News

As a new term begins, we’re already looking forward to celebrating the 10th anniversary of Whitgift Summer School in 2025 with exciting new courses and materials. Recently, we received a heartfelt letter from one of our returning students, Lucia from Germany, who shared her reflections on her past two summers with us. We’re thrilled to pass along her beautifully written experiences with our Whitgift Summer School community below:

I chose Whitgift Summer School not just to improve my English, but to connect with people from all over the world. Whitgift offers the perfect balance of engaging English lessons in the mornings and a variety of fun afternoon activities, giving you the best of both worlds.

When I arrived in 2023, I was nervous and overwhelmed, unsure of what to expect. But the moment I stepped into the boarding house, I felt an immediate sense of welcome and support. The staff and students were incredibly kind, and I quickly realized how easy it was to make friends with people from so many different countries. Those two weeks flew by, filled with lessons, exciting trips, and beautiful memories. Leaving at the end was by far the hardest part, saying goodbye to such an amazing experience, new friends, and unforgettable moments was emotional. That’s when I made a promise to myself and some staff members that I would return and that is exactly what I did.
Returning to Whitgift in 2024, where I had one of the best times of my life, was truly magical. Walking back into the boarding house and reuniting with old friends and staff felt like I had never left. Not only did I improve my English further, but I also connected with new people and made more lifelong friends, who I’m still in contact with today.

The energy at Whitgift is very special everyone is genuinely kind, joyful, and optimistic, making your experience unforgettable. That’s why I want to share one of my favorite memories, one I will never forget. It involves a tradition I created with some of the Activity Leaders, with whom you spend a lot of time bonding, it was singing together on the bus rides during trips. On my last Friday evening at the disco, we performed the song we always sang together on stage. It was the perfect ending to two incredible summers at Whitgift, better than I could have ever imagined. So, if you're looking for an experience that combines learning, fun, and lifelong connections, I can’t recommend Whitgift enough it is truly a summer you will never forget!

Lastly, I want to say a huge thank you to everyone: House parents, Activity Leaders, Teachers, International students, Student Hosts, Content Creators, and of course, Mr. Chisholm. You are the ones who are making Whitgift Summer School as special as it is! You’ve taught me so many valuable life lessons, like believing in myself, and encouraged me to follow my dreams. The memories I’ve made and the friendships I’ve formed will last a lifetime.

You will always have a special place in my heart!

And always remember: It is not a Goodbye simply just a see you later!!

Lots of love,

Lucia