More than 200 young people from across Europe, Asia, the Americas and beyond have arrived at Sedbergh this month as the Sedbergh International Summer School begins another four weeks of English language learning, cultural exchange and outdoor adventure.
The programme reflects Sedbergh Schools Group’s growing international outlook and its commitment to providing high-quality educational experiences that extend far beyond the traditional academic year. Bringing together pupils aged 8–16 from around the world, the Summer School combines outstanding English language teaching with full boarding, exceptional pastoral care and a distinctive programme of sport, creativity, outdoor education and cultural exploration.
An internationally recognised boarding environment
Hosted on the Sedbergh Senior School campus in Cumbria, the International Summer School gives pupils the opportunity to experience life in one of the UK’s leading full boarding schools.
English is not simply taught in the classroom. It becomes the language of everyday life as pupils live together in boarding Houses, work collaboratively, explore the surrounding landscape and build friendships with young people from different cultures and backgrounds.
The programme is underpinned by Sedbergh Courses’ GOLD philosophy of Growth, Originality, Leadership and Determination, encouraging pupils to develop confidence, resilience, independence and communication skills through every aspect of daily life.
More than a summer programme
For many families, the International Summer School is the beginning of a much longer relationship with Sedbergh Schools Group.
Each year, pupils return to study for a term, an academic year or as full-time boarders, having already experienced the Group’s educational philosophy, pastoral care and boarding community. The Summer School therefore plays an important role within the Group’s wider international strategy, introducing families to Sedbergh’s distinctive approach while creating meaningful pathways into long-term education.
A global community built on partnership
The International Summer School also reflects the importance Sedbergh Schools Group places on long-term international relationships.
The programme is delivered in partnership with trusted educational organisations, overseas schools and international representatives who share the Group’s commitment to educational quality, pupil wellbeing and cultural exchange. These partnerships help create an environment where young people develop language skills alongside greater confidence, independence and global understanding.
As Sedbergh Schools Group continues to expand its national and international partnerships, the International Summer School remains an important expression of the Group’s educational vision: creating opportunities for young people from around the world to learn together within a safe, ambitious and values-led boarding community.
Building confidence, friendships and futures
Gemma Newton, Summer School Course Director, said:
“There is something incredibly special about seeing young people from all over the world come together at Sedbergh. Within just a few days, friendships form, confidence grows and the campus becomes a vibrant international community.
“Our International Summer School offers so much more than English lessons. It gives young people the opportunity to experience everything that makes Sedbergh special, from our beautiful surroundings and exceptional boarding environment to the warmth of our community and the breadth of opportunities available each day.”
As another international summer begins, Sedbergh once again demonstrates its ability to bring together young people from across the world through education, adventure and shared experience. For pupils, it is an unforgettable summer. For many families, it marks the beginning of a lasting relationship with Sedbergh Schools Group and its growing international community.
Discover the Sedbergh International Summer School




