Westonbirt Future Skills & English Summer School in Tetbury

Course Description: Westonbirt Future Skills & English Summer School in Tetbury

Set within one of England’s most spectacular stately homes in the heart of the Cotswolds, this programme offers students aged 10–16 an exceptional opportunity to experience British boarding school life while developing academic, language, and personal skills.

With nearly 100 years of experience welcoming international students, the programme combines high-quality teaching, immersive English practice, and world-class facilities with a dynamic and exciting activity schedule.

A unique feature is the integration with UK host students, allowing international students to practise English naturally throughout the day while building friendships and confidence in a truly authentic environment.

Key Information 📌

• Ages: 10–16 years

• Dates: 5 July – 2 August 2026

• Duration: Minimum 2 weeks

• Price: From £1,595 per week

• Class Size: Maximum 12 students

Each booking includes one on-site Academy, ensuring every student benefits from both academic development and specialist activity training.

Academic Programme 📚

Students choose from a range of morning academic pathways, each designed to combine subject learning with English development.

Academic Options (15 hours per week):

• English Language

• Artificial Intelligence & Future Technologies

• Leadership in Action

• Adventure Challenge

Each programme is delivered in small groups, ensuring a highly personalised and engaging learning experience.

English Language Programme 🧠

Designed for all levels (beginner to fluent), this programme focuses on building practical communication skills in a real English-speaking environment.

Students develop:

• Speaking and listening confidence through discussions and presentations

• Reading and writing using authentic materials

• Vocabulary through topic-based learning

• Critical thinking and reflection

• Intercultural awareness

Advanced learners benefit from a topic-based approach inspired by IB English, ensuring they remain challenged.

Artificial Intelligence & Future Technologies 🤖

Students are introduced to cutting-edge skills in a practical and engaging way.

• Juniors explore machine learning and coding foundations

• Seniors learn Python and real-world applications

Focus areas include:

• Ethical use of AI

• Innovation and problem-solving

• Programming and digital skills

• Future career readiness

Leadership in Action 🚀

A dynamic, challenge-based programme focused on developing leadership through real-world scenarios.

Students build:

• Strategic thinking and decision-making

• Public speaking and communication

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Conflict resolution and negotiation

• Personal confidence and leadership identity

Adventure Challenge 🌄

A hands-on outdoor programme combining leadership with adventure-based learning.

Activities include:

• Orienteering and navigation

• Raft building

• Bushcraft and survival skills

• Archery and climbing

Students develop resilience, teamwork, and confidence in a practical environment.

Team Project Challenge 🤝

Students participate in 4.5 hours per week of collaborative projects, working alongside UK students.

This is a core part of the programme, designed to:

• Encourage real-life communication

• Develop teamwork and creativity

• Strengthen confidence and social skills

Academies & Specialist Programmes 🎯

A defining feature of the programme is the exceptional range of high-quality Academies, delivered by specialist coaches using professional facilities.

Students receive up to 8 hours of Academy training per week, across four structured afternoon sessions, and work alongside UK host students to maximise language immersion and social interaction.

Each student selects one Academy per week.

Included Option: Multi-Activity Programme

Students who prefer variety can enjoy a flexible programme with multiple activities each afternoon.

Options may include:

• Football ⚽

• Basketball 🏀

• Swimming 🏊‍♂️

• Touch rugby

• Badminton

• Volleyball

• Fencing

• Water polo

• Arts & crafts 🎨

This option is ideal for students who want to explore new interests in a fun, social environment.

Specialist Academies (Optional Upgrade)

Cookery Academy 🍳

Students develop practical culinary skills in a modern, fully equipped teaching kitchen.

• Learn a range of classic and international dishes

• Develop core cooking techniques and kitchen confidence

• Understand food preparation, presentation, and hygiene

Each session is hands-on, with students preparing a new dish daily.

• Sessions: 4 × 2 hours per week

• Location: On-site

• Cost: £150 per week

Golf Academy ⛳

Set within Westonbirt’s own 9-hole golf course, this academy provides professional coaching for all abilities.

• Learn key techniques: driving, iron play, chipping, putting, bunker shots

• Develop precision, control, and course awareness

• Opportunity for experienced players to play full rounds

• Sessions: 4 × 2 hours per week

• Equipment: Clubs provided (students may bring their own)

• Location: On-site

• Cost: £150 per week

Tennis Academy 🎾

Led by experienced coaches, this academy is suitable for both beginners and advanced players.

• Focus on grip, forehand/backhand strokes, serving, and volleying

• Learn match strategy and court positioning

• Build fitness, coordination, and confidence

• Sessions: 4 × 2 hours per week

• Equipment: Rackets provided

• Location: On-site

• Cost: £150 per week

Performing Arts Academy 🎭

A creative and expressive programme combining music, drama, and dance, culminating in a performance.

• Develop stage presence, confidence, and teamwork

• Explore acting, movement, and vocal performance

• Prepare for a live showcase at the Talent Show

• Sessions: 4 × 2 hours per week

• Location: On-site

• Cost: £150 per week

Robotics Academy 🤖

A hands-on introduction to coding and engineering using micro:bits and LEGO® education kits.

• Learn block-based programming

• Build and control robotic systems

• Progress from simple commands to more complex functions

• Develop problem-solving and logical thinking

• Sessions: 4 × 2 hours per week

• Location: On-site

• Cost: £150 per week

Horse Riding Academy 🐎

Set in the renowned Cotswolds countryside, this academy offers a premium equestrian experience.

• Develop riding skills including walking, trotting, and cantering

• Improve balance, control, and confidence

• Enjoy a countryside ride (hack) through scenic landscapes

• Sessions: 4 × 45 minutes per week

• Equipment: Hat and boots available; suitable clothing required

• Location: Off-site riding school

• Cost:

• £275 per week (without kit)

• £350 per week (with kit hire)

Polo Academy 🏇

Delivered at the prestigious Beaufort Polo Club, one of the UK’s leading polo venues.

• Designed for experienced riders

• Learn polo techniques and gameplay

• Train in a world-class equestrian environment

• Sessions: 4 × 1 hour per week

• Equipment: Helmets provided (riding boots/trousers required)

• Location: Off-site

• Cost: £475 per week

Flying Academy (Ages 14+) ✈️

A truly unique opportunity to experience microlight aviation with professional instructors.

• Learn the fundamentals of flight theory

• Understand aircraft controls and manoeuvres

• Take part in three guided flights

• Explore airport operations and aviation environments

• Sessions: 4 × 2 hours per week (including 3 × 1-hour flights)

• Location: Cotswolds Airport

• Cost: £780 per week

• Note: Separate insurance required

Academy Experience 🌟

These academies are designed to offer more than just activities—they provide:

• Skill development in a chosen discipline

• Professional-level coaching and facilities

• Opportunities for confidence building and achievement

• A chance to discover new passions and interests

Combined with academic learning and cultural immersion, the Academy programme creates a truly well-rounded and premium summer experience.

Accommodation 🏡

Students stay in the impressive Westonbirt House, a historic stately home often compared to Hogwarts.

• Single rooms and shared dormitories (2–5 students)

• Older students prioritised for single rooms

• Comfortable and secure boarding environment

• Dedicated house staff providing full pastoral care

Meals 🍽️

Students enjoy high-quality catering in beautiful dining halls.

Daily meals include:

• Breakfast

• Mid-morning snack

• Lunch

• Afternoon snack

• Evening meal

• Late-night snacks

Menus are varied, nutritious, and cater to all dietary requirements. Packed lunches are provided during excursions.

Trips & Excursions 🌍

Students enjoy three excursions per week, exploring some of the UK’s most iconic destinations.

Full-Day Trips:

• London 🇬🇧

• Oxford 🎓

• Cardiff 🏰

Mid-Week Trips:

• Westonbirt Arboretum 🌳

• Cirencester

• Tetbury

• Gloucester

Sunday Trips:

• Bath 🏛️

• Bristol 🌆

• Cotswold Country Park & Beach 🏖️

Evening Programme 🌙🎉

Evenings are lively and social, helping students relax and build friendships.

Activities include:

• Talent shows 🎤

• Discos 💃

• Karaoke 🎶

• Film nights 🎬

• Campfires 🔥

• Quiz nights 🧠

• Mini Olympics 🏅

Facilities 🏊‍♂️

Students benefit from outstanding facilities, including:

• Indoor swimming pool

• 9-hole golf course

• Extensive sports grounds

• Performing arts spaces

• Modern classrooms

A Day in the Life ⏰✨

Each day is carefully structured to balance academic learning, activities, and social time, ensuring students remain engaged, energised, and supported throughout their experience.

Weekday Schedule

• 08:00 Breakfast 🍽️

  Start the day with a nutritious breakfast in the dining hall, preparing for a full day of learning and activities.

• 08:50 – 12:30 Academic Programme 📚

  Students take part in their chosen academic pathway (English, AI, Leadership or Adventure Challenge), with interactive lessons designed to build skills and confidence.

• 12:30 – 13:30 Lunch 🥗

  A relaxed lunch with friends, offering a variety of fresh and balanced options.

• 13:30 – 14:45 Integration Projects 🤝

  Students collaborate on team-based projects alongside UK host students, developing communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.

• 14:45 – 15:15 Refreshment Break ☕

  Time to recharge before the afternoon sessions.

• 15:15 – 18:00 Academies & Activities 🎯

  Students take part in their chosen Academy or Multi-Activity programme, developing new skills while enjoying a fun and social environment.

• 18:00 – 18:45 Dinner 🍽️

  A hearty evening meal shared with friends.

• 18:45 – 19:45 House Time 🏡

  Relaxation time in boarding houses, allowing students to unwind and connect with their house group.

• 19:45 – 21:00 Evening Activities 🎉

  A lively social programme including talent shows, games, discos, and team challenges.

Midweek & Weekend Variation 🌍

• Wednesday: Half-day excursion (cultural visits and local exploration)

• Saturday: Full-day excursion (London, Oxford, Cardiff)

• Sunday: Activities + half-day trip or arrivals/departures

This variety ensures a perfect mix of routine and adventure.

Environment 🌱

Students are supported in a positive, nurturing, and structured environment, where wellbeing is a top priority.

• Strong focus on pastoral care and emotional support

• Clear expectations for behaviour and respect

• Positive behaviour management approach

• Encouragement of independence within a supportive framework

This ensures every student feels safe, valued, and confident, even in a completely new environment.

Safety & Campus Security 🔒

Westonbirt provides a secure, self-contained campus, offering peace of mind for both students and parents.

• Fully supervised boarding environment

• Controlled campus access

• Detailed risk assessments for all activities and excursions

• Staff present at all times

Students live and learn in a setting designed to be both safe and empowering.

Mobile Phone Policy 📱

To encourage social interaction and full engagement:

• Phone use is limited to designated evening times

• Devices are connected to the school’s secure student network

• Phones are permitted during excursions

This approach helps students:

• Build real friendships

• Stay present in activities

• Avoid unnecessary online distractions

Student Support & Homesickness 💙

The programme recognises that younger students may be away from home for the first time.

• Experienced pastoral staff provide continuous support

• Friendly, approachable house teams

• Structured routines to help students settle quickly

• Support for both students and families

Staff are highly experienced in helping children overcome homesickness, ensuring a smooth and positive experience.

Airport Transfers ✈️

Premium Transfer Service

Available from:

• All London airports

• Bristol Airport

• London St Pancras International

Includes:

• Meet-and-greet inside the terminal

• Escort to transport

• Assistance with check-in on departure

• Shared transfers available for students travelling together

Timing:

• Staff meet students approximately 45 minutes after landing

• Immediate departure once collected

Standard Transfer Service

Available from Heathrow & Gatwick (Sundays only)

• Arrivals: 09:00 – 18:00

• Departures: 10:00 – 19:00

Includes:

• Meet-and-greet service

• Full supervision

• Assistance at check-in

Unaccompanied Minors ✈️

Support is available for students travelling alone.

• Assistance provided on arrival and departure

• Families must arrange airline UM service

• All required documentation must be provided in advance

What’s Included ✔️

• 15 hours of academic teaching per week

• Team Project Challenge sessions

• One on-site Academy

• Multi-activity programme

• Full board accommodation

• Three excursions per week

• All tuition and materials

• 24/7 supervision

The Experience 🌟

This programme offers a truly premium British summer school experience, combining:

• Academic development

• Real-world English immersion

• Specialist skill-building

• Cultural exploration

• Personal growth

Students leave with stronger skills, greater confidence, and unforgettable memories, having experienced life in one of England’s most beautiful and historic school settings.