Young Explorers Summer Camp at Camp Dragon in Oxford

Course Description: Young Explorers Summer Camp at Camp Dragon in Oxford

The Young Explorers Programme is a carefully designed residential summer experience for children aged 8–12, combining academic enrichment, creativity, adventure, and personal development in a warm and supportive environment. Set in Oxford, the programme introduces children to learning through exploration, teamwork, and real-world experiences, helping them build confidence, independence, and friendships from around the world.

The programme is particularly well suited to younger learners and first-time residential students, offering structured routines, high staff support, and a nurturing community that encourages children to feel safe, curious, and confident throughout their stay.

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Academic Learning & Structure

Students take 15 hours of structured lessons per week, delivered through interactive, hands-on sessions rather than traditional classroom teaching. Learning is fully immersive and conducted in English, allowing students to develop language skills naturally while engaging with a wide range of subjects.

Core academic areas include:

• English communication and storytelling

• Mathematics through puzzles and problem-solving

• Science through experiments and discovery

• History through creative projects and role play

• Art and design through hands-on workshops

Rather than relying on textbooks, learning is woven into every part of the day — from lessons and activities to meals and social time — encouraging children to use English confidently in real-life situations.

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The Daily Learning Journey

Each day follows a clear and engaging structure designed to balance learning, creativity, and fun:

Discover Children are introduced to new subjects through playful, hands-on activities such as experiments, escape-room challenges, and creative tasks. These sessions spark curiosity, teamwork, and imagination.

Develop Students build deeper understanding through guided activities linked to themes, excursions, and practical tasks. Language skills are strengthened as children practise explaining ideas, giving opinions, and presenting their work.

Dare Unexpected workshops and challenges encourage students to step outside their comfort zones. Activities may include STEM challenges, music workshops, coding, or creative problem-solving, helping children build confidence and resilience.

Showtime Learning is celebrated through group events such as talent shows, themed challenges, and collaborative performances. Children showcase what they’ve learned while developing presentation skills, teamwork, and self-belief.

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Sample Themed Days

Science Day Students explore cause and effect through exciting experiments such as fizzing reactions, invisible ink, and material testing. The day often includes museum visits and concludes with a lively science quiz that reinforces teamwork and critical thinking.

History Day Children step back in time to explore medieval life through creative design, engineering challenges, and outdoor games. Activities include building models, testing defences, and presenting historical projects as a team.

These themed days make academic concepts tangible, memorable, and fun.

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Activities & Evenings

Evenings offer a wide choice of supervised activities, including:

• Sports and team games

• Arts and crafts

• STEM challenges

• Performances and creative showcases

• Relaxed options such as board games and nature walks

This balance allows children to unwind, explore interests, and bond with new friends in a relaxed social setting.

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Excursions & Adventures

The programme includes exciting off-campus experiences designed to bring learning to life, such as:

• Exploring Oxford’s museums and cultural landmarks

• Visiting historical sites like Warwick Castle

• Optional themed attractions that combine creativity, storytelling, and engineering

These trips encourage independence, cultural curiosity, and real-world language practice.

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Who Is This Programme For?

The Young Explorers Programme is ideal for:

• Children aged 8–12 seeking a fun and educational summer experience

• First-time residential students who benefit from high levels of care and structure

• Curious learners who enjoy hands-on activities and creative challenges

• Students looking to build confidence in English in a supportive, international setting

Students typically come from over 35 nationalities, creating a truly global community.

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Safety, Care & Wellbeing

Student wellbeing is central to the programme. Children are supported 24/7 by trained staff who live on site and guide students through daily routines. Clear structures, small groups, and consistent pastoral care ensure that each child feels secure, supported, and valued throughout their stay.

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Key Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students will have:

• Increased confidence communicating in English

• Improved teamwork and social skills

• Greater independence and resilience

• Enhanced curiosity, creativity, and problem-solving abilities

• Positive memories and international friendships

Adventure awaits our young explorers aged 8–12. At Camp Dragon, excursions are more than just trips — they are a core part of the Learning Programme, designed to bring classroom topics to life through hands-on discovery and unforgettable experiences.

Each adventure is carefully planned so campers explore ideas in lessons first, then experience them in the real world. From iconic landmarks and immersive attractions to historic cities and castles, every journey sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and creates lasting memories. Get ready for a summer filled with exploration, excitement, and the joy of learning through adventure.

*� Oxford City Adventure

Oxford – Open-Top Bus Tour

All aboard! Campers explore the historic city of Oxford on an exciting open-top bus tour, taking in world-famous landmarks, stunning architecture, and the atmosphere of one of the UK’s most iconic university cities. This adventure helps bring history and learning to life in a fun, engaging way — all seen in true Camp Dragon style.

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*� Step Back in Time at Warwick Castle

Campers travel back to the Middle Ages with a visit to Warwick Castle, a spectacular fortress packed with thrilling shows, dramatic history, and beautiful grounds. From towers and battlements to immersive performances, this excursion turns history into an exciting, hands-on adventure.

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*� Creative Fun at LEGOLAND Windsor

An action-packed day awaits at LEGOLAND Windsor, where campers enjoy themed rides, interactive attractions, and creative LEGO experiences. This high-energy excursion blends imagination, problem-solving, and teamwork — all while having lots of fun.

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⭐ Optional Extra Adventure

*� Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studios

Warner Bros. Harry Potter Studio Tour

Enter the enchanting world of Harry Potter! This optional excursion invites campers to step behind the scenes of the famous films, explore spellbinding sets, discover iconic props, and uncover the secrets of movie-making magic. A must-visit experience for every young wizard and witch.

Price: £225

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What’s Included in the Programme Fee ✔️

• Comfortable accommodation and three meals per day

• 15 hours of lessons per week

• Progress report and end-of-course certificate

• Three full-day excursions per two-week course (transport and entry fees included)

• Full activity and social programme

• Laundry service

• Certificate

• Comprehensive travel insurance

Airport transfers are available at an additional cost.

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Discover Our Oxford Summer Camp 🌟�*

Designed by language learning experts and experienced play workers, our Oxford Summer Camp offers a joyful, immersive experience for children aged 8–12 from around the world. At Camp Dragon, students are encouraged to be Safe, Brave, and Curious, helping them grow in confidence while having fun every day.

Rather than traditional classroom-based English lessons, learning happens naturally and continuously. We don’t use coursebooks. Instead, every moment — from activities and games to mealtimes and play — becomes an opportunity to develop English in real-life contexts. This approach helps children use new language confidently, without pressure, while exploring, experimenting, and learning through experience.

Camp Dragon is a warm, supportive community where children feel empowered to try new things, make mistakes, and celebrate progress. Along the way, they form friendships with peers from around the world and enjoy an action-packed summer in Oxford.

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Accommodation �*

Students stay at Camp Dragon, a welcoming residential campus designed specifically for younger learners. The accommodation is safe, comfortable, and community-focused, with staff supervision throughout the day and night to ensure students feel secure and supported.

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Facilities & Campus Life 🎨⚽

The campus offers a wide range of child-friendly facilities that support learning, play, and creativity:

• 🛝 Adventure Playground

• 🎨 Art Studio

• 📚 Classrooms

• 🛏️ Dorm Rooms

• 🛋️ House Common Rooms

• 🧺 Laundry Service

• 🍽️ Modern Dining Hall

• 🌿 Playing Fields

• 🚿 Shared Bathrooms

• 🏀 Sports Hall

• 🏊 Swimming Pool

• 🎭 Theatre

• 📶 Wi-Fi

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A Truly Global Experience �*

Children at Camp Dragon meet and learn alongside peers from many different countries, building cultural awareness, friendships, and confidence in a lively international setting — all while enjoying a memorable summer in Oxford.

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Immersive Learning Experience 🌈�*

The Young Explorers programme is thoughtfully designed to develop language skills through exciting themes and play-based learning. Rather than relying on traditional classroom-style English lessons, the programme focuses on teaching the functional, everyday language students need to fully participate in each activity and moment of the day.

Learning is woven naturally into the experience through fun, creative activities rooted in primary school subjects. Our dynamic Discover, Develop, and Dare sessions spark imagination, encourage exploration, and help students build confidence as they use English in meaningful, real-life contexts.

At the heart of the programme are the Camp Dragon values: Safe, Brave, and Curious 🐉✨ Students are encouraged to look out for one another, practise kindness, and contribute to a positive, inclusive community. Making mistakes in English is celebrated as a natural and important part of learning, helping children feel confident to experiment with language.

We nurture an environment where students feel safe to try, brave to challenge themselves, and curious about the world around them—from discovering new cultures and ideas to finding the words they need in the moment. This approach ensures that learning is not only effective, but also joyful, memorable, and empowering.

Are Parents or Guardians Able to Visit Students at Camp Dragon? 👨‍👩‍👧‍�*

We understand that parents and guardians may wish to visit their child during their time at Camp Dragon.

Visits are possible, but must be arranged in advance through your dedicated Admissions Manager, with at least 24 hours’ notice. This allows us to plan appropriately and ensure the visit runs smoothly.

Where possible, we aim to minimise disruption to the student’s summer school experience. Your Admissions Manager will advise on the most suitable time to visit, so that students can continue to enjoy their activities while still spending quality time with family.

This approach helps us maintain a safe, well-organised environment while ensuring students make the most of their exciting and immersive programme.

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Accommodation 🏡�*

At Camp Dragon, all students live in purpose-built accommodation designed specifically for younger learners. Students stay in shared dormitories with shared bathroom facilities, creating a friendly, community-focused environment that supports both comfort and language development.

Dormitories typically have four to nine beds, giving students plenty of opportunities to practise speaking English naturally throughout the day with their peers. Each student has their own designated storage space for personal belongings, helping them feel settled and organised.

Pastoral care is a priority. Staff are present in the accommodation day and night, providing continuous supervision and support. Boys and girls are housed in separate houses, and each house features a large communal area and garden, where students can relax, play, and socialise together during designated MeTime.

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Campus Location: The Dragon School 🐉�*

Camp Dragon is hosted at The Dragon School, located in North Oxford. Founded in 1877, the school began as a small institution for the children of Oxford University lecturers and has grown into one of the UK’s most respected preparatory schools for day and boarding students aged 4–13.

The campus combines historic character with modern, state-of-the-art facilities, including science laboratories, art studios, a theatre, and extensive sports fields. Its inspiring environment has shaped many notable former pupils—known affectionately as Old Dragons—including Emma Watson, Jack Whitehall, Bear Grylls, and Tom Hiddleston.

With its central location close to Oxford city centre, rich heritage, and excellent facilities, The Dragon School provides an inspiring and secure setting for Camp Dragon. Guided by its ethos to “inspire, encourage and develop free-thinking, confident young people who reach for the sun,” the campus perfectly supports the values and spirit of the programme.

MEALS

Meals are served in the dining hall, offering a varied menu of British and international cuisine. Dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, halal, allergies, etc.) can be accommodated when requested in advance.

*� A Day in the Life at Camp Dragon

Every day at Camp Dragon is carefully structured to balance play-based learning, creativity, adventure, and rest, helping young learners feel safe, confident, and excited from morning to night.

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*� Morning: Wake-Up & Getting Ready (07:00–09:00)

Campers wake up in their boarding houses and get ready for the day with support from residential staff. After washing and dressing, students head to breakfast with their housemates, enjoying a nutritious meal that fuels them for the day ahead.

Breakfast is a relaxed, social time where campers chat with friends and practise English naturally in a friendly setting.

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*� Rise & Shine (09:00–09:30)

The day begins with Rise and Shine, a gentle, energetic start designed to wake bodies and minds. Through light movement, games, and group activities, students ease into the day feeling positive, included, and ready to learn.

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*� Morning Learning: Discover & Develop Sessions (09:30–12:30)

Morning learning is split into two engaging blocks:

Discover Session (09:30–10:30) Campers explore exciting themes such as English, Science, History, Art, Drama, Music, or Maths through games, storytelling, hands-on activities, and group challenges.

Play Break (10:30–11:00) A supervised play break allows students to burn off energy outdoors or relax with friends.

Develop Session (11:00–12:30) Students build on what they’ve discovered by applying new ideas in creative ways—writing poems, performing drama scenes, designing projects, running experiments, or working collaboratively on themed challenges.

Learning is always active, fun, and practical, helping students gain confidence using English in real situations.

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*�️ Lunch & Midday Relaxation (12:30–13:30)

Campers enjoy a balanced lunch in the dining hall, followed by time to relax, chat, or take part in calm supervised activities. This break helps students recharge before the afternoon’s adventures.

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*� Afternoon Learning & Activities: Dare Sessions (13:30–15:00)

Afternoons focus on Dare sessions, where students are encouraged to be brave, try new things, and step outside their comfort zones. Activities may include creative workshops, sports, performances, science shows, talent preparation, or themed group challenges.

These sessions reinforce Camp Dragon’s values of being Safe, Brave, and Curious.

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*� Afternoon Play & ShowTime! (15:00–17:00)

Play Break (15:00–15:30) Another chance for free play and relaxation.

ShowTime! (15:30–17:00) One of the most exciting parts of the day! Campers take part in high-energy group games, performances, themed events, or team challenges such as treasure hunts, Olympic-style games, talent shows, or creative showcases.

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*�‍♀️ MeTime & Wind-Down (17:00–18:15)

After a busy day, students enjoy MeTime, a calm period to relax in their houses or gardens. Campers may read, draw, chat quietly, or take part in low-key supervised activities. This downtime helps students rest and reset before the evening.

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*�️ Dinner (18:15–19:00)

Dinner is served in the dining hall, offering a variety of child-friendly and international options. Staff are present to support students and ensure everyone feels comfortable and included.

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*� Evening Activities (19:00–20:30)

Evenings are all about fun and friendship. Activities might include:

• Games nights

• Film or pizza nights

• Disco or themed events

• Creative workshops

• Group challenges

These shared experiences help campers build friendships and create lasting memories.

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*� Bedtime Routine (20:30–21:00)

Campers return to their boarding houses to prepare for bed. With guidance from residential staff, students wind down, get ready for sleep, and settle into their rooms.

A consistent bedtime routine ensures everyone is well-rested and ready for another exciting day.

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*� Lights Out & Overnight Care

Once lights are out, students sleep in their shared dormitories. Residential staff remain on duty throughout the night, providing reassurance and support whenever needed.

*� A Day in the Life of a Day Student (Camp Dragon) 🌞�*

Ages 8–12

Day students at Camp Dragon are fully immersed in the learning and activity programme while enjoying the flexibility of returning home each evening. Parents can choose an early or later collection time, depending on whether their child stays for dinner and evening activities.

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*� Morning Arrival & Breakfast (08:15–09:00)

08:15 – Arrival on Campus Day students arrive at Camp Dragon and check in with staff.

08:15–09:00 – Breakfast 🍳 (Optional) Day students may join boarding students for breakfast in the dining hall, offering a calm, social start to the day and a chance to practise English naturally with friends.

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*� Morning Learning: Discover & Develop Sessions (09:00–12:30)

09:00–10:30 – Discover Session ✨ Students explore exciting themes through play-based learning, storytelling, games, and hands-on activities that encourage curiosity and confidence in English.

10:30–11:00 – Morning Break ☀️ Supervised outdoor play and relaxation time.

11:00–12:30 – Develop Session �* Campers build on what they’ve learned through creative projects, teamwork, drama, art, problem-solving, and real-world language use.

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*�️ Lunch & Midday Break (12:30–13:30)

12:30–13:00 – Lunch �* A nutritious lunch shared with fellow campers.

13:00–13:30 – Free Time 🌤️ Supervised downtime to relax, chat with friends, or take part in calm activities before the afternoon programme.

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*� Afternoon Learning & Activities: Dare Sessions (13:30–17:00)

13:30–15:00 – Dare Session 🎭⚽ Creative, sporty, and confidence-building activities that encourage students to try new things, collaborate, and be brave in a supportive environment.

15:00–15:30 – Afternoon Break �* A chance to recharge with supervised play.

15:30–17:00 – ShowTime! �* High-energy group games, performances, themed challenges, or fun competitions that bring the Camp Dragon community together.

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*� Supervised Free Time (17:00–18:15)

After the afternoon activities, students enjoy supervised free time on campus. This downtime allows campers to relax, socialise, read, draw, or unwind quietly while staff remain present and attentive at all times.

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*� Early Collection Option (17:30)

Parents may choose to collect their child at 17:30 during the supervised free-time period.

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*�️ Dinner & Evening Activities (18:15–20:30)

18:15–19:00 – Dinner (Optional for Day Students) 🍽️ Day students may stay on campus to enjoy dinner with boarding students.

19:00–20:30 – Evening Social Programme �* Evening activities may include games nights, themed events, discos, creative workshops, or group challenges — all supervised and designed to be fun, inclusive, and age-appropriate.

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*� Late Collection Option (20:30)

Students who stay for dinner and evening activities are collected by parents at 20:30 and sign out with a member of staff.

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English Language Requirements �*

Students must have a minimum English level of A2+  or above. Specific course requirements may vary.

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Transfers & Arrival Information ✈️

Supervised transfer services are available from Heathrow Airport and St Pancras International Station.

Arrival & Departure Windows:

• Arrival (Flights): 6:00 am – 5:00 pm

• Departure (Flights): 11:00 am – 6:00 pm

• Arrival (Train): 10:00 am – 12:00 pm

• Departure (Train): 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm

Students are transported using:

• Staffed private coach

• Staffed minibus

• Staffed taxi

The transport method is determined by group size and arrival times.

Upon arrival, a staff member will greet students, provide refreshments, and escort them to the school.

Transfer booking deadline: 28 days before the course start date.

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Teaching & Academic Staff 👩‍🏫👨‍�*

Teachers are carefully selected for their qualifications, experience, and ability to work with international students.

• English teachers are fully qualified EFL specialists

• Subject tutors include experienced teachers, university lecturers, postgraduate specialists, and expert tutors

• Recent graduates and postgraduates contribute up-to-date academic insight and advice on university applications

Many staff return year after year, reflecting high teaching standards and programme quality. The programme has received British Council recognition for strengths in teaching, course design, safeguarding, and student care.

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Support & Student Welfare 🛡️

Student safety and wellbeing are our highest priorities. All staff, volunteers, and visitors follow strict Safeguarding and Child Protection policies, and every team member receives comprehensive training before the programme begins.

Students live in secure boarding houses, each overseen by:

• A dedicated House Parent

• A team of residential staff available 24/7

This structure ensures students feel supported, respected, and cared for at all times, giving families complete peace of mind.

Do You Need a Visa to Attend?

Checking whether you need a visa to attend one of our summer courses is quick and straightforward. We recommend using the UK Government’s official visa checker to confirm the requirements for your nationality.

From 2025, most visitors travelling to the UK for short-term study will need either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA).

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Standard Visitor Visa

If you do require a visa, the appropriate option for attending our courses is the Standard Visitor Visa.

This visa allows students to take part in short-term educational programmes in the UK.

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EU, EEA & Swiss Nationals

Citizens of the EU, EEA, and Switzerland can continue to travel to the UK for holidays or short visits without applying for a visa. This policy remains unchanged following Brexit.

However, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) may still be required (see below).

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Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

If you do not need a visa for a short stay in the UK, you may be required to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) instead.

Key ETA Dates

• From 8 January 2025 Eligible non-European visitors will need an ETA to enter the UK.

• From 5 March 2025 Eligible European nationals will be able to apply for an ETA.

• From 2 April 2025 Eligible Europeans will need an ETA to travel to the UK.

• From April 2025 All visitors who do not need a visa and do not already hold UK immigration status will require an ETA.

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ETA Cost & Processing Time

• Cost: £10 (expected to rise to £16 in the coming months)

• Processing time: Typically up to 3 days, though some applications may take longer

We strongly recommend applying well in advance of travel.

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Digital eVisa

Some travellers may be eligible for a digital eVisa instead of a physical visa. Eligibility and application details can be checked on the UK Government website.

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Where to Apply & Get More Information

• Check if you need a visa or ETA using the UK Government visa checker

• Learn more about ETAs and eligibility on the UK Government website

• Apply for an ETA via the official UK Government application page