English-Language Immersion Program

Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.

Our English-Language Immersion (ELI) program is the perfect opportunity for international students to enhance their written and conversational English skills while experiencing life at a premier American boarding school. Through engaging classes, you’ll explore academic writing, creative expression, and oral comprehension, all while diving into classic and modern literature. But learning doesn’t stop in the classroom! You’ll join afternoon activities such as art and sports with non-ELI students, making friends and building connections across cultures.

Beyond campus, you’ll enjoy weekly excursions that bring American culture to life—whether you’re visiting world-class museums, savoring meals at classic diners, or exploring the historic sites such as the streets of Salem, Massachusetts. Each experience is designed to immerse you in the language and spirit of the U.S.

At NMH Summer ELI, you’ll not only sharpen your English skills but also gain confidence, independence, and a lifetime of memories. Whether you’re preparing for academic success or simply seeking a vibrant summer adventure, this program promises an unforgettable blend of learning, exploration, and fun.

For grades 7 to 12, beginner to advanced levels.
Four-week program

Full Afternoon Options for
Grades 7-8

(Period 3 and 4)

Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.

  • Navigate the great outdoors, conquering new heights as you rock climb, canoe or raft New England rivers, or mountain bike through forests and woodland trails. A partnership with local outdoor experts and Wild Med Adventures, LEAD will plunge you into nature, teaching you hands-on wilderness survival skills and first aid. From crafting shelters and foraging for edible plants to mastering the art of fire-making, stone-tool crafting, and wood carving, you'll emerge not just as an adventurer, but as a more experienced, resilient leader with the confidence and tools to survive and thrive in nature and beyond. 

    Prerequisites: Students must be ready for physical exertion and able to understand and willing to follow safety instructions. Students must be able to swim at least 50 meters unaided. For health and safety reasons, international students must have an intermediate level of English or TOEFL B1 level or above (writing: 15; reading: 15; speaking:16-20; listening: 17-21).

    Periods 3 and 4.

    See Tuition page for additional fees.

  • Spend your afternoons getting hooked on the art and science of fly fishing in the beautiful Connecticut River Valley . This course will introduce you to the fundamentals of fly-tying, casting, and reading the water in diverse ecosystems, from streams to lakes. You’ll also gain insight into conservation and ecology, learning how these vibrant waterways support life.

    Perfect for students passionate about science, conservation, or the outdoors, this course fosters patience, problem-solving, and a deeper connection with nature. Whether you’re casting for trout or bass or studying the rhythms of a river, each lesson offers a new challenge and a deeper understanding of our natural world and ourselves.

    Periods 3 and 4.

    See Tuition page for additional fees.

  • Sharpen your swing and master your mindset on the scenic greens of western Massachusetts’ Connecticut River Valley.

    In this course, you’ll strengthen your fundamentals, improve your short and long games, and enjoy the challenge and camaraderie of golf. You’ll practice and play at a local nine-hole club, visit nearby courses, and train using NMH’s on-campus golf simulator. 

    Golf develops focus, patience, and integrity, skills that carry far beyond the fairway. Whether you aim to compete or simply play for life, you’ll build confidence, discipline, and sportsmanship for success in academics, your career, and beyond.

    Participants should bring their own clubs; an additional fee applies for course/greens fees and transportation.

    Four-week course. Periods 3 and 4.

Afternoon Options

(Period 3)

Four Weeks
Grades 7-8

  • Basketball

    Dance +

    Fitness & Weight Training +

    Racket sports: tennis, pickleball, and table tennis

    Soccer

    Swimming +

    Ultimate Frisbee

    Volleyball

  • Get creative with clay! You’ll learn the hand-building techniques of pinching, coiling, and slab building as well as how to throw simple functional pottery, such as cups and bowls, on the pottery wheel. In addition to learning about form, space, texture, and function, you will be introduced to alternative firing techniques and options for surface decoration.

    Period 3

  • Calling all aspiring thespians! In this course, you’ll explore acting, improvisation,   mime, short scenes, and monologues. You’ll learn the basics of stage production, such as set design, lighting, costume design, and the use of props, and prepare a production to be performed for the campus community at the conclusion of the session.

    Period 3. Grades 7 to 12.

  • This four-week course, taught by Summit Educational Group instructors, focuses on the academic skills and test-taking techniques you’ll need to succeed on the SSAT for entrance into many independent secondary schools. You’ll focus on  developing a game plan for each section and question; understanding content, including math, grammar, and how to approach the reading and science sections; and practice, helping you build confidence to move efficiently through the test.

    This course is taken in addition to your main course(s) in Period 3, two days a week, alternating with sports on the other two days. 

    Only available for 4 week students.

    See Tuition page for additional fees. description

Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.

Afternoon Options

(Period 4)

Four Weeks
Grades 7-8

Courses that contain a plus (+) indicate that students in grades 7 thru 12 are allowed to participate in that class/sport.

  • Have you ever gazed up at the sky and wondered what’s out there? How was the Earth created? How big is the universe? What is a black hole? You’ll explore these questions and many more and we consider the vastness of space. 

    NMH’s observatory is a wonderful location for viewing clear night skies and studying stars and planets, thanks to the minimal amount of “light pollution” in our pristine, rural area. The course includes a daily classroom component as well as two evening viewing/stargazing sessions every week. 

    Two-week (Session 1 only) or four-week course.

  • Dive into the art of photography and explore both digital and darkroom skills to bring your creative vision to life! You’ll learn camera fundamentals — from shutter speed to aperture and depth of field — and get behind the lens to capture landscapes, portraits, close-ups, and even sports action. Experiment with digital editing techniques, then step into the darkroom to develop your own black-and-white prints, discovering the magic of bringing images to life in real time. Perfect for anyone passionate about visual storytelling, social media, or the arts, this course equips you with skills for high school projects, college portfolios, and beyond.

    Note: You must bring your own digital SLR camera.

    Four-week or Two-week course. Period 4.

  • Get creative with clay! You’ll learn the hand-building techniques of pinching, coiling, and slab building as well as how to throw simple functional pottery, such as cups and bowls, on the pottery wheel. In addition to learning about form, space, texture, and function, you will be introduced to alternative firing techniques and options for surface decoration. 

    Two- or Four-week course.

  • Get involved in the community! In this course, you’ll learn about local and global needs while working with nearby support and service organizations. Discussions, fundraising efforts, and other activities will focus on issues such as homelessness and housing, food insecurity, health care, education, and children’s welfare.

    Two- or four- week course.

  • Mastering Classic Entrees

    Roll up your sleeves and dive into the world of classic culinary favorites! In this introductory cooking course, you’ll explore the science and art behind preparing delicious entrées, such as spaghetti carbonara, chicken parmesan, tacos with homemade salsa, stir-fried vegetables, grilled salmon, and roasted chicken. 

    From mastering safe knife skills to building confidence in the kitchen, this course is for students eager to learn foundational cooking techniques while experimenting with fresh ingredients and combining classic flavors. Each session will focus on a new recipe, offering a chance to learn the basics of seasoning, sautéing, and plating with style. By the end of the two weeks, you’ll be able to prepare several signature dishes with the confidence of a pro.

    Sweet Creations and Desserts

    If you’ve ever dreamed of creating picture-perfect desserts, this course is for you. Over two exciting weeks, you’ll discover the secrets to crafting timeless sweet treats, such as chocolate chip cookies, crème crûlée, apple pie, chocolate mousse, pavlova, and cheesecake. 

    You’ll explore the science behind baking, whipping, and tempering while learning the essential skills of measuring, mixing, and blending textures and flavors. With a focus on technique and creativity, this course will help you gain the confidence to make mouthwatering desserts that not only taste amazing but look Instagram-worthy, too! Whether you’re new to the kitchen or a more experienced baker, these classic recipes will be sure to impress your friends and family.

    Session 1 and 2, Period 4.

    See Tuition page for additional fees. description

  • Overcome stage fright forever and prepare yourself for class and public presentations in high school and college. You’ll learn the principles of effective public speaking and practice, practice, practice as you prepare and present various forms of public address, from brief improvisational talks to formal speeches. In the process, you’ll improve your skills and confidence through ongoing, constructive feedback.

    Two- or four-week course. Period 4.

  • Bring your laptop and your curiosity and explore the limitless possibilities of hands-on design in our dynamic MAKE! course in the cutting-edge makerspace in NMH’s Gilder Center. 

    You’ll explore design-thinking and fabrication, combining analog and digital techniques in a safe, collaborative, and fun environment that celebrates risk-taking and emphasizes support. Our “high-tech to no-tech” approach incorporates a wide range of materials and tools, allowing us to meet you where you are as you develop competency and confidence. You’ll dive into projects in drawing, 3-D modeling and printing, laser-cutting, woodworking, small-motor robotics, and digital design using a Glowforge laser cutter.

    No prior experience required.

    Period 4. Two- or four-week.

    See Tuition page for additional fees. description

  • Share your love of music with like-minded peers as you collaborate and create with your voices. You’ll learn songs and practice together with music selections based on your collective interests. No experience is necessary, and the ability to read music is not required. All levels of vocalists — from shower singers to choir members — are encouraged to join and to lift your voices together in song.

    Two- or four-week course. Grades 7 to 12.

  • Combine these 2-week courses:

    Discover the world of drone technology and take your photography and videography skills to new heights in this high-flying course! You’ll dive into the science of flight as you learn how to operate unmanned aircraft systems, with a special focus on mastering the DJI Mini 4K drone. From understanding federal and local regulations to ensuring safe flying practices, this course covers all the essentials for responsible drone piloting. Once you’ve nailed the basics, you’ll explore the art of capturing stunning aerial footage, developing skills that are both fun and future-focused. Whether you’re passionate about STEM, aviation, or creative media, this course offers the perfect balance of technical expertise and artistic exploration. Ready to launch? Bring your drone and get ready to soar!

    Two-week course. Session 1. Period 4.

  • Express your creativity and capture the world around you in bright colors — or in black and white. This course is tailored to your individual interests and artistic abilities and is an opportunity to hone your skills in the visual arts media of drawing and painting, whatever your level of experience. You’ll learn or review fundamentals while receiving constructive feedback and encouragement.

    Two- or four-week course. Period 4.

  • Dance +

    Fitness & Weight Training +

    Swimming

    Period 4. Grades 7-12