Summer is your chance to relax, hang out with friends, and enjoy your break. But if you’re looking for productive things to do in summer as a student, there are loads of fun and simple ways to use your time, without missing out on the good stuff.
Here are five ideas you can try to make your summer both fun and useful.
1. Get a part-time summer job
A part-time job is a great way to earn some extra money and build useful skills like time-keeping, teamwork, and confidence.
You could: Work in a café, shop, or find an part-time, entry-level role with a local business.
Why it’s worth it: You’ll get real-life experience that can help you in the future when applying for jobs or courses.

2. Volunteer in your local area
Volunteering is one of the most productive things to do in summer because it can help other people, you make a difference to your local community AND it can teach you new skills.
You could: Help at a charity shop, food bank, sports club, or community event.
Why it’s worth it: Volunteering shows you have compassion, that you can demonstrate commitment and it looks great on college, job, or uni applications. Make sure you also add any volunteer work to your CV!

3. Learn something new
Use your time wisely this summer holiday and pick up a new skill. Whether it’s just for fun, or to help with your future, there’s never any harm in learning something new! There are loads of free online courses and YouTube tutorials to get you started.
You could: Learn photography, cooking, DIY, or a new language.
Why it’s worth it: You’ll keep your brain active and have something cool to talk about when you’re back at college. Depending on what you end up learning, your new skills may even help you with your chosen College course, so why not get a head start now?

4. Start your own summer project
Why not try something creative that’s completely your own idea? Not only could this help keep you busy, but you could also put your skills to the test and even earn a little bit of extra money.
You could: Make a YouTube channel, challenge yourself to Couch to 5K, sell your own crafts or art work at summer fayres (if that goes well, you could even consider opening an Etsy shop!), or relandscape your garden.
Why it’s worth it: It’s a fun way to use your time and it shows you’ve got independence and great ideas. It’s an added bonus if you can turn this into a money-making project too!

5. Travel or explore new places
Summer is a great time to get out and see somewhere new, and you don’t have to go far to have an adventure.
You could: Go on day trips to nearby cities, beaches, parks, or museums, or try local festivals and events with friends.
Why it’s worth it: Exploring new places gives you new experiences, helps you build independence, and allows you to develop your self-confidence. If you’re not used to travelling far, take small steps. Once you’re comfortable exploring one area, push yourself to venture a little further. Whether you prefer being a solo traveller or exploring with your friends, you’re bound to make some amazing summer memories.

Remember, you don’t have to spend every day doing something productive, but if you mix in a few of these ideas with your summer fun, you’ll feel great about how you’ve used your time when September comes around.
See what other advice and guidance we have for students.