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Week 1 Whitgift Summer School 2023: New Beginnings!

Welcome, parents! As we dive into a detailed account of the first full week at Whitgift Summer School, we are happy to share the experiences your children have had so far. From intensive lessons to engaging extracurricular activities, it has been a week filled with growth, camaraderie, and exploration.

Students in white lab coats gather around a woman holding a snake in a classroom setting.

Students at Whitgift Summer School can make the most of everything the school has to offer, including snakes!

Lessons and Academic Rigour

The English students embarked on their first week of intensive general English lessons, designed to enhance their language skills and foster effective communication. Alongside these, our pre-IB students delved into stimulating English literature and language classes, challenging their analytical thinking and writing abilities. The academic rigor at Whitgift Summer School aims to nurture your child's intellectual curiosity and provide a solid foundation for their future endeavors.To this, the students enjoyed working together with our British students from Whitgift School on projects. This week the Lower School Students (11 - 13 year olds) worked on XYZ and the Upper School Students.

Sports and Outdoor Adventures:

Physical activity and well-being are essential components of our summer school program. Our students enthusiastically participated in various sports activities, including football, hockey, horse riding, and fencing. These sports not only promote teamwork and physical fitness but also instill discipline and determination. For those with diverse interests, our multi-activity courses offered opportunities to explore activities such as swimming, music, badminton, squash, and even animal care.
 

Field hockey players compete for a yellow ball on a blue turf pitch with a %22WCP Hockey%22 sign in the background.

The Hockey Academy at Whitgift Summer School is run by Mr Tim Davenport, Head of Hockey Development at Whitgift School.

House Activities and Healthy Competition:

Evenings at Whitgift Summer School were filled with lively house activities, fostering a sense of belonging and healthy competition among the students. Engaging in various challenges and games, the students earned valuable house points, promoting teamwork, camaraderie, and a friendly spirit of rivalry. These activities create a supportive and inclusive environment where each student can shine and contribute positively.

Children play basketball with orange balls on an indoor court against a plain light-blue wall.


The London Dungeon

This Wednesday saw our first trip to Central London with the students heading to the scary sight of the London Dungeons! Unfortunately, no pictures of videos are allowed to be taken in the Dungeon itself, but the students did tell us that it was a spooky experience indeed! For many of our students, this was the first time in Central London (certainly since Covid19), and they were able to soak up some of the atmosphere of the capital city before they went down into the Dungeons themselves. 

A group of young people poses for a photo on a city walkway with a bridge and urban skyline in the background.

Our students enjoyed soaking up the atmosphere of the capital city before entering the Dungeons!

A large group of young people poses for a photo in the foreground with Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament visible in the background.


Celebration of Achievements:

The highlight of the week was the much-anticipated Friday graduation ceremony, where students were recognized and rewarded for their accomplishments throughout the week. Prizes were awarded to acknowledge outstanding efforts, dedication, and progress. This heartwarming ceremony showcased the growth and development of each student, reinforcing their confidence and motivating them to strive for excellence.

Two women stand center stage exchanging an award while a man stands at a podium and a group of people watch from the background beneath a large projection screen.

Exploring Brighton:

Saturday brought an exciting full-day excursion to the picturesque coastal town of Brighton. The students embarked on an adventure, starting with a mesmerizing ride up the iconic i360 tower, offering breathtaking panoramic views. They then immersed themselves in the charm of the famous lanes, meandering through unique shops and embracing the town's cultural essence. A visit to the pier, brimming with joyful energy, was the perfect opportunity to savor some delectable ice cream, creating lasting memories of their summer school journey.

Three young women pose for a photo inside a glass observation pod overlooking a blue ocean and clear sky.

The students enjoyed a trip up the Brighton i360 Tower on Saturday. 


Sunday
On Sunday the students enjoyed a lazy morning before heading on a shopping trip to the Bluewater Shopping Mall in Kent.After this, they returned to Whitgift, enjoyed the weekly BBQ and evening activities. Roll on Week 2!