Xplore short-term spring and summer programme 2017

LANGUAGE CAMPS Learning through Experience

For 6 to 17 year olds England � Ireland � Germany � USA � China � France xplorelanguage.com

Welcome to Xplore For the past 30 years, we have been dedicated to promoting the benefit of travelling abroad to learn or improve a second language, developing a wider appreciation for the different cultures and having fun creating lifelong memories through our high quality language and activity camps.

Being an independent organisation, we are able to give our customers a personal and dedicated service.

This personalised approach has seen many of our customers come back and book with us year after year.

Over the years, we have met thousands of children from all over the world and have developed a unique programme of activities that not only allows them to noticeably improve their language skills but also supports personal and social development through confidence and team building.

Integration and immersion are central to how we operate as an organisation, from our senior management team being directly involved with the day-to-day operation to encouraging social interaction between a diverse mix of nationalities and cultures – our camps bring language, learning and laughter to life!

Why Xplore?

Xplore language camps are energetic and lively, where we focus on integration through a programme of interactive language lessons, exciting excursions and outdoor activities.

Dynamic

We have the best and brightest people working in our offices and at our camps. Our leaders and instructors, who are role models and trained experts, are encouraged to develop their careers with Xplore. Even our directors began working at camp!

Active

To learn a language, it needs to come alive!

We recognise the importance of having fun to support learning and retention, which is why we have a mix of active sessions suited to the learning abilities of all ages.

Discover We have more countries and destinations to travel to and a variety of programmes to suit all ages and interests, so there has never been a better time to Xplore!

Learning through Experience When booking a language camp abroad, it is important to see how much your child has developed their language skills by the time they return home in addition to hearing about all of their amazing experiences and new friends!

We believe that through our unique and social approach of combining lessons, adventure, sports, crafts and excursions, we are providing the best language-learning environment focussing on the four key communication elements that make learning another language possible.

We call this, learning through experience.

Improved Language Skills

The Xplore Way Achieving success with another language is about communication. Communication is a two-way process and we find that exposure to another language through listening and reading combined with practical usage by speaking and writing, allows every child to absorb, achieve and develop much more rapidly.

Each element of our programme helps support language development:

Cultural Excursions

Social Interaction

During each programme we discover local traditions and culture by visiting nearby cities and tourist attractions that offer brilliant sightseeing opportunities.

Meeting and making new friends, not only teaches an appreciation of different cultures but also helps to develop a mutual respect and understanding.

As well as spending time making memories with new friends, these excursions aim to encourage the use of language with native speakers in the real world.

Being part of a diverse international community at camp, in mixed nationality classes and sessions builds self-confidence in communicating with others.

Getting Active

Language Lessons

Being outside is a brilliant way to get some fresh air, have lots of laughs and exercise the brain.

Spending time in the classroom allows us to underpin the academic learning of a language, however our classes are not like school lessons!

Whether it is an adventure activity or taking part in one of our specialist courses, listening skills are really important, as well as being an exciting topic of conversation to share with friends.

Learning outcomes focus on pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary and sentence structure and through a range of group activities and self-study, every learning style is catered for.

In the Classroom Learning or improving a language with Xplore is different. Our time in the classroom is focused on developing and improving language skills through a range of collaborative projects, games and individual tasks to cater to all different learning styles.

English

German

Mandarin

England Ireland Germany USA China

Teachers Across all our destinations, our teachers are vibrant and experienced. In addition, they have all received specialist training from Xplore teacher-trainers. We constantly adapt, update and optimise lesson plans to ensure that each specific class receives the highest teaching standard and support for their ability and success.

Language Learning Outcomes: • Clear, effective programme for students of all ages • Native speaking teachers • Small class sizes, split by ability • Peer-to-peer supported system for integrated learning

Tailored Teaching Alongside our own teaching material that has been specifically designed in line with our interactive and modern style of language learning, we also use different teaching approaches suitable to age range and ability level in order to create the best learning environment for everyone!

6 to 12 year olds

13 to 17 year olds

Interactive: lessons are made fun with games and music

Cultural: lessons include cultural customs and typical etiquette to enhance experience

Images: important for limited abilities, we start with matching words and images

Grammar: time spent looking at sentence structure and tenses

Repetition: lessons designed to repeat and develop topics to maximise retention

Social Confidence: strong focus on oral participation, using language in front of others

Pronunciation: focus on correctly pronouncing words and sounds

Projects: self-study, group project work and community projects to suit all learner styles

Progress Report: individual reports from teachers on achievements during lessons

Academic approach: examination preparation for those wanting to gain a qualification

English After an initial placement test, our mixed ability English classes are taught using Anglia Examination’s step-by-step programme. We incorporate innovative and interactive projects into our lessons, which allow each child to develop their English sometimes without even noticing!

• Anglia operate worldwide, are internationally recognised and are comparable against other EFL examination bodies such as Cambridge, TOEFL and IELTS • Anglia will award an Ofqual approved certificate to all those achieving a pass grade or higher for B1, B2, C1 and C2 levels (According to the CEFR – Common European Framework of Reference) • All students receive an Xplore progress report from their teacher to show achievements and success throughout their course

www.anglia.org

Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) CEFR

Anglia Examinations

Cambridge Certificate

C2 Mastery

Masters

CPE Proficiency

C1 EOP

AcCept Proficiency

CAE Advanced

110 to 120 Points

B2 Vantage

Advanced

FCE First

87 to 109 Points

B1 Threshold

Intermediate

PET Preliminary

57 to 86 Points

A2+

PreIntermediate

A2 Waystage

Elementary

KET Key English

A1 Breakthrough

Preliminary

Movers

TOEFL IBT

Chinese

In order to become accustomed to the climate, language and culture, intensive Mandarin language classes and typical Chinese activities are the main focus for the first few days.

Everyone then participates in an active programme of shared Mandarin and English lessons and activities for peer-to-peer learning with Chinese students. Everyone is encouraged to keep a diary during the programme to record new words and phrases learnt and we teach traditional Chinese etiquette and greetings to be able to communicate effectively on excursions.

German

Xplore German classes are based on four of six levels defined in the CEFR – from A1, A2, B1 and B2, meaning they are suitable for those just starting out up to those at an advanced level.

During lessons, we focus on skills such as spelling, grammar and vocabulary, whilst being creative and interactive. With many native speaking German children also on site, there will be plenty of opportunities to practice German outside the classroom.

At the end of the camp, students will receive an Xplore certificate for completing their language course.

Get Active Coming to an Xplore language camp means getting outside, laughing and having fun! Our complete programme of standard adventure, sport and creative activities or one of our additional specialist courses, all add to the ultimate camp experience and go a long way in supporting language development.

Being Active = Fun Learning All activity sessions are undertaken and supervised by carefully selected, fully trained Xplore staff.

Activities are designed to help build self-confidence, teamwork and support language learning in a lively and social environment.

• Listening skills are required to understand instructions given by Xplore leaders • Communication skills are needed to work together • Problem solving adventure sessions are great exercise for both the body and the brain • Achieving success provides empowerment and selfconfidence to take forward into other aspects of life

Safety Our top priority is ensuring the safety of the children in our care. To maintain our high standards, we are monitored by national organisations and hold a number of industryrecognised accreditations that endorse our excellence in education and safety standards.

Xplore More ‌

Add a new element to your language learning and camp experience by taking part in an additional specialist course.

Football Experience high-end football coaching in groups appropriate for age and skills with our partner Ferienfussball.

Qualified coaches experienced in training young players deliver the sessions, teaching skills such as coordination, control, speed and striking throughout the week, which can be put into practice during pre-arranged friendly matches against local teams.

Golf There is always something to learn within this challenging sport and with high-quality golf courses only a short walking distance away from campus; qualified instructors provide first class tuition.

After establishing ability and strength work through a variety of shots and areas of the game that need developing. We complete the week by taking on the challenges of the golf course.

Rugby Horse Riding Horse riding begins with learning how to handle ponies safely, with an introduction to stable care, including tying and tacking up, grooming and feeding the horses before covering equestrian disciplines such as jumping and dressage. At the end of the course, display new skills at the Horse Show.

Join a high performance rugby academy headed up by former French Rugby World Cup Coach, Philippe Saint-Andre and in association with sister organisation PSA Academies. The course designed for aspiring youth players focuses on the building blocks of the game, including core ball skills and positional play to strength, conditioning and personal fitness.

Find out more: xplorelanguage.com/extra-courses

D N A L G N E

Each year, we offer spring and summer language camps throughout England on campus at traditional English boarding schools for young people aged 6 to 17. Each campus is suited to a specific age range so that children of the same age and English ability can meet one another, sharing their experience and development.

We encourage travelling to England to improve English at any age, but for younger learners, we offer a fun and friendly introduction to the language within a safe and secure environment. For teenagers, coming to an English camp and mixing with others from all over the world, not only academically improves English but also offers them a wider appreciation and respect for other cultures and traditions.

Location All our campus locations are close to popular towns and cities such as London, Cambridge, Manchester and Oxford. They offer excellent facilities and are set in beautiful grounds, which along with their locations guarantee to ensure a fantastic camp experience.

What to expect?

Travelling to England is a great opportunity to put English into practice, perfect the accent whilst meeting new friends and have lots fun experiencing the fascinating history and traditions England has to offer. Our English camps offer exhilarating activities such as quad biking, archery and climbing as well as typical evening activities such as singing and eating marshmallows around the campfire.

For 2017 Dates and Prices: xplorelanguage.com/england

Available for 6 to 17 year olds Countryside locations close to popular cities Exciting range of activities English-speaking leaders and instructors Additional Football, Golf or Horse Riding courses available

Xplore has been inspected by ABLS a UK Visa and Immigration approved body

Manchester

Cambridge Oxford

Bath

London

England

Highlights

D N A L E R I

Although modern day Ireland shares many cultural similarities to England, this small yet truly unique country maintains a distinctive culture with a rich history dating back many centuries.

Irish locals are renowned for their friendly and welcoming character, making it a perfect destination for a language camp offering children aged 12 to 17 independence and the opportunity to engage in genuine English conversations.

Location Located within travelling distance of Dublin, lessons and activities take place at a state-of-the-art facility with spacious and modern accommodation nearby, giving the sense of university independence whilst being a safe and secure environment with 24-hour care and supervision.

What to expect?

In addition to English lessons with highly qualified teachers and excursions, traditional Gaelic activities are integral to our programme to give authentic insight into Irish life – try Gaelic football or learn to Irish dance and enjoy Irish music during Irish night.

There are also plenty of opportunities to discover the local scenery and culture with day trip excursions; we visit Dublin where the streets are brimming with history and culture as well a regional cultural and heritage tour, including ‘haunted’ manor houses, Celtic high crosses and ancient burial mounds.

For 2017 Dates and Prices: xplorelanguage.com/ireland

Highlights University-style accommodation close to campus for independence Highly qualified, experienced teaching staff Experience the historic capital city, Dublin

Dublin

Ireland

Unique Irish sports and activity programme

Y N A M R E G

During spring and summer, children aged 12 to 16 from around the world can improve their German and/or English whilst exploring and enjoying the culture and history of a tradition-rich country at one of our language camps in Germany.

The official language on campus is English, but there will be plenty of opportunity to practice both languages with fellow campers from Germany as well as with native German speaking staff.

Location Positioned near major cities such as Cologne and Munich, our camps are located at purpose built sports and activity focused campuses, with quality accommodation in a ‘village setting’. The campus setting offers the ideal location for the chance to make new friends from around the world as well as having fun and participating in challenging sports activities.

What to expect?

A variety of sport and fun activities are on offer, from traditional ones such as football, beach volleyball and mountain biking to more exceptional ones such as, kin ball, stand up paddling or kayaking.

Being closely located to such popular cities, we’re able to discover both the traditional historic side of Germany as well as the new vibrant and modern industrialisation during day trip excursions. Other excursions include theme and water parks, the enchanting Austrian city of Salzburg and even a trip to FC Bayern Munich stadium.

For 2017 Dates and Prices: xplorelanguage.com/germany

Highlights Two languages to learn – chose German and/or English Fantastic opportunity to meet with others from around the world Incredible outdoor activities and sport facilities Experience famous German cities Munich, Cologne as well as Austrian city, Salzburg Germany

Berlin

Cologne

Munich Salzburg

A S U

From cosmopolitan cities to incredible mountain landscapes and spanning more than 3000 miles between west and east coast across 50 states, America is certainly a diverse and exciting language destination for young travellers.

Rather than staying in on-site campus accommodation, we use homestay accommodation as a way of introducing America to 12 to 17 year olds in a genuine, true-to-life way.

Location Our locations are close to bustling mountain towns in laid-back, open and welcoming communities with a variety of downtown shops and cafĂŠs to discover.

From scenic trails and waterfalls in North Carolina to the adventures to be had in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, travelling to the US this summer will be an unforgettable experience.

Colorado is suited for those looking for total immersion in US lifestyle, and for those who are looking for a little more support, Asheville in North Carolina is more suited where we combine the fun and adventure of an English language immersion trip with activities and excursions.

What to expect?

Every homestay family is personally recruited and selected by Xplore and this type of immersion means being authentically engaged in American lifestyle with constant interaction with native English speakers. In addition to this, there is a fantastic opportunity to give back to the local community through volunteer projects.

For 2017 Dates and Prices: xplorelanguage.com/usa

Highlights Real American homestay living, with host family community dinners and baseball games Thrilling outdoor activities in the beautiful Blue Ridge and Rocky Mountains High school and University tours available Cultural workshops and volunteer projects with community members

USA

Colorado

Washington DC

Asheville, North Carolina

A N I H C

Spend three unforgettable weeks at our camp in China this summer. Designed for 12 to 16 year olds, this camp is mainly focused on the cultural experience, discovering the fascinating and ancient traditions of the East.

To achieve this, we provide all the fun and adventure of a language immersion trip through cultural and social integrated activities. From traditional Chinese activities such as calligraphy, dumpling making and Tai Chi to interactive peer-to-peer Mandarin language lessons with Chinese children and exhilarating excursions to famous cities like Shanghai and Beijing.

Location Our destination is Hangzhou, the largest city and capital of the Zhejing province in Eastern China. Well known for its scenic beauty and situated at the head of Hangzhou Bay, it is approximately 2 hours south of Shanghai.

What to expect?

In order to become accustomed to the climate, language and culture, we introduce greetings, simple words and phrases as well as familiarising ourselves with traditional customs and manners, this can then be put into practice when out on excursions or visiting a local Chinese family.

During the camp, experience two full days in Shanghai, one of the largest cities in the world by population, on a fully guided tour. No trip to China would be complete without visiting Beijing, for two nights we take in spectacular historic landmarks such as The Great Wall, Tiananmen Square, The Forbidden City and the Temple of Heaven.

For 2017 Dates and Prices: xplorelanguage.com/china

Highlights Experience real China See the sights of famous landmarks such as Great Wall, Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City Traditional Chinese activities within camp environment Learn basic Mandarin greetings and phrases

China

Beijing

Hangzhou

Shanghai

y m E e ad C c A N Rugby A FRld Class r Wo

Our French camp, in partnership with sister organisation PSA Academies is a high performance rugby-training academy, where the language experience is taken out of the classroom and onto the pitch.

Joint founded with former French national team coach Philippe Saint-Andre, this rugby-focussed programme is the foremost residential rugby camp experience available in Europe for promising young players aged 10 to 18.

Delivered both on the pitch and during active sessions, players are immersed within a mix of nationalities with English and French speaking staff and with a high percentage of native French speaking players also on campus, there will be many opportunities to practice and communicate.

Location

The camp is run at the Alpine resort of Tignes, 2100m above sea level in the same world-class sports facilities that GB Olympic, RC Toulon and French national teams have trained in recent years.

What to expect?

The week long programme provides coaching of the highest level, meeting the needs of both age and ability, covering the building blocks of a great rugby game, including core ball skills, positional play and game appreciation.

To relax off the pitch and add to that international camp feel, we include an exciting range of team building activity sessions to have a go at with new friends, from canoeing on the river to archery in the mountains, this is an opportunity not to be missed.

For 2017 Dates and Prices: xplorelanguage.com/france

Highlights First-class training at altitude High performance sports facilities Experienced and professional coaching team Varied activity programme in a fantastic Alpine location International mix of players

Paris

Tignes France

CONTACT

Phone, email or submit an enquiry through the website, a member of our Sales team will take your details and requirements advising which country or camp will be the best.

xplorelanguage.com info@xplorelanguage.com England, Ireland, France & China +44 (0) 1449 742700

Germany

High School Placements Ever thought of studying abroad before university?

We offer fully immersive academic year placements that allow students to study in school and experience authentic integration to make a positive, long-lasting difference to your education.

• For students aged 14 to 18 • Broad choice of schools located in England, Ireland, Germany and USA • Boarding and homestay accommodation available • Rewarding study abroad experience.

For more information, please visit xploremychoice.com

+49 (0) 40 429 336 00

USA +1 (816) 589 6462

Dedicated Booking Contact Once your booking has been confirmed, we will assign someone to be your personal contact. They will be your point of contact handling all aspects of your trip, working with you to answer any questions you may have before your arrival.

youtube.com/TheXTWChannel facebook.com/XploreLanguageActivity @Xplore_TheWorld

We’ve got 30 years of experience; so there is a supportive, friendly team with a wealth of advice in place to ensure that from enquiry, through to booking and travelling with Xplore, your experience is problem-free.