In an increasingly interconnected world, the ability to build meaningful global relationships is one of the greatest advantages a young person can have. At the International Summer School for Teens (ISSFT), this happens naturally. Students from over 90 countries come together in Oxford and St Andrews, creating a vibrant, international community where global friendships grow effortlessly.

For teenagers aged 13–18, these connections expand horizons, build confidence, and open doors to a world of future opportunities.

A Community Connected by Curiosity

From the moment students arrive, they join a learning community rich in cultures, languages, and perspectives. In every class—from Global Leadership to English, Medicine, Law, or AI—debates and discussions are shaped by a truly international mix of voices.

A student from Seoul shares ideas with someone from Munich; a future entrepreneur from Dubai collaborates with a classmate from São Paulo. These moments of shared curiosity help teens understand the world in deeper, more dynamic ways.

Friendships That Travel Across Continents

The friendships formed at ISSFT are powerful because they continue long after the summer ends. Students stay connected across time zones, support each other through exams and university applications, and often arrange to meet again—on campus, on holiday, or at their future universities.

Many alumni tell us that their first real global network began at ISSFT. These connections give teenagers a sense of belonging that stretches across continents, shaping their future academic, social, and even professional journeys.

Cultural Intelligence Grows Naturally

Living and learning with peers from 90+ nations helps students develop cultural intelligence—one of the most important skills for modern life. Through daily conversations, project work, shared meals, and team activities, students learn how different cultures communicate, celebrate, and collaborate.

This environment strengthens empathy, adaptability, open-mindedness, and global awareness—qualities that help young people thrive at university and in international careers.

A Launchpad for Future Success

A global network is one of the most valuable assets a young person can carry into adulthood. ISSFT students return home with:

✔︎ A wider worldview
✔︎ Stronger communication skills
✔︎ International friendships they deeply value
✔︎ Confidence in connecting with others
✔︎ A sense of belonging in a global community

These benefits support students academically, socially, and professionally—enhancing the advantages of the academic courses, electives, sports programmes, and cultural experiences they enjoy each day.

A Summer That Stays With You

Every July and August, ISSFT becomes a living, breathing global network—energetic, friendly, inclusive, and alive with possibility. For many students, the friendships and international connections made here become defining parts of their teenage years and the foundation of their global future.

At ISSFT, these connections are not a bonus; they are one of the greatest strengths of the entire experience.