Bell St Albans
Winter Explorer Programme

The course gives students the opportunity to discover British culture while developing their English language skills, through project-based learning activities and interactive learning - both inside and outside the classroom.

- Develop their English in all four areas: reading, writing, listening and speaking

- Practise new vocabulary, pronunciation and improve their grammar structures, as appropriate to their level

- Become confident, independent learners with essential 21st century life skills like: communication, critical thinking, collaboration, creativity and cultural awareness

- Make friends with students from a diverse mix of countries across the globe

Young learners who want to combine English language study with activities and educational day trips and excursions.

English lessons include projects that are designed around the school’s weekly theme. Small groups of students work together on their projects based on the language knowledge and skills development needs.

Students at Bell ‘learn by doing’, so the activity programme is an integral part of the course and allows young learners to practise and develop what they have learnt in lessons. Our afternoon activities – electives – are designed to improve communication and confidence while developing academic, creative and active skills. All Winter Explorer students will also enjoy a wide variety of whole-school activities, such as games, competitions, discos and shows.

Edinburgh 25 - 27 January – experience Scottish culture at this famous historic capital, including a tour of Edinburgh castle, ghost walks and Scottish dancing

London – see the Tower of London, Downing Street, Covent Garden, Science Museum or the Houses of Parliament

Cambridge – tour the city’s famous landmarks and university colleges, including the world famous King’s College

Oxford – enjoy a tour of this famous university city, and visit the world’s oldest university museum

Stratford-upon-Avon – see Shakespeare’s birthplace, a town with centuries of history

This project marks the beginning of the winter programme, introducing students to Britain and British culture, with a special focus on London and the London Eye as their study tour destination. Through engaging activities and discussions, students will explore the city’s rich history, iconic landmarks, and diverse way of life. They will reflect on how London has evolved over time, comparing its past and present, and drawing connections to their own hometowns. By immersing themselves in the sights and sounds of the capital, students will develop a deeper appreciation of British culture while building key language and critical thinking skills.

Students will learn key vocabulary such as adjectives for describing traits and qualities of different people and places.

Students will learn comparative and superlative forms for comparing and contrasting lifestyle in London to their home countries.

Students will develop their cross-cultural understanding and communication skills.

In this project students will embark on a journey to explore the pivotal role of science in shaping our present and future. By learning about cutting edge technologies and visionary innovations and engaging in hands-on activities and collaborative projects, students will enhance their language skills while gaining a deeper understanding of the transformative power of science and technology in shaping the future of our world.

Students will learn vocabulary related to technological innovations e.g. desriptive language for cutting-edge products and learn to accurately use the passive voice when talking and/or writing about technological devices.

Students will improve their writing skills by writing either an essay or a review of a product.

Students will develop and apply logical reasoning and analytical skills to evaluate evidence and solve real world challenges as well as learn to demonstrate the flexibility and resilience needed in order to solve contemporary issues.

In this project students will engage in a dynamic blend of interactive lessons and informative study tours to deepen their understanding of the UK’s rich cultural heritage. Students will gain insights into the unique identities of England and Scotland, while also reflecting on broader themes such as cultural diversity and global citizenship. Students will learn about the complexities of England’s cultural identity and the enduring legacy of its historical landmarks. The course will inspire them to become informed global citizens who value and respect cultural diversity.

Students will learn key vocabulary related to UK landmarks, British culture, and travel experiences and learn how to accurately use comparative and superlative forms for comparing and contrasting lifestyle in the UK to their home countries.

Students will improve fluency and confidence in conversational English through immersive language practice during guided tours and cultural activities.

Students will develop their cross-cultural understanding and communication skills.

This project challenges students to think like explorers — both past and present—by pushing beyond known limits and embracing the unknown. Through the stories of great adventurers, space pioneers, and world travellers, students will reflect on the risks, triumphs, and challenges of exploration. Through engaging activities, students will enhance their language skills, critical thinking abilities, and intercultural awareness while developing a mindset of perseverance and adaptability.

Students will expand vocabulary related to the topics of adventure, exploration, and geographical landmarks e.g. compound nouns “sleeping bag”, “water bottle” and extreme adjectives to talk and/or write about places “amazing”, “ancient”.

Students will learn to effectively use functional language e.g. giving directions, making suggestions.

Students will reflect on personal experiences of travel and discovery, gaining a deeper appreciation of different cultures and the ways exploration shapes their world.

In this project, students will analyse what makes a compelling hero, from their strengths and flaws to the challenges they must overcome. By engaging in discussions and creative activities, students will uncover how heroes evolve through their adventures and apply these ideas to their own storytelling. While exploring legendary figures and magical heroes like those in Harry Potter, students will also examine ordinary heroes—real life individuals who display courage, resilience, and determination in everyday life.

Students will learn vocabulary related to magic, myths, and legends, including terms specific to fantasy literature and film e.g. “wizard”, “phoenix”, “bewitched”, “haunted” and learn to accurately use grammatical structures to write stories i.e. narrative tenses, adverbs and adjectives, and linking and sequencing words.

Students will learn functional language to give personal opinions, express likes and dislikes, and make recommendations.

Students will improve their creative writing skills by working on their fictional stories.