ISSFT students kayaking
The International Summer School For innovative programmes

A Foundation for Life

At ISSFT® Summer Schools, we offer an exceptional residential summer experience in two of the UK’s most prestigious and inspiring locations: the University of Oxford and the University of St Andrews. Here, students from around the world come together to learn, grow, and thrive in a safe, supportive, and internationally diverse environment.

Our dual-study programme combines academic learning in the morning with elite sports coaching and creative electives in the afternoon. This well-rounded approach allows students to explore new interests, develop key life skills, and build lasting confidence.

Students choose from a range of engaging academic subjects including English, World Affairs, Leadership, Business, and Study Skills. Morning classes are taught by experienced educators who foster intellectual curiosity and global awareness.

Afternoon subjects (electives) are dedicated to elite coaching in sports such as tennis, golf, and sports leadership alongside enriching electives like theatre, coding, and photography, —led by skilled coaches and instructors.

With small class sizes and individualised support, students benefit from high-quality teaching and a strong sense of community. Whether based at Oxford or St Andrews, they enjoy outstanding facilities and inspirational settings.

Beyond academics and activities, students take part in a vibrant social programme, with cultural excursions and group events that bring the experience to life.

Learn in the morning. Discover your passion in the afternoon.
Experience the ISSFT® difference—where education meets inspiration, and students build a foundation for life.

ISSFT students

A Typical Week at ISSFT

While all students enjoy an individually tailored summer school experience at ISSFT, each day is structured to ensure they maximise their time with us. The timetable below gives an outline of what to expect.

Academic class Elective Subject Trips Activities Clan Events Entertainment free time, workshops and organised events
SaturdaySundayMondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday
09:00 - 10:00
10:00 - 11:00
11:00 - 12:00
12:00 - 13:00
13:00 - 14:00
14:00 - 15:00
15:00 - 16:00
16:00 - 17:00
17:00 - 18:00
18:00 - 19:00
19:00 - 20:00
20:00 - 21:00
Schedule will vary on first day and last day to accommodate major events that we run

MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR SUMMER A stunning natural environment for education, sport, fun and... adventure!

ISSFT students walking through the historic courtyards of Oxford University, symbolising academic excellence, cultural discovery, and global friendships.

University of Oxford

For Ages 13-18

Premium International Summer Programme in the heart of historic Oxford.

ISSFT St Andrew Summer Course students on old course bridge

University of St Andrews

For Ages 13-18 

Exclusive pre-university experience in St Andrews, Scotland

Questions we're often asked

What does a typical two-week ISSFT summer school include?

Each two-week session combines weekday morning academic classes, afternoon electives and a full programme beyond lessons. Students also take part in supervised evening activities and excursions, giving them time to explore the UK and make friends with teenagers from around the world.

What are the benefits of a two-week summer school for teenagers?

A two-week summer school gives teenagers time to develop academic skills, explore new interests and build confidence in a supportive residential setting. At ISSFT, students aged 13–18 combine morning academic classes with afternoon electives, social activities and excursions at our Oxford or St Andrews campus.

Is two weeks long enough for a summer school?

Yes. Two weeks allow students to settle into campus life, get to know their classmates and participate in a varied programme. Each student completes an academic course and an elective, and receives an academic report and certificate at the end of their session.

What does a typical day at ISSFT include?

Students attend an academic class in the morning and an elective in the afternoon. Evenings bring supervised social activities, while weekend excursions offer opportunities to explore beyond campus.

Can a two-week summer school help teenagers become more independent?

Residential life gives teenagers opportunities to manage a daily routine, meet new people and take part in unfamiliar activities. These experiences can help them grow in confidence and independence, with ISSFT staff providing supervision and pastoral support throughout their stay.

Will students have opportunities to practise English?

Yes. English is used in classes and across daily campus life. With students joining ISSFT from more than 100 countries, teenagers can practise communicating with people from different backgrounds during lessons, meals and activities.

Can students choose what they study?

Yes. ISSFT’s dual-study programme pairs one morning academic subject with one afternoon elective. Options include subjects such as English and Global Leadership, alongside electives such as Golf, Tennis, Theatre, and AI, Computer Science & Coding. Course availability varies by campus.

How does a two-week programme fit into the summer holidays?

The two-week format offers a complete residential experience within a defined period. Students can enjoy academic study, activities, excursions and new friendships while families retain flexibility for other summer plans.

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Invest in your child’s future this summer

University of St Andrews 2027
Summer Session

session 1
25 July - 7 August 2027

University of Oxford 2027
Choose a Session

session 1
4 July - 17 July 2027
session 2
18 July - 31 July 2027