As one of the best summer schools in the world, we understand the importance of asking questions. If there’s anything you want to know, please ask. But, to save you some time, here are some of the most frequently asked questions.
| WHAT IS GORDONSTOUN INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL? |
| Gordonstoun International Summer School (GISS) is one of the UK’s longest‑established and best‑known international summer programmes, offering a blend of academic learning, outdoor adventure and creative activities on Gordonstoun’s 200‑acre woodland campus in Scotland. |
| wHO CAN ATTEND THE SUMMER SCHOOL? |
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The programme welcomes students aged 8–16 from around the world.
There is a Junior Programme (ages 8–11) and a Senior Programme (ages 11–16).
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| how LONG ARE THE COURSES? |
- Junior Programme: 2 weeks
- Senior Programme: 3 weeks
Both include study options plus a wide range of activities, excursions and an adventure residential.
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| What DATES DOES THE SUMMER SCHOOL RUN? |
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For Summer 2026, the dates are:
- Junior Programme:
- 3 July – 17 July
- 19 July – 2 August
- Senior Programme:
- 3 July – 26 July
- 10 July – 2 August
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| WhAT SUBJECTS AND ACTIVITIES ARE OFFERED? |
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Students follow a diverse timetable including:
- Academic options: English (EAL or literature), computing, creative writing, science, international relations/citizenship and social enterprise.
- Creative activities: Art, design & technology, music, drama.
- Sports & recreation: A wide range of indoor/outdoor sports.
- Adventure programme: Sailing, climbing, abseiling, mountain biking, gorge walking, canoeing, and more.
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| WhAT IS THE ADVENTURE RESIDENTIAL? |
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A highlight of each programme:
- Juniors: Adventure Campus in the Cairngorm Mountains (3 days)
- Seniors: West Coast of Scotland (6 days)
Activities focus on teamwork, independence and outdoor challenges.
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| WHAT IS THE STAFF-TO-STUDENT RATIO? |
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GISS offers excellent pastoral care with ratios such as 1 staff member per 3 students, ensuring strong support and attention for every child.
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| where do STUDENTS STAY? |
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Accommodation is provided in Gordonstoun’s boarding houses, supported by a dedicated pastoral team and a fully staffed 24‑hour healthcare centre.
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| HOW DO TRAVEL AND TRANSFERS WORK? |
| Students are met at local airports - Aberdeen and Inverness (each under 90 minutes away) - and escorted to campus by Summer School staff. Accompanied flights from London are available. Edinburgh and Glasgow transport is available by arrangement. |
| HOW MANY STUDENTS ATTEND AND FROM WHERE? |
| GISS welcomes around 180–280 students each year from 40+ countries, creating a diverse international community. |
| WHAT DOES THE PROGRAMME COST? |
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Fees vary by year and programme. As an example:
- Senior Programme fees - £6,700
- Junior Programme fees - £4,650
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| IS THE SUMMER SCHOOL SUITABLE FOR ENGLISH LEARNERS? |
| Yes. Courses are designed for both native speakers and those learning English as a foreign language. Students are assessed on arrival to ensure appropriate placement. |
| what MAKES GORDONSTOUN'S SUMMER SCHOOL UNIQUE? |
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GISS follows the Gordonstoun philosophy of learning through challenge, adventure and internationalism. Its ethos is rooted in Kurt Hahn’s educational principles, emphasising resilience, teamwork and broad personal development.
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| DO STUDENTS OFTEN RETURN? |
| Yes! Many students return year after year, and some even follow in their parents’ footsteps, creating a family tradition. |
