a business model for an app. We even developed a demo which was a fantastic learning experience. A huge thank you to Helen Lami. I am incredibly grateful for her guidance and support. I feel inspired and can't wait to apply what I've learned!”
What makes Academic Summer Camps so good?
Leadership and personal growth: Our students appreciate a wide array of enriching experiences that make our camps stand out. From a carefully structured academic timetable to outdoor excursions, every aspect is designed with quality in mind – including superior accommodation, excellent catering and the unwavering support of our dedicated teaching staff and camp counsellors. The diversity of our programme, paired with our CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning) approach, ensures that students not only enhance their language skills but do so while delving into subjects they are passionate about.
Moreover, many students are motivated to excel in our Be a Leader programme, which is offered across all our locations. This initiative plays a pivotal role in developing crucial skills, fostering resilience, leadership and confidence. It is this emphasis on personal growth that leads so many of our participants to describe Academic Summer Camps as the best summer camp experience they have ever had.
Commitment to providing education for all: Our students also value our deep commitment to global education and our impactful fundraising initiatives, particularly our support for Theirworld Charity, which aids students in war torn areas where their education has been disrupted. Through these efforts, students gain a meaningful understanding of the importance of corporate social responsibility. Participating in such initiatives inspires them to reach beyond their personal goals, fostering empathy and a sense of global citizenship. This opportunity to make a real difference not only broadens their perspectives but also brings them a profound sense of fulfilment and purpose.
Connecting with global partners: Building on the success of our summer programmes, which attract students from many different nations, Academic Summer has been actively engaging with our international agents to promote our camps for 2025. (see: Looking ahead to future adventures.)
Reflecting on the success of Academic Summer Camps 2024, we are already looking forward to what’s next. Parents, if you are searching for the best summer camp for your child, consider our half-term camps in October 2024 or April 2025. These condensed versions of our summer programme offer a chance to experience a taste of British education while participating in enriching activities.
Academic Summer Camps 2024 truly set the standard for what the best summer camp should be – combining rigorous academic opportunities with exploration, growth and unforgettable experiences. We are committed to crafting programmes that go beyond learning, inspiring young people to connect, explore and realise their full potential.
Parents, give your child or teen a springboard to a brighter future. Book them on the best summer school in London, Bristol or New Brunswick, Canada. Students, get ready for an adventure that will shape your future. Join us on one of our camps for an unforgettable experience!"