From Online Classmates to Real-Life Friends: Summer Camp in Rimini – August 2026

This summer, our students swapped their online classrooms for the sunny shores of Rimini, Italy, where they spent an unforgettable week exploring new places, taking part in team activities and, most importantly, meeting their school friends in person. For students who usually learn and communicate online, the camp was a special opportunity to connect beyond the screen. 

Some were meeting for the first time, while others strengthened friendships they had already formed through school.

After arriving and settling in, the students began the week with icebreaker games and group activities. Over the following days, they played football, volleyball and water polo, took part in a photo challenge and explored Rimini during a scavenger hunt with gelato waiting for the winning team. For some students, the scavenger hunt became one of the highlights of the entire week.

“I probably enjoyed the scavenger hunt the most. It was so great to play a game where the playground was basically a whole town, and asking random people to participate was super fun. I also loved my team, and we had a lot of fun running around and searching for clues. And I love that we won and got free ice cream as a prize! I was sure I wasn’t getting any, but they actually had vegan options, so that was the icing on the cake for me” – E.G.J., EduWW High School student.

Several mornings were spent at the beach, swimming, relaxing and playing in the waves. Group walks to the nearby gelato shop, which quickly became everyone’s favourite place, were another memorable part of the camp.

The week also included several exciting excursions. During a full-day trip to Verona, the students enjoyed a guided tour and free time to explore the city. They then visited picturesque Sirmione and Lake Garda, where they could choose between swimming and sightseeing.

Later in the week, the group travelled to San Marino for another guided tour, followed by free time to discover its historic streets and beautiful views. 

These excursions gave the students an opportunity to experience Italian history, culture and landscapes together. However, the places they visited were only one part of the experience. By spending their days together and sharing so many activities, the students grew closer and discovered how meaningful these in-person connections could be.

“Something I learned is how much I enjoy the company of the people around me, whether it was my friends, teachers or even the activity leaders. I’m someone who has few friends back home, and here I realised how much fun you can have when you are around people whose company you enjoy” – R. B., EduWW High School student.

The evenings brought the entire group together through games, presentations and parties. Students enjoyed a group game of Mafia, a Kahoot quiz about Italy, a cosplay party and, on their final evening, a goodbye celebration.

After seven days of activities, excursions and shared experiences, it was time to return home. The students left Rimini with photographs, memories and new friendships – but saying goodbye to the people with whom they had shared the week was not easy.

“There is something about that connection—being able to shake someone’s hand or hug somebody else. I will miss everyone from the camp. I will miss that kind of connection” – M.P., EduWW High School student.

The camp showed that online education does not have to mean learning in isolation. Although our students live in different countries and meet primarily through an online learning environment, they are part of a real community. Meeting in Rimini allowed that community to come to life.

When asked what advice they would give to students considering joining the next camp, the answer was clear:

“You should definitely come to the next camp—and every camp after that—because the camps I’ve attended have been weeks of pure happiness. It is truly one of the best experiences I have ever had” – T. B., EduWW High School student.

The messages we received from parents perhaps show best just how much the students enjoyed the camp, and how many wonderful memories they brought home with them.

“Thanks to all the organisers and to Sarah! We could barely talk to Raphael this week because he was so busy, which is a very good sign! We are looking forward to seeing the pictures and wish you a restful remainder of the weekend and a great start to next week!” — B.

“Our family expresses immense gratitude to everyone who shared this little piece of summer with us. Dear teachers, thank you so much for your interest in our children and for your attention and support. Vera is already missing everyone.” — K.

“A huge thank you to you all! Vivi had the most amazing time—even the heat didn’t stand a chance against all the fun and plenty of ice cream! She seems so happy and already full of wonderful memories. We can’t wait to hear all the stories! You are truly an amazing team, and we’re so grateful for all the care, energy and love you put into making this week so special. Thanks so much for everything! ”— M. A.