ACADEMIC SUMMER CAMPS BRISTOL FOR STUDENTS AGED 11-17
Real Adventure. Real Learning. Real England.
ACADEMIC SUMMER CAMPS BRISTOL FOR CHILDREN AND TEENAGERS AGED 11–17
Summer Camps in the British Countryside
You are not visiting England, you are living it.
Academic Summer has called Sidcot School home since 2010 and this is where some of our best summers happen. Surrounded by 160 acres of Mendip Hills countryside, with everything you need on one beautiful campus including a swimming pool and horse-riding. This is a real adventure and a genuine chance to discover the real England.
Students aged 11–17 join us as residential or day students. Our programmes welcome Pathfinders (ages 11–12), Explorers (ages 13–14) and Engagers (ages 15–17)
Learning that uses the countryside
Every lesson connects to the world around you. Through a project-based approach bringing together English, critical thinking, creativity and real subjects, the countryside becomes the material. You do not just experience England, you understand it. This is real English learned through real subjects in the real world, not English as a subject but English as the way you think, explore and communicate, building your study skills and life skills.
The countryside brings the world together
Sidcot brings together young people from over 60 countries and that is part of the adventure. Around the campfire, on the sports field and in the classroom, you are learning alongside people from every corner of the world. You are exploring together and experiencing England together and you improve your English faster than any traditional classroom ever could.
Come curious, leave confident and take the real England with you.
Browse academic programme / dates and fees / leisure programme
LOCATION: SIDCOT BRISTOL BS25 1PD
There is nowhere quite like this in British summer school education
Sidcot School sits in the heart of the Mendip Hills in North Somerset just 40 minutes from Bristol and under two hours from London Heathrow. The campus is 160 acres of genuine English countryside, giving students space to breathe, explore and discover.
Bristol itself is one of England's most exciting and creative cities. Vibrant, free-spirited and full of culture, it is home to the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, world-class street art and a food and music scene that surprises everyone who visits.
Sidcot offers something genuinely rare, the real England, in all its beauty, history and adventure.
This is not just a location but it is an experience in itself.
YOUR WESTCOUNTRY HOME
Sidcot School, near Bristol
We chose Sidcot School in 2010 as our countryside home and we have never looked back.
Everything is on one beautiful campus including an indoor swimming pool, tennis courts, sports hall, playing fields, library, art centre, music and drama spaces and even stables for horse riding. The Sidcot Hub coffee shop is where students unwind, swap stories and make friends. Freshly prepared meals are served daily in the modern dining rooms and campus-wide Wi-Fi keeps you connected with home.
Boarding houses are spread across campus, cosy, comfortable and carefully managed. Most rooms are shared between two or three students, thoughtfully paired by age and language to encourage English practice and cross-cultural friendships. Single rooms are available for students aged 16 and above on a first-come basis. Each boarding house has its own lounge and kitchen, the natural home of the best conversations of the summer.
LEARNING AND ADVENTURE IN THE COUNTRYSIDE
Engagers (15-17), Explorers (13-14) & Pathfinders (11-12) (click the tabs below for info)
ENGAGERS: Students Aged 15-17
Engagers choose their own subjects and go deeper into the areas that genuinely interest them. A Levels, the IB Diploma, university or whatever comes next, this programme builds your confidence, study skills and communication in English.
But this is Sidcot, which means serious learning happens alongside campfires, adventures, friendships that cross borders and experiences that stay with you long after the summer ends.
You will write better, think more clearly, speak with more confidence and leave with a clearer sense of where you are going and how to get there.
Academic Summer does not just prepare you for what comes next, it makes you want it more. More details about the Engager programme and the subjects on offer
Engagers: The Facts
| Age | 15-17 |
| Minimum Level of English | B2 on the CEFR |
| Maximum Class Size | 15 |
| Hours of Learning per week | 30 |
Your Summer, Your Choice
Choose your subjects before you arrive and we will build your timetable around you. It really is your summer.
You will study four subjects every week but we ask you to choose at least eight so we can make sure you are always in a class that genuinely interests you. From traditional academic subjects to sport, food tech and everything in between, the choice is yours.
Check and update your timetable online before you travel so everything is exactly how you want it when you arrive.
The Subjects We Offer:
Applied Maths
Art
Biology
Chemistry
Design and Technology
Economics, Business and Entrepreneurship
English
Environmental Systems and Societies
Essay Writing
Food Tech
History and Politics
Media Studies
Physics
Presentations and Interviews
Psychology
Sport and fitness
Theory of Knowledge
More details on the Engager subjects
Engagers: Daily Schedule
| TIME | WHAT IS HAPPENING? |
|---|---|
| 7.00 | Wake up |
| 7.45 | Breakfast |
| 8.30 | Assembly |
| 9.00 | Lesson 1 |
| 10.15 | Break |
| 10:40 | Lesson 2 |
| 12:00 | Lunch |
| 13.00 | Lesson 3 |
| 14:15 | Break |
| 14:30 | Lesson 4 |
| 15.45 | Free-time |
| 16.45 | Be a Leader |
| 18:00 | Dinner |
| 18:45 | Evening activities |
| 20:15 | Free-time |
| 22:00 | Back to boarding |
| 23:00 | Lights out |
EXPLORERS: Teens Aged 13–14
Explorers do not just learn facts. They make connections, ask big questions and apply knowledge in creative and meaningful ways. Every day brings a new challenge, a new idea and a new way of seeing the world around you.
Through four lessons every day, the programme brings together STEAM, social studies, global awareness, communication skills and sport in a way that feels like discovery rather than school. You will build strong foundations for GCSE, IGCSE or MYP and develop critical thinking and confidence that will stay with you long after the summer ends.
At Sidcot, learning does not stop when lesson ends, it continues on the sports field and around the campfire.
Explorers: The Facts
| Age | 13-14 |
| Minimum Level of English | B1 on the CEFR |
| Maximum Class Size | 15 |
| Hours of Learning per week | 30 |
Learning is Exploration and Discovery
What does an Explorer actually do?
STEAM in Action
We bring science, technology, engineering, art and maths together to explore how the world works and how you can help shape its future. We will investigate real-world challenges through hands-on projects, creative problem solving and collaborative experimentation. From designing eco-solutions to exploring innovation and invention, you are encouraged to think critically, test ideas and reflect on the impact of choice. It's all about curiosity, working together and making connections across subjects
Social Studies and Global Perspectives
We invite you to explore big questions about the world we live in through the lens of geography, history, citizenship and global issues. You will investigate how societies function, why cultures differ and what it means to live ethically and responsibly in a connected world. Through discussion you will practice critical thinking, challenge assumptions, explore different viewpoints and develop informed opinions. It is not about what to think, but how to think
Communicate with Confidence
From classroom discussions to digital spaces, this block helps you develop the skills to express yourself clearly, confidently and responsibly. You explore everything from public speaking and team work to online safety, emotional wellbeing and navigating the digital world. We consider online identity, digital footprints, and developing a good personal brand. It's about learning to listen, post, present and think with purpose.
Movement and Wellbeing
This active block encourages students to take care of both body and mind. Through sport, fitness, health education and outdoor learning, you build physical confidence while exploring topics such as healthy habits, human biology, nutrition and mental wellbeing. Each day offers a different focus, keeping things fresh and engaging. With a balance of movement and reflection you develop resilience, teamwork and a deeper understanding of how lifestyle choices impact your learning and your lives
Explorers: Daily Schedule
| TIME | WHAT IS HAPPENING? |
|---|---|
| 7.00 | Wake up |
| 7.45 | Breakfast |
| 8.30 | Assembly |
| 9.00 | Lesson 1 - STEAM in action |
| 10.15 | Break |
| 10:40 | Lesson 2 - Social studies and global perspectives |
| 12:00 | Lunch |
| 13.00 | Lesson 3 - Communication with confidence |
| 14:15 | Break |
| 14:30 | Lesson 4 - Movement and wellbeing |
| 15.45 | Free-time |
| 16.45 | Be a Leader - My First Choices |
| 18:00 | Dinner |
| 18:45 | Whole camp evening activities and fun |
| 20:15 | Free-time |
| 22:00 | Back to boarding |
| 23:00 | Lights out |
PATHFINDERS: Young Learners Aged 11-12
Eleven and twelve are important ages. You are ready for more but the world does not always know it yet.
Pathfinders is a dedicated programme designed for young learners as they step into a new stage of learning with energy and potential. Every day builds confidence, develops new skills and shows them that their ideas and actions matter.
You will ask big questions, try things you have never tried and surprise yourself more than once. Our teachers know this age group and they know how to bring out the best in every student.
Pathfinders do not just find the path, they make it.
Pathfinders: The Facts
| Age | 11-12 |
| Minimum Level of English | B1 on the CEFR |
| Maximum Class Size | 15 |
| Hours of Learning per week | 30 |
Learning is an Adventure
Pathfinders get stuck into hands-on projects and real-world themes as they explore:
- STEAM
- Social Studies
- Communication
- Wellbeing and Teamwork
Cross-curricular project learning brings every class to life through four lessons a day on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Pathfinders: The Learning Details
STEAM in Action
In this fun and practical lesson block, student explore Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math through hands-on activities. From building bridges to designing simple machines or solving real-life problems, Pathfinders learn by doing. They ask questions, test ideas and discover how things work building early critical thinking and teamwork.
The World and Me
This block helps Pathfinders understand themselves and the world around them. Through storytelling, geography, history and global themes, they explore ideas like fairness, community, difference and change. Lessons are creative and discussion based, encouraging curiosity and empathy as students begin to connect local and global perspectives.
Confident Communicators
Communication comes in many forms - spoken, written, digital and emotional. In this block, students build confidence to speak up, work with others and understand themselves better. Topics include teamwork, friendships, managing feelings, online safety, mini presentations, helping them communicate clearly and kindly in person and online.
Move and Thrive
This block keeps students active and energised. From sports and fitness challenges to learning about healthy eating and the human body, students build physical confidence and learn how to take care of their wellbeing. Outdoor play and reflective activities support emotional health and positive habits.
Pathfinders: The Schedule
| TIME | WHAT IS HAPPENING? |
|---|---|
| 7.00 | Wake up |
| 7.45 | Breakfast |
| 8.30 | Assembly |
| 9.00 | Lesson 1 - STEAM in action |
| 10.15 | Break |
| 10:40 | Lesson 2 - The world and me |
| 12:00 | Lunch |
| 13.00 | Lesson 3 - Confident communicators |
| 14:15 | Break |
| 14:30 | Lesson 4 - Move and Thrive |
| 15.45 | Free-time |
| 16.45 | Be a Leader - My First Choices |
| 18:00 | Dinner |
| 18:45 | Whole camp evening activities and fun |
| 20:15 | Free-time |
| 22:00 | Back to boarding |
| 23:00 | Lights out |
LET'S TALK
Every great summer begins with one conversation. Our friendly team is ready to help.
BE A LEADER
Be a Leader is at the heart of every Academic Summer programme at Sidcot. Every student develops real leadership, communication and confidence skills in an exciting, adventurous and educational environment.
MEET A LEADER: Every week a professional from business, sport, medicine, law or the arts shares their personal journey. Real people, real stories and real inspiration for your own future.
DISCOVER YOURSELF: Through psychometric, aptitude and career tests. Students aged 15 to 17 receive the My Career Choice personalise report. Both give you a clearer picture of where your natural abilities, strengths and passions could take you.
LEADERSHIP SKILLS: Communication, teamwork, negotiation and confidence are introduced every morning in assembly and then developed through everything you do at Sidcot. In the classroom, on the field and around the fire. Activities include bushcraft, orienteering, archery and surfing as well as organising your own charity event.
LEAVE QUALIFIED Every Be a Leader student earns a CPD qualification, recognised professional development that goes straight onto your CV and university application.
ACADEMIC SUMMER BRISTOL LEISURE PROGRAMME 2027
Adventure, Culture and the Real England (see schedule)
Learning extends far beyond the classroom walls. The countryside is on your doorstep and we make the most of every single moment.
Every week is packed with adventure, culture and experiences that no city summer school could offer. Evenings on campus bring campfires, talent shows, international evenings, sports tournaments. karakoe and movie nights under the stars.
Every Wednesday we leave campus for a full day out. Thorpe Park, London and the Eden Project meaning each week is a completely different experience of Britain at its best.
At the weekends we go further. Stratford-upon-Avon, Oxford, Bath, Cardiff and a full surfing day are among our destinations. We also head to Cheddar Gorge which is one of England's most spectacular natural wonders.
DATES AND FEES
Dates and Fees 2027 Academic Summer Bristol
ACADEMIC SUMMER
Age 11-17
Sunday 11 July to Sunday 1 August 2027
£1,825 / PER WEEK
Includes tuition, teaching materials, accommodation, meals, insurance, laundry, airport transfers, trips and activities
Do you have questions about booking a place, transfers, visas or insurance? GENERAL FAQ
Do you have questions about the Learning: ACADEMIC FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS WESTCOUNTRY ADVENTURE
What makes WestCountry Adventure different from the London summer Schools?
WestCountry Adventure is set on 160 acres of British countryside at Sidcot School in the Mendip Hills, a world away from city life. As well as CLIL lessons, students take part in outdoor adventures including bushcraft, archery, orienteering, surfing and campfires. At Sidcot we offer a range of academic subjects so it is a learning adventure and we also have a Football Camp . Every Wednesday is a full day trip to Thorpe Park, London, Dorset Adventure Park or the Eden Project and weekends take students further to places like Bath, Oxford, Cardiff, Bournemouth, Stratford-Upon-Avon and Cheddar Gorge. It is the real England, in all its beauty and adventure.
Who will my child share a room with at Sidcot School with Academic Summer?
Most rooms at Sidcot are shared between two or three students, and we put students in bedrooms by age and language / nationality to encourage the use of English and new friendships. Single rooms are available for students aged 16 and above on a first-come basis. All boarding houses have their own lounge and kitchen and residential boarding houses feel like home. If you want to share a room with someone you are coming with you need to tell us when you book.
Can siblings share a room?
Yes — if you would like siblings to share a room, please let us know at the time of booking and we will do our best to accommodate this. Please note that standard room allocation pairs students by age and language, so we cannot guarantee room sharing unless requested in advance. We do room placement prior to arrival and it is not possible to make changes after arrival. If siblings are different ages it is a better experience if they share with people their own ages. They can make friends this way.
What does the London trip involve?
Every Wednesday Academic Summer students at Sidcot School leave campus for a full day out — one of those days during a two week stay is a trip to London. Students explore the city, taking in iconic landmarks and cultural experiences that connect to their learning. For students based at Sidcot, London is both a day trip and a chance to experience the energy of the city before returning to the peace and adventure of the countryside. Students have a full day in London and have chance to explore London with the Big Bus, go shopping in Oxford Street and enjoy dinner at DLD London.
Can my child go horse riding at Academic Summer?
Sidcot School has its own stables on campus, set in the beautiful Mendip Hills countryside. Horse riding is available as an optional extra. Please contact us for more information. info@academiccamp.org. Places are limited or not always available, so we recommend booking early.
Can my son or daughter change their timetable once they arrive?
For Engagers age 15+ their timetables are built around each student's subject choices before arrival. we ask all Engagers to choose at least eight subjects and indicate their priorities, so their personal timetable is ready and waiting when they get here. Students can check and confirm their timetable online before travelling.
Once at summer camp, timetables are fixed for the first week. After this, if your son or daughter would like to make a change, parents should email us to request this. Please note that all subjects are subject to availability as class sizes are a maximum of 15 and we cannot guarantee every request can be accommodated, but we will always do our best.
How do Engagers choose their subjects?
Engagers age 15-17 choose their own subjects before they arrive — this is their summer, so the timetable is built around what they want to study. We ask every student to choose at least eight subjects from our full list and indicate their priority choices. We then build a personal timetable around those choices, with four lessons every day.
Subjects available include Applied Maths, Art, Biology, Chemistry, Design and Technology, Economics, Business and Entrepreneurship, English, Environmental Systems and Societies, Essay Writing, Food Tech, History and Politics, Media Studies, Physics, Presentations and Interviews, Psychology, Sport and Fitness and Theory of Knowledge. Wow what a choice for students.
Students can check and confirm their timetable online before travelling so everything is exactly right before they arrive. All subjects are subject to availability as class sizes are a maximum of 15.
My child is 12 with a strong level of English — can they join the Explorers class?
We understand it is tempting to place a strong student with an older age group, but at Academic Summer students are placed by age rather than English level, and this is a deliberate decision. Pathfinders is specially designed for students aged 11–12 — the content, themes, teaching style and activities are all built around this age group and what they are ready for developmentally. A 12-year-old with strong English will do well in Pathfinders, be appropriately challenged and be with peers their own age. We understand that students of this age feel more grown up and want to be with older students but from our experience they are not ready. That is why we developed Pathfinders.
Our CLIL methodology means the level of thinking and challenge can always be adjusted within the class and strong students are never held back. The important the content and maturity is right for each age.
LET'S TALK
Every great summer begins with one conversation. Our friendly team is ready to help.
BOOK NOW
Please complete our online booking form to start your application