Explorers Summer Programme in Bristol, UK

Course Description: Explorers Summer Programme in Bristol, UK

Bristol Summer Programme: Explorers

Connect ideas, think critically, prepare for GCSE-level study 📚�*

The Explorers programme in Bristol is designed specifically for students aged 13 to 14 who are preparing for GCSE, IGCSE or MYP. It helps learners build strong academic habits, confidence in English and a broader understanding of how the world connects.

Set at a peaceful countryside boarding school in the Mendip Hills near Bristol, the environment is ideal for focused study, outdoor adventure and balanced personal growth. Explorers learn to question, collaborate, communicate and think critically — essential skills for young adults stepping into more advanced study.

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Location: Sidcot School, near Bristol 🌳

Students live, study and play on a charming and traditional British boarding school campus surrounded by nature.

Campus facilities include:

• Indoor swimming pool and sports hall

• Tennis courts and wide playing fields

• Art, Drama and Music classrooms

• Fully equipped science labs

• Library and dedicated workspaces

• Friendly campus café

• Horse riding facilities

• Modern dining spaces serving fresh meals

• Comfortable boarding houses with shared rooms (2–3 per room)

• Shared lounges, kitchens and social spaces

• Secure campus with 24/7 pastoral care

• Wi-Fi throughout

It offers a classic English boarding experience that feels safe, inspiring and welcoming.

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Academic Programme 🎒📘

Explorers follow a cross-curricular, project-based approach that links subjects together through real-world themes. Teaching is delivered through CLIL (Content and Language Integrated Learning), helping students strengthen academic English naturally while studying key content areas.

Age: 13–14

Minimum English level: B1

Class size: Maximum 15

Learning hours per week: ~30

Lessons connect subjects such as Science, Geography, Citizenship, English, Media and Health, encouraging young learners to think deeply, communicate clearly and work collaboratively.

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Your Four Learning Blocks 🔍✨

Each weekday includes four themed lesson blocks that build skills directly relevant to GCSE-level study.

1️⃣ STEAM in Action

Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths come together through hands-on challenges. Students investigate real problems, design solutions and learn to think like young innovators.

2️⃣ Social Studies & Global Perspectives

A blend of Geography, History, Ethics and Citizenship. Students explore culture, fairness, society, rights and global challenges — developing critical thinking and informed opinions.

3️⃣ Communicate with Confidence

Public speaking, teamwork, discussion skills, digital responsibility, identity and reputation. Students learn to express themselves clearly and think responsibly online and offline.

4️⃣ Movement & Wellbeing

Sport, outdoor learning, fitness, teamwork and personal resilience. Topics include nutrition, stress management, balance and healthy routines.

This structure supports academic growth while helping Explorers become confident, self-aware young people.

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Be a Leader 💪🌟

Leadership development is woven into the experience.

Explorers will:

• Build teamwork and communication skills

• Take responsibility in supportive settings

• Try outdoor challenges like bushcraft, orienteering and raft building

• Help plan and deliver a small charity event

• Hear from inspiring guest speakers

• Explore strengths and early career interests

• Earn a CPD-recognised leadership certificate

It helps students grow into capable, thoughtful young adults.

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Trips, Activities & Social Life 🚌🎡

Explorers enjoy a full cultural and adventure programme, with trips typically on Wednesdays, Saturdays and Sundays.

They will:

• Visit Bristol’s landmarks including Banksy’s street art, Brunel’s engineering and the SS Great Britain

• Explore Cheddar Gorge and the Mendip Hills through hiking and outdoor survival skills

• Enjoy high-energy activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, surfing and climbing

• Take a full-day trip to London (Southbank, Tate Modern, Tower Bridge, London Eye and major museums)

• Travel to historic cities such as Oxford, Bath, Cardiff and Stratford-upon-Avon

• Visit theme parks and coastal attractions

Evenings include BBQs, talent shows, quizzes, themed parties, campfires and international nights — a wonderful mix of fun and friendship.

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Daily Routine ⏰

A typical day includes:

• Wake-up and breakfast

• Morning assembly

• Two academic blocks

• Hot lunch

• Afternoon learning block or leadership activity

• Fresh-air movement or wellbeing session

• Dinner and evening activities

The days are structured, purposeful and full of variety.

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Care & Supervision 🛡️💛

• 24/7 supervision and pastoral care

• Boarding staff live on site

• No independent outings in the evenings

• Controlled independence during trips with clear boundaries

• Wellbeing, emotional support and safety at the centre

Parents can feel confident their child is supported, understood and safe.

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Dates, Fees & What’s Included 💷

Ages: 13–14

Length: 2 weeks

2026 Dates

• 5 July – 19 July

• 19 July – 2 August

• 2 August – 16 August

Fees

Boarding: £3,450 per two-week course

Includes:

• Tuition and materials

• Boarding accommodation

• All meals

• Laundry

• Insurance (boarding students)

• Heathrow transfers (09.00–17.00)

• All trips and activities

Day option: £875 per week

(Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri approx. 08:30–17:30)

Extras include weekend trips for day students, horse riding, extra nights and out-of-window transfers.

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Why Parents Choose the Explorers Programme ✔️

• Strong pre-GCSE academic preparation

• Project-based learning that builds critical thinking

• Academic English development through CLIL

• Safe countryside boarding with structured independence

• Exciting trips across England and Wales

• Leadership and resilience skills with a recognised certificate

• Ideal step between childhood learning and young adulthood 🌈

This is where students begin to see their potential — and step confidently toward their future.