Summer 2026 was a truly memorable season for ISSFT, bringing together ambitious teenagers from around the world for an enriching programme of academic study, personal development and shared experiences at our Oxford and St Andrews campuses.

Across both locations, students embraced the opportunity to learn in inspiring university environments, develop new skills and form friendships that crossed cultures and continents. From the first arrivals to the final farewells, each session was filled with curiosity, energy and a strong sense of community.

We were also fortunate to enjoy exceptional weather throughout the summer. Conditions remained largely dry, warm and sunny at both campuses, with particularly hot weather in Oxford providing the perfect backdrop for activities, excursions and time spent outdoors.

Inspiring Academic Experiences

Our academic programme encouraged students to explore their interests, think independently and prepare for their future studies. Courses ranged from English language, creative writing and study skills to global leadership, entrepreneurship and medicine.

Students took part in discussions, presentations, collaborative projects and practical challenges designed to develop their confidence as well as their subject knowledge. Their final projects and performances demonstrated the progress they had made and gave them an opportunity to celebrate everything they had achieved.

Developing Skills Beyond the Classroom

Every student combined their morning academic course with an afternoon elective, creating a balanced dual-study experience.

Across AI, computer science and coding, theatre, photography and digital media, sports leadership, tennis and golf, students learned through practical experience. They developed creativity, teamwork, resilience and communication while receiving guidance from experienced teachers and coaches.

Whether performing on stage, creating original digital work, developing an AI project, competing on court or refining their technique on the golf course, students approached their electives with enthusiasm and determination.

A Landmark Summer in St Andrews

Summer 2026 marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter for ISSFT as we welcomed students to our St Andrews campus for the first time.

The historic university town and its beautiful coastal setting provided an exceptional backdrop for the programme. Students enjoyed spending time at the beach and exploring the town, while the new en-suite accommodation was extremely well received and provided a comfortable, modern residential environment.

The quality of the sports facilities and coaching exceeded our expectations, giving students access to an outstanding setting in which to develop their skills. The academic programme was equally impressive, with the student debate in the University of St Andrews’ historic Parliament Hall proving to be one of the academic highlights of the entire summer.

St Andrews quickly developed its own warm and vibrant community, making our first summer there an important and highly successful moment in the continuing development of ISSFT.

An Unforgettable Oxford Experience

At Oxford, students experienced life in the heart of one of the world’s most famous university cities. Living and studying in a central college setting allowed them to become immersed in Oxford’s remarkable history and academic atmosphere.

Outside the classroom, the Clan events were a particular highlight. These lively team competitions brought students together, encouraged new friendships and created a fantastic sense of community across each session.

Students also valued the opportunity to enjoy supervised free time in Oxford, explore the city and visit its shops. An excursion to London added another memorable dimension to the programme, allowing students to see some of the capital’s most famous landmarks and enjoy a full day of sightseeing.

Across both Oxford sessions, focused study was balanced with activities, events, excursions and time to enjoy the city. Combined with the outstanding summer weather, Oxford provided a vibrant and inspiring environment in which to learn, explore and build lasting friendships.

Experiences and Friendships to Remember

Life at ISSFT extends far beyond the classroom. Evening activities, team challenges, social events and excursions gave students regular opportunities to relax, discover new places and spend time together.

These shared experiences helped students grow in confidence and independence. Many arrived without knowing anyone and returned home with close friends from countries they may never previously have visited.

This international community remains one of the most special aspects of ISSFT. By learning and living alongside people from different backgrounds, students developed a greater understanding of the world and their place within it.

Celebrating Our Students and Staff

The success of Summer 2026 was made possible by the enthusiasm of our students and the dedication of our teaching, pastoral, residential, activities and operational teams.

We are incredibly proud of the way our students approached the programme, supported one another and made the most of every opportunity. We are equally grateful to our staff, whose professionalism, energy and care created a safe, supportive and inspiring environment at both campuses.

Summer may have come to an end, but the confidence, knowledge, friendships and memories created during the programme will continue long after students have returned home.

Thank you to everyone who helped make Summer 2026 such an unforgettable chapter in the ISSFT story. We look forward to welcoming the next generation of students in 2027.