My Under 12 Needs A Summer School To Go To

If you’re a parent searching for the perfect summer school for your child, you’re certainly not alone. Every year, thousands of families look for programmes that combine learning, adventure and fun, but with so many options available, knowing where to start can feel overwhelming.

The good news is that there are some fantastic summer schools across the UK that cater specifically for younger students aged 12 and under. Whether your child dreams of becoming a scientist, loves getting creative, enjoys outdoor adventures or simply wants to improve their English, there’s something to suit every interest.

Here are four excellent options from different providers to help narrow your search.

For Young Adventurers: Camp Dragon

If your child has endless energy and loves trying new activities, Young Explorers at Camp Dragon (ages 8–12) is an excellent choice. Based in Oxford, this programme combines exciting outdoor adventures with educational experiences, giving children the chance to build confidence, make new friends and create unforgettable summer memories.

This camp is an ideal choice for curious children who enjoy being active and exploring new challenges.

Best for: Children who love adventure, outdoor activities and trying something new.

Duration: Two weeks.

Experience level: No previous experience required – just enthusiasm, curiosity and a willingness to get involved.

Parent Review:

The staff are not only highly skilled but also incredibly kind and nurturing, creating a warm and welcoming environment for young learners. Camp Dragon. 

What Your Child Will Achieve

By the end of the programme, your child will have developed greater confidence, independence and curiosity through a unique blend of academic learning and hands-on challenges. They’ll strengthen key skills in teamwork, communication and creative problem-solving while exploring subjects including English, maths, science, history, art and design. The Discover, Develop, Dare and Showtime approach encourages children to think independently, collaborate with others and take pride in presenting what they’ve achieved. Beyond the classroom, evening activities provide opportunities to discover new interests, build friendships and create lasting memories.

For Future Innovators: Oxford Summer Courses

For children fascinated by science and technology, Technology Explorers (11–12 Years Old) from Oxford Summer Courses offers a hands-on introduction to coding, digital skills and problem-solving in a supportive learning environment.

It is well suited to young inventors, gamers and tech enthusiasts eager to learn how technology shapes our world.

Best for: Young coders, problem-solvers and children interested in technology and innovation.

Duration: Around one week.

Experience level: No previous technical knowledge required – the course is designed for beginners aged 11–12.

Parent Review:

From the moment of registration to the end of the graduation ceremony, everything was so well organised. Our daughter loved the programme and came home inspired and full of enthusiasm. (Oxford Summer Courses)

What Your Child Will Achieve

By the end of the programme, your child will have gained a strong introduction to technology through hands-on projects in programming, electronics, design and engineering. They’ll develop logical thinking, creativity and problem-solving skills while working collaboratively on real-world challenges. Through interactive lessons, group projects and expert guidance, students also build confidence, communication skills and independent learning habits, leaving inspired to explore the exciting possibilities of technology in the future.

For Future Healthcare Heroes: Oxford Scholastica Academy

If your child is curious about medicine and wants to discover what studying medicine or becoming a doctor is really like, Discover Medicine Academy (ages 8–12) from Oxford Scholastica Academy offers an engaging introduction to the subject. Students explore key clinical skills, medical theory and real-life medical experience through Oxford-style teaching, practical challenges and debates in small classes led by expert tutors.

Alongside four hours of academic sessions each day, students take part in masterclasses, excursions and activities around Oxford, while meeting like-minded students from around the world.

Best for: Young learners interested in medicine, science and discovering what life as a doctor is really like.

Duration: Two weeks.

Experience level: No previous medical knowledge is required. The course is designed as an introduction to medicine for younger learners.

What Your Child Will Achieve

By the end of the programme, your child will have developed a better understanding of what studying medicine and becoming a doctor involves. Through Oxford-style teaching, practical challenges and debates, they’ll be introduced to key clinical skills, medical theory and real-life medical experiences in an engaging, age-appropriate way. They’ll also learn alongside like-minded students from around the world, receive a graduation certificate and a personalised letter of recommendation to celebrate their achievements.

For Budding Linguists and Adventurers: Bucksmore Education

If your child wants to improve their English while enjoying exciting outdoor activities, English Plus Adventure (ages 11–15) from Bucksmore Education offers the perfect balance of language learning and adventure. Alongside English tuition, students take part in activities such as kayaking, sailing, indoor climbing, bushcraft, archery and treetop adventures, helping them build confidence while learning in a fun and supportive environment.

The course combines academic tutorials, conversation classes, group projects and hands-on excursions, allowing students to develop their English both inside and outside the classroom.

Best for: Young learners who want to improve their English while enjoying outdoor adventure activities and developing new skills.

Duration: Two or four weeks.

Experience level: Suitable for motivated students looking to develop their English language skills while taking part in adventure activities. No previous adventure experience is required.

What Your Child Will Achieve

By the end of the programme, your child will have strengthened their English language skills through academic tutorials, conversation classes, group projects and immersive learning experiences. They’ll also develop confidence, teamwork and resilience through a range of outdoor adventure activities, while enhancing their creativity, problem-solving and leadership skills. Their English progress is assessed at the end of the course using Bucksmore Assessment, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR).

What parents say: The organisation was excellent and the teaching was outstanding. My child came home more confident, with improved English and friendships they’ll remember for years. (Bucksmore Education)

 

Choosing the Right Summer School

When choosing a summer school, think about what excites your child the most. Consider whether the programme matches their interests, whether the age range is suitable, and whether they would enjoy an academic course, an adventure-based programme or a more creative experience. It’s also worth deciding if they would be happier staying away from home or attending a day programme.

The best summer school isn’t necessarily the most expensive or the most prestigious. It’s the one where your child will feel happy, challenged and inspired.

See below for links to these courses.