Two Weeks, One Unforgettable Summer

What’s the best way to get to know a city? Walk its streets, hear its stories, try its food, and get a sense of how people live, study and connect. That’s exactly what our visiting students from Haikou University of Economics (HUE) and Jiangxi University of Technology (JXUT) experienced during their two-week Summer School experience with Richmond this July.

Based at our Chiswick campus, the group took part in a programme designed to combine academic learning with cultural exploration, giving them a true taste of life in the UK.

A group of people stands on steps outside the National Gallery in London, under a clear blue sky.

Learning, British style

It wouldn’t be summer school without a chance to learn, both in and out of the classroom. On campus classes were led by Richmond faculty and guest lecturers on topics based on Shakespeare, Sherlock Holmes, Downton Abbey, and Harry Potter.

A person presents to a group in a classroom, discussing British culture. The audience appears attentive, seated at tables, facing a screen.

A group of people attentively listen in a classroom. Desks are equipped with notebooks, phones, and water bottles. Blinds cover windows.

These sessions gave students a chance to explore British literature, history and culture in an interactive way. The classroom learning didn’t stop there. Students then stepped out into London to connect what they had studied with the real world.

A large group of people poses on grass before the iconic Big Ben and Houses of Parliament under a clear blue sky.

Four people hold another person playfully under a tree. A canal and Camden Market, London, are visible in the background.

After their Sherlock Holmes lecture, students joined a walking tour visiting locations connected to the fictional detective and even stopped at the Sherlock Holmes pub. Following their Harry Potter session, the group headed to King’s Cross Station to pose for photos at Platform 9¾, bringing the magic of their lessons to life.

Beyond the classroom

Our summer school programme was as much about discovery as it was about study.

Students explored the British Museum, where they viewed world-renowned artefacts that deepened their understanding of history and culture. At Eton College, they walked the halls of one of the UK’s most prestigious schools, while a trip to Windsor Castle offered a glimpse into royal tradition.

A group of people posing in front of the British Museum, showcasing its grand columns and detailed pediment under a clear blue sky.

A group of people sit in a historic cathedral with elaborate wooden carvings and a grand organ, possibly during a guided tour.

One of the most impactful visits was to the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Here, students not only learned about the organisation’s global work but also showed genuine professional curiosity, asking questions about internships and future opportunities.

A person addresses a room of attendees seated in rows, with wood-panel walls and orange chairs, during a conference or meeting.

Two people shaking hands in front of an International Maritime Organization emblem. They are in a formal setting with blue chairs.

A day trip to the White Cliffs of Dover and Canterbury allowed the group to see some of the UK’s most iconic landmarks, blending history, culture and natural beauty. And one unforgettable highlight came in London’s West End, where a student was moved to tears after watching her favourite musical live on stage.

A group of people pose on a sunny day by the White Cliffs of Dover, with the sea and sky in the background.

Two people smiling, holding "Hamilton" programs with autographs outside a modern building. Other people are in the background.

Life in London

Evenings back at the residence halls gave students time to relax, share their favourite moments and bond with their peers. Whether discussing the day’s lectures or swapping photos from their trips, these were the moments that turned a group of students into a community.

Seven people pose at night with the illuminated Big Ben clock tower visible in the background.

A person holds a vintage-style newspaper at night near Big Ben and the Palace of Westminster in London.

“This summer school has enabled me to have a deeper understanding of London and even the UK. I think study abroad is full of challenges and adventures that help us adapt to new environments.”

“It was a big step for me. I got out of my comfort zone and saw many things I hadn’t seen before.”

More than just a visit

For many students, this was their first time in the UK. By the end of the two weeks, they weren’t just exploring landmarks. They were building independence, making friends from around the world and discovering what it feels like to live and study in London.

Four people stand in front of red double-decker buses, with urban architecture visible in the background. Cyclist and pedestrians pass by.

Looking ahead

This summer programme was delivered in partnership with Haikou University of Economics in China. But Richmond also offers International Summer School courses for students from around the world. These short courses are designed to give students the same combination of academic learning and cultural immersion in the heart of London.

A group of people poses with certificates at Chiswick Park. They are smiling and showing peace signs, surrounded by greenery and buildings.

A group of people poses indoors with a red banner. They are in front of a wall featuring Richmond, The American International University.

Find out more about Richmond International Summer School