Summer School FAQs
Our Summer School FAQs provide clear, practical information for parents and students considering Caterham School’s Summer School programmes.
OVERVIEW
What makes Caterham Summer School different from other UK summer programmes?
Caterham Summer School offers an experience that goes way beyond traditional summer schools by:
– Teaching future-focused skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and the ethical use of technology
– Offering unique courses like EDGE and Oracy, based on Caterham’s innovative and digital curriculum
– Combining academic learning with high-quality activities, sports academies, and cultural excursions
– Providing a genuine boarding school experience, not just a summer school taking place in a boarding school. Caterham School values run through all aspects of – Caterham Summer School.
– Students leave more confident, independent, and globally aware.
Who can attend?
Caterham Summer School is open to students aged 11–17 from the UK and around the world.
Both residential and day places are available, offering full flexibility for families.
How international is the student community?
Caterham Summer School welcomes students from all over the world as well as the UK, creating a truly international environment.
This global mix:
– Encourages cultural exchange and international friendships
– Builds confidence working with peers from different backgrounds
– Prepares students for future international study and careers
COURSES & ACADEMIC EXPERIENCE
What courses are available?
For Summer 2026, we offer three core programmes:
– EDGE – innovation, digital skills, AI awareness, leadership, and teamwork
– Oracy – public speaking, debate, and communication skills
– EAL (English as an Additional Language) – for all levels, from beginner to advanced
Students may also choose a combined EDGE & Oracy programme for a broader experience.
For more information, please refer to our brochure.
How long are the courses?
Students can attend for one, two, three, or four weeks.
Our academic courses are ideally designed for a two-week experience; however, students may opt for a shorter one-week course or combine programmes for a longer stay.
It is also possible to combine EAL with an academic course, subject to minimum English level requirements.
Who teaches the courses?
All courses are delivered by Caterham School’s own teachers and specialist coaches.
This ensures:
– High academic standards
– Engaging and well-structured lessons
– Strong classroom management and pastoral awareness
– A Caterham School experience right through the Summer School
Will my child improve their English?
Yes.
English development is embedded throughout the programme, including:
– Classroom learning
– Group work and presentations
– Residential life and social activities
– Excursions and cultural experiences
What life skills will my child gain?
Beyond academics, students develop:
– Confidence and independence
– Communication and public speaking skills
– Leadership and teamwork
– Resilience and adaptability
– Cultural awareness
These are skills valued by top schools, universities, and employers worldwide.
How will Caterham help prepare my child for future study abroad?
Our programmes build key foundations for successful overseas education:
– Independent learning skills
– Critical thinking and problem-solving
– Confident spoken English and presentation skills
– Adaptability in an international environment
Courses such as EDGE focus on innovation, technology awareness, and teamwork — skills increasingly important for future success.
Why choose the UK over other destinations?
The UK is globally recognised for its education quality, academic heritage, and university pathways.
Studying in the UK helps students become familiar with British teaching styles, expectations, and communication, offering a valuable head start for future study.
Why Choose Caterham over other destinations?
– An award-winning school
– High academic standards and expectations
– Safe and secure campus
– Easy transport links to major UK airports
DAILY LIFE
What is the difference between residential and day students?
– Residential students live on campus and enjoy a fully immersive experience, including accommodation, meals, activities, and excursions.
– Day students attend Monday–Friday (08:30–17:30) for lessons, activities, and excursions, returning home in the evening.
Where will students stay?
Boarding students stay in Caterham School’s boarding houses, with rooms arranged by age:
– Single, twin, or triple ensuite rooms (older students)
– Twin, triple, or small dorm-style rooms (younger students)
Residential staff live on-site and provide 24-hour supervision.
Do boys and girls stay in separate accommodation?
Yes.
Boarding houses are divided into separate accommodation for boys and girls.
What meals are provided?
Residential students receive:
– Three freshly prepared meals each day, cooked on-site
– A diverse menu including international dishes and familiar favourites
– Weekly BBQ or street food-style meals
– Healthy snacks available throughout the day
– Full accommodation of dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, halal, allergies, etc.)
Day students receive:
– A freshly prepared lunch each day
– Healthy snacks throughout the day
Are activities and excursions included?
Yes.
All programmes include a full programme of activities and excursions, such as:
– Sports, creative workshops, and team challenges
– Football Academy coaching from Crystal Palace Football Club
– Access to the WildCats Adventure Course
– Weekly excursions to London landmarks, museums, theme parks, and cultural attractions
Participation is included unless parents request otherwise in writing.
How many excursions are included?
Each week includes two full day excursions and local activities.
What excursions will students go on?
Excursions are varied and may include:
– Thorpe Park
– The London Eye
– Buckingham Palace
– Covent Garden
– Brighton
– Cambridge or Oxford
– Students also visit a water sports centre for activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and windsurfing.
All excursions and required equipment are included in the course fee.
PASTORAL CARE & WELFARE
Will my child feel supported if they are away from home for the first time?
Yes.
Many students are travelling independently for the first time. Our pastoral approach includes:
– A warm welcome on arrival
– Staff who live on-site and know students personally
– A friendly and inclusive international community
– Structured routines to help students settle quickly
– Students are supported from day one.
What pastoral care and welfare support is provided?
Student wellbeing is central to the programme. We provide:
– 24-hour residential supervision
– A dedicated Welfare Team
– Structured routines and strong pastoral care
– Clear safeguarding and behaviour policies
What happens if my child becomes unwell?
If a student becomes unwell:
– They see the Summer School Matron for triage
– Parents are informed
– Medical treatment is arranged if necessary
– Emergency medical consent is included in the enrolment process.
FEES & BOOKING
What do the fees cover?
– Accommodation
– Lessons
– Excursions
– Airport/train transfers (within advertised times)
– Laundry
– Course books and materials
– All sports and activities
How do I book a place?
Please complete the online application form.
A non-refundable £50 application fee is payable and includes assessment and interview.
Places are limited, so early application is recommended.
Is the deposit refundable?
No.
The £500 deposit (including the £50 booking fee) is non-refundable and secures the student’s place.
Any additional refunds are subject to the cancellation policy.
TRAVEL & LOGISTICS
Are airport transfers included?
Yes, between 9:00am and 6:00pm on arrival and departure Sundays. We strongly recommend booking travel within these times.
A complimentary transfer can be provided to/from:
– Gatwick Airport
– Heathrow Airport
– London Victoria Station
– St Pancras International
What happens if our flight is delayed?
Delays under one hour staff will wait
Longer delays new transfer arrangements can be made (additional costs may apply)
What happens on departure day?
Students check out of their rooms in the morning
Luggage can be stored securely if travelling later
Students join activities until departure
Students will be assisted with their travel arrangements and travel to their departure airports and train stations
PARENTS & COMMUNICATION
Who do I contact if I have questions during the programme?
Parents can contact Boarding House staff using details provided in the welcome pack.
Alternatively, you can call the Caterham Summer School direct line:
+44 (0)1883 335142
Can parents visit students during Caterham Summer School?
Yes, with prior approval:
– Requests must be made at least 48 hours in advance
– Written authorisation is required
– Approval is at the discretion of the Course Director
VISAS & ADMINISTRATION
Does my child need a visa?
Some international students may require a UK visa.
We can provide a Visa Invitation Letter
Visa applications remain the responsibility of parents
Will photos or videos be used?
Photos and videos may be used for promotional purposes.
If you prefer your child not to appear, please notify us in writing at the time of booking.
Contact
For further information, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: +44 (0)1883 335142
