Joint Press Release: Living Learning English | Academic Summer Camps
Academic Summer acquires Living Learning English: a new chapter in quality education
Two of the UK’s most trusted names in the International English Education sector have joined forces, as Academic Summer announces its acquisition of Living Learning English from the new academic year. This strategic move brings together shared values of excellence, innovation and individualised learning, offering students more opportunities to thrive.
Bristol based, Living Learning English Ltd (LLE) was founded in 1995 by Kate Hargreaves, who is retiring this year after three decades of dedicated service. Under Kate’s leadership, the company has developed into a leading provider of bespoke home tuition and online lessons via a network of over 100 teachers. LLE students range from young learners, including some with special needs, to boarding school students, professionals and high-level embassy staff.
Academic Summer CEO Helen Lami will succeed Kate Hargreaves as Principal of Living Learning English, once the landmark acquisition is completed in September 2025. Helen founded Academic Summer Ltd in 2008 after a successful career in marketing and education. She has a Masters in Education in Teaching English as a Foreign Language (MEd TEFL) from Exeter University and is recognised as a trailblazer in the International English Education sector. (See: Meet the Queen of British Summer Schools, Helen Lami)
Speaking about the acquisition Helen said: “I’ve known Kate for over 20 years and always admired her deep commitment to quality education. Living Learning English is a gem, the company’s total immersion approach aligns beautifully with our CLIL methodology and holistic values. Together, we’re stronger and ready to shape the future of English language learning.”
Reflecting on her journey, Kate said: “It has been an extraordinary privilege to welcome so many students into our homes and hearts over the years and to see their confidence, language skills and independence grow day by day. I am confident that under Helen’s leadership, the values we’ve built at Living Learning English will not only be preserved but enhanced. Academic Summer shares our ethos and vision – this is a natural and exciting progression.”
Academic Summer and Living Learning English are now sister companies, joining forces to offer even more opportunities for students worldwide, while proudly retaining their own individual identities and brands. LLE Founder, Kate Hargreaves (left) with Academic Summer Founder and CEO, Helen Lami (right).
Both Academic Summer and Living Learning English are members of Quality English, Academic Summer is recognised by the British Accreditation Council (BAC), while Living Learning English holds accreditation from the British Council. The acquisition will preserve the existing structure and teaching excellence of Living Learning English while allowing it to grow and innovate with the support of Academic Summer’s wider educational framework, including summer camps in the UK and Canada.
Families and students can expect continued quality, more programme options and enhanced support. As Helen says: “We believe in learning that’s personal, immersive and transformational. This acquisition expands our offering to include one-to-one learning in teachers’ homes ensuring there’s a tailored option for every learner, all year round.”
Kate will be available for ongoing consultancy, ensuring continuity and care. As she says, “The UK is the ideal place to learn English with incredible opportunities, great facilities and dedicated teams to help students succeed. For parents choosing a summer camp or a professional person selecting a teacher’s home, it’s vital they see results. This is what we guarantee at Living Learning English and it’s not just about educational progress, it’s also about ensuring our students are happy, thriving and feel they are part of a supportive community. I am confident this ethos will continue and grow under Academic Summer’s leadership.”
Kate Hargreaves and Helen Lami with the Living Learning English team at a recent lunch in Bristol to celebrate the new way forward for the company. From left to right: Isabel Recio (Business Development Manager and Course Manager, LLE; Andrea d’Essen Walker, Course Manager, LLE; Helen Lami, CEO, Academic Summer UK Ltd; Monika Smith, Academic Manager, LLE and Kate Hargreaves, LLE Founder.
About Academic Summer
Academic Summer Ltd is a leading provider of innovative summer education programmes in the UK, welcoming international students aged 7–17. With a commitment to excellence, the company offers learning adventures that combine subject learning with English language development using the Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) methodology. Under the visionary leadership of Helen Lami, Academic Summer empowers students to explore their passions, prepare for A Levels or the IB, and develop into confident, global citizens. Whether it's studying in London or Bristol, Academic Summer UK is where education and adventure meet.
About Living Learning English
Founded by Kate Hargreaves Living Learning English offers bespoke one-to-one English language tuition through homestay and online programmes. Over the past 30 years the Bristol-based organisation has earned a reputation for excellence in total immersion learning. Students live and learn in the home of a qualified teacher, gaining not only language skills but a deep understanding of British culture. Accredited by the British Council and a member of Quality English, LLE has also been recognised as an EL Gazette Centre of Excellence and shortlisted for the StudyTravel Star Awards. The organisation supports learners of all ages from young students to senior executives through flexible, personalised programmes designed to meet individual goals.
An Interview with Helen and Kate
Watch this in-depth interview with Helen Lami and Kate Hargreaves who offer behind-the-scenes reflections on the back story, friendship and shared values that led to this exciting transition.