spring & summer centres for young learners 2016

Spring & Summer Centres

for Young Learners 2016

Safe and secure city and country locations

Excellent sports facilities and cultural excursions

Tailor-made language and activities programmes

Oxford Spring & Summer CentreEllesmere Summer Centre

We are looking forward to another great year on The International House London Young Learners programme.

Our Oxford courses are based at one of the country’s most prestigious boarding schools in the ancient university city, while our Ellesmere centre is situated in a typical English village surrounded by beautiful countryside.

Both spring and summer programmes at these centres offer students the chance to improve their English language skills and meet people from all over the world in a fun and safe environment. We have also made course dates at both Oxford and Ellesmere more flexible for 2016, offering greater choice than ever before.

As always learning English is at the heart of everything we do, inside the classroom and out. We offer students the opportunity to experience the UK – the people and places – and to express themselves through a variety of well planned, relevant activities, giving them lots of opportunities to practise their English, all in a safe and caring environment

We look forward to meeting the class of 2016 soon!

Emma Jennings Young Learners Centre Manager

Welcome!

1% 2% 2% 3% 3%4%4% 5%10%11%12%17%17%

PolishBrazilian

UkrainianSwiss

ChineseChilean

SpanishFrench

JapaneseGerman

Other

ItalianRussian

Our nationality mix last year

Other (1% and under): Azeri, Belgian, Danish, Dutch, Estonian, Georgian, Greek, Hungarian, Iraqi, Kazakh, Malay, Mexican, Moldovan, Moroccan, Portuguese, Romanian, Saudi Arabian, Slovenian, Swedish, Taiwanese, Turkish

We welcomed students from 33 different countries in 2015. We’ve created a mini world!”Emma Jennings, Young Learners Centre Manager 04

Why International House ?

08IH Oxford: city life

14IH Ellesmere: country life

18Programme overview

20English Active

24English Plus

26Discover English

28Future Leaders

30Make yourself at home

31Excursions

36A day in the life of a student

38Your questions

Contents

3

Why International House London Young Learners?

We run spring and summer courses for 12–17-year-olds at Oxford and summer programmes for 8–17-year-olds and 12–17-year-olds at Ellesmere.

Courses last from 1–5 weeks, depending on the time of year. All courses are accredited by Accreditation UK (the British Council) and EAQUALS (Excellence In Language Education), guaranteeing high levels of teaching and care for our students.

We put great emphasis on physical activity, with a full programme of sports taught by professional coaches, including tennis, football and golf.

We arrange supervised tours outside the centres, exploring some of the UK’s best visitor attractions for young people.

What’s included?> All tuition and accommodation fees

> All excursions and entrance fees

> Three full meals a day plus snacks and drinks

> Full afternoon and evening activity programme when not in lessons

> Daily internet access and use of computers

> Staff on hand day and night to deal with their every need

> Bed linen and laundry facilities provided

> Insurance

IH Oxford and IH Ellesmere

IH Ellesmere for 8–17 year olds1:15

maximum teaching ratio

IH Oxford for 12–17 year olds

My experience was positive and active.”Alona, Italy (Ellesmere)

Here at International House London, we provide a safe, nurturing environment where students can relax and feel at home during their stay.

Our Oxford and Ellesmere centres offer something for everyone, whether students prefer a city or countryside location. Both are convenient for international travel, being within easy reach of airports in London, Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool.

Every student has their existing language skills assessed by our qualified and committed staff so they study with others at a similar age and level. This makes learning easier and helps boost students’ confidence.

We offer students the opportunity to experience the UK, its people and places and to express themselves through a variety of well-planned, relevant activities, giving them lots of opportunities to practise their English language skills.

We believe in treating young people as individuals, offering a personal approach and emotional as well as academic support.

4 visit ihlondon.com | call +44 (0)20 7611 2400 | tweet @ihlondon 5

IH Oxford

I had a really good time. All excursions were interesting and amazing.”Victoria, Brazil

Edinburgh

Manchester

Liverpool

Birmingham

Cambridge

OxfordLondon

Bath

Brighton

Cardiff

For 12–17 year olds


Situated in the heart of England, Oxford is a small, safe and beautiful city, full of culture and history.

Oxford, known as the City Of Dreaming Spires, is bursting with amazing buildings, museums, art galleries, cafés and shops. It has a cosmopolitan, lively feel, as you would expect from the home of one of the world’s top universities. It’s the perfect place for young people who love the buzz of city life and want to experience different cultures.

London, Bath, Birmingham, Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick are all a short drive away.

IH Oxford courses take place at St Edward’s School, one of the UK’s most prestigious boarding schools.

It has modern teaching, sporting and accommodation facilities, and is situated in beautiful historic buildings set round a large ‘quad’ – a central grassy area similar to those found at nearby Oxford University.

Home of one of the world’s top universities

City life

IH Oxford

Cultural and historic setting

9

On-site facilities include:

Main

school joined

by tunnel w

alkway

Residence

6 Hole golf

course

12 Sports pitches

32 Tennis courts

Outdoor & indoor

swimming pools

Sports hall

Cricket pitch & playing

field


SportsGolf course, tennis courts, multi-sport playing fields, modern indoor sports hall, indoor and outdoor swimming pools.

ClassroomsModern and well-equipped with a maximum of 15 students per class.

Dining hallHot and cold meals are served from a buffet in a large hall and light snacks are available throughout the day. We are happy to cater for all dietary requirements. Even fussy eaters will find something they like!

AccommodationSeparate sleeping and bathroom facilities for boys and girls and modern, comfortable shared student lounges, with computers and televisions.

We are happy to cater for all dietary requirements. Even fussy eaters will find something they like!

IH Ellesmere

Cardiff

I really liked outdoor adventure; it was very exciting.”Luca, Italy

Edinburgh

ManchesterLiverpool

Birmingham

Cambridge

London

Bath

Brighton

Edinburgh

Manchester

Liverpool

Birmingham

Ellesmere

Cambridge

Oxford

London

Bath

Brighton

For 8–17 year olds


Ellesmere is the perfect destination for younger children and those who love the great outdoors.

Our centre is located on the border between England and Wales, in a beautiful village surrounded by English countryside, and with stunning views of the rolling Welsh hills.

Ellesmere College is one of the leading UK boarding schools, specialising in academic and sporting excellence with facilities to match.

The airports of Manchester and Liverpool are nearby, making travel from outside the UK easy.

IH Ellesmere is a home from home, where students of all ages will feel safe and secure. Learning is fun, and students are encouraged to make the most of spending time in such a magical, natural environment.

Students welcome from age 8+

IH Ellesmere

Country life

Magical, natural environment



On-site facilities include:Sports9-hole golf course, tennis courts, multi-sport playing fields, modern indoor sports hall, indoor swimming pool.

ClassroomsModern and well-equipped classrooms with a maximum of 12 per class for 8–12-year-olds, and 15 for older students. Separate teaching and housing for 8–11-year-old students.

Dining hall Hot and cold meals are served from a buffet in a large hall and light snacks are available throughout the day. We are happy to cater for all dietary requirements. Even fussy eaters will find something they like.

AccommodationSeparate sleeping and bathroom facilities for boys and girls and modern, comfortable shared student lounges, with computers and televisions.

Comfortable shared student lounges, with computers and televisions.

Residence

Main school

9 Hole golf

course

Indoor swimming

pools & sports hall

Sports pitches

6 Tennis courts

3 Hockey pitches

Playing fields

3 Cricket pitches

Our classes:

> All teachers are Trinity TESOL certified or Cambridge CELTA-qualified.

> Maximum class size for 12–17 year-olds is 15. For 8–11 year-olds it is 12.

> There is a minimum of 15 hours a week English language teaching.

> All students are tested when they arrive and are put into classes appropriate for their level.

> All our courses are accredited by the British Council and EAQUALS (Evaluation & Accreditation of Qualification Language Services)

Programmes offer:

> Full board and residential accommodation

> Feature afternoon and evening activity programmes

> Full day and half day excursions

> Includes insurance

Programme overviewWe offer four programmes to suit students’ individual needs:

English Active page 20As well as learning English, students receive professional coaching in a huge range of popular activities, including drama, art and design, football, swimming and horse riding. All coaches are professionals in their field. They aim to inspire and build confidence, no matter what the students’ level at the start of the programme.

English Plus page 24Our most academic programme, that allows students to improve English language skills but also prepare for study in an English-speaking environment. It is perfect for those wanting to maximize their time studying in the UK.

Discover English page 26Our lively and fun programme designed to improve language skills. It takes place in the summer in Ellesmere for 8–11 year-olds. Older students can attend a version of the course, specially designed for 12–17 year-olds. This takes place in spring of each year in Oxford.

NEW – Future Leaders page 28New for 2016, IH London is launching the Future Leaders programme, aimed at 14–17 year old students who are interested in exploring different career options and also take advantage of the beautiful city of Oxford.

Morethan just a language school!

You can switch between English Plus and English Active on a week-by-week basis


We are very proud of our English Active programme at IH London. This hugely popular course not only offers a high level of English language teaching but the chance for students to develop their skills in a wide range of activities, all coached by professionals in their field.

All staff and students speak in English, with students using their developing language skills to work together in teams.

Students follow a daily programme of English language lessons in the morning but still have time to join in fun activities with their new friends. There are regular full and half day excursions to explore the world outside the school (see page 31).

Afternoons are filled with the students’ chosen activities, with six hours of coaching per week.

This allows them to develop skills in an activity they are already passionate about – or gives them the chance to try something new.

Evenings are devoted to relaxing and making friends, with the whole group joining in organised activities such as karaoke, talent shows and quizzes – all in English to help practise their vocabulary, of course!

English English Active is available for 12–17-year-olds on the summer programme in Oxford and Ellesmere

Choose your activity

Active


We can choose the activities that we like.”Alexey, Russia Swimming Students will learn new skills and techniques while

focusing on safety awareness and water confidence.

Tennis Sessions are designed to improve all aspects of the student’s game, including footwork patterns and racquet technique. They will then show off what they have learned in a match at the end of each session.

Football Participants are divided into levels according to their ability and coached in technique and tactics. Each session ends with a tournament where students practise what they have learned.

Drama Students focus on a variety of skills, including body language, facial expressions and set design. They work towards a final performance that will be shown at the end of course show.

Dance After coaching in different styles (including Capoeira, Jazz, Street, Bollywood and Salsa), they will create their own dances, producing solo, partner and group work.

Photography Techniques covered include composition, lighting and indoor and outdoor photography. Students build up a portfolio of images to take home at the end of the course.

Art + Design Topics include glass painting, jewellery making, drawing, block printing, pottery painting and researching different artists and styles. Visits to local art galleries are also arranged.

Outdoor Adventure

Activities include archery, climbing and abseiling.

Basketball Students focus on techniques such as dribbling, ball handling, and different types of shooting. Students apply what they have learned to a competitive game at the end of each session.

Horse riding Includes horse trekking through spectacular scenery, a fast hack, flat work and jumping. Stable management and maintenance are also covered.

Golf Students will be coached in techniques such as golf swings, fitness and diet. Each session will end with students taking part in a round of golf on the centre’s own golf course.

English Active options:IH Oxford IH Ellesmere


It is designed to help students build their English to its best possible level and is especially good for those who want to:

Improve spoken English

Increase vocabulary

Develop exam and study skills

Prepare to study in the UK

Are planning to go to boarding school or university abroad and want experience of studying and living away from home

The course includes 21 hours of tuition per week. Unlike other IH London Young Learners programmes, there are English language lessons in the afternoon as well as the morning. They are designed to give students a chance to improve their reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.

Classes are lively, interactive and fun. Students are encouraged to speak English at all times and really benefit from using the language with others their own age in social situations.

IH London’s English Plus programme proves that it is possible to work hard and still have fun!

But it’s not all hard work – students also take part in sports and arts and crafts activities, and relax together in the evening before taking part in a full programme of organised evening events, such as quizzes, fashion shows and even an IH London Has Talent competition!

You can switch

between English Plus and English Active on a week-by-week

basis

Improve your language skills AND have fun!

English Plus This option is available for 12–17-year-olds on the summer programme in Oxford and Ellesmere

Sample timetableWEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY07:30–09:30

Breakfast09:30–10:30

Arrivals and departures day

•

Welcome activities

Full-day excursion

English Lesson10:30–10:50

Break10.50–12:20

English Lesson12:20–14:00

Lunch14:00–15:30

English plus or English Active

Half-day excursion

15:30–16:00Break

16:00–17:00Arts & crafts Ultimate frisbee Rugby Yoga17:00–18:00

Personal time/computer time18:00–19:00

Dinner19:00–19:30

Personal time/computer time19:30–22:00 Quiz night Getting to know

you Film night Karaoke Fashion show Casino night Disco22:00–22:30House meeting

22:30–23:00Personal time/lights out

The timetable is a sample only, subject to availability. Excursion dates and details may change.


It was really great! I had a lot of fun. Jim is an excellent and funny teacher!”Inna, Russia

Discover English

Sample timetable adapted to age and language level:

DAY 1 DAY 2 DAY 3 DAY 4 DAY 5 DAY 6 DAY 7

07:45–08:45 Breakfast

08:45–09:00 Meeting in the hall

09:00–10:30Arrivals

day•

Welcome to England

•Activities

Introduction•

Or full-day excursion

for continuing

students

Placement testing or lesson

General English/Excursion feedback

Full-day excursion

General English/Excursion feedback

General English/ Project work


10.30–10:50 Break Break

10:50–12:20 Tour of site or lessons


General English/Project work



12:20–13:30 Lunch Lunch

13:30–14:00

Half-day excursion

Personal time Personal time

14:00–15:30 Sports & activities

Sports& activities

Sports & activities

Sports & activities

15:30–16:00 Break Break

16:00–17:30 Arts & crafts

Arts & crafts

Arts & crafts

Arts & crafts

17:30–18:00 Personal time

18:00–19:00 Dinner

19:45–21:45 Getting to know you Human cluedo Karaoke Film night English country

fayreTournament

night Disco

22:00 House meetings

The timetable is a sample only, subject to availability. Excursion dates and details may change.

The classes were really good fun and I learned loads of new things.”Maria, Spain

This is the perfect course to help young people gain skills and confidence in speaking and writing English – and have lots of fun doing it!

Students follow a daily programme of English language lessons in the morning while afternoons are devoted to pursuing exciting activities with their new friends.

All students receive 15 hours a week of English tuition. Mornings are devoted to English study, except on excursion days when students practise their language skills outside the classroom and get to experience some of the UK’s most exciting visitor attractions in a safe and supervised environment (see pages 32–35 for details).

Afternoons are devoted to the students’ chosen sporting activities, followed by arts and crafts. In the evenings, they can relax and socialise while enjoying organised group events in English, giving them the chance to practise their improving language skills. These include discos, quizzes or recreating an English country fair.

Outside the classroom!General sports activities can include: tennis, football, rounders, ultimate Frisbee, table tennis, country walks, badminton, mini Olympics, touch rugby, cricket, indoor hockey and dodgeball.

General arts activities can include: T-shirt painting, sketching, printing, bunting making and keyring-making.

Other activities can include: drama, a cream tea, a visit to the local area.

> 8–11 year-olds at Ellesmere, Summer 2016 > 12–17 year-olds in Oxford, Spring 2016


Guest speakers and prize giving ceremony


IH London is launching the Future Leaders programme, aimed at 14–17 year old students who are interested in exploring different career and academic options and also take advantage of the beautiful city of Oxford, famed for its academic heritage. Students will stay at St Edward’s School in Oxford, alongside students from our other Young Learner programmes and therefore have an opportunity to mix with other students from all over the world.

This course is aimed for teachers and their school groups, however, in the summer we can also accept individuals on this course. Students should be at least B2 level of English. As part of the programme, students will work on a project that includes industry-related visits and exciting guest speakers, culminating in a presentation and prize giving ceremony.

It is also a good opportunity for students on the IBDP to work towards their CAS requirements.

NEW for 2016Future

LeadersTheme optionsClass groups can choose between three different themes to work on during the two-week course:

> Entrepreneurship and leadership skills (business-related)

> World Leader (environment, digital-age, poverty)

> Pre-University (a taste of studying at University level)

To find out more, please contact us at [email protected]

Sample timetable:

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY

WEEK 1

09:00–12:15Arrivals


Induction and programme

summaryTeam Working

Skills Guest Speaker Free Time Guest Speaker Full Day to London

12:20–13:30 Lunch

13:30–17:30 Arrivals and

Orientation of campus

Excursion to Oxford – Said

Business School

Workshop: Problem solving

skillsVolunteering on

local project

Sports and Activities

Leadership skills

Sports and Activities

Presentation Skills

Full Day to London

18:00–19:00 Evening Meal

19:00–19:45 Free Time

Welcome Party Film Night Casino Night Team Challenges Swimming IH Olympics Karaoke

22:00 Bedtime

WEEK 2

09:00–12:15Guest Speaker:

Topic: Negotiating

Politics


Full Day Workshop with Guest Speaker

Visit to London and Houses of

ParliamentPresentation Preparation of

final projectsPreparation of final projects

Presentation of projects

12:20–13:30 Lunch

13:30–17:30 Visit to a leading

business in Oxford

Full Day Workshop with Guest Speaker

Visit to London and Houses of

Parliament

Debating SkillsSports and Activities

Debating Competition

Free time in Oxford

Presentation of projects/Award

Ceremony (In an Oxford

University Hall)

18:00–19:00 Evening Meal

19:00–19:45 Free Time

Talent Show Film Night Casino Night Team Challenges Swimming IH Olympics Karaoke

22:00 Bedtime

*Evening activities are mixed with other students on the main English language programme.

Students participate

in the course in Oxford

Pre-Course material is sent to the groups so

they can plan their projects ahead

of time

More details on

the project are sent to the schools and students begin work on the project

(One per week for four weeks)

The teachers and students

select a theme

Teachers find out which

of their students are

interested

Suitable schools are accepted

School teachers register their

interest for the spring or summer

course

How it works:

Excursions

After an action-packed day and the excitement of making new friends, students need a place to call their own. We know from experience how important it is that they have somewhere to relax and unwind.

All accommodation at IH Oxford and IH Ellesmere is within the school grounds so everything they need is close at hand.

We offer a variety of accommodation options in spacious houses with all mod cons.

> Single, twin, triple or quadruple rooms: dormitory-style bedrooms

> Individual study desk, wardrobe and storage space

> Comfortable student lounges with TV in each house

> Free snacks and soft drinks in common areas all day, every day

> Separate accommodation and bathroom facilities for boys and girls, and for 8–11 and 12–17year-olds

> Dedicated house-parent in each house

> On-site nurse

> Adult-to-student night time ratio of 1:8 for 12–17 year-olds. For 8–11 year-olds it is 1:5

> All bed linen provided and changed weekly

> Free laundry service for machine-washable clothes

> Regular fire drills

FREE snacks, soft drinks and laundry service

Make yourself

Out and about

On an IH London Young Learners programme, English isn’t confined to the classroom. Students also get plenty of time to practise their language skills in real life situations on supervised trips outside the school. These are designed to promote the culture and history of Britain, while helping to build confidence while using English.

at home

31 30 visit ihlondon.com | call +44 (0)20 7611 2400 | tweet @ihlondon

The excursions were very good. I liked the river cruise and the science museum – also the punting.”Moritz, Germany

OxfordOxford is the perfect base to explore some of the UK’s most popular attractions. As well as organised day and half-day trips, students are able to spend time out and about in Oxford city centre. There’s so much to discover!

07:45 Breakfast

08:45 Excursion meeting in the classroom to go through trip rules and plan for the day

09:00 Coaches depart for London

10:30 Fly the London Eye for a bird’s eye view of the capital

11:30 Westminster Walking Tour. Absorb the sights and sounds of the UK, including Big Ben, 10 Downing Street, Horse Guard’s Parade, Buckingham Palace and Trafalgar Square, with a stop for a picnic lunch in St James’s Park

14:30 Discover Covent Garden in groups of three or more

16:00 Meet your teachers at the meeting point

16:15 Coaches depart for Oxford

18:00 Dinner at school

Excursions from Oxford can include: > London – take in the stunning views

from the top of the London Eye, see famous landmarks such as Big Ben and still find time to indulge in some serious shopping.

> Bath – this historic city boasts beautifully preserved original Roman baths.

> Stratford-Upon-Avon – birthplace of playwright William Shakespeare.

> Warwick Castle – explore the dungeons and learn about myths and magic at this medieval fortress.

> Birmingham – not just England’s second city, but home to Cadbury World, where students will learn about the history of the world famous chocolate brand – and get to try some too!

Sample timetableA full-day Oxford to London excursion can include:

How many excursions?Length of stay Full-day Half-day

1 week 0 2

2 weeks 2 3

3 weeks 4 4

4 weeks 6 5

5 weeks 8 6

Oxford


London

It has all been a very good experience.”Nacho, Spain

EllesmereStudents visit both England and Wales, experiencing major modern cities, as well as exploring the past with guided trips to castles and places of historical interest.

Excursions from Ellesmere can include: > Manchester – capital of Northern

England’s industrial past, it is a vibrant, multicultural city. Students can experience Old Trafford, home of Manchester United Football Club, The Lowry art gallery, the Museum Of Manchester or the National Football Museum.

> Liverpool – historic city that gave birth to ‘The Beatles’. Learn all about the Fab Four at the Beatles Story Museum, discover Liverpool’s seafaring past at the Maritime Museum or visit the popular Tate gallery.

> Stratford-upon-Avon – birthplace of playwright William Shakespeare.

07:45 Breakfast

08:45 Meeting in the classroom to go through excursion rules and plan for the day

09:00 Coaches depart for Liverpool

10:30 Arrive in Liverpool and visit the Beatles Museum

13:30 Picnic lunch by the river Mersey

14:30 Discover Liverpool in groups of three or more (8–11-year-olds accompanied at all times)

16:00 Meet your teachers at the meeting point

16:15 Coaches depart for Ellesmere College

18:00 Dinner at school

Sample timetableA full-day Ellesmere to Liverpool excursion can include:

Length of stay Full-day Half-day

1 week 0 2

2 weeks 2 3

3 weeks 4 4

4 weeks 6 5

5 weeks 8 6

6 weeks 10 7

Liverpool, Albert Dock

How many excursions?


Birthplace of William Shakespeare

Caenarfon Castle, Wales

22:00 House meetings

From breakfast to bedtimeNon-stop fun – in English!

08:45 Student meeting to discover

what today will bring 09:00 Lessons begin

12:20 Lunch. Time to catch up on all the gossip from your fellow students

14:00 English Active students are

coached in their chosen options

while Discover English students

enjoy sports and activities. English

Plus students have extra lessons

18:00 Dinner and computer time

16:00 English Active and English Plus

students take part in sports

and activities sessions while

Discover English students enjoy

arts and crafts

19:30 Evening activities – join in the fun!

07:15 Wakey-wakey! Time for another exciting day

07:45 Breakfast

23:00 Lights out – goodnight!


If I have one young child and one older one, will they ever see each other if the programmes and accommodation are different?Although accommodation and programmes are different, both are on the same site and will be sharing dining rooms so at mealtimes and during the breaks brothers and sisters can get together.

Activities and excursionsDo students have to go on the excursions?Yes! The excursion destinations are fun and educational. They also give students the opportunity to explore for themselves and soak up some real British culture. Excursion preparation takes place in class before visits, and follow-up lessons happen afterwards. Everyone completes a worksheet whilst on excursions, creating a nice souvenir of their time in England.

Are students supervised at all times while they are there?Students aged 8–11 are always supervised. There is some free time on excursions where older students are taken by IH London staff members to the meeting point and shown exactly where they need to be at what time. They are then allowed to spend time in groups of three or more to help encourage independence.

We never let the students go off alone. If a group gets lost, they can call the number on their ID cards or bracelets so our members of staff can come and help them.

Oxford students can sign out in groups of three or more for an hour a day after lunch to go to local cafés and supermarkets near the centre.

Are the activity leaders the same people as the teachers?No, our activities are run by professional coaches and there are trained activity leaders to run arts and crafts or on-site sports. All our teachers are guaranteed to hold a Trinity TESOL or CELTA qualification. House-parents are there in a mainly pastoral role to make sure your child is settling into summer school life.

How do the children travel between the school and the different excursion destinations?We work with a local coach company that knows the area well. All drivers have been given an enhanced check so we know your child is safe. Students will be accompanied by highly-trained members of IH staff on all trips.

Staying away from homeWhat do students need to bring with them?Students should bring comfortable and practical clothing, towels and sports clothes. A detailed list of what to bring is provided in the pre-course welcome pack.

What should my child NOT bring with them?Laptops or iPads/tablets – there are many computers in the school which they can use. Expensive jewellery or jewellery with sentimental value.

How much money will I need to give my child?The programme is all-inclusive, so they will only need to bring some money for souvenirs they might want to take home with them. We suggest £70 per week.

What are the bedrooms like?All our bedrooms are study bedrooms with a desk, chair, bed and wardrobe for each child.

Why do children share rooms?We want our students to speak English from breakfast until bedtime and therefore try and mix nationalities in bedrooms as well as classrooms. We believe it gives the students the opportunity to speak English with other people of their age in a more relaxed environment.

Can I book a single room for my child or ensure they are sharing with a sibling?Please state any special requests on the application form. We consider all requests and try our best to fulfil them.

Free timeHow much free time do the children have?Students have free time before and after meals to check emails, call parents, do laundry and chat to friends. Breaks are at 10:30–10:50 and again at 15:30–16:00.

Safety and securityWhat does my child do when they arrive at the airport in the UK?One of our experienced Young Learners team members will be waiting for them at the arrivals lounge at the airport.

They will be wearing bright T-shirts with IH written on them. They will recognise your child with their International House stickers and luggage labels, and will take them to the waiting area.

How safe will my child be during the activities?Very! We take ratios in activities very seriously and all our staff is highly trained. Our ratios depend on the risk assessments carried out for each activity.

Can the staff do first aid?Yes, we have first aid-trained staff at both centres.

What happens if my child has an accident?We have a school nurse who is available to see your child every day in the school. If the nurse feels it necessary, she can arrange for your child to see a doctor and in case of a real emergency, there is a hospital close by.

What does the insurance policy cover?The full insurance policy can be downloaded from our website, www.ihlondon.com/young-learners. If travelling from within the EU, it is recommended that the student applies for a EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) and brings it with them to the centre.

How can I contact my son or daughter while they are in England?There are several ways to get in touch:

> By phone: included in the pre-course welcome pack will be the emergency phone number

> By email: students can access their personal email account at various times through the day

> On Facebook: our Young Learner summer and spring page will be updated daily with photos, so you can keep an eye on what they are doing! Go to facebook.com/ihylssc.

We’re here to help

Your questions

It’s a big step for young people to take part in a residential course far from home. However exciting, it’s natural for both students and parents to worry. We’re here to answer any questions and put your mind at rest. Feel free to contact us if you have any other concerns or questions.

Telephone: +44 (0)20 7611 2400

Email: [email protected]

How can children contact parents or guardians while they’re away?There is access to computers at various times throughout the day, so students can send their parents or guardians an email.

What’s the overnight ratio of staff to students?The ratio of adults to students is between 1:6 and 1:8 for 12–17-year-olds, and 1:5 for 8-11-year-olds.

Do the leaders go home at night?Only the professional coaches leave to go home in the evenings. The rest of the staff sleeps on site.

What will lessons be like?They will be project-based,communicative and draw on experiences that students bring with them, working towards building confidence and fluency. Lessons related to excursions help students learn during their social time.

What level of English do students need?The minimum level for both junior programmes is elementary. Students will be tested and placed into class on the first day. We do not provide English language classes for complete beginners.

How long are the courses?We have a number of study durations, from one to five weeks for the summer language school, and one to three weeks for the spring holiday programme.

The other childrenWhere are the other students from?We aim for a 20% nationality cap, which means we have a fantastic mix of students (see page 02). Our children say that making friends from around the world is a big reason why they choose International House.

Brothers and sistersCan all my children attend the same place?Our courses are for 8–11 and 12–17 year-olds in Ellesmere and 12–17 year-olds in Oxford, so if your children are between those ages, then brothers and sisters can come together.

Find out more about our Spring & Summer courses atihlondon.com


IH Oxford Spring & Summer Centre St Edward’s School Oxford OX2 7NN

IH Ellesmere Summer Centre Ellesmere College Ellesmere SY12 9AB

Course information, accommodation and content is subject to alteration at short notice. In these circumstances we will attempt to provide a suitable alternative. For full terms and conditions, please go to ihlondon.com. All content © 2016 International House London.

16 Stukeley Street Covent Garden London WC2B 5LQ

Contact us:Online: ihlondon.com/contactTelephone: +44 (0)20 7611 2400Email: [email protected] out more online: ihlondon.com

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spring & summer centres for young learners 2016

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