This summer LSI ran their first ever junior programme at London Ealing. Our new junior programme took place at Ealing Green College, located in the leafy west London suburb of Ealing. This was an ideal venue, providing large, bright, well-equipped classrooms. Across from the college, was Walpole Park – the perfect place for our students to picnic at lunch time.
The 300 students who attended the summer school were a mix of mainly European nationalities, aged 12-17. Our course Co-ordinator, Elena Darnell, ensured that most host families were within walking distance or a short bus ride away. The daily programme involved morning English lessons from 9.00 to 12.50. Classes were followed by afternoon social activities and sightseeing trips. Full-day excursions were also organised every Saturday.
Gavin Taylor, centre manager, comments on the atmosphere in the school. “I had a great team of teachers who fully embraced the summer- school remit to deliver fun. The lessons were all student-centred, focusing on getting them to talk. Activities such as role plays, debates, games and projects all helped the students to open up more and get to know each other. ”
So what did our students enjoy the most? It seems from the feedback we’ve received that our social programme was especially successful. Highlights included a boat trip on the River Thames, a day trip to Brighton, a shopping trip to Camden Town and a guided tour of Kew Gardens. Another favourite was the Friday night disco which saw 200 students going crazy to the music of our resident Spanish DJ. Even one of two of the teachers were encourage to get down and get funky much to the amusement of their students! In addition to the social programme there were many positive comments about our homestay families. All in all, our first year in Ealing, has been a total success.
Finally we’d like to thank all the students, teachers and group leaders who made the summer school such an enjoyable experience. See you again next year!
