Canford Summer School — Dukes Education

Canford School – SBC

SBC at Canford, set on a stunning 250-acre countryside campus near Bournemouth, offers an exceptional summer experience for students aged 11–16 who want to combine engaging academic study with an active, adventure-filled social programme. Hosted at the award-winning Canford School, one of the UK’s most beautiful historic boarding schools, the programme immerses students in a vibrant international community while providing first-class teaching and outstanding pastoral care.

As part of Summer Boarding Courses (SBC) — a Dukes Education school and the top-ranked multi-campus summer school in the UK — the Canford programme upholds the highest British Council standards across safeguarding, academics, facilities and extracurricular provision. Every summer, SBC welcomes 1,800+ students from over 100 nationalities, creating a truly global environment where learners develop confidence, communication skills and independence.

At Canford, each day is designed to inspire curiosity and encourage students to explore new interests. A wide range of academic pathways — including English Adventures, Future Scientists (STEM), Future Entrepreneurs, Future Global Leaders, and Future Artists — allows learners to deepen subject knowledge while strengthening English through interactive, project-based lessons.

Afternoons at Canford are all about adventure. Students take part in multi-activity sessions ranging from sports and team challenges to water-based activities, creative workshops and optional specialist extras. With spacious grounds, professional sports facilities and access to coastal excursions in Bournemouth, students enjoy an energising and social summer designed to build confidence and lasting friendships.

Supportive House Parents and pastoral staff ensure that students feel at home from day one. The blend of academic learning, leadership development, sport, creativity and memorable excursions makes Canford an ideal choice for motivated students seeking a dynamic, well-rounded British summer school experience.

Available Programmes

SBC at Canford offers a range of academic pathways designed to match students’ interests and support their personal and academic development. All courses include 15 hours of lessons per week, delivered through interactive, project-based learning.

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English Adventures

Ages: 11–16
English Level: A1+ (All abilities)
Duration: 2, 3 or 4 weeks
Price: from £ 4,250
A dynamic English programme focused on building fluency, accuracy, vocabulary, and confidence through engaging tasks, debates, and collaborative projects.

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Future Scientists (STEM)

Ages: 11–16
English Level: B1+
Duration: 2, 3 or 4 weeks
Price: from £ 4,250
Hands-on exploration of biology, chemistry, physics, and scientific investigation. Students develop analytical thinking, scientific literacy, and problem-solving skills.

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Future Artists

Ages: 11–16
English Level: B1+
Duration: 2, 3 or 4 weeks
Price: from £ 4,250
A creative programme exploring art, design, and mixed media. Students develop artistic expression through practical studio projects and collaborative workshops.

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Future Entrepreneurs

Ages: 11–16
English Level: B1+
Duration: 2, 3 or 4 weeks
Price: from £ 4,250
Introduction to business, innovation, and teamwork. Students work on mini-projects, pitch ideas, and develop communication, planning, and presentation skills.

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Future Global Leaders

Ages: 11–16
English Level: B1+
Duration: 2, 3 or 4 weeks
Price: from £ 4,250
A programme exploring politics, power, and international relations. Through debates, simulations, and team challenges, students build negotiation, leadership, and critical thinking skills.

Location

Canford School is located near Bournemouth, on the stunning south coast of England. The campus is set within 250 acres of private parkland, surrounded by forests, lawns, and historic architecture, creating a peaceful and secure learning environment.

• Bournemouth Beach: 20–25 minute
• London: approx. 2 hours
• Nearby attractions: Jurassic Coast, Poole Harbour, New Forest National Park

This location perfectly combines traditional British boarding-school charm with easy access to outdoor adventure, coastal activities and cultural excursions.

Facilities

The Canford campus offers outstanding facilities that support both academic study and a highly active outdoors-oriented programme. Facilities include:

• All-weather sports pitches
• Art studio and creative workshops
• Modern classrooms
• Fully equipped gym
• Indoor sports hall
• Tennis courts
• Swimming pool
• Theatre and performing arts spaces
• Outdoor marquee for events
• Traditional and modern dining halls
• Single bedrooms, twin rooms and small dorm rooms
• Shared bathroom facilities (supervised)
• Student common rooms
• Laundry service
• High-speed Wi-Fi throughout campus

These facilities allow students to enjoy a rich blend of academic study, sport, creativity and relaxing downtime.

Accommodation and Meals

Students stay in comfortable boarding houses on the Canford School campus. The accommodation blends historic British boarding-school charm with modern comfort:

• Single and twin rooms, plus small shared dorms
• Separate areas for boys and girls
• Common rooms for socialising and games
• Quiet study spaces
• Regular cleaning and laundry support
• Pastoral teams and House Parents live on site, providing 24/7 support and ensuring students feel settled and secure throughout their stay.
• Meals are served in both the traditional and modern dining halls. The menu includes:
• Freshly prepared hot dishes
• Vegetarian, vegan and halal options
• Salads, fruit and healthy snacks
• Special dietary needs catered for on request

Activities and Excursions

The Canford programme places a strong emphasis on adventure, teamwork and personal growth. Students take part in a wide variety of activities designed to build confidence, leadership and creativity.

On-Campus Activities

• Football, tennis, basketball, swimming
• Tag rugby and rounders
• Archery and outdoor games
• Arts & crafts, theatre and drama
• Dance, music and talent shows
• Board games, quizzes and theme nights
• Team-building and challenge events

Example Excursions

• London Sightseeing Tour & Attractions: museums, landmarks and cultural experiences
• Bournemouth Beach Trip: coastal activities, swimming and beach games
• Splashdown Waterpark: slides, flumes and a full water adventure experience
• Local attractions in Dorset, including nature reserves and historical sites

Optional Extras

Available at an additional cost:

• Horse riding
• Tennis coaching
• Adventure sports
• Water Adventure Day
• Bushcraft sessions
• Sports academies

These extras add even more excitement and allow students to personalise their experience.