Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve put together a list of the some of the most frequently asked questions for our English Study Camps. Please read the answers below to see if you can find the information you need. If not, please contact our team on support@wimbledon-school.ac.uk and we’ll be happy to answer your questions.
Student Information
Student Information - What is the size of the school?
We can have a maximum of 180 students per week in Hampshire and 100 students in Wimbledon, Oxford & Berkshire.
Student Information - What are the details of the excursions?
Every excursion is different, but they generally involve a tour around a well-known destination and the entrance to an attraction, as well as some free time for shopping. Wednesday trips have a heavy language focus and are led by the teachers, who will have prepared their classes in advance. Sunday trips are with the Activity Leaders who give students the chance to practice their English in a more relaxed atmosphere.
Student Information - Where do the students come from?
In 2023, we welcomed over 24 different nationalities on our English Study Camps. Our Top 5 nationalities were: 1. Italy 2. Spain 3. China 4. Turkey 5.Brazil
Student Information - What is the student to staff ratio?
On average there is 1 member of staff for every 7 students. The maximum ratio of staff to students on campus is 1:10.
Student Information - Is it possible to attend as a day student and live off campus?
Yes, we offer day programmes in London and Hampshire. Please contact support@wimbledon-school.ac.uk for more information. For example, on our London - Wimbledon programme, we offer a course , activities and excursions only option so you can stay with family or friends nearby.
Student Information - Is it possible to follow part of the programme? For example, classes only?
No, all students take part in every aspect of the programme, from breakfast until lights out. There may, however, be different options for the courses, and we offer a variety of workshops and afternoon activities to cater for all interests and preferences.
Student Information - Is insurance included in the programme?
Yes, insurance is included in the package price.
Student Information - Will I be able to use my mobile phone at all times?
You can use your mobile phone in your free time and in your room, until lights out when you should put it away for the night (the light from your phone can disturb your roommates who are trying to sleep). In class and on activities, your teacher may allow you to use your phone for research or project work, but they may also insist that you put your phone away.
Academic
Academic - I know what my level of English is. Why do I have to do a level test?
We need to make sure that our students are placed in the most appropriate class for their level. After testing many thousands of students over the years, Wimbledon School of English has developed a testing system that works by making sure students are in the correct level classes on the first morning.
Academic - Do I have the same teacher throughout my course?
We like to give students a variety of teaching styles, so one teacher will generally teach the first two hours every morning, while the third hour will be with a different teacher. Week-by-week, teachers may change or may stay the same, depending on student numbers, levels and feedback.
Academic - Can I do the Future Business Leaders course if I’m below B1 level?
Our Future Business Leaders course is designed for higher-level English students, as it is skills-based with a less focus on traditional language-learning. If your level is below B1 level, you will benefit much more from the English Language course.
Academic - What do I do if I feel I’m in the wrong level?
You should first discuss this with your teacher, who will advise you on their opinion. If your teacher agrees, she/he will then talk to the Director of Studies and they will do their best to put you in a more appropriate level.
Academic - What happens if I sign up to a course with a minimum entry level, but on the initial test it turns out that I don’t have the required level?
As much as possible, we will try to accommodate students in this situation. We would encourage them to try the class they want to attend, but ask their teachers to monitor the level. After the first couple of days, we would have a meeting to decide whether the student should be moved or remain in the same class.
Academic - What is a Plus Course?
Our Plus Courses give students the chance to use their English in creative and relevant ways. Before they arrive, students select a number of Plus Courses from the available options, which are: Global Journalist; Film Making; Presentations and Public Speaking; University Preparation & Examination Techniques; Theatre & Drama.
Academic - Can I choose a Plus Course after I arrive?
We ask all our students to choose Plus Courses before they arrive. When they get to the summer school, they may be able to change their options, but they would have to talk to the Director of Studies about it, and it would depend on numbers of other students already taking that course.
Academic - Can I change my Plus Course mid-week?
No. It might be possible to change options for the following week, but due to the project-based nature of the Plus Course, all students have to complete the course that they’re on before changing.
Academic - Do I receive a leaving certificate and a report?
Yes. You receive a leaving certificate and a personalised report.
Academic - Does the leaving certificate have my level on it?
Yes, it will include your level and details of all the courses you’ve taken.
Academic - How many students are there in my class?
Our maximum class sizes are 16, but your class may be smaller than that.