What are the best summer camps abroad?

Good weather is here, there are only 1,5 months left from the school year and summer break is getting closer day by day. Schoolkids can’t wait for school to be over; however, for parents planning their kids’ summer programme is often a headache. There are thousands of summer camps they can send their children to, yet, it is hard to make a decision and one can easily get lost in the array of options. In our article, we try to help parents with summarizing what summer camps are available abroad. 

When it comes to summer programmes outside of Hungary, the first thing we need to decide is the destination. This can be determined either by the foreign language one wants to improve – English, German, Italian, Spanish or French, or the type of activity a person would like to spend his time with. There are several language camps available in the UK, but also in Spain, Malta, and Cyprus. For those willing to work on their German, Italian or French language skills, schools offer summer options in Germany, Austria, Italy and France. There are also many opportunities for students who wish to travel overseas for the summer holiday: camps in the US or in Canada. Different countries offer different experiences. For example, those who prefer seaside destinations with swimming, sailing and surfing as activity programs should choose Malta, Cyprus or the French or American coast. Students who love spending time outdoors would find amazing opportunities in the Austrian Alps. No matter what one prefers, there is a camp for everyone. 

It is also important to note that there are several different kinds of summer camps. The most general one is the „language + fun” type of camp, where children have their language classes in the morning – in groups according to age and language level, and activity programmes in the afternoons and in the evenings (sports, creative and performing arts, city visits, hiking etc.). This type of programme is suitable for anyone who would like to improve their language skills, travel, have fun and make friends from all over the world. Those who already have a good command of English and have a specific interest, can also find something for themselves. There are summer courses with special topics like Sustainable Futures, Mini-MBA programmes, Fashion Design, Architecture, Business, Digitalisation and so on. These are perfect for those who would like to get immersed in a certain topic, or who would like to continue their studies at the university in a similar field. During these courses, participants improve their 21st century skills – collaboration, critical thinking, communication and creativity. For families who are thinking of sending their child to an international school program, there are Academic and IB camps available. Student can try what it feels like to be in an international school environment for a few weeks, before starting their studies abroad. 16-17 year-old teenagers who are planning to study abroad at university, Cambridge and IELTS language exam preparation courses are a great opportunity. Language courses for adults are also available at all levels, and in many languages. 

No matter the age group, the language, the level and the acitivites, everyone can find a great summer programme to spend the summer in a useful, yet fun way. If anyone has trouble finding the right courses, Baltic Council for International Education is ready to help with any kind of summer school or camp application abroad (BALTIC COUNCIL – Külföldi oktatás).