Living Learning English has joined Academic Summer in an exciting new move for international education. Discover the story behind the acquisition, meet the principals, Helen Lami and Kate Hargreaves and find out what this means for students, families and agents worldwide.
When two trusted names in international education come together, the result is more than a business transaction – it’s a story of shared vision, friendship and continuity.
On 28th August 2025, Academic Summer announced the acquisition of Living Learning English, marking the start of an exciting new era for both companies. For three decades, Living Learning English has been known worldwide for its bespoke one-to-one tuition through homestay and online programmes. Thousands of students, from young learners to professionals and embassy staff, have benefitted from its unique blend of academic progress and cultural immersion.
Now, under the leadership of Helen Lami, CEO of Academic Summer, the values and ethos established by Kate Hargreaves, founder of Living Learning English, will not only continue but grow. Academic Summer and Living Learning English are now sister companies, joining forces to offer even more opportunities for students worldwide, while proudly retaining their own individual identities and brands.
A meeting of values and vision
Helen and Kate have known each other for over 20 years. What makes this acquisition special is not simply the bringing together of two educational providers, but the joining of shared values – a belief in personalised learning, academic excellence and a commitment to the student’s whole experience.
As Helen explained in conversation, Living Learning English’s total immersion model aligns beautifully with Academic Summer’s own philosophy of learning through exploration and discovery. It is this synergy that gives confidence for the future.
Introducing Living Learning English
Perhaps the best way to find out more about Living and Learning English is to hear from the company’s founder Kate Hargreaves and its new principal, Helen Lami. To mark the occasion, business journalist Al Gibson sat down with Helen and Kate to hear their hear their personal reflections on the acquisition and what it means for the future. The result is a warm, insightful exchange that looks back at Kate’s remarkable legacy and forward to Helen’s vision for the future.
What this means for families, students and professionals
For families considering learning English in the UK, this acquisition offers more choice. Young people (7-17) have the option of attending a summer camp in London, where they can learn while discovering the city’s historic landmarks or an adventure in the English countryside. This can be followed up by 1:1 tuition in a teachers home in many different places across the UK / or online all year round.
Living Learning English students of all ages will continue to benefit from expert sessions with dedicated teachers in their homes or online, with added strength of being part of the wider Academic Summer framework. Parents, educators, agents and professionals can expect enhanced support, new programme options and the reassurance that the reputation of Living Learning English will be preserved.
Living Learning English / Academic Summer press release
For full details of the acquisition, including official statements from Helen Lami and Kate Hargreaves, read the press release.
The Clever Fox Journal is the online news section of Academic Summer Camps, inspired by our logo – a wise fox wearing a graduation cap. Just like our summer programmes, The Clever Fox Journal is a place of curiosity, learning and discovery, bringing you the latest updates, insights and stories from our academic camps in the UK and Canada. Stay informed, stay inspired – and think like a clever fox!
