5 Ways ILH Builds Confidence in Young English Learners | ILC English Blog

At ILH, our junior summer schools, learning English isn't just about vocabulary and grammar. It's about helping young people believe in themselves. Whether they are shy speakers or just starting out, our programmes are designed to turn nervous learners into confident communicators. Here are five ways we do it.

1. Real English practice every day

Whether students stay with a carefully selected host family or in residential accommodation at a boarding school, they use English all day: at meals, during activities and with new friends. Using English in real situations is one of the fastest ways to build confidence.

2. Lessons that support every learner

Students take a placement test and join a class that matches their level. Teachers give individual feedback, so learners feel supported, progress at the right pace and celebrate what they achieve.

3. New friends from around the world

Students learn alongside young people from many countries. English becomes their shared language, and friendships made in English give a huge boost to social confidence.

4. A safe place to try new things

Mistakes are part of learning. Through group work, activities and excursions, students are encouraged to speak up, ask questions and try new experiences, with trained staff supporting them all the way.

5. Progress they can see

Teacher feedback and an end-of-course certificate show students how far they have come. Most go home speaking more fluently and feeling proud of what they have achieved.

Junior summer schools across the UK

ILH runs English summer schools for young learners aged 5–17, including day programmes, homestay courses and residential camps. Explore all our English summer schools in the UK, or read our guide to choosing an English summer camp in the UK for 2027.