The Charterhouse Young Learners Summer Course, a boarding school taster programme for children aged 8 to 12, made a triumphant return after a five-year break. The excitement of welcoming back young learners was matched by the thrill of seeing Old Carthusians (OCs) returning as Teaching and House Activities Assistants, eager to share their experiences with the next generation.
A Return to Familiar Grounds
Maya, Heidi, DJ, Bridget, Poppy, and Ayushman, all former pupils, took on roles as Teaching and House Activities Assistants. For many, it was a surreal experience to step back into their old classrooms, this time from the other side of the desk.
“It’s been strange for those of us who left recently,” Maya shared. “We’ve had to switch from pupil to teacher very quickly. But I think we’ve naturally taken on the role, having learned from our teachers. It’s been enjoyable to be back at School without the exam stress.”
The OCs embraced the chance to revisit school life, this time with added responsibility. They relished the opportunity to reacquaint themselves with the School and introduce it to the young learners.
Supporting the Next Generation
In the classroom, the OCs played a crucial role in supporting both students and teachers. Their presence provided additional one-on-one assistance, especially for those who struggled with English as a second language.
“As teaching assistants, we’ve been encouraging the children to carry on with tasks independently,” explained DJ. “For some students, where English isn’t their first language, they might struggle initially. We’re there to give them the confidence to work out what they need to do by re-explaining or rewording the tasks.”
Heidi added, “Often, it’s just about going up to them one-on-one, saying ‘well done,’ and motivating them to keep up the good work.”
Maya also observed how the children collaborated with one another, especially when one needed help with English translation. “It’s nice to see them work together and stay on task.”
Beyond the Classroom
The OCs agreed that the friendships and collaboration among the young learners were among the best aspects of the course. They noted how activities like art, drama, and sports helped the children come out of their shells.
“The teachers are so passionate about their subjects, and that really comes across in the lessons,” DJ remarked. “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being a Teaching Assistant - it’s been a valuable part of my gap year before starting my apprenticeship.”
Bridget, who served as a House Activities Assistant, found the experience equally rewarding. “We’ve bonded really well as a group. It’s been fulfilling to watch the children develop life skills, like making friendships, which will help them if they start at Charterhouse.”
One highlight was the Treasure Hunt organised by the OCs. It was a fun and engaging activity that required significant planning but was immensely rewarding.
“It was fun for the young learners and for us too,” Bridget said. “We put clues around the School, with pictures of us House Assistants. The students really enjoyed it - they were running around the School, solving the clues. It was such good fun and very successful.”
Building Bonds and Lifelong Skills
The OCs didn’t just observe - they actively participated in activities, leading by example. Bridget recalled, “When the kids see us trying, even if it’s not our favourite sport, they feel encouraged. We’ve been inspiring them in that way.”
The young learners also showed a strong sense of community. “They’re really good about sharing things, like borrowing shampoo from each other. It’s nice to see how inclusive and communal they are,” noted Bridget.
The impact of the summer course extended beyond the students to the OCs themselves. “It’s fulfilling to see how much we can influence them,” Ayushman reflected. “I might even consider going into teaching.”
Visit Charterhouse Young Learners Programme
