Intensive English Programme

A Gateway to the British Curriculum

St Bees School is proud to introduce our Key Stage 3 Intensive English Programme, designed to help international students develop the language skills needed to fully access and succeed in the British curriculum.

This unique programme opens the door for students who may not yet have the English proficiency required for mainstream study, allowing them to benefit from a world-class education in a supportive and immersive environment.

Who Is the Programme For?

The Intensive English Programme is ideal for students aged 11 to 14 (Years 7 - 9) who currently have an English level of CEFR A1–A2 and wish to progress to B1 or higher before joining mainstream classes or our Pre-A Level course.

Programme Structure

Small Class Sizes: Ensuring personalised attention and rapid progress.
Qualified Teachers: All lessons are delivered by specialist English language teachers (TEFL, CELTA, or DELTA qualified).
Immersive Learning: Students take part in an intensive schedule of English study, supported by cultural, academic, and social integration opportunities.
Selective Integration: Where appropriate, students join mainstream classes such as PE, Art, Drama, Music, IT and GCAS sessions, allowing them to practise their English in real academic and social contexts.

Students typically spend two years in the programme, although shorter placements — one term, two terms, or a summer term — are available for those seeking accelerated progress.

Pathway to Success

Students are expected to make at least one CEFR level of progress per academic year. Upon completion, they can seamlessly transition into:

Mainstream classes at St Bees School, or
The Pre-A Level Programme, or
Continue their studies at other international or UK schools.

A Supportive and Enriching Environment

Intensive English students are fully integrated into boarding life, weekend enrichment, and GCAS (extra-curricular) activities, ensuring they become part of the St Bees community from day one. Dedicated tutors and teachers provide ongoing academic, linguistic, and pastoral support, with monthly progress reports sent home.

Fees and Duration

The Intensive English Programme is offered at two-thirds of the full international tuition fee, reflecting its focused curriculum, while maintaining full access to our boarding and enrichment provision.

Students can enrol for:

One or two academic years, or
Shorter programmes (one term, two terms, or summer + term combination).

Join Us

The Key Stage 3 Intensive English Programme at St Bees School combines academic excellence, language immersion, and pastoral care to help young learners thrive in an English-speaking environment and prepare for future success.

For more information or to apply, please contact our Admissions Team (admissions@stbeesschool.co.uk) or speak with your local education agent.