International Summer Sessions in Biarritz
Who says summer vacation can’t be fun AND educational? This program brings the best of both worlds together in an unforgettable experience. The itinerary involves a productive, yet moderate schedule of 16 french lessons per week followed by lots of fun activities, including surfing. Class sizes are small (around 15 students per class) and the schools are well-equipped to foster a positive learning experience.Biarritz, a seaside resort on the Atlantic coast, is situated just 12 km from Spain. Internationally known for its sandy beaches spanning over 3 km, Biarritz is a surfer’s paradise. It is the capital of "Basque Country", an authentic region proud of its rich history, influenced by both Anglo-Saxon and Spanish cultures. Young people are attracted to this city thanks to its pedestrian shopping streets, surf shops, terraced cafés, and lively cosmopolitan atmosphere. It is also an athletic city: in addition to surfing, visitors also enjoy body-boarding, horse-riding, rafting, ice-skating, golf, tennis, rugby and "Basque ball".
The School
Our partner school is situated in the middle of town, right next to the beach. It is modern, well-equipped and offers all facilities that students may require. We offer two programs: French and Activities or French and Surfing as described below.Courses
The course program consists of 16 lessons of 45 minutes per week.Accommodation
Participants board with carefully-selected host families, who often have children of their own. With their host families, students have the opportunity to practice their French skills in a real environment. Weekends are spent with the host families, which often proves to be a culturally enriching experience. Students share a room with another student of a different nationality and are given full-board (3 meals a day).French and Activities Program
Activities in Biarritz include:- One full-day excursion to the old town of Saint Jean de Luz with its shopping centers and beach, to San Sebastian in Spain, or an excursion to discover “Basque Country”
- One afternoon of supervised sports activities, such as beach volleyball, football, golf, rugby or "Basque Ball".
- One afternoon of surf (located 2 hours away from the school)
- One afternoon activity in Biarritz, such as a guided city tour, a visit to the Chocolate Museum, a visit to the Ocean Museum or to the cinema.
The groups are small with 8 to 12 students per class. This course is available for students of all levels, from complete beginner to advanced speaker.
French and Surf Program
In addition to our standard courseload, participants in Biarritz may also opt to take advantage of the region’s magnificent beaches and waves thanks to our surf program. The program is designed for students of all levels, even those who have never surfed before. Upon completion, students receive a certificate of completion from the French Surfer Federation. Our qualified coaching staff provides instruction and guidance. Equipment is available at no extra cost.Each week includes 16 French lessons, one full-day excursion and 3 afternoons of surfing.
Prices
Prices include:
- The chosen course program (with 16 lessons per week)
- Activities and excursions
- Accommodation in host family
- Full-board (3 meals a day), including lunch at the school
- Supervision and assistance 24 hours a day
- Academic materials
- Certificate of participation at the end of the program
- Transportation from the Biarritz train station or airport to the host family
- Transportation to Biarritz
Dates 2010
Courses in Biarritz are available from June 20th to August 28th 2010. The stays are from Sundays to Saturdays.Starting dates for beginners are: 04/07, 11/07 18/07, 25/07, 01/08, 08/08.