On World Teachers’ Day, 5 October, the International Summer School for Teens (ISSFT) celebrates the teachers who inspire curiosity, build confidence and help young people discover their potential.

At our residential summer schools in Oxford and St Andrews, teachers play a central role in the experience of international teenagers aged 13–18. Their expertise, encouragement and care help students develop academically and personally, while learning alongside classmates from around the world.

How teachers help teenagers build confidence

A great teacher does more than explain a subject. They recognise when a student needs encouragement, make challenging ideas accessible and create opportunities for everyone to contribute.

For teenagers attending an international summer school, that support can be especially valuable. Learning in English, meeting new classmates and exploring unfamiliar subjects all offer opportunities to grow.

At ISSFT, our teachers help students take those steps with confidence. Through discussion, practical tasks and constructive feedback, they encourage students to ask questions, express their ideas and become more independent learners.

Sometimes, the most meaningful achievement is a small one: contributing to a discussion, understanding a difficult concept or feeling confident enough to try again.

Academic learning at our Oxford and St Andrews summer schools

ISSFT’s two-week summer programme combines academic classes in the mornings with sporting or creative electives in the afternoons. This dual-study structure gives teenagers opportunities to deepen their knowledge and explore their interests.

Our academic programme includes subjects such as English language, Global Leadership and Advanced English with Study Skills, with course availability depending on the campus. Teachers bring these subjects to life through engaging lessons that encourage participation, critical thinking and collaboration.

Alongside academic learning, specialist instructors and coaches help students develop their talents through afternoon electives. Together, our educators support a balanced summer experience that values effort, curiosity and personal progress.

Supporting English immersion and international understanding

All ISSFT courses are taught in English. Learning and communicating in English throughout the programme gives students opportunities to practise their skills in both lessons and everyday conversations.

Our teachers support this experience by encouraging students to participate, listen carefully and communicate clearly. In an international classroom, they also help students explore different perspectives and learn from one another.

A discussion can become an opportunity to understand another culture. A shared project can introduce a new way of thinking. These experiences help teenagers build communication skills and connections that extend beyond the classroom.

Learning that lasts beyond summer

The value of good teaching continues after students return home. Greater confidence, stronger study habits and a willingness to approach new challenges can support their next steps at school and beyond.

At ISSFT, we want students to leave with knowledge and experiences they can build on. Our teachers help make that possible through the attention they give each lesson, each question and each student.

Thank you to our teachers

This World Teachers’ Day, we thank the teachers who contribute so much to ISSFT’s Oxford and St Andrews summer schools, alongside the coaches and specialist instructors who support learning across our programme.

We also recognise our students’ teachers at home, whose dedication supports their learning throughout the year.

Happy World Teachers’ Day from everyone at ISSFT. Thank you for inspiring minds, encouraging ambition and helping young people grow.

Explore ISSFT’s residential summer schools in Oxford and St Andrews.