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How short courses work at Mill Hill School in England

written by
Natasha Machado
22/12/2025
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5 min
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Mill Hill School offers structured short courses that combine high-quality English instruction with authentic British boarding school experience. Located just 30 minutes from London, the school provides teenagers with a complete educational immersion in a safe and multicultural environment.

Academic structure of short courses

Mill Hill short courses work through two different programs, each designed to meet specific student profiles. Careful planning ensures that each young person makes the most of their international experience.

English Plus Programme

This program combines 15 hours of English per week with 7.5 hours of sports activities and 7.5 hours of creative arts. English classes take place in the mornings, using communicative methodology that develops all language skills.

Typical weekly structure:

  • Mornings: English classes focused on practical communication
  • afternoons: Alternation between sports and creative activities
  • nights: Supervised social program
  • Weekends: Two full tours

Intensive Academic Program

Aimed at students with English A2 or higher, this program replaces sports activities with academic disciplines. Young people experience the British education system through science and mathematics classes taught in English.

For students interested in longer programs that combine education and sports, it is worth checking out the sports exchange from Be Easy.

Accommodation and supervision system

Students reside in Mill Hill's historic boarding houses, experiencing the authentic life of a British boarding school. Each house has experienced houseparents who supervise young people 24 hours a day.

Features of boarding houses:

  • Single, double or triple rooms
  • Common areas with television and games
  • Full Wi-Fi in all facilities
  • Separation by gender with strict security
  • Constant supervision of qualified staff

This controlled environment develops gradual independence, preparing adolescents for future longer experiences such as High school abroad.

Students' daily routine

The routine at Mill Hill follows a well-defined structure that balances learning, physical activities, and socialization. This organization helps young people to adapt quickly to the international environment.

Typical schedule

7:00 - 8:00: Wake up and breakfast

8:30 - 12:00: English classes in small classes

12:00 - 13:00: Lunch and free time

13:00 - 16:30: Afternoon activities (sports or academic)

16:30 - 18:00: Free time and snack

18:00 - 19:00: Dinner

19:00 - 21:00: Supervised evening activities

21:00 - 22:00: Study time and preparation for sleep

Classes hold a maximum of 12 students, ensuring individualized attention and accelerated progress in English.

Program of excursions and cultural activities

Two weekly excursions are a fundamental part of the short courses. One explores London, visiting iconic attractions such as Tower of London, British Museum, and London Eye. The second takes students to nearby historic cities.

Popular tour destinations

London (every week):

  • River Thames Tour
  • Visits to world-famous museums
  • Shopping at Camden Market or Oxford Street
  • Exploring historic neighborhoods

Nearby cities (alternate):

  • Oxford: universities and medieval architecture
  • Cambridge: academic tradition and punting
  • Brighton: historic beach and pier
  • Windsor: Royal Castle and British History

Students interested in exploring specific careers during exchanges may consider the vocational programs for young people.

Differentiated teaching methodology

English classes use a communicative approach that prioritizes practical use of the language. Qualified teachers apply modern methodologies that engage adolescents through projects, debates, and collaborative activities.

Techniques used:

  • Learning based on thematic projects
  • Dramatizations and role-plays
  • Debates on current topics
  • Individual and group presentations
  • Educational games and friendly competitions

Creative Arts complement language learning through music, theater, dance, and visual arts, developing confidence and personal expression.

Assessment and certification

All students take a placement test upon arrival and are placed in classes appropriate to their level. Teachers monitor progress weekly through practical activities and formative evaluations.

Final Certification

Upon completing the program, each student receives:

  • Certificate of participation with details of the activities
  • Full academic report with CEFR grades
  • Progress assessment in all language skills
  • Personalized feedback From the teachers

For those seeking continuous linguistic improvement, Be Easy offers several programs for learning languages abroad.

Flexible duration and dates

Mill Hill short courses offer exceptional flexibility for Brazilian families. The Spring School program lasts 1 to 2 weeks, while the Summer School ranges from 2 to 8 weeks.

Main periods:

  • Spring School: March to April (1-2 weeks)
  • Summer School: June to August (2-8 weeks)
  • Flexible dates: entry in different weeks
  • arrivals: Sundays with transfer included

This flexibility allows families to choose the ideal length according to the adolescent's specific availability and objectives.

International environment and networking

Mill Hill welcomes students from over 20 nationalities, creating a truly multicultural environment. This diversity provides valuable global networking and develops essential intercultural competencies.

Benefits of the international environment:

  • Long-lasting friendships with young people from around the world
  • Exposure to different cultures and perspectives
  • Development of tolerance and empathy
  • Practicing English with natives and non-natives
  • Preparing for a global career

Support and safety

Student safety is an absolute priority at Mill Hill. The houseparents team resides on campus and maintains constant supervision, ensuring the physical and emotional well-being of young people.

Safety measures:

  • 24-hour supervision by trained staff
  • Medical protocol with infirmary on campus
  • Regular communication with families
  • Buddy system for new students
  • Clear rules of coexistence and safety

Preparing for future experiences

Many students use short courses to prepare for longer programs. The Mill Hill experience develops confidence, independence, and clarity about future academic goals.

The authentic British boarding school experience provides a solid foundation for those who consider high school abroad or other international programs.

Be Easy

Participating in short courses at Mill Hill School could be the first step towards a bright international future. At Be Easy, we organize every detail of this experience with care and professionalism, from selecting the ideal program to following up throughout your stay. Our specialist team ensures that you make the most of this opportunity for personal and academic growth at one of England's most respected boarding schools. Contact us and discover how to make this dream a reality!

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Natasha Machado
Founder e CEO, Be Easy