Ellie Jones, mum of three and Head of Academic and HR at Academic Summer, shares a genuine parental perspective on summer school programmes in the UK explaining why her children love Academic Summer Camps and how it gives them a head start each school year.
When it comes to summer schools in the UK, many parents ask the same questions: Is it worth it? Will my child enjoy it? Is it safe? For Ellie Jones, mum of three, the answers are clear – not because it’s her job to say so, but because she’s seen the results first-hand as a parent.
“My children love it and I’m not just saying that because I have to,” Ellie laughs. “If you asked them, you’d find they’re probably Academic Summer’s biggest fans.”
Ellie’s children have been attending Academic Summer camps for years, and they look forward to it more than the average school term.
“My eldest, who’s 13 now, celebrated his first birthday at Sidcot School. Every year they count down the days – literally.”
Academic Summer Camp’s Ellie Jones with CEO, Helen Lami and Course Director, Dr Giedrė Balčytytė
A parental perspective on summer school
As a mother, Ellie values the academic growth, but it’s the experience as a whole that wins her over. Academic Camp is a place where learning feels like an adventure!
“Instead of being at home on devices, they’re off building rafts to cross rivers with classmates, competing in sports, going on amazing trips and learning in ways that really stick.”
Her children, each with different personalities and interests, all find their place at camp.
“It just works for them, even though they’re very different. They love the late-night toast in the kitchen with the camp counsellors, the campfires and yes, even the lessons!”
That September boost all parents wish for
The benefits don’t end when summer does. Ellie sees the long-term impact when the new school year begins.
“They start school in September feeling like they’ve had a head start, reignited in their love of learning and full of confidence. It’s like a secret advantage.”
For Ellie, who describes herself as a cautious parent, the biggest reassurance is knowing her children are safe and well looked after.
“We care for the students as if they’re our own. And when I send my own children, I know they’re in the best hands.”
Making that first step as a parent
Ellie understands that sending your child to summer school, especially in another country, can feel daunting.
“People who know me as a parent would probably say I’m a bit too cautious. My instinct is to keep my children close. But they’ve grown in so many ways by going to Academic Summer – independence, confidence, friendships. It’s been worth it every time.”
She adds that the team are trained not just in education, but in safeguarding and care.
“The children are never on their own. We make sure they’re supported, guided and looked after as if they were our own children.”
That balance of independence and care is something many parents are looking for and Ellie’s experience proves that summer school can be both safe and transformative.
Still time to book for Summer 2025
There’s still time to secure a place for Summer 2025 and if you’re looking for a flexible option with high energy and maximum fun, don’t miss our Football Camp at Sidcot School in Bristol, available at £50 per day.
Whether your child is 7 or 17, Academic Summer offers an inspiring, safe and enriching environment where every student feels seen, challenged and supported, just ask Ellie’s kids!
Read our full interview with Ellie where she provides a more detailed parental perspective on summer school, the academic programme and the company’s unique team: Leading with Heart: Ellie Jones on shaping Academic Summer Camps as teacher, HR Head and proud mum
Al Gibson is a business journalist based in Exeter. He started Countdown Creative in 2020 offering copywriting services to local companies, charities and organisations.