Middle & High School

Eligible grades: 10-12

The Extended Essay summer course is now in its eleventh year and has helped more than 150 students complete their extended essay! The purpose of the course is help you have a near completed extended essay for when you come back to school in August. We will begin by covering how to create the ideal research question, how to complete RPPF forms which are worth 18.4% of the final grade and how to structure you EE, including the introduction, paragraphs and conclusions. Exemplars will be provided for each step of the EE so you can have confidence in knowing that would you are doing is correct. Finally, the EE grading criteria will be broken down into easy to understand parts so you can complete your EE piece by piece. 

This course is designed for students who will be in grades 11 and 12 for the 2026/27 school year although grade 10 students are welcome.

Eligible Grades: 9-12

This three-week course is designed to help you prepare for your post-Seisen experience! Activities include writing a college essay, creating your personal CV (curriculum vitae), and drafting a job application letter. Through various writing exercises, examining samples, drafting and revising, and one-on-one feedback sessions, you'll learn the key elements of a great essay/CV/application letter, including how to structure it properly, what the important details to mention are, and how to showcase your unique personality and voice. Students will reflect on their strengths and weaknesses, compile an inventory of meaningful activities and experiences, and examine samples with a critical lens. By the end of this course, you will have your own drafts to work with for your future. All three activities will be introduced and unpacked, and students will have the opportunity to personalize their learning throughout the final week. This course is designed for students who will be in grades 9-12 for the 2026/27 school year.

Eligible grades: 6-12

In Ceramics, students will explore a range of foundational building techniques, including slab work, coiling, and hand building. Through guided projects and skill-building exercises, students will learn how to form, join, and refine clay successfully while developing craftsmanship and confidence. The course will also include some introductory wheel experience to give students a taste of throwing and basic shaping on the wheel.

Eligible grades: 6-12

Do you feel like no planner or app is right for your needs? In this summer school class, we will create a customized planner for the new school year. First, we will analyze existing planner designs to find what formats and elements will work well for you. Then, we will turn a blank dot-grid notebook into a fully custom planner and journal, complete with monthly calendars, weekly calendars, reflection pages, to-do lists, and any other elements you would like. We will also learn hand-lettering and illustration techniques to make your planner fun to use. This is a great course for anyone who wants to learn time management and reflection skills, but also likes doing things their own way!

Eligible grades: 6-10

This Creative Writing course is designed for students who are passionate about writing and eager to refine their craft. Students who have previously taken the course are also welcome and will find it both familiar and suitably challenging. Through a dynamic and immersive program, students will strengthen their creativity while developing essential writing skills.

Over three weeks, students will cultivate their unique authorial voice while exploring the styles, techniques, and craft of accomplished writers. The course offers exposure to a wide range of creative forms, including fiction and nonfiction writing such as poetry, memoirs, and scriptwriting. Students will engage in purposeful writing practice that encourages experimentation, reflection, and originality.

By the end of the course, students will have created their own original works and gained techniques that can be readily transferred to their writing across subjects when school resumes. Ultimately, this course empowers students to bring their ideas to life through confident, expressive, and intentional writing.

Eligible grades: 6-9

In this course, students will master essential sewing skills while bringing their creative ideas to life through unique, hands-on projects. From learning basic hand stitching to gaining confidence with a sewing machine, students will explore fabric, patterns, and design to create their own custom pieces. Students will practice fashion illustration, take accurate measurements, learn how to select the right fabrics, and experiment with sustainable fashion by upcycling old clothes into stylish new accessories. We will spend the final week of class making a customized skirt with fabric chosen by the student. By the end of the course, each student will take home a collection of handmade projects that showcase their new skills and personal style. No prior sewing experience is required. Those who have previously taken this course or those are looking to work on more advanced projects are also welcome.

Eligible grades: 6-12

Who says learning has to be boring? Minecraft is a digital world where students can explore, interact, and shape their digital environment. Minecraft is not only fun but is also used as a space for learning concepts in the core MYP subjects of math, science, individuals & societies, and language & literature. In the first week of this class, students will focus on digital architectural education, covering design principles, styles, materials, and spatial planning. They will construct houses' exteriors and interiors, man-made and natural wonders, and architectures of the future. In the second week, students will delve into pre-made worlds of art, science, literature, math, and history, where they will learn core concepts of each of these subjects to solve puzzles, record reenactments of a time in history or a scene in a book, and produce original artistic works. In the final week, students will participate in five in-game challenges – survival scenarios, escape rooms, team battles, and defeating an epic boss. Upon completion of this class, students will not only gain the knowledge necessary for their core subjects but will also gain passion and motivation to further their learning.

Eligible grades: TBC

This summer course provides a comprehensive introduction to the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) mathematics framework. The curriculum is structured to demystify the four assessment criteria through daily inquiry-based investigations and collaborative problem-solving. Each day, students focus on a specific branch of the MYP assessment cycle:

• Criterion A (Knowledge and Understanding): Applying mathematical concepts to solve problems in various contexts.
• Criterion B (Investigating Patterns): Using inquiry skills to identify and generalize mathematical relationships.
• Criterion C (Communication): Organizing and labeling work using correct symbols and notation.
• Criterion D (Real-Life Applications): Applying math to authentic global situations and justifying findings.

Beyond calculation, this class emphasizes the mastery of academic language. Students will learn the specific expectations of command terms—such as the difference between discuss, describe, and explain—to ensure they can meet high-level achievement descriptors. By engaging in hands-on tasks and peer collaboration, students will gain a clear understanding of how they are assessed, building the confidence and technical vocabulary necessary for success in the upcoming school year.

Eligible grades: 9-12

Prepare for your journey to higher education in the United States with our comprehensive SAT Math Prep Course. If you are aiming for a competitive score to bolster your university applications, this course is designed to transform your mathematical reasoning and test-taking confidence. The curriculum focuses on the specific nuances of the SAT, moving beyond standard classroom theory to tackle SAT-style problem solving. You will learn high-level strategies for success, including logical elimination techniques for when you are stuck and methods to decode the unique "US language" and customary measurement systems often found in word problems. To ensure peak performance, students will engage in targeted practice tests that identify individual areas for improvement. The course culminates in a full-scale simulation of the test environment, helping you manage time pressure and reduce anxiety. By the end of the summer, you will have a personalized roadmap of focus areas and the technical skills needed to excel.

Eligible grades: 7-10

What do ancient gods, clever tricksters, and modern superheroes have in common? In this dynamic summer course, students in Grades 6–10 will dive into myths and legends from around the world to discover why humans have always told stories to explain the world around them, and why we still do today.

Students will explore Greek, Asian, African, and Indigenous myths, uncovering epic heroes, powerful gods, and unforgettable monsters. They’ll analyze story patterns, symbolism, and themes, then bring ancient tales into the modern world through creative retellings. What would a Greek god look like in the age of social media? What myth might explain the internet, exams, or bad luck? Through discussion, storytelling, writing, performance, and visual art, students will develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills while having fun. The course culminates in a creative final project of the student’s choice: a modern myth, an original legend, or a dramatic or visual retelling. This course is perfect for imaginative thinkers who love stories, and for anyone ready to create the myths of tomorrow.

Eligible grades: 6-12

This theatre course is for students eager to explore the world of musical theatre and performance. Over three weeks, students will dive into the fundamental aspects of musical theatre, learning to create and perform vibrant, unique characters through acting, singing, and dancing. They will also gain an understanding of theatrical storytelling, focusing on how music and choreography enhance the narrative of a musical. Emphasizing the development of ATL (Approaches to Learning) skills, the course encourages creative thinking, communication, collaboration, initiative, and self-management, which are essential not only in theatre but in many aspects of life. Students will have the opportunity to work both individually and as part of a team to create and perform a short musical production. This culminating performance will be showcased to the summer school community, including teachers, students, and parents. This course offers a fun and engaging environment for students to nurture their passion for theatre while honing valuable life skills that will benefit them both on and off the stage.

Eligible grade: 12

"Science Lab Time" is a unique opportunity for Grade 12 students to complete their science experiments for their International Baccalaureate (IB) components - Extended Essay (EE) and Internal Assessment (IA). 

This session provides students with a relaxed, yet focused environment to complete their experiments and relieve the pressure they may face in the fall, when school and other subjects begin. The program provides students with access to Seisen's science labs and equipment, as well as experienced mentors who can guide them through their experiments and offer valuable advice. Additionally, the summer environment allows for more flexible scheduling, so students can spend more time on their experiments and less time on other commitments. Overall, this is an excellent way for students to get ahead on their IB science components, develop their skills and knowledge, and prepare for a successful academic year ahead. 

**Note: students should already have an idea of what their experiments will be well-before the summer sesssion begins, as specific materials and apparatus needs to be identified and ordered if necessary.

Eligible grades: 6-8

If you want to get more confident in your receptive, productive, and interactive Spanish skills, this course is for you. According to your level, you will have plenty of activities to help you grow. Students will use real-life practical activities to review and increase their Spanish repertoire, expressions, and use of language. Students will have the opportunity to further develop their ATLs of initiative, communication, collaboration, creative thinking, and self-management. Furthermore, there will be no stress about deadlines or grades. In summary, this is a great opportunity to further grasp the Spanish language.

Eligible grades: 6-12

This film course is for students interested in anime. Over three weeks, students will dive into the history of anime in Japan and globally, watch several examples, and analyze cultural significance. They will also gain an understanding of storytelling through animation, focusing on how image and motion enhance the narrative of a story. Emphasizing the development of ATL (Approaches to Learning) skills, the course encourages critical thinking, creative thinking, communication, and initiative. Students will learn about things like character design, pacing, style, and vision, culminating in them working independently toward the creation of a short animated film. This course offers a fun and engaging environment for students to nurture their passion for anime, deep-dive into its artistic relevance, and hone skills related to analysis, storytelling, animation, and film development.

Eligible grades: 6-12

This intensive three-week summer course delves into the fascinating intersection of science, cooking techniques, and global cuisines. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the chemical and physical transformations that occur during food preparation while developing essential culinary skills. This isn't just about following recipes; it's about understanding why certain techniques work.

Key Features:

• Mastering Culinary Techniques: Learn essential cooking techniques, from knife skills and mise en place to sautéing, roasting, braising, baking, and pastry work. We'll cover heat control, flavor development, and presentation.
• Understanding Food Science: Explore the science behind cooking, including heat transfer, protein coagulation, carbohydrate gelatinization, emulsification, and Maillard reactions. Discover how these principles impact food's texture, flavor, and appearance.
• Exploring Global Cuisines: Embark on a culinary journey, studying the ingredients and cooking methods of distinct culinary traditions. We'll explore Northwestern Chinese cuisine, Indian cuisine, Italian cuisine, and Indonesian cuisine. This will broaden your culinary horizons and inspire your own creations.

This course emphasizes hands-on learning. Students will work individually and in teams to prepare dishes, conduct experiments, and analyze results. By understanding the science behind cooking, students will become more skilled and confident cooks and develop a deeper appreciation for food.

Eligible grades: 7-10

A dynamic three-week summer course for students in Grades 6–10 who love stories, films, and creative thinking. Students explore how popular books are transformed into movies and why stories often change when they move from page to screen. Through engaging lessons, film clips, discussion, and creative projects, students learn to analyze characters, plot, setting, and themes across both mediums.

Rather than simply asking “Which is better, the book or the movie?”, this course helps students understand how and why directors, screenwriters, and actors make creative choices. Students will compare scenes, debate key changes, explore visual storytelling techniques, and develop strong critical thinking and communication skills.

The course culminates in a creative final project where students design their own adaptation—such as a short script, storyboard, modern retelling, or movie pitch—allowing them to apply both analytical and imaginative skills.

Perfect for curious readers, movie lovers, and creative thinkers, this course builds confidence in reading, writing, speaking, and media literacy while keeping learning fun, interactive, and relevant.

Eligible grades: 6-12

In Painting, students will build practical skills across multiple mediums while exploring a variety of painting approaches. The course will cover core techniques in watercolor and acrylic, including brush control, layering, blending, color mixing, and composition. Students will develop their ability to experiment, refine their work, and create finished pieces that show both technical growth and personal style.

Eligible grades: 6-7

This course is designed to strengthen the computational foundation and problem-solving agility of students transitioning into middle school. By bridging the gap between elementary concepts and the rigor of the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP), students will build the confidence necessary to tackle more complex mathematical challenges. Our curriculum centers on the core pillars of mathematics: the number system, ratios and proportional relationships, expressions and equations, geometry, and statistics. Rather than simply memorizing formulas, students will engage in deep-dive investigations to discover why mathematical rules work. This inquiry-based approach allows learners to explore the interconnectedness of different mathematical branches, ensuring they see math as a cohesive system rather than isolated facts. Through a mix of hands-on learning and interactive explorations, we identify and fill specific knowledge gaps. This ensures every student masters the essential skills required for success in a secondary school environment.

Eligible grades: 6-9

This course invites students to explore design and craft through a close connection with nature. Inspired by artists like Andy Goldsworthy, students will create temporary and permanent artworks using natural and found materials, learning how the environment shapes design. Students will be introduced to a number of different design and craft techniques including flower pressing, eco-printing with leaves and bark, needle felting with natural fibers, and introductory wood carving. Throughout the course, we will discuss responsible material sourcing and environmental impact, encouraging respect for nature. By the end of the course, students will take home many handmade pieces and a deeper understanding of how art, design, and sustainability connect in meaningful ways.

Eligible grades: 6-12

In this course inspired by NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month), students will come up with an idea for a novel, set an ambitious word count goal, and write a unique story with the support of their peers. Students can write in any genre, and the work itself is not assessed– the challenge is about temporarily turning off the “inner editor,” building writing stamina, and working toward a goal. In our sessions, we will work on setting up conflicts, characters, and settings before moving to a mix of brainstorming and writing time. This will be my fifth time running this challenge with students, and I’m always impressed by the ideas and the sense of community they create. This is highly recommended for students who want low-stakes practice writing in English.

Eligible grades: 6-10

The “Power Up” Vocabulary Course is designed for students who want to strengthen their English vocabulary and communicate with greater precision and confidence. In a supportive, self-paced, and low-pressure environment, students will systematically expand their vocabulary for both speaking and writing.
Throughout the course, students will encounter more than 1,000 high-utility words organised by theme to support meaningful retention. They will learn new vocabulary through reading in context, interactive practice activities, and engaging weekly quizzes that reinforce learning in an enjoyable way. Students will also explore prefixes, root words, and word families, equipping them with strategies to decode unfamiliar vocabulary independently.

By the end of the course, students will be able to express their ideas more clearly, understand complex academic texts more easily, and recognise advanced vocabulary in standardised assessments such as the SAT, PSAT, and MAP. The course also supports students involved in speech and debate by enhancing their verbal precision and confidence.

Ultimately, “Power Up” empowers students to expand their vocabulary, strengthen their academic performance, and communicate with clarity and confidence as both writers and speakers.

Eligible grades: 8-12

SAT Reading & Writing Prep @Seisen. If you are planning or thinking about going to university in the United States then you should consider taking the SAT Reading & Writing Prep @Seisen Course this summer.

This course will provide:

• Techniques to answering many questions students may otherwise feel are beyond them
• Ways to recognize the pitfalls that lie in wait for the unwary or hasty test taker
• Familiarity with the types of critical reading and writing on the SAT
• Practice tests leading to individualized instruction
• Vocabulary building

Eligible grade: 12

"Science Lab Time" is a unique opportunity for Grade 12 students to complete their science experiments for their International Baccalaureate (IB) components - Extended Essay (EE) and Internal Assessment (IA). 

This session provides students with a relaxed, yet focused environment to complete their experiments and relieve the pressure they may face in the fall, when school and other subjects begin. The program provides students with access to Seisen's science labs and equipment, as well as experienced mentors who can guide them through their experiments and offer valuable advice. Additionally, the summer environment allows for more flexible scheduling, so students can spend more time on their experiments and less time on other commitments. Overall, this is an excellent way for students to get ahead on their IB science components, develop their skills and knowledge, and prepare for a successful academic year ahead. 

**Note: students should already have an idea of what their experiments will be well-before the summer sesssion begins, as specific materials and apparatus needs to be identified and ordered if necessary.

Eligible grades: 9-12

If you want to get more confident in your receptive, productive, and interactive Spanish skills for the IB, this course is for you. According to your level, you will have plenty of activities to help you grow. Students will use real-life practical activities to review and increase their Spanish repertoire, expressions, and use of language. Students will have the opportunity to further develop their ATLs of initiative, communication, collaboration, creative thinking, and self-management. Furthermore, there will be no stress about deadlines or grades. In summary, this is a great opportunity to further grasp the Spanish language.

Eligible grades: 6-8

Volleyball Camp is suitable for students who are new to the game of volleyball or are currently at a 
beginners / intermediate level. The purpose is to provide young athletes with the basic skills and knowledge to prepare
them for the Fall season volleyball competition. We will focus on developing setting, passing, hitting, and serving. 
Sessions may also include game strategy and tactics, and mental skills training to help young athletes become 
well-rounded players. This is a supportive and encouraging environment where students can develop their skills
and build lasting friendships with fellow athletes who share their passion for the sport.

Eligible grades: 6-8

Crack the Case: Murder Mystery & Mystery Solving is an exciting three-week summer course that turns students into real-life detectives. Through puzzles, stories, and collaborative investigations, students learn how to observe closely, think logically, and solve complex problems using evidence, not guesses.

Each day, students analyse clues, question suspects, and uncover motives while building key English and thinking skills such as reading comprehension, inference, creative writing, teamwork, and clear communication. Along the way, they explore how mystery stories are constructed and learn how writers use clues, red herrings, and plot twists to keep readers engaged.

The course culminates in a hands-on final project where students design their own original mystery case and then solve another team’s case, presenting their reasoning like professional detectives.

Eligible grades: 6-12

This theatre course is tailored for middle and high school students with a passion for theatrical design. Over three weeks, students will dive into the key aspects of creating the visual and auditory elements of a stage production. Focus areas will include designing costumes, constructing scenery, managing lighting and sound, creating props, and understanding the process behind advertising and promoting the show. Throughout the course, students will learn how to use their creativity and critical thinking skills to bring a production to life. They will engage in hands-on activities that cultivate their Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, such as Creative Thinking, Communication, Collaboration, Initiative, and Self-Management. Students will collaborate both individually and in groups to create the various components required for short musical productions. Their projects will be showcased for an audience of fellow summer school students, teachers, and parents at the end of the program. This course offers a unique opportunity for students to blend their love of storytelling with artistic expression while equipping them with valuable, transferable skills essential for designing dynamic theatrical productions.

Eligible grades: 7-12

In Digital Drawing, students will learn the essentials of creating artwork on iPads through a mix of demonstrations and hands-on practice. After building confidence with core techniques such as line control, shading, layering, and digital tools, students will take increasing ownership of their work by developing projects guided by their own ideas and interests. The course supports creative independence while helping students produce polished digital illustrations.

Eligible grades: 6-7

This session is designed for Grade 6 & 7 students who are interested in science and want to learn about it in a fun and interactive way. 

The program includes hands-on activities and competitions that engage students' creativity and critical thinking skills. Examples of activities (from last year and may differ from this year) included building paper airplanes and launching them to test their aerodynamics, constructing and launching water rockets to understand the principles of propulsion, cooking experiments to explore the science of food, and making their own ice cream to learn about the science of freezing and states of matter. 

These fun and educational activities aim to spark students' curiosity and imagination, and encourage them to engage in STEM learning. The program also provides a supportive and collaborative learning environment, where students can work together, share ideas, and have fun while learning about science.

Eligible grades: 6-10

Want to stay active and have fun this summer? We'll enjoy a variety of activities for all skill levels, so everyone can participate and have a blast. Imagine playing dodgeball with friends, perfecting your badminton smash, or enjoying a refreshing swim. Lifetime Sports is the perfect way to get fit, be active, and have fun at summer school.  It's a great opportunity to make new friends and develop your skills. Many students who have taken the class have returned the following year, eager for more. Activities include soccer, badminton, tennis, bowling, golf, swimming, basketball, frisbee, hiking, hockey, table tennis, running, and more! Sign up today!

Eligible grades: 6-9

This summer course provides a comprehensive introduction to the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) mathematics framework. The curriculum is structured to demystify the four assessment criteria through daily inquiry-based investigations and collaborative problem-solving. Each day, students focus on a specific branch of the MYP assessment cycle:

• Criterion A (Knowledge and Understanding): Applying mathematical concepts to solve problems in various contexts.
• Criterion B (Investigating Patterns): Using inquiry skills to identify and generalize mathematical relationships.
• Criterion C (Communication): Organizing and labeling work using correct symbols and notation.
• Criterion D (Real-Life Applications): Applying math to authentic global situations and justifying findings.

Beyond calculation, this class emphasizes the mastery of academic language. Students will learn the specific expectations of command terms—such as the difference between discuss, describe, and explain—to ensure they can meet high-level achievement descriptors. By engaging in hands-on tasks and peer collaboration, students will gain a clear understanding of how they are assessed, building the confidence and technical vocabulary necessary for success in the upcoming school year.

Eligible grades: 8-10

Designed specifically for students who find math challenging or overwhelming, this course provides a supportive environment to rebuild confidence and close persistent learning gaps. We focus on the "Big Ideas" of the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP)—including the number system, ratios, and algebraic equations—but at a pace that prioritizes understanding over speed. Rather than repetitive drills, we use hands-on explorations and tactile investigations to make abstract concepts visible. Students won't just memorize rules; they will discover why they work, helping to turn "math anxiety" into "math curiosity." By focusing on middle school standards, we identify and mend the specific foundational cracks that often cause students to struggle in later years. Our goal is to create a "no-fear" zone where mistakes are viewed as valuable data points. Through interactive projects and collaborative problem-solving, students will develop the computational grit and logical reasoning skills necessary to succeed in their current grade level and beyond.

Eligible grades: 6-9

In this course, students explore visual storytelling through both photography and filmmaking, using images and film to express creativity and develop a personal voice. We’ll dive into various styles of photography, including portraiture and nature, and we’ll also experiment with special techniques like joiner photos and cyanotypes. You will learn how to use Photoshop for photo editing and digital illustration. In filmmaking, we will work in film crews, taking on roles like screenwriter, cinematographer, editor, and sound designer to create your own short films. We will dive into film theory, learn how to set the scene with mise en scène, and master the essentials of scriptwriting, storyboarding, and editing. If you have one you’d like to work with, please bring your own camera for daily use.

Eligible grades: 6-11

This course equips students with essential strategies to approach a wide range of reading materials with confidence, efficiency, and purpose. Designed to strengthen both comprehension and reading speed, the course develops skills that are vital for academic success and transferable well beyond the classroom.

Over the three-week programme, students will learn how to summarise diverse text types, engage with a variety of writing styles, and apply effective skimming and scanning techniques. They will develop the ability to recognise organisational patterns in texts, identify key ideas, make informed inferences and predictions, and analyse a writer’s attitude and point of view.

By the end of the course, students will have acquired strong critical reading and analytical skills that can be applied across subjects and disciplines. They will read with greater accuracy, clarity, and confidence, enabling them to navigate academic texts—and real-world reading demands—more effectively.

Eligible grades: 6-12

This course is all about match play—no drills, no formal lessons, just pure competition to refine your game. Each session, players will participate in a mix of singles and doubles matches, gaining valuable experience in real-game situations. This is the perfect opportunity to sharpen strategy, develop mental toughness, and build confidence under match conditions. Whether you’re looking to test your skills against new opponents, improve shot selection, or enhance your competitive mindset, this program provides a game-focused environment where learning happens through play. Players will have the chance to experiment with tactics, adapt to different styles, and refine their decision-making on the court. With a strong emphasis on match experience, this is ideal for those eager to take their game to the next level while enjoying the thrill of competition. Come ready to compete, challenge yourself, and have fun in an action-packed tennis setting!

Eligible grades: 8-12

Five-hundred years ago, the bustling megapolis of Tokyo was a fishing village on Japan’s frontier. Yurakucho Station sits on land that, at this time, would have been in the middle of Tokyo Bay. This course will look at the growth of Edo and Tokyo, providing general background and then allowing students to investigate a part of Edo or Tokyo’s history that interests them. Students will also build their independence and organization skills by planning an independent (or family) site trip within the Tokyo area, and will report their findings to the class. This could be to a museum, or even to a famous landmark involved in the part of Edo/Tokyo history they wish to investigate. This course will build research and presentation skills.