Provider Overview
Since its foundation in 2009, Summer Boarding Courses has welcomed over 12,000 students to its summer courses in Oxford and other prestigious UK destinations. For young learners aged 13-16, SBC’s Headington Summer School offers the chance to study in one of Oxford’s most prestigious schools while learning English combined with a range of other subjects. For students aged 15-17, the Oxford College Summer school offers more intensive (25 hours tuition per week) courses in Medicine, Law, Business and International Relations. All courses have an academic focus, but it’s not all work and no play: students aged 13-16 at Headington can expect at least three excursions to local cities of interest, while those aged 15-17 in Oxford can expect at least two. All students enjoy a varied social programme, including sports and local excursions, to fill free time during the afternoons and evenings.
Programmes
Summer Boarding Courses programme groups currently available in the catalogue.
Summer Boarding Courses FAQs
Where will I be staying?
Students stay in high-quality boarding school or university-style accommodation, usually in single or shared rooms. Facilities are modern and safe, with common areas for socializing. Boys and girls are accommodated separately, and staff are always nearby.
How many hours of tuition are provided?
SBC generally offers 15 to 20 hours of tuition per week, depending on the course, combining taught components and skills based group project work. At Oxford College and Dukes Cambridge 25 hours of tuition are offered weekly, combining lectures, seminars, tutorials, and industry experience sessions.
What level of English do I need?
SBC welcomes students of all English proficiency levels, from beginner to advanced. Placement tests are conducted in advance of student arrival to ensure students are placed in the appropriate class for their ability.
What supervision is provided?
SBC ensures a high level of supervision. There is a dedicated team of welfare staff to supervise students 24/7. Staff-to-student ratios are typically high to ensure students are supported both academically and pastorally.
Are airport transfers provided?
Earlscliffe fees include return transfers to/from London Heathrow and London Gatwick for flights/trains scheduled to arrive/depart between 9am-3pm on published arrival and departure days.
For other locations, students are provided with the option of using SBC's Shared Transfer Service from/to London Heathrow Airport and St. Pancras International.
When a student arrives, an SBC staff member wearing a bright yellow t-shirt will be waiting to greet her/him and accompany them to our Welcome Club. At Welcome Club, she/he will have the chance to meet other students arriving, have some light refreshments and relax. After a little rest, students will be accompanied by students and SBC staff to board the coach and be taken directly to the School in a private coach. The Shared Transfer Service can be used by students using the following flight times:
Flight landing time on arrival day: 06:00-17:00 Flight take-off time on departure day: 8:00-18:00 If you book a flight outside of these times or to/from another UK airport, we can look at sending a staff member in a taxi to collect or drop off your child, but it will cost more than the Shared Transfer Service. Quotations are available upon request.
Is course insurance provided?
Yes, course insurance is included in the cost of your course. This covers essential medical insurance, including emergency treatment and other related costs.
Will I get a certificate?
Yes, students receive a certificate of achievement at the end of the course, detailing their progress and any academic milestones they’ve reached. Students at Oxford College and Dukes Cambridge receive a Letter of Recommendation to support their university applications.
What visa do I need?
Students from countries outside the UK or Schengen Area may require a standard visitor visa. SBC provides supporting documentation, including confirmation letters, but students or their families are responsible for the visa application process. It’s recommended to apply for a visa well in advance. Please see the following website for more details: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
