ACADEMIC SUMMER BRISTOL
The Original Academic Summer Experience: Where Adventure and Learning Collide
About the Programme
Nestled in the serene beauty of the Mendip Hills, Academic Camp, Bristol proudly stands as our flagship camp. With a commitment to providing a safe and picturesque environment, we invite you to join us for a blend of academic pursuits, sporting adventures, outdoor education and exciting excursions- including to London!
Immerse yourself in a world of academic excellence where learning becomes a joyous adventure. Academic Camp, Bristol caters to Adventurers (ages 7-12), Explorers (ages 12-14), and Engagers (ages 15-17), ensuring that every young mind finds the perfect academic challenge.
For the sports enthusiasts, our state-of-the-art facilities provide the perfect arena for athletic pursuits. From friendly games to competitive tournaments, we encourage physical activity and the thrill of healthy competition. Our location in the heart of the British countryside allows us to offer unique outdoor education experiences. Explore nature, build resilience and develop leadership skills in an environment that inspires personal growth. And when it is time to venture beyond our campus and explore, the vibrant city of Bristol is just a stone's throw away.
Our secure and nurturing campus provides a protective cocoon, allowing every student to thrive, explore, and learn with confidence. This summer, let Academic Camp, Bristol be your destination for a holistic blend of academics, sports, outdoor adventures, and cultural exploration, where unforgettable summer memories are waiting to be made.
ACCOMMODATION
ACADEMIC
Unlock your Potential and Elevate your Academic Journey as you Prepare for Primary, PYP, GCSE/MYP, A Levels or the IB Diploma
Adventurers is a high-quality camp for young learners
The Facts
| Age | 7-12 |
| Minimum Level of English | A2 on the CEFR |
| Maximum Class Size | 12 |
| Hours of Learning per week | 20 |
The Subjects
Explore in Learning
The Facts
| Age | 12-14 |
| Minimum Level of English | B1 on the CEFR |
| Maximum Class Size | 15 |
| Hours of Learning per week | 30 |
Engage Deeper and Shape your Educational Journey
The Facts
| Age | 15-17 |
| Minimum Level of English | B2 on the CEFR |
| Maximum Class Size | 15 |
| Hours of Learning per week | 30 |
Your Choice!
The Engager Subjects We Offer:
Applied Maths
Art
Biology
Chemistry
Commuter Science
Design and Technology
Economics, Business and Entrepreneurship
English
Environmental Systems and Societies
Essay Writing
History and Politics
Media Studies
Physics
Presentations and Interviews
Psychology
Theory of Knowledge
CLIL APPROACH
Our teaching and learning approach is centred around Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) which gives a holistic approach to learning. Experts have described CLIL as a significant methodological revolution in language teaching.
According to Coyle (1999), the CLIL curriculum is based on the four Cs:
CONTENT
COGNITION
COMMUNICATION
CULTURE
JOIN US AND UNLOCK THE BENEFITS OF CLIL:
Leisure Programme 2024
Learning extends far beyond the classroom walls (see schedule). It's about embracing life, making new friendships and creating memories that will stay with you forever. Our leisure programme in Bristol is not just a list of activities; it's a promise of an unforgettable summer filled with excitement, adventure and personal growth. We've carefully curated a selection of unique and captivating trips that will reveal England in a whole new light. From iconic tourist attractions to hidden gems, we've got it all covered. Wednesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays are your ticket to adventure!
Our closest city, Bristol, isn't just a city; it's a vibrant canvas of creativity. It's the birthplace of Banksy, and you can follow his artistic journey on a thrilling Banksy walking tour. Then, cross the awe-inspiring Clifton Suspension Bridge, an engineering marvel. Step back in time aboard the SS Great Britain, once the world's largest passenger ship. And for shopaholics, Cabot Circus awaits, offering retail therapy to your heart's content.
Nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty, Sidcot is your gateway to adventure. Hike and explore the enchanting Cheddar Gorge, famous for its cheese production. Geography lessons come to life as you discover the secrets of the Gorge's formation. On the Mendip Hills, we take adventure to the next level. Test your limits with rock climbing, caving, paddle boarding, kayaking and outdoor survival. It's an adrenaline rush like no other!
A visit to the UK wouldn't be complete without experiencing London. that's why we venture to the capital once every two weeks. From world-famous museums to indulgent shopping at Harrods, from admiring masterpieces in the National Gallery to exploring the vibrant Southbank with Shakespeare's Globe, Tate Modern, London Eye, and Tower Bridge- you'll soak up the best of the city all in one day!
But the excitement doesn't end there. Explore the charming university city of Oxford, where the world's brightest minds converge. Visit Shakespeare's birthplace in Stratford-Upon-Avon and explore the enchanting Cardiff Castle in Wales. Step into a Jane Austen Novel as you explore the historical city of Bath. In Windsor, decode the royal signals - a full mast means King Charles III is home. Embark on a fossil hunt in the quaint town of Lyme Regis on the Jurassic Coast. Or, if you crave exhilaration, unleash your inner thrill-seeker at Thorpe Park and Dorset Adventure Park.
HORSE RIDING
Experience the thrill of horseback riding with us at Sidcot during the summer. You will have the opportunity to enjoy your horse-riding adventure amidst beautiful countryside scenery. Sidcot has stables on the school campus, and whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, you can book lessons as an extra. Make the most of your free time on Mondays, Tuesday, Thursdays or Fridays and saddle up for an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.
The Details...
| When | Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays 15:40 to 16:40 |
| Price | £60 per person per hour (group lesson) |
| How to book | You can book on our application form. You need to complete a horse riding form. Please email info@academiccamp.org for more information |
DATES AND FEES 2024
ADVENTURERS
Age 7-11
Sunday 7 July to Sunday 4 August 2024
£3,100 / PER TWO-WEEK COURSE
Includes tuition, teaching materials, accommodation, meals, insurance, airport transfers and all trips and activities
EXPLORERS & ENGAGERS
Age 12-17
Sunday 7 July to Sunday 18 AUGUST 2024
£3,100 / PER TWO-WEEK COURSE
Includes tuition, teaching materials, accommodation, meals, insurance, laundry, airport transfers, trips and activities
PAYMENT INFORMATION
What are the payment terms?
An initial payment of £500 should be made to secure your booking, and the final payment is due at least five weeks before your summer camp starts.
Once paid, fees are non-refundable. Please refer to our Term and Conditions for more information.
Are there any extra fees?
Booking Changes: If you find the need to modify your booking, a £50 administrative fee will apply.
Arrival and Departure Transfers: Our published arrivals and departures are designed to optimise your experience. Should you arrive or depart outside our advertised transfer window, or to an airport other than Heathrow please be aware that transfer fees will apply as follows:
Luton/Stansted/Gatwick: £510 each way
Heathrow (out of transfer window): £410 each way
Bristol Airport: £120 each way
Bristol Train Station: £120 each way.
Arriving or departing directly to campus out of hours/not Sunday: £150
Unaccompanied Minors (arriving/departing outside of our transfer window): £50
Contact our team for more information.
Extra nights: £150 (subject to availability, transfer not included).
Weekend trips: £125 (days students or those attending the trip on arrival/departure day)
Group Horse Riding: £60 per hour lesson
How do I make a payment?
Once you book a place using our online booking form you will be sent an invoice with various payment options. Choose the option that works best for you.
TransferMate
TransferMate is free to use with no additional bank charges applied to your transfers. This service provides competitive currency exchange rates and allows you to pay in your preferred local currency. Please log in to our portal for more information and to make a payment using TransferMate.
TransferWise
TransferWise is a straightforward method for making international payments while minimising bank charges. To get started, follow these steps.
- Visit www.transferwise.com
- Log in or create a new account
- Transfer funds from your bank account or debit/credit card to our designated account.
Bank Transfers
You can make a bank transfer to us. You will find our bank details on your invoice. When making any payment please ensure you quote the student's name and/or invoice number as a reference so we can trace your payment. Please allow for bank charges within your payment.
Credit Card Payments
Credit card payments can be made through our online portal. Sign into your account and click “checkout” to make the payment. You can also contact info@academiccamp.org for your unique payment link.
Student Insurance
All our boarding students are covered by student travel insurance offered through Guard Me. This insurance is included in the Academic Summer Camp student fees. It covers students worldwide, except in their country of origin. Therefore, students are not covered under the insurance if they attend our camps in their country of residence. Academic Summer Camps does not provide insurance for day students attending our camps.
The key features of the Guard Me insurance policy are:
Protection against cancellation or curtailment, including visa refusals
Medical expenses: £10,000,000 (public and private treatments and hospitals)
Digital Doctor giving 24/7 medical doctor telephonic and video support
24-hour helpline for medical emergencies
Baggage, personal money and travel documents
Third-party liability: £2,000,000
Cover for medical and quarantine expenses related to Covid-19 if no travel restrictions are in place
No excess
Once the student fees are received, the insurance coverage will commence, and Guard Me will email the insurance certificate to your contact email address.
This is the link to the insurance information offered by Guard Me.
This is the link to the full policy wording. You can find a summary of the cover and claims contact numbers at the front of the booklet via this link.
Questions can also be answered via the Student Help Centre on the Guard Me website.
USEFUL INFORMATION
How do I book?
Here is your step-by-step guide to making Academic Summer your reality:
- Choose your programme, location and dates that align with your interests and schedule. Should you have any questions, our friendly admissions team is here to help.
- Review the important details: Take a moment to carefully go through our terms and conditions. By signing the application form your indicating your agreement. Make sure you understand the programme you are signing up to.
- Complete the booking form: Fill out our user-friendly online booking form, and don't forget to inform us about any medical or dietary concerns we should be aware of. Safety is our top priority. When you book a place you will create a log in to our portal where you can go back and add information later.
- Reserve your place: It's time to make your initial payment of £500 to secure your spot. This will be offset against your total fees.
- Request your visa letter: You can apply for your visa up to three months before the start of the course. We advise applying as early as possible. We will supply you with a letter to support your application.
- Familiarise yourself with the parental portal: You can add any extra information about yourself, upload a photograph, and when the time comes, check out the student handbook, view your timetable and read your reports.
- Customise your curriculum: Handpick your workshops or subjects based on your chosen programme.
- Book your travel arrangements: Book your flights and add the details to the portal. We want to make your arrival seamless so please check our requirements for airport transfers before making any arrangements.
- The countdown begins: Five weeks before your course, its time to make your final payment. We'll email you a reminder!
- Take the English assessment: think of this as a friendly quiz to ensure we can communicate effectively and have a fantastic time together. Our teachers will use the results to plan their lessons with you in mind!
- Verify everything: Log into the your online portal to confirm that you have sent us all the necessary documents and information.
- Pack your bags: Consult our Student Handbook to make sure you've packed everything you need. And, of course, don't leave home without your sense of adventure!
- Bon Voyage!
Airport Transfers
At Academic Summer Camp, we prioritise convenience and comfort for our students. As part of your all-inclusive package, we provide airport transfers from London Heathrow Airport (LHR) on our published arrival and departure days. Your flight should arrive or depart between 09.00 and 17.00 on our published arrival and departure days.
New for this season:
- We've rented a dedicated function suite at Hilton Terminal 4, Heathrow Airport, to streamline your arrival and departure experience.
- Students can enjoy a comfortable waiting area with amenities including food options and Wi-Fi, ensuring a relaxed start and end to their journey.
- Scheduled departures throughout the day ensure that you can seamlessly transition to and from our camps.
Bristol arrival dates:
Sunday 7 July 2024
Sunday 21 July 2024
Sunday 4 August 2024
Bristol departure dates:
Sunday 21 July 2024
Sunday 4 August 2024
Sunday 18 August 2024
Additional Information:
-If you're meeting us at the airport, please come to Heathrow Terminal 5 for 11:30 am.
-Should you arrive or depart outside our advertised transfer window or to an airport other than Heathrow, please be aware that transfer fees will apply. Contact our team for more information.
-Your flight should arrive or depart between 09.00 and 17.00 on our published arrival and departure days.
-If you arrive at school directly, please arrive between 15.00 and 17.00 on the arrival Sunday.
-If you depart directly from school, please depart before 11.00 on the departure Sunday.
Arriving at times outside our transfer window
Our published arrivals and departures are designed to optimise your experience. Should you arrive or depart outside our advertised transfer window, or to an airport other than Heathrow please be aware that transfer fees will apply as follows:
Luton/Stansted/Gatwick: £510 each way
Heathrow (out of transfer window): £410 each way
Bristol Airport: £120 each way
Bristol Train Station: £120 each way.
Arriving or departing directly to campus out of hours/not Sunday: £150
Unaccompanied Minors (arriving/departing outside of our transfer window): £50
Contact our team for more information.
What is the school's address?
Sidcot School, Oakridge Lane, Winscombe, BS25 1PD
Visa information
If you are coming to the UK from another country to participate in our programmes, you may need to obtain a Standard Visitor Visa.
You can check what type of visa you need here: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
Here's a step-by-step guide on how the admissions and visa process works:
Apply to Academic Summer
Complete a booking form www.academiccamp.org/book-now
To secure your please, make an initial payment of £500
Request a Visa Support Letter
Once we receive your initial payment, you can request a visa support letter from us. We will email this letter to you without charge. If you need an original visa support letter sent by courier (this is not a requirement of UKVA, they will accept electronic format), there will be a charge of £75.
Please carefully review the letter and ensure that all the details and information are correct.
Visa Application
You can check to see if you need a visa to enter the UK here: https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa
Even if you don't need a visa, you still need to bring the required documents, such as confirmation of your place at Academic Summer and financial evidence to prove you have paid for your course, to show the border officer.
Visa Application Timing
If you do need a visa, you can apply for a Standard Visitor Visa up to three months before your planned travel date to the UK.
Visa processing typically takes about three weeks but you can check the guide processing times for specific information related to your country. It is best to apply as soon as you can because we cannot refund fees because you do not receive your visa on time.
Visa Support from Academic Summer
Academic Summer is accredited by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), allowing us to support your visa application.
We provide a visa support letter to international students which you should use when applying for your visa at a Visa Application Centre in your country.
If you are not familiar with the visa application process we strongly advise you enlist the support of an immigration specialist or Education Travel Agent in your country. Please contact us if you would like us to recommend someone.
For more information on Standard Visitor Visa please visit: https://www.gov.uk/visa-to-study-english
Long-Term Study in the UK
Please note that Academic Summer is not a Tier 4 Sponsor and cannot issue CAS.
If you plan to study in the UK at a boarding school immediately after your Academic Summer Programme please let us know as you may be able to attend the course using your Tier 4 Child Student Visa sponsored by your future school.
We have many partner schools who can include the Academic Summer programme on your Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) as a Pre-Sessional course. Your Tier 4 Child Student Visa will then be valid for both the Academic Summer course and your full-time studies in the independent boarding school.
Police Registration and BRP Collection
If you come to the UK on a Tier 4 Child Student Visa, you may need to register with the police if it is a visa condition (as indicated on your entry clearance vignette). Academic Summer staff will assist you with this process. A registration fee will apply.
Those staying in the UK for more than six months will receive a 30 day entry clearance vignette and must collect their Biometric Residence Permit (BRP) upon arrival. Academic Summer will coordinate with your boarding school to facilitate this process.
For more information on Tier 4 Child Student Visas, please visit: https://www.gov.uk/child-study-visa
What should my English level be?
Adventurers: A2
Explorers: B1
Engagers: B2
Remember to take your free CLIL test before arrival. You can log into the Portal for your unique test link.
What course is right for me?
12-year-olds: Adventurers or Explorers
Ask yourself:
Supervision: are you comfortable with your child having some independence, exploring various locations and enjoying free time without constant staff supervision?
Academic Confidence: is your child confident in a classroom setting?
Maturity: are they at ease around older students?
Experience: Are they already at secondary school or still at primary? Have they been to summer school before?
Engagers or Explorers?
Explorers is specifically designed to engage learners aged 12-14, to get them ready for what is yet to come.
Engagers is for students age 15+. Whether you are about to start your final year of GCSE or first year of A Levels / IB, then Engagers is the right programme for you. We extract core topics from the GCSE syllabus to ensure the programme is entirely relevant and stimulating. Having good knowledge in key GCSE topics will help you prepare for A Levels to ensure you have a strong foundation for the next stage. It will also help you to be better prepared for your final year of GCSE.
What about my free time?
We always have dedicated staff on duty, ensuring supervision during breaks, in the evenings and on weekends. Supervision is 24/7. Students are not allowed out without a member of staff in the evenings. During trips, you will have free time where you will be given space to explore with your camp-mates without staff present. There will always be a member of staff close by at a designated meeting point who is contactable by phone should you need them. Adventurers are never left unsupervised.
What is the nationality mix?
Last year we welcomed students from over 60 different nationalities to our programmes from countries including UK, Italy, France, Switzerland, Ghana, Canada, Japan, China, Ukraine, and many more!
WHAT DO PEOPLE SAY ABOUT US
BOOK NOW
Please complete our online application form. You will receive a confirmation letter and invoice shortly after booking.
