Think deeply. Live well.
A summer school in the hills of Wales
Latimer is a free ten-day residential summer school for 15–17 year olds, held each July in the hills of Wales. Together we read the great books, debate the questions that matter, and discover what it means to live a good life.
Latimer is rooted in the Christian tradition of learning that built Britain’s schools, colleges and universities. We believe the questions that tradition asks, about truth, goodness and how we ought to live, still matter as much as ever. Students of all faiths and none are welcome.
We have been running since 2020. Since then we have welcomed young people from state schools, independent schools and home education across England and Wales. Some come because a teacher suggested it, some because a friend came the year before. Almost all of them leave wanting to come back.
Ten days at Latimer
Mornings are spent in small seminar groups of eight to ten, reading short texts closely with a tutor. We read Plato and Aristotle, Augustine and Aquinas, Shakespeare, Burke and C. S. Lewis. Nobody lectures, and nobody is marked. The aim is to read carefully, listen well and say what you really think.
Afternoons are for walking in the hills, swimming in the lake or reading on the lawn. In the evenings there are debates, music and talks from visiting speakers. Everyone sings in the choir. Each day begins and ends in the chapel, with a short time of prayer and reflection. As our namesake Hugh Latimer put it, we hope to “light such a candle” as will not be put out.
Phones are handed in on arrival. Students tell us it is the part they dread most, and the part they miss most once they are home.
Who can apply
Latimer is open to anyone aged 15 to 17 who lives in the UK. You don’t need top grades, and you don’t need to have read any of the books. We are looking for curiosity, kindness and a willingness to join in. Places are offered on the basis of a short written application. You can find out more on the Programme and Apply pages.
Applications for 2027 open 12 January.
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