Over the past four years, Svitlo School has been fortunate to receive support from international summer schools in the UK, the USA and Switzerland. In the summer of 2026 alone, 75 places were secured! These fully funded two and three week programmes offer Svitlo students invaluable opportunities to strengthen their English language skills, immerse themselves in new cultural experiences and build long-lasting international connections. Beyond academic knowledge, these programmes foster confidence, independence and a global outlook, empowering the next generation of social, business and global leaders.

Respite from the War

Since 2022, many Svitlo School students have been living under the constant threat of danger. At the same time, sleepless nights, power cuts and a difficult economic situation do not stop them from remaining committed to their studies and personal development. Spending two weeks in a peaceful and supportive environment, with a routine, safe accommodation and away from constant anxiety, provides them with an important opportunity to recharge. Students note that the experience of Summer School helps restore their belief in a better future; they do not wish to leave Ukraine but instead want to fulfil their dreams and personal ambitions in their home country.

Gaining Independence

By finding themselves in a new environment, meeting different people and using English in real-life situations, students develop essential soft skills: communication, adaptability and confidence in navigating unfamiliar circumstances. Their achievements at Summer School, despite the challenges brought about by the war, demonstrate their strength of spirit and inner resilience. After spending two weeks in an unfamiliar environment, both parents and students themselves notice how much more independent and self-reliant they have become. They find it easier to make decisions and take responsibility for their own learning.

International Education & English Practice

Svitlo School’s summer school partners open up opportunities for students to study academic subjects in greater depth in English. Through full immersion in an English-speaking environment, students not only gain new knowledge but also actively practise the language in real academic and social situations. As each summer school offers a distinct programme, students can apply for the one that best matches their academic interests and supports their enrichment and growth.

The academic programmes offered by summer schools help Svitlo School students better understand their interests, decide on a future career and recognise the direction in which they want to develop. Through practical experience, students gain a clearer understanding of their future educational opportunities.

Community and International Friendships

For many Svitlo School students, travelling to the UK or Switzerland is not just their first trip abroad; it is also an incredible opportunity to meet their peers and teachers in person. Over the past few years, the Svitlo School community has grown and strengthened: students have taken part in numerous online events, played games together, organised competitions and stayed connected through Zoom, which has become the main place for their gatherings. Summer programmes offer them a special opportunity to finally meet face to face, spend time together and feel part of a real community, with connections that extend far beyond the screen.

Along the way, summer schools have also become a place where new friendships begin and lasting bonds are formed. Students have met like-minded people, discovered new cultures through one another and built connections that go far beyond their time at camp. Even after returning home, they continue to stay in touch, keeping the friendships and memories alive.

Global Perspectives

For many Svitlo School students, attending a summer school becomes their first opportunity to travel abroad. Alongside developing their academic abilities, they discover other cultures, explore new countries, visit landmarks and broaden their horizons.

When returning to Ukraine, students bring back not only new knowledge and impressions but also the inspiration to fulfil their dreams right here. They want to share their experiences with their peers, show how engaging learning can be and develop their own leadership qualities. This is precisely the mission of Svitlo School: to help develop the future political, social and business leaders of Ukraine.

In the 2026 Summer Schools Report, we have brought together students’ memories, impressions and insights from their experiences of studying abroad. Reading their stories and seeing their happy, excited eyes is a true source of inspiration and motivation for our entire community.

We invite you to discover our students’ stories and share these special moments with us!