GISS - Gordonstoun International Summer School in the UK

Activity

8 - 16 years

15 hours of lessons per week

8 students per class maximum

6 students per class on average

180 students in total

03. Jul - 02. Aug 2026

£ 2325 per week (circa)

Rural

Airport transfer costs are included

There is more in you

Founded in 1976, the Gordonstoun International Summer School (GISS) delivers a distinctive, adventure-based learning experience on the historic Gordonstoun campus in Scotland. Guided by Kurt Hahn’s educational philosophy, GISS emphasizes teamwork, resilience, and international connections through activities like offshore sailing and mountain climbing. The summer school provides a dynamic environment where young people from around the world can form lasting friendships and create unforgettable memories.

Find out more about the boarding school Gordonstoun School.

Courses

Gordonstoun International Summer School (GISS) offers a dynamic programme designed to engage, inspire, and challenge students.

GISS offers a two-week Junior Programme (ages 8–11, £4,650) and a three-week Senior Programme (ages 11–16, £6,750). Both programmes combine academic learning with sports, outdoor adventures, and creative activities.

Courses

English as an Additional Language (EAL) – Junior & Senior
Literature & Creative Writing – Senior
Computing – Junior & Senior
International Citizenship – Senior
Junior Science – Junior
Social Enterprise & Entrepreneurship – Senior

Lessons

Teaching hours: 15
Maximum class size: 8
Average class size: 6

Activities & Excursions

Afternoon Activities

Students can choose from a wide range of afternoon options, including horse riding, golf, cookery, karting, paintball, fencing, ice skating, and shopping. Creative pursuits such as several art, design, and music possibilities are also available.

Excursions

Day trips take students to historic castles, cultural landmarks, and some of Scotland’s most spectacular natural sights.

Outdoor Adventure & Sailing

A highlight of the Summer School is the Outdoor Adventure phase – three days for Juniors and six days for Seniors. Guided by experienced instructors, students develop confidence, teamwork, and independence – often the most memorable experience of the summer.

Outdoor Adventure

Adventures take place at the Gordonstoun Adventure Campus – in the Cairngorm Mountains for Juniors and on Scotland’s West Coast for Seniors. Students take part in thrilling outdoor pursuits such as canoeing, kayaking, climbing, river tubing, ziplining, stand-up paddleboarding, and hiking. A special highlight is the overnight camping experience in the Scottish Highlands.

Sailing

Senior students spend three days aboard a Tall Ship, sailing along Scotland’s breathtaking coastline with an experienced crew. Juniors enjoy sailing smaller boats on Scottish lochs – an unforgettable experience that builds confidence and teamwork.

Pastoral Care & Accommodation

The Gordonstoun International Summer School is run by the same dedicated team that leads the renowned boarding school, ensuring the highest standards of care, safety, and quality. Students stay in the school’s boarding houses, where they are warmly supported by Houseparents and Resident Assistants.

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