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General Information

Philosophy

Our summer camps are offered to boys and girls ages 6 through 17. VSF welcomes children and teens from every race, creed and culture, from around the world. All of these youngsters come together at camp to enrich one another’s lives… At camp with VSF young people can see the world in its proper perspective by sharing and living with their French contemporaries.

This is an Immersion Program, 80% of the campers are French natives and all activities are in French; two years of French studies are required to attend this program.

Staff

The real charm of our camps is the closeness between campers and staff. The bonds created by positive, well-trained counselors will make the most of your child’s summer camp experience. Our primary goal is to see that each child feels at home within the community.

The low camper-to-counselor ratio (6/1) ensures attention to children’s individual needs, their physical health and hygiene, their social growth and development. Specific program activities and teaching strategies are used to maximize camper’s communication and group participation skills. Counselors are responsible for the supervision, safety, leadership, and planning regarding the daily activities. All staff members are experienced and possess a government licensed school diploma (The BAFA Certificates of Professional Aptitude, Educational Counselor).

There is at least one English-speaking counselor in each camp.

Activities

Each day, during the diverse activities and field trips organized by the camp staff, campers have the opportunity to practice their French with their French peers.

Also, as they visit the beautiful regions of France they are constantly exposed to the cultural and historical significance of the country.

Each day also includes some quiet time for relaxing and socializing and after dinner, each group joins for the traditional “veillée”: stargazing, songs, skits, story telling, drama and comedy, theme dances, games, perhaps a talent show. Time with friends that makes the evening magic !

Food

It’s French cuisine of course! The food is delicious and plentiful. The menus are selected for both nutrition and appeal, and prepared each day by the camp’s professional Chef (except if following an outdoor camping itinerary where campers and counselors prepare the meals together).

Health & Safety

Our camps are all regulated and accredited by the French government and have an excellent safety record. The primary concern of each staff member is the health and safety of each camper. In addition, every camp has its own doctor on call to provide consultation and medical services to campers if necessary, and hospitals are nearby.

VSF provides every camper with full medical insurance coverage.

Clothing & Equipment

A detailed list of clothing and supplies is sent to parents along with a full information package well in advance of departure. Laundry service is provided at camp except when following an outdoor camping itinerary.