English Summer Programme at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver

The programme offers 15 hours of English lessons per week, delivered in small classes with an average size of 16 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, such as reflecting on social media use and artificial intelligence. The new syllabus includes six student books covering levels A1 to C2, with language developed within engaging and real-world contexts. Each lesson provides students with opportunities to reflect on their learning process and develop critical thinking skills while using English. For an additional supplement, students can add IELTS preparation classes, which are held at the Oxford International English School in downtown Vancouver.

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, public transport tickets for all journeys, and all activities, excursions, and entrance fees as per the sample programme.For an additional supplement, students can add International English Language Testing System (IELTS) preparation classes, which are held at the Oxford International English School in downtown Vancouver. This option must be confirmed in advance.

Students stay in university residence accommodation on the UBC campus, offering a safe and convenient on-campus living experience. Rooms are single occupancy with shared single-gender washrooms, with a ratio of approximately one bathroom for every seven students. Each floor has common areas and lounges equipped with televisions and kitchenettes, providing spaces for students to relax and socialise with peers from around the world. 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 served in the university dining hall. Breakfast is a hot buffet served from 7:30 to 9:00 am. Lunch is served from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm and typically includes three hot options, including a vegetarian choice, with salad, pasta, and rice side dishes, dessert, and a drink. Packed lunches are provided on weekends for excursions. Dinner is served from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm and follows a similar format with three hot options, including vegetarian choices, side dishes, and dessert. Staff also organise occasional surprise dinners to add variety and fun to the dining experience.

A full and varied activity programme is included, designed to make the most of Vancouver's stunning natural surroundings and vibrant city life. Students participate in on-campus sports, team challenges, and creative workshops, as well as evening social events such as talent shows, discos, movie nights, and capture the flag. Excursions are a key part of the programme, with three half-day excursions per week to explore iconic attractions, including Stanley Park, Granville Island, FlyOver Canada, Gastown, and Science World. Full-day excursions are offered on weekends, including trips to the world-famous resort of Whistler and Playland Amusement Park. Cycling tours, beach BBQs, and shopping trips provide additional opportunities for cultural immersion and fun.

The UBC campus offers bright and modern classroom facilities equipped for effective language learning. Sports facilities include grass fields, tennis courts, basketball courts, and access to university amenities such as a softball diamond, ice rink, and an indoor swimming complex. Student lounges in the accommodation areas are equipped with televisions, sofas, and basic kitchen facilities, and Wi-Fi is available in the commons block. The campus is located approximately 30 minutes by bus from downtown Vancouver, with public transport tickets provided for all journeys. The stunning natural setting, with forests and ocean surrounding the campus, provides endless opportunities for outdoor activities and 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 UBC 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 a spectacular setting.