Stonyhurst International Language School provides international pupils aged 11 to 17 with a unique opportunity to experience the excellence of British education.
Our dynamic language school offers an immersive environment where pupils not only develop their English language skills but also engage in an authentic British experience.
Pupils become an integral part of Stonyhurst’s vibrant community, fully participating in its creative, active, pastoral, and spiritual life, making their journey both educational and transformative.
Headmaster's Welcome
Stonyhurst has a beautiful setting, fascinating heritage, a fine reputation with excellent facilities. The Jesuit values upon which the College was founded in 1593 continue to underpin all that we do today.
The Stonyhurst International Language School is an exciting opportunity to immerse yourself in the English language as well be part of a truly British experience.
We achieve high academic results, and every pupil is enabled to fulfil his or her potential through our exceptionally high standard of teaching, pastoral care and an extensive range of co-curricular activities. The pupils in our care are given the individual attention, resources and space in which to grow intellectually, spiritually and emotionally. Personal tutors will guide pupils in the important decisions they make about their future and support them throughout their Stonyhurst journey.
Stonyhurst pupils are encouraged to involve themselves fully in the opportunities offered to them. Living in a supportive and diverse community, they are helped to develop those qualities of character that will distinguish them in later life as men and women for others. A Jesuit education is a foundation for such a life, an education that nurtures individuality and encourages generosity.
Our Cohorts
Pupils are grouped into three cohorts based on age:
✔ Lower School (Ages 11-13)
✔ Middle School (Ages 13-15)
✔ Upper School (Ages 15-17)
International Language School Curriculum
The Stonyhurst International Language School Curriculum provides immersive English education for pupils aged 11-17, with 20 weekly English lessons, maths support, and a research project. Rooted in Jesuit traditions, it integrates pupils into College life, including theology, tutor groups, sports, and extracurricular activities. A Certificate of Achievement marks their progress and participation.
Summer Language School
As part of the International School experience pupils can choose to spend the final term (4 weeks) at the Stonyhurst Summer School which is a vibrant program designed for young learners to experience the unique atmosphere of Stonyhurst College, while improving their language skills and enjoying a variety of enriching activities. The program typically caters to pupils from around the world and offers: English Language Course, Academic Enrichment, Cultural and Recreational Activities, Sports and Adventure, International Community, Accommodation and Pastoral care.
Why Choose Stonyhurst International Language School?
✔ Immersive English language programme for pupils aged 11-17
✔ Expert EAL teachers delivering a thematic learning approach
✔ Rich cultural and historical learning opportunities
✔ Mathematics lessons to support continued academic development
✔ Jesuit education & values embedded in learning
✔ Fully integrated pupil experience within the Stonyhurst community
✔ Certificate of Achievement recognising academic and co-curricular success.
📩 Book a private visit to learn more about our programmes and admissions process.
A Home for International Pupils
Stonyhurst has a proud tradition of welcoming international pupils from over 32 countries worldwide, seamlessly integrating them into our vibrant British boarding school community.
International Pupil Programmes at Stonyhurst
Depending on their English proficiency, international pupils can join Stonyhurst College for a full secondary education, a sixth form experience, or participate in our International Language School Immersion Programme.
English Immersion Programmes
Our English Language Preparation Immersion Programme offers pupils the opportunity to experience a prestigious British boarding school education while focusing on developing their English language skills. This cultural and academic immersion helps pupils gain confidence in English while benefiting from a rich spiritual and educational environment.
Programme Duration Options:
- One-term, two-term, or three-term immersion programmes
- Designed to prepare pupils for further academic study, including GCSEs, IB, A levels, and CTEC qualifications
Entry Requirements for International Pupils
Pupils applying for our International Language School Programme typically have an A1 to B1 level on the Cambridge CEFR scale (Common European Framework of Reference).
Term dates
Months of Attendance | Term |
---|---|
1st Term | September - December |
2nd Term | January - March |
3rd Term | April - June |
4th Term |
4 weeks in July |
Fees
International Language School fees follow the same fee structure as the main school. Please see fee information here.
Prospectus
Boarding
"The quality of boarding provision and care is excellent"
Chaplaincy
Our faith is at the heart of everything we do here at Stonyhurst.
Academic Excellence
Stonyhurst has an outstanding academic record, with most of our pupils going on to study at top universities in the UK, Europe and around the world; a significant number gaining places in Russell Group universities each year.
We encourage the development of intellectual curiosity, independent thought, and self-directed study so that each pupil achieves the best possible results and acquires the skills essential to excel at university and beyond. Small classes and exceptionally good teacher-pupil relationships enable pupils to learn at their own pace, developing their talents to the full. A strong learning support department enables those with special educational needs to achieve their best. We aim to establish a close partnership with parents because we understand that, whether a child is a boarder or day pupil, parents are keen to share with us in their son’s or daughter’s education.
Day pupils and boarders alike benefit from our broad enrichment programme which includes theatre trips, talks and presentations from our own academic departments as well as inspirational external speakers renowned in their fields.
Our story
Stonyhurst is one of Britain’s leading Catholic boarding schools, with over 430 years of history.
Location
Stonyhurst nestles amid some of Lancashire’s most beautiful hills in the Ribble Valley, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Year Groups
At Stonyhurst, year groups are called Playrooms, fostering strong bonds among pupils, a tradition rooted in our Jesuit heritage.
Pastoral Excellence
Pastoral care at Stonyhurst is outstanding. The happiness and wellbeing of our pupils is a top priority.
Creativity
The creative life of the College is rich and varied, offering opportunities in music, art, drama, dance, stage management, photography and creative writing.
Safeguarding
Stonyhurst is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare, both physical and emotional, of every pupil.
Co-curricular
All pupils are encouraged to participate fully in the Stonyhurst Co-curricular Diploma Programme.
Sport
Sport is central to life at Stonyhurst, with a rich history of success and recent international international sportsmen and women.
Private Visits
There are many ways that you can visit Stonyhurst. If you would prefer to arrange a private visit, please click on the button below.
Our entry points for the Stonyhurst International Language School are in Year 7 and 8, Year 9 and 10 and Year 11 and 12. Admissions for other Stonyhurst programmes and other ages are possible depending on the availability of places.