Summer Schools
Young Explorers – Camp Dragon
Discover new interests and enjoy a summer of adventure and discovery in Oxford.
Key Details
- Ages: 8-12
- Location: Camp Dragon, Oxford
- Start dates: 19 July & 2 August 2027
- English level: A2+ (elementary or above)
- Duration: 2 weeks
Students from
countries around the world
We’re the UK’s
multi-campus summer school
We’ve welcomed
students since 2008
5 star-rated by
of families
A world of discovery awaits
Big Adventures for Little Explorers
What amazing things could your child discover this summer? Young Explorers at Camp Dragon in Oxford offers children aged 8–12 an exciting introduction to new subjects, activities, and friendships in a caring environment.
On this summer school for children, they’ll explore everything from science and history to art, drama, and music. Learning happens through games, imaginative projects, and hands-on challenges, with English spoken throughout the day.
Build a catapult. Try fencing. Perform in a show. Every day brings something new, helping children become more independent, curious, and adventurous. All within the welcoming surroundings of the Dragon School, with dedicated staff providing round-the-clock support.
Discover more about Young Explorers and book your child’s place today.
Our immersive summer schools are delivered by SBC, the UK’s number 1 multi-campus summer school for children aged 6-17.
Young Explorers – Camp Dragon
Young Explorers at Camp Dragon is an adventure-filled two-week summer school in Oxford for children aged 8–12, combining imaginative learning, English-language development, and exciting new experiences.
During the programme, your child will:
– Explore science, history, geography, and the arts through games and creative challenges
– Build imaginative projects, from miniature catapults to model rollercoasters
– Try exciting activities such as fencing, combat archery, and den building
– Perform, present, and celebrate their achievements at the daily Showtime event
They’ll also enjoy unforgettable adventures beyond the classroom, with excursions to attractions such as LEGOLAND and Warwick Castle, all supported by caring, experienced staff.
Book your child’s place today and give them a summer full of discovery.
At a Glance
- Price
- Duration
- Location
- Ages
- Start Dates
- From £2,995
- 2 weeks
- Oxford
- 8-12
- 19 July & 2 Aug 2027
Academic Overview
Discover how young learners explore through play, creation, and performance.
24/7
Pastoral support
From 100% DBS-checked, trained residential staff.
1:6
Staff-to-student ratio
Ensuring our focus is always on your child.
15 hours
Academic teaching per week
An immersive learning experience.
15/15
Areas of strength
In our most recent British Council inspection.
Four Stages, One Amazing Journey
Let curiosity lead the way
Every adventure begins with a new discovery. Children explore the day’s theme through games, stories, and imaginative activities. They might design their own coat of arms on History Day or investigate fascinating habitats on Geography Day, learning new English vocabulary as they go.
Dream it. Build it. Make it happen.
Time to get creative. Children take their discoveries further through practical challenges, whether constructing miniature catapults, designing rollercoasters, or experimenting with art. They’ll solve problems together, exchange ideas in English, and enjoy the satisfaction of making something themselves.
Be brave and try something new
Adventure awaits. From fencing and combat archery to building secret dens, children are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones in a safe, supportive environment. Every new experience offers a chance to develop resilience, make friends, and discover what they’re capable of.
Take centre stage and shine
It’s time to celebrate. Children come together to share their discoveries through performances, presentations, and team challenges. Whether staging a dramatic scene or demonstrating their latest creation, everyone gets the opportunity to contribute, practise their English, and take pride in their achievements.
Get started
Choose Your Date
Pick the start date that suits you and secure your place.
From rise and shine to showtime
A Day at Camp Dragon
Every day at Camp Dragon is a chance to discover, grow, and try new things. Here’s what a typical day looks like.
9am: Rise & Shine. The day begins with the Camp Dragon chant: Safe, Brave, Curious.
9:30am: Academic Programme. Children explore the day’s theme through creative activities and play.
11am: Develop. From building mini catapults to designing rollercoasters and experimenting with art, children develop new skills while practising their English.
1:30pm: Dare. Children try something new, whether that’s fencing, combat archery, or building a dragon’s den.
3:30pm: Showtime! Time to share the day’s achievements through group presentations, performances, and celebrations.
6:15pm: Dinner. Everyone comes together for the evening meal.
7pm: Awesome Activities. Evening activities range from football and dancing to arts and crafts, with board games and drawing for those who prefer something quieter.
8pm: House Time. Children enjoy juice and biscuits with their House Parents before lights out at 20:30.
Have a Question?
If you’d like to speak to us before you book, we’re happy to answer any questions you may have. Fill in the form and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.
Our Campus
Young Explorers is hosted at Camp Dragon.
Ages 8-12
Camp Dragon
Located in leafy North Oxford, Camp Dragon is our campus for enthusiastic learners aged 8-12. Camp Dragon courses take place at the Dragon School, a renowned independent school in a picturesque neighbourhood just a mile from the centre of Oxford. With its modern facilities and expansive grounds, this campus offers the perfect environment for exploration and learning.
- Price
- Duration
- Start Dates
- From £2,995
- 2 weeks
- 19 Jul & 2 Aug 2027
Life at Camp Dragon
A home from home
Camp Dragon takes place at the Dragon School in Oxford. Children sleep in comfortable boarding houses with our residential staff living alongside them. Girls and boys stay in separate rooms. It is a safe, gentle first experience of boarding life.
Outings to fun-filled attractions
Here is a sample of recent excursions children have gone on:
- Oxford sightseeing – guided walks, museum visits, and outdoor activities in this historic city
- Warwick Castle – time travel to the Middle Ages to this spectacular medieval castle
- LEGOLAND – rides, creativity, and interactive LEGO experiences
- Harry Potter Studios (optional extra) – step into the world of Hogwarts with this tour of the Warner Bros. Studios
Relax and have fun
Our multi-activity programme in the evenings is a chance for children to play and make friends with peers from around the world. Those with lots of energy can enjoy football, dance, and den building, while a quieter evening of board games and drawing is the perfect way to unwind.
Safe days, settled nights
We understand that sending your child abroad is a big decision, which is why their safety and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do. Our dedicated residential staff provide 24/7 on-site pastoral support, with a staff-to-student ratio of 1:6 to ensure every student receives the care and attention they need. All residential staff are fully trained and DBS-checked, creating a safe, welcoming environment where students can settle in, make friends, and enjoy their summer.
One summer, a lifetime of learning ahead
What Your Child Takes Away
After your child’s programme, they leave with recognition of their achievements and skills that set them up for their next steps.
A certificate recognising that your child has completed the Young Explorers programme.
Children practise English naturally throughout the day, from classroom activities to conversations with new friends. They’ll expand their vocabulary and develop their speaking and listening skills through enjoyable, meaningful experiences.
Through science investigations, imaginative projects, and team challenges, children learn to ask questions, experiment with ideas, and find creative solutions. Every activity encourages them to explore, think independently, and discover something new.
Children gain experience making decisions, trying unfamiliar activities, and working alongside others. With friendly staff always available to offer encouragement and support, they’ll have the space to become more independent while feeling safe and included.
Fees
Day or Residential?
Recommended
Residential
From £4,095
- Full board — all meals & accommodation included
- Multi-activity programme
- Evening activities & excursions
- 24/7 pastoral care
Day
From £2,995
- Same academic programme as residential
- Lunch & evening meals
- Activities and excursions
- Return home in the evening
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FAQs
Of course. Just fill out our enquiry form and a member of our admissions team will get back to you as soon as possible.
This course is suitable for children with an English level of A2 (elementary) or above.
All our residential staff are DBS-checked and trained. We have a high staff-to-student ratio and we offer 24/7 pastoral support.
No. This programme is designed and delivered by Summer Boarding Courses, which is part of Dukes Plus. Summer Boarding Courses contracts the use of these facilities and has no formal connection with the Dragon School, and they do not deliver, partner in, or endorse our programmes.
Have a Question?
Fill out the form and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible.