Helen Lami of Academic Summer Camp is sharing her reflections on a fantastic 2023!

December is here! Christmas lights are up and businesses are starting to wind down to take a break over the festive season.

Today we’re talking to Helen Lami, CEO of Academic Summer Camp who offer summer and holiday programmes that are designed to enhance a student’s academic and personal development through a combination of academic courses and cultural experiences. Based in the Southwest they have schools in Bristol, Taunton, London and Canada.

What does December mean for your business? Is it busy, quieter? If the latter, how do you use your time usefully? 
Typically, December tends to be a quieter period for Academic Summer Camps since it falls outside the traditional academic summer programme season. However, this downtime does not mean that our team is inactive.

During December, we use our time strategically to prepare for the upcoming year. This includes:

Reflecting on the Past Year:  December provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on the successes and challenges of the past year. We analyse the feedback received from participants, assess the effectiveness of our programmes, and identify areas for improvement.

Strategic Planning: We use December to engage in strategic planning for the upcoming academic summer season. This involves setting goals, outlining key initiatives, and developing a roadmap for the year ahead. This planning phase helps us stay ahead of trends in education and ensures that our programmes remain innovative and relevant.

Marketing and Promotion: Although it may be a quieter period, we use December to work on marketing and promotional activities. This could involve developing new marketing materials, updating our website, and planning advertising campaigns to reach our target audience.

Staff Training and Development: December is an ideal time for staff training and development. Whether it's honing existing skills or acquiring new ones, ensuring that our team is well-equipped is crucial for delivering high-quality programmes in the upcoming season.

Partnership Building: Building and strengthening partnerships with partner schools and our network of agent partners, is an ongoing process. December allows us to focus on relationship-building activities and explore potential collaborations that can enhance our programmes. In the past month the team have been in Albania,Spain, Italy, Thailand, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Kazakhstan, Poland, Latvia, China, Lithuania.  Have  I missed somewhere!

Financial Planning: This is an opportune time to review the financial performance of the business, budget for the upcoming year, and ensure that resources are allocated efficiently to support our goals.

In summary, while December may be a quieter period in terms of programme delivery, it serves as a critical time for Academic Summer Camps to engage in strategic activities that contribute to the long-term success and sustainability of our business.

Give us a flavour of your highlights of 2023 - tell us up to five positive things that have happened to you and/or your business in the last year.
I'm thrilled to share some of the exciting highlights from 2023:

New School Partnerships:  Academic Summer Camps established valuable partnerships with David Game College and Rothesay Netherwood School in Canada, expanding our network of collaborating institutions. These partnerships not only strengthen our global presence but also provide unique educational opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

Development of a New Programmes in the UK: We successfully developed a new programme in the UK, inspired by the US/Canadian model. This initiative broadens our offerings and allows children in the UK to experience the enriching educational programmes that have proven successful in the Americas

Supporting Ukrainian Students: In collaboration with our long-term Ukrainian partner, we ensured that Ukrainian children could still participate in a summer school experience, even if it meant relocating the programme to the UK due to challenging circumstances. This commitment reflects our dedication to providing educational opportunities despite external challenges.

Recovery Post-COVID: Academic Summer Camps experienced a significant recovery since the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. With people resuming travel, we welcomed back a substantial number of students, representing 59 different countries—the highest number since 2019. The sustained demand post-summer has led to the early opening of 2024 bookings to accommodate the overwhelming interest.

Personal Milestone - 25th Wedding Anniversary: On a personal note, I celebrated my 25th wedding anniversary, a significant milestone in my life. 

These highlights collectively demonstrate Academic Summer Camps' resilience, adaptability, and commitment to providing exceptional educational experiences. As we look ahead, these achievements inspire us to continue pushing boundaries and delivering innovative programmes that positively impact students globally.

Would you like to thank anyone who has been especially helpful to you throughout this year? 
This is a tricky one…There are so many and I don’t want to offend anyone by leaving them out.   So… I am going to go with my accountant, Lara, who has been an absolute lifesaver these past few years. I genuinely don't know what I'd do without her. Lara's expertise, warmth and attention to detail have not only ensured the financial health of my business but have also provided invaluable insights for strategic decisions. Her proactive approach, accessibility, and willingness to explain complex financial matters have made her an indispensable ally. Lara's professionalism and genuine concern for my success have made a significant impact, and I'm deeply grateful for her support throughout the year. So much so that she will join our Team get together this Christmas.

Have you done anything for charity or your community this year? 
Giving back to the community has been a core value for our organisation. We believe in making a positive impact on the lives of individuals, especially those who may face challenges and barriers to educational opportunities. Here are examples of our initiatives for charity and community support in 2023:

Partnership with a Charity for Young Caregivers in Bristol: Academic Summer Camps collaborates with a local charity supporting young caregivers in Bristol. Recognizing the unique challenges these individuals face, we have been offering a free place in our programs to a young caregiver each year. This initiative provides them with an opportunity to take a break, engage in enriching experiences, and focus on their personal development.

Support for Young Refugees through a Local Charity: In alignment with our commitment to inclusivity, Academic Summer Caps partners with a local refugee charity. We extend programme placements to young refugees who may need additional support to catch up academically before transitioning to their new schools. This initiative aims to facilitate their integration into the education system and provide a positive and supportive learning environment.

By working with these local charities, we aim to address specific needs within the community and contribute to creating more equitable opportunities for young individuals. These initiatives align with our belief in the transformative power of education and the importance of making a difference in the lives of those who may face adversity. We are proud to play a role in changing the trajectory of young people's lives and contributing to the well-being of our community.

Christmas will, of course, be big news in December. What does this mean for you?
As a practising Christian, Christmas holds a special significance for me on both a personal and professional level. Here's what Christmas means for me:

Spiritual Significance: Christmas is a time of deep spiritual significance. It marks the celebration of the birth of Jesus Christ, and it is a time for me to engage in quiet reflection, prayer, and gratitude for the blessings in my life.

Gratitude and Reflection: Christmas provides a meaningful opportunity for me to express gratitude for the successes and positive moments throughout the year. It's a time to reflect on the journey of Academic Summer Camps, the achievements of our team, and the impact we've had on the lives of students around the world.

The holiday season kicks off for me with a special Christmas party at the beginning of the month, where I welcome my loyal team from around the world to my house. This gathering is not only a festive celebration but also a time to express appreciation for the hard work and dedication of my team members. Building a sense of camaraderie is essential for a successful and motivated team.

Remembering Loved Ones:  Christmas is a bittersweet time as I remember my parents who have passed away in recent years. It's an occasion to cherish the memories of the good times we shared and to honour their legacy. This aspect of Christmas brings a reflective and sentimental tone to the season.

Cultural Traditions: Beyond the religious aspects, Christmas is a time to partake in cultural traditions, such as decorating the house, exchanging gifts, and enjoying festive meals with family and friends. These traditions create a sense of warmth and togetherness during the holiday season. My dogs, Teddy and Kimble get treated like spoilt children and are known to end the day snoring in front of the fire with my husband.

December 3 was Small Business Saturday in the UK. Can you name up to three local independent ‘retail’ businesses you would recommend using? 
Darts Farm is a personal favourite of mine, offering a delightful array of fresh, local produce. From the finest West Country cheeses to artisan breads, pastries, and pies, as well as local chutneys and world-class chocolates, every visit promises a discovery of something new and exciting. The added convenience of being able to charge my Tesla while shopping makes it even better. And, of course, the dogs thoroughly enjoy the experience as well!

I rely on Pharaoh Print & Design for all our printing requirements, including business cards and banners. Simon's genuine care, meticulous attention to detail, and the added convenience of door-to-door delivery make me feel fortunate to have such a dedicated and reliable service right on my doorstep.

December 20 is the Festival of Winter Walks. Do you love any walks in your own community that you could recommend?
Living in the heart of the Devon countryside provides me with a wealth of scenic options for walks, each offering a unique and refreshing experience. Here are three walks that I particularly enjoy:

Tiverton Canal Walk:
The Tiverton Canal Walk is a local gem, allowing me to immerse myself in the tranquillity of the countryside. Strolling alongside the canal, surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of flowing water, provides a serene escape. The picturesque views and the charming ambience make this walk a perfect way to unwind and connect with nature without venturing too far from home.

Fingle Bridge:
Fingle Bridge Walk is a captivating nature trek nestled in the scenic Dartmoor National Park. The trail meanders through ancient woodlands along the bubbling River Teign, offering a serene escape into nature. The bridge itself, with its historic charm, provides a perfect spot for reflection. 

Exmouth Beach Stroll with Teddy and Kimble:
For a delightful and leisurely walk, especially when accompanied by my furry companions, Teddy and Kimble, I often choose a stroll along Exmouth Beach. The sandy shores and the rhythmic sounds of the waves create a tranquil backdrop. It's a favourite for my dogs, who revel in the open space to run and play. The bracing sea air and the panoramic coastal views make this beach walk not only enjoyable for my pets but also a rejuvenating experience for me.

These diverse walking options reflect the beauty and variety of the Devon countryside, offering a perfect blend of nature, relaxation, and exploration right at my doorstep. Each walk holds its own charm, providing a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the natural wonders that surround my home.

Are you doing any kind of special offer or package in December that you’d like to mention?
Early birds booking now can get a 5% discount!

What has been your proudest personal moment in 2023?
My business is very personal to me so the proudest moment has been business-related as I have worked relentlessly to keep it since the pandemic.  Sprinkle in a bit of Brexit and the awful war in Ukraine and  you can imagine the summer school industry was badly hit and sadly not everyone survived so I have felt so proud this year to open our doors and welcome students back in the way we did in 2019

On a more personal and slightly frivolous note, the day I discovered that my dog Teddy could communicate with me on the telephone was pretty special. It was a magical realisation that our bond went beyond the usual cues and interactions. As we shared moments of connection through the phone, it became a testament to the unique understanding and closeness we had developed. Teddy's ability to "talk" on the telephone added a special layer to our relationship, making it a cherished and heart-warming memory that I hold with immense pride and joy.

If you could choose three words to sum up 2023 ,what would they be and why? 

1. Transformative
2. Resilient
3. Gratifying

January 2023 had a very different landscape to December 2023, encapsulating a period marked by significant changes, growth, and evolution in both personal and professional spheres. The challenges faced were met with resilience, showcasing the ability to adapt and overcome obstacles. The year brought about a gratifying sense of accomplishment, stemming from achievements, positive developments, and the impactful contributions made by Academic Summer Camps. Overall, 2023 represented a dynamic journey of transformation, resilience, and gratification.

To learn more visit www.academiccamp.org