Choosing a summer school is about much more than choosing classes.

Parents want to know that their child will be safe, supported, engaged, and surrounded by the right people. They want an experience that develops confidence, independence, and lifelong memories.

At ISSFT, every aspect of the programme has been designed with those goals in mind.

A Safe and Supportive Environment

For most families, student wellbeing comes first.

ISSFT provides 24/7 supervision and pastoral care throughout the programme, ensuring students are supported both academically and personally.

Our experienced team creates an environment where students feel welcomed, included, and encouraged to make the most of every opportunity.

For parents, this provides peace of mind. For students, it creates the confidence to try new things, make new friends, and embrace new experiences.

Confidence, Independence and Personal Growth

The most valuable thing a student takes home from a summer school is often not a certificate.

It's confidence.

For many teenagers, ISSFT is their first experience of living away from home in an international environment. Throughout the programme, students learn to communicate with people from different cultures, take responsibility for themselves, develop independence, and step outside their comfort zones.

Many parents tell us that their child returns home more confident, mature, and self-assured than when they arrived.

A Truly International Community

ISSFT welcomes students from over 100 countries.

To create a genuinely international experience, we operate a maximum 10% nationality cap. This helps ensure that no single nationality dominates the student community and encourages students to build friendships with peers from around the world.

The result is a diverse, welcoming environment where global friendships develop naturally.

English Immersion That Happens Naturally

Improving English isn't just about lessons.

It is about using the language every day.

At ISSFT, English is the shared language of the programme. Students use English in class, during activities, on excursions, at meals, and while socialising with friends from around the world.

This natural immersion helps students build confidence and fluency in a way that traditional classroom learning alone cannot achieve.

A Packed Programme of Organised Activities

One of the biggest differences between ISSFT and many other summer schools is the amount of organised activity available outside the classroom.

We believe students should be actively engaged throughout their summer experience.

Every week includes a wide range of organised activities, events, competitions, social programmes, and excursions designed to keep students active, involved, and connected.

These experiences help students build friendships, develop confidence, and create memories that often become the highlight of their summer.

Exceptional Sports and Specialist Electives

ISSFT places a strong emphasis on extracurricular development.

Students can choose from a range of specialist electives including Golf, Tennis, AI & Coding, Theatre, Photography & Digital Media, and Sports Leadership.

Combined with our extensive activity programme, these opportunities allow students to explore new interests, develop existing talents, and enjoy experiences that extend far beyond the classroom.

Academic Learning with Real-World Relevance

Academic learning remains an important part of the ISSFT experience.

Students participate in engaging morning classes taught in English, with subjects ranging from Academic English and IELTS Preparation to Global Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Study Skills, and Introduction to Medicine.

Our goal is not simply to teach content, but to inspire curiosity, critical thinking, communication skills, and confidence.

Study at Oxford or St Andrews

ISSFT takes place at two of the UK's most prestigious university destinations.

Students have the opportunity to experience life in either Oxford or St Andrews, studying and living in environments that have inspired generations of scholars, innovators, and leaders.

These iconic locations add an extra dimension to the summer school experience and create a truly memorable setting for learning and personal growth.

Private En-Suite Accommodation for Every Student

While accommodation is only one part of the overall experience, it remains an important consideration for many families.

Unlike many summer schools where students share bedrooms and bathrooms, every ISSFT student enjoys their own private en-suite room.

This provides personal space, comfort, privacy, and an opportunity to relax and recharge after busy days filled with learning, activities, and social events.

The ISSFT Difference

✔︎ Students from over 100 countries

✔︎ Maximum 10% nationality cap

✔︎ English immersion throughout the programme

✔︎ Extensive organised activities and evening events

✔︎ Outstanding sports and specialist electives

✔︎ University of Oxford and University of St Andrews locations

✔︎ Academic enrichment and personal development

✔︎ Private en-suite accommodation for every student

✔︎ 24/7 supervision and pastoral care

Because the best summer schools don't simply fill a timetable.

They create an environment where young people grow in confidence, build lifelong friendships, discover new passions, and create memories that stay with them long after summer ends.