Academic English Language Courses

These 10-day courses are designed to provide that all important boost for international students before joining a GCSE, A Level or IB (International Baccalaureate) Diploma programme in the UK.

There are 2 groups :  GCSE (ages 14-15) and A Level, IB Diploma and Foundation (ages 16-17)

For many international students, particularly for those whose proficiency in English is not as high as might be desired, it can be a very daunting task stepping into a British independent boarding school for the first time.  Without the necessary linguistic skills and cultural awareness, getting off to a flying start can be extremely challenging.

By attending one of our pre-sessional courses, not only are students able to improve their proficiency in English, but they are also able to develop key academic skills which will equip them well for their onward educational journey.

*Pre-Sessional+ course is an additional 5 days starting from 18th August - 1st September and costs £2,350

Pre-sessional courses run for 10 days, in maximum class sizes of 12, with three hours of intensive academic English each morning, followed by two hours of other academic preparation, including lessons, lectures and workshops focusing on the following areas:

                Acquiring, recording and learning new vocabulary

                Increasing effectiveness in listening skills

                Improving academic writing skills (including extended essay writing support)

                Developing reading techniques, such as skimming and scanning

                Effective pronunciation, enunciation and debating

                Understanding the meta language of examination papers

                Broadening study skills and getting the most out of your revision

                Wellbeing and dealing with examination stress

                Answering examination questions in full

Students are also expected to complete set assignments during the evenings in order to maximise the effectiveness of these courses.

Upon completion of one of our pre-sessional courses, students are far more focused, prepared and able to cope with the demands of the GCSE, A Level or IB programme they will move on to, enabling them to hit the ground running and providing them with the necessary academic skills to make the most of their education in the UK.

There is an Extended Pre-Sessional Course which is another 5 days which bridges the gap between the end of the 10 day Pre-Sessional Course and the start of term

"An IELTS Preparation summer camp in London is designed to equip students with the skills needed to excel in the IELTS exam.

At Bucksmore, students receive focused training on all aspects of the test: reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The programme includes continuous assessment to track progress and boost exam confidence.

Alongside lessons, students enjoy cultural excursions in London, allowing them to practise English in real-world contexts, enhancing both their test readiness and fluency."

Sevenoaks School is globally recognised for academic excellence and curriculum innovation. Three inspiring summer programmes offer bright, ambitious students aged 11-16 a taste of Sevenoaks. This is a first-class English Language Course designed by Sevenoaks School’s specialist language teachers. Students study General English and Academic English to improve their aptitude in English language and to prepare them for exam papers or further study. The courses are bespoke and designed to ensure students leave us with an enhanced level of confidence and aptitude in using English both formally and informally.

• Outside the classroom, the co-curricular programme is designed to challenge students and introduce them to new skills. Alongside a team of expert instructors and professional coaches, students have access to a range of state-of-art facilities to develop their strengths and enjoy the wealth of co-curricular opportunities on offer.
• Sevenoaks is are proud of the diversity in the programmes. Last year, 60 countries were represented across the student body. Sevenoaks School Summer Programmes mirrors the ethos of Sevenoaks School and its students – to be inquisitive, internationally-minded, and forward-thinking. Courses are divided by age, nationality and ability. At the end of all courses, parents receive a detailed report from their child’s teachers.

Level of English required:  B1  This course is not suitable for native English speakers.