English Summer Programme at the University of California, Berkeley

The programme offers 15 hours of English lessons per week, delivered in small classes with an average size of 14 students to ensure individual attention and active participation. Teaching follows a communicative and interactive methodology that focuses on collaboration through creative projects and review sessions, using English in real-world contexts. Lessons build all core language skills – speaking, listening, reading, and writing – with a strong emphasis on communication, fluency, and confidence. Students are placed into classes according to their English level, which ranges from Elementary (A1) to Proficiency (C2), and the programme can be adjusted to accommodate lower levels if needed.

The curriculum is designed in-house and uses engaging, modern topics that students can relate to. The programme's collaboration with National Geographic Learning ensures access to high-quality, engaging course materials that bring the world into the classroom. Each lesson provides students with opportunities to reflect on their learning process and develop critical thinking skills while using English. The campus offers bright and modern facilities, as well as indoor and outdoor spaces for interactive activities including conversation classes, international evenings, and discos.

The programme is all-inclusive and covers English language teaching (15 hours per week), course materials, registration fees, a graduation certificate, accommodation in university residences, all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), return airport transfers from SFO or OAK, and all activities, excursions, and entrance fees as per the sample programme. Please note that there may be slight differences in what is included depending on the specific programme and length of stay. Optional excursions add-ons may be available for a supplement. Wi-Fi access is included in the accommodation.

Students stay in university residence accommodation on the UC Berkeley campus, offering a safe and convenient on-campus living experience. Rooms are double or triple occupancy with shared single-gender washrooms, with a ratio of approximately one bathroom for every five students. Common areas are available for students to relax and socialise, and each accommodation includes a shared living room and kitchen. On-site laundry facilities are available for student use. All students are required to bring their own towels and toiletries. The residential setting allows students to fully immerse themselves in campus life and build lasting friendships in a secure environment.

Full board is provided, with three meals per day – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – included in the programme. Meals are served in the university dining facilities in an all-you-can-eat style, with hot meals offering multiple options. Menus vary daily and include side dishes, with daily vegetarian options and dessert available. The programme can accommodate food allergies and intolerances if notified in advance. The meal plan ensures that students are well-nourished and energised for their lessons, activities, and excursions throughout the day.

A full and varied activity programme is included, designed to make the most of the San Francisco Bay Area's rich culture and stunning scenery. Students participate in on-campus activities including team challenges, arts and crafts, drama sessions, and social events such as quiz nights, movie nights, karaoke nights, international nights, and discos. Excursions to explore the local area are a key part of the programme, with a standard two-week programme including seven half-day activities exploring popular attractions such as the Golden Gate Bridge, the Exploratorium, Chinatown, Little Italy, the UC Botanical Garden, and Telegraph Avenue. Full-day excursions are offered on weekends, including trips to Santa Cruz Beach and Boardwalk, Silicon Valley, and Pier 39 with a bay boat cruise to Alcatraz. Walking tours, museum visits, and shopping trips provide additional opportunities for cultural immersion and fun.

The UC Berkeley campus offers bright and modern classroom facilities equipped for effective language learning. Indoor and outdoor spaces are available for interactive activities including conversation classes, international evenings, discos, and more. Sports facilities include volleyball and soccer facilities, as well as team challenges and outdoor activities. The campus is located in the lively city of Berkeley, providing students with immediate access to the San Francisco Bay Area's rich culture and innovation. The campus is approximately 35 minutes from downtown San Francisco by public transport, with tickets provided for all journeys. The safe and vibrant campus environment offers a perfect balance of academic focus and urban exploration.

Oxford International is a well-established organisation with decades of experience in providing high-quality English language programmes for young learners across the UK, Canada, the USA, and Australia. The UC Berkeley programme is delivered by qualified and experienced teachers who are trained to create engaging and supportive learning environments. Student welfare is the top priority, with all staff undergoing criminal record checks and safeguarding training. A dedicated 24-hour emergency phone number is available for students, parents, and agents. The programme's collaboration with National Geographic Learning ensures access to high-quality, engaging course materials that bring the world into the classroom. Students consistently report that the programme helps them improve their English, build confidence, and form lasting friendships with peers from around the world in one of the most iconic and innovative regions of the United States.