Inside Academic Summer 2026: What to Expect This Year

Academic Summer (also known as Academic Camp) offers students aged 7–17 the chance to combine academic study with cultural exploration in the UK and Canada.

Accredited by the BAC and a member of Quality English, it uses a CLIL approach to build both subject knowledge and English skills. 

With campuses in London, Bristol, and New Brunswick, it promises a mix of city life, traditional boarding, and international immersion.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to Academic Summer.

Course Breakdown

Note: Check their official website for their current pricing.

Why Choose Academic Summer?

Academic Summer positions itself as a bridge between school and higher education, offering more than just subject revision. Its Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) approach ensures that students practice English in an academic context, boosting both subject mastery and language confidence.

A defining feature is the “Be a Leader” strand, where students work towards a CPD-certified qualification in teamwork, presentation skills, and leadership. 

This structured personal development makes Academic Summer attractive to families seeking both academic progress and transferable skills.

The schools also highlight their international mix, students from 60+ nationalities attend, creating an environment that mirrors the diversity of modern universities.

Immerse Education’s London programmes also provide the chance to live and learn in the heart of a world-class academic city. 

Students stay in modern UCL residences, study in small tutorial groups led by university-level tutors, and take part in cultural excursions across the capital. 

In addition, Immerse provides scholarships and bursaries to widen access, accredited pathways awarding UCAS points or US college credit, and a global alumni network that supports students long after the programme ends. 

Key Features of Academic Summer

Academic Summer follows a CLIL teaching philosophy, integrating language learning with subject study in classes of 12–15 students. 

The Bristol campus provides around 30 hours of weekly learning for ages 13–17, while London City’s Career Pathways are more intensive at 40 hours. 

Accommodation varies by location: David Game College in London offers modern single or ensuite rooms with refurbished labs and even part of London’s Roman Wall, while Sidcot School in Bristol provides a traditional boarding setting with shared rooms for younger students and singles prioritised for those aged 16+. 

Daily life is highly structured, with Bristol timetables including assemblies, lessons, leadership sessions, and evening activities, while London blends academics with cultural excursions such as visits to the Tower of London and weekend trips to Oxford or Cambridge. 

Across all sites, students are supervised around the clock, with carefully managed free time during excursions.

Advantages

• Accessible admissions: no competitive selection; English level B1/B2 for older groups.
• Wide age range: accepts students as young as 7 (rare in UK summer schools).
• Flexible locations:
  • Westminster (day): for London-based families
  • Bristol: traditional boarding setting with extensive facilities
  • City: urban, career-focused independence
• Discounts: early-bird savings before Dec 31.
• Flexible durations: 1–2 week blocks, combinable.
• International appeal: CLIL scaffolding supports non-native speakers.

Disadvantages

• Less competitive: not ideal for students seeking selective, high-achievement cohorts.
• Class size: up to 15—larger than tutorial-style alternatives.
• Intensity: 30–40 hrs/week may feel impersonal without close mentorship.
• Limited funding: only early-bird discounts; no scholarships/financial aid.
• Breadth over depth: wide-ranging curriculum but lacks subject specialisation.
• Location limits: 3 UK sites + 1 in Canada; fewer global options.
• Environment fit:
  • London: may overwhelm younger learners
  • Bristol: may feel isolated for students seeking city life

Academic Summer vs Immerse Education

Immerse Education offers three core pathways: Academic Insights, Career Insights, and the Online Research Programme (ORP), combining university-style learning, real-world experience, and one-to-one research mentorship across global locations.

Is Academic Summer Worth It?

Academic Summer offers strong value for families seeking a safe and international summer school that balances academics with enrichment. 

It is particularly attractive for younger learners (7–14) or international students developing academic English, with distinctive features such as leadership qualifications and career tasters that encourage confidence and transferable skills. 

The diverse student body also creates a multicultural environment where participants grow socially as well as academically, while residential settings ensure structured learning combined with fun activities and excursions.

However, for older students (15–18) aiming for elite university applications, the lack of small-group tutorials and advanced academic credit may be a drawback. 

In such cases, Immerse’s Academic Insights or Career Insights programmes may provide a more rigorous, personalised edge.

Alternatives to Academic Summer

If you’re considering Academic Summer, you may also want to compare:

• Immerse Education – Academic Summer School: Oxbridge-style teaching with subject depth (ages 13–18).
• Immerse Education – Career Insights: project-based, career-focused programmes in cities like London, New York, and San Francisco.
• Immerse Education – Online Research Programme: 1:1 research mentorship with PhD tutors, offering sustained engagement beyond two weeks.
• Oxford Royale Academy: traditional boarding model with diverse subjects and cultural excursions.
• King’s College London Pre-University Summer School: selective courses for older students seeking a Russell Group environment.

How to Apply for Academic Summer

1. Choose & Apply – Pick your programme, location, and dates, then fill out the online booking form.
2. Secure Your Place – Pay the £500 deposit to confirm your spot.
3. Prepare Documents – Review T&Cs, upload details in the portal, and (if needed) apply for your visa with the support letter provided.
4. Finalise & Plan – Select your subjects, book travel, and pay the remaining balance 5 weeks before the course.
5. Get Ready – Take the English assessment, check the student handbook, pack your bags, and you’re set to go.

Final Thoughts

Academic Summer provides an international, accredited, and broad-based summer school experience, particularly strong for younger learners and those needing English support. Its leadership strand and career pathways add value beyond standard subject classes.

Yet, for students who prefer smaller classes, close academic mentorship, or highly specialised pathways, Immerse Education offers a stronger alternative. 

With programmes in Cambridge, Oxford, London, and global cities, Immerse blends rigorous academics with cultural immersion and career-focused experiences—designed to prepare ambitious learners for success at university and beyond.