About VIEC

Every parent wants their child to return from summer more confident, more curious, and more ready for what comes next.

That is exactly what happens at Varna International Education Centre.

VIEC is a British-run residential education centre on the Bulgarian Black Sea coast — the only place in Europe where the academic standards of Oxford International Study Centre meet an extraordinary 2,080-acre biosphere reserve by the sea.

We bring together ambitious young people aged 7 to 17 from over 30 countries, and give them two weeks that shape who they become.

Message from the Principal

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Peter McLaughlin

Principal

Welcome to Varna International Education Centre, where learning, discovery, and adventure come together on the beautiful Black Sea coast of Bulgaria.

As Principal of VIEC responsible for Oxford Summer School Varna, I am proud to be launching exceptional programmes, in an attractive environment with splendid facilities. At our centre, we believe learning should be inspiring and enjoyable. Alongside high-quality English language tuition from dedicated teachers, students will have opportunity to improve their English skills, explore our local natural eco-environment, learn about UK culture, enjoy creative arts, topics in science, sports, excursions, and take part in a range of fun activities by the sea.

Every student is valued, and we aim to help each young person thrive, grow in confidence and leave with unforgettable memories and lasting friendships.

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VIEC was built by people who have spent their careers teaching English.

Our founding team comes directly from Oxford International Study Centre — one of the UK's most respected providers of English language education, with over two decades of experience preparing international students for British universities. For many families, this is the deciding factor: not just a school that uses the Oxford name, but a centre run by the people behind it.

We were founded with a single conviction: that extraordinary education should not require a flight to England or a budget of £40,000. The same British curriculum framework, the same native-speaking teachers trained by Oxford International Study Centre, the same pastoral care — in a setting that most English boarding schools could only dream of.

What makes VIEC different

• The partnership: our programmes are developed with Oxford International Study Centre, the gold standard in British international education, with 20 years of experience preparing students for top UK universities.
• The place: an Olympic-size pool, indoor athletics track, planetarium, TV and radio studio, professional music and arts facilities, all within a nature reserve 200 metres from the Black Sea.
• The people: our British management team handpicks every teacher, counsellor and specialist coach. Staff live on campus. Every student is known by name.
• The price: Oxford-standard education does not have to mean an Oxford price tag. VIEC offers the same British academic framework at 30–50% less than comparable programmes in the UK.

Our programmes

Accreditation and oversight

VIEC operates under the academic oversight of Oxford International Study Centre and is managed by a British senior leadership team with decades of experience in international education. Our campus is a secure, CCTV-monitored environment with 24/7 medical provision and licensed safeguarding procedures.

Summer 2026 availability

Apply now — summer 2026 places are filling fast.