St. George's International School Summer Camp Handbook 2024

SUMMER CAMP HANDBOOK 2024

A VERY WARM WELCOME

Dear parents,

It brings me immense joy to extend a warm welcome to you for our upcoming camp nestled in the picturesque setting of Montreux, Switzerland. In my role as camp director, I am deeply enthusiastic about the chance to offer your children an enriching and truly unforgettable adventure.

Our dedicated team has poured endless effort into crafting a program that not only meets but surpasses your expectations. We are fully committed to fostering a secure and nurturing environment where your child can thrive, develop, and forge enduring bonds with peers from diverse backgrounds across the globe.

As you gear up for your journey to Montreux, I urge you to peruse the details outlined in this comprehensive parent handbook attentively. It contains vital information regarding our program, policies, and procedures, ensuring that your child embarks on a journey that is both fruitful and delightful.

We are eagerly anticipating the arrival of you and your child in Montreux, eagerly awaiting the opportunity to share our culture, language, and customs with you. Should you have any inquiries or apprehensions, please feel free to reach out to us. Rest assured, we are here to offer unwavering support to you and your child every step of the way.

Sincerely,

Thibaut Descoeudres Director, St. George's Summer Camp

Thibaut Descoeudres

MEET THE TEAM

NAME: Abdi Ahmed

Origin: Switzerland

Country of residence: Switzerland

Role: Administrator Summer Camp

Languages: English & French

NAME: Alexia Athanasiadou

Origin: Greece

Country of residence: Greece

Role: Assistant Director

Languages: Greek, English, German, Italian and French

NAME: Maxim Bertucci / Joanne Heaton

Origin: Italy / Ireland

Country of residence: Italy / Spain

Role: Head Of Boarding

Languages: English, Italian / English, Spanish

NAME: Houdate Ben Fredj

Origin: France

Country of residence: Switzerland

Role: School Nurse & Therapist

Languages: French, English & Arabic

Excited to lead as Head of Girls' House this summer. Based in Tarragona, Spain, with over 12 years in education Outside work, I enjoy escooting, painting, writing, and all things waterrelated Can't wait for an amazing summer ahead! Joanne

I have been working for more than 10 years at different summer camps in France, Italy and Switzerland. It will be my second year at SGIS. I love working in the international community, and I'm particularly looking forward to the excitement, fun, and fellowship that our summer camp will bring! Maxim

ARRIVAL TO SCHOOL BOARDING

CAMPERS

30/06/2024

07/07/2024

21/07/2024

Please go to reception to check-in and you will be escorted to the right place. During checking-in we will record and confirm some details: leaving times, passports, insurance, pocket money etc.

Best times to come on arrival day:

• 09:00 – 12:30

• 13:30 – 17:00

• 11.30 – 14.00 Buffet for parents and students

• 18:30 – 19:00 Dinner (for boarders only)

If you are planning to come in the evening, please inform us what time you are expecting to arrive

DAY CAMPERS

Day campers should arrive with their parents on the first Monday of their camp between 08:30 – 09:00:

01/07/2024

08/07/2024

22/07/2024

Day campers can arrive by themselves between 8.30 and 9.00 during the week.

DEPARTURES

Departures for boarding students will take place on Friday evening or Saturday morning:

06/07/2024

20/07/2024

10/08/2024

St. George's International School

Chem de Saint-Georges 19, 1815 Montreux

Reception: +41 21 964 34 11 - 9am - 4.30pm

Boarding Phone: +41 21 989 21 83 - 4.30pm - 9am

Email: Direction: summerdirector@stgeorges.ch

Administration: summeraccount@stgeorges ch

CONTACT DETAILS AIRPORT TRANSFERS

If you would like a transfer to or from the airport, please contact us and we will organise transport for you Please note there is a charge of CHF100 each way on arrival day and CHF 300 on other days.

UNACCOMPANIED MINORS

Your child will be met at the airport by a member of staff who will escort your child to the campus. Flight companies have different regulations and fares. When asked to provide with a reference name, please provide them with the contact details above:

If you require the name of the escort, please contact us two weeks before your child’s arrival

ARRIVAL DAY

Registration

On arrival you will be met by the Leadership Team. Important details and information will be checked and you will be shown to the Boarding House by one of the Boarding Team You will be given a tour so you can find your way around the school, and a Camp goodie bag. Meet and greet

The day you arrive, you’ll take part in a host of fun induction games and activities run by the residential team and designed to help you get to know your fellow campmates and familiarise yourself with the campus.

Making yourself at home

Once you have been shown your room, you can start to unpack and settle into your own space. If you are sharing a room, you may like to spend some time getting to know your roommate[s] All roommates will be international so you can learn and share each other’s culture while practising your English

Settling in to residential

Once everyone has arrived and started to get to know one another, we will hold our first Camp meeting This is where you will be introduced to the whole team, and meet any late arrivals to camp We will go through camp rules and share the excitement of the first few days of camp and what to expect. Then we will sit down to our first camp meal and get prepared for the following day.

A Typical Day

Soon you will be packing your bags and getting ready to leave home and join us for a fun filled experience at St. George's, Montreux. Let us start with a look at how your day will run.

A TYPICAL DAY

08:00 Breakfast

08:45 Day Campers Arrive

09:00 Language lessons

S.T.E.A.M. or Computing

10:30 Break

11:00 Lessons

12:15 Lunch Juniors

12:30 Lunch Seniors

13.30 Afternoon activities

17h00 - Day Campers Depart

17h15 - Private Lessons Or Free time

18h30 - Dinner

19h30 - Evening activities

22h00 - Bedtime Juniors

22h30 - Bedtime Seniors

During the week

Above is the typical day schedule during the week.

Wednesdays are the excursion days and we have an interesting program of excursions going to different parts of Switzerland to explore and experience Swiss culture

Weekends we offer adventures to nearby areas so campers can experience Swiss outdoor life while having fun with friends.

There will also be some time where campers can choose optional activities which are paid for separately with pocket money. These options can be chosen in the parents area.

WEDNESDAY EXCURSIONS

Weekly excursions on Wednesday give campers an opportunity to immerse themselves in Swiss culture. We offer a range of museum visits and activities in the most beautiful towns in our region.

*Please note excursions are subject to change depending on weather.

WEEKEND ADVENTURES

Residential campers will be participate in weekend adventures to experience the adventurous side of Switzerland. From rafting down rapids to staying in mountain huts and eating fondue. The weekend adventures give great opportunities for campers to bond and share memorable experiences together.

Juniors

excursion

Session 2

Seniors excursion

Session 2

Juniors excursion

Session 3

Seniors excursion

Session 3

*Please note excursions are subject to change depending on weather.

Le Moléson Lac Tannay

Salanfe

Les Diablerets

SCHEDULES AND PROGRAMS

A Sample program for Junior Lake And Mountain program. Each Camper will have an individual timetable given to them on arrival

SCHEDULES AND PROGRAMS

SCHEDULES AND PROGRAMS

Session 2 Week 2

EXAMPLE OF EVENING MENUS

Here is an example menu. Each meal there is a choice between Meat, Fish or Vegetarian dishes. As well as a healthy and tasty salad bowl there is a choice between Meat, Fish or Vegetarian dishes As well as a healthy and tasty salad bowls

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRiDAY

ENTREE Buffetdesaladedesaison Buffetdesaladede saison Buffetdesaladedesaison Buffetdesaladedesaison Buffetdesaladedesaison

PLATPRINCIPAL Escalopededindeàla milanese

Couscousboulettesde bœuf

Poulet(CH)aucurryetlait decoco

Falafeldepatatesdouce, saucetadzikietbaba ganoush Dosdecabillaudàla bordelaise

POISSON Filetdesaumonfrais Dosdecabillaud Crevettesaulaitdecoco Fishandchips ///

GARNITURE PenneBIOcomplètes SauceNapolitaineEpinards SemouledebléLégumes cousous RizJasminWokde légumes

PilaffdeorgeperléAubergine, onions ettomategrillées

Pommegrenaillesaufour, courgettes etpoivrons

VEGETARIEN Escalopevégétarienne Couscousdelégumes Tofuaucurry VGDay Manchourians

DESSERT Yaourtsetfruitsdesaison Yaourts CubedeMangue Fromageblanc Saladedefruitsdesaison

MAINCOURSE Turkeycutletmilanese

Beefmeatballs couscous

Chicken(CH)withcurry andcoconutmilk

Sweetpotatofalafelwith tadzikisauceandbaba ganoush Backofcodwith bordelaisesauce

FISH FreshSalmonfilet Codfillet Shrimpincoconutmilk Fishandchips ///

ACCOMPANIEMENT Organicwholemealpenne withtomatosauceSpinach CouscousVegetables tagine JasminriceWokof vegetables BarleypilaffGrilledonions, Eggplant,andtomato Bakedpotatoes, courgettesandpeppers

VEGETARIEN Vegetariancutlet Vegetablecoucous Currytofu VGDay Manchourians

DESSERT Yogurtsandseasonal fruits Yogurts Mango Fromageblanc Seasonalfruitsalad

Breakfast for residential campers. Each morning a buffet style breakfast is given consisting of cereals, fruits, eggs and yoghurts, juices. And each morning a different hot option will be available eggs, bacon, pancakes, waffles or sausages.

For residential campers we have weekly animations by the cuisine team. For example Kebab parties, BBQ's or Mexican night. The team are prepared to make meal times a tasty, healthy and enjoyable experience for all.

WHAT TO BRING

Being at camp is a brilliant opportunity for your child to gain extra independence.

They’ll need to take responsibility for preparing themselves for each day / daily activity, and while this may be exciting for some, it can be a little daunting for others, so we hope the following few pages will help with planning your child’s stay with us.

CLOTHING & KIT*

LANGUAGE CLASSES RECOMMENDED FOR RESIDENTIAL CAMPER

Pens

Pencils

Exercise books

Small padlock for locker (optional)

RECOMMENDED

1-2 long trousers

3-4 shorts

4-5 T-shirts

2 hoodies

Swimwear

Swimming goggles

Beach towel

Cap / hat

Sunscreen

Flip Flops

Trainers / hiking shoes

Small backpack

Water bottle

Water-proof jacket

Adequate supply of underwear, including socks

Presentable casual clothing and shoes for the duration of camp

Toilet bag and contents

Pyjamas / nightdresses

Dressing gown (optional)

OTHER OPTIONAL ITEMS

Laptop computer

Reading material

Hairdryer

Camera

Sunglasses

Face masks

Bedding and towels are supplied and washed by Camp staff.

*Please make sure that all your clothes are labelled with your child’s full name.

TENNIS

(For those on the tennis program)

Tennis racket - optional

Tennis shoes

WATER SPORTS

Swimwear

Flip flops

Cap

FOOTBALL - if you want to take part in the staff vs students

Multi stud boots

Shin pads

Favourite football kit

LAUNDRY SERVICE

There is a weekly laundry service within the Camp, provided at the end of the first week

Please ensure all clothes are clearly marked with your child's name so we can return all clothing cleaned and ironed.

Bring Your Countries Flag (optional)

You will be able to hang your flag on the side of St. George's during your time at camp This is a tradition to show the many nationalities we host and as a sign of respect and diversity

St. George's School in Montreux is a modern and well-equipped educational institution that provides a wide range of facilities to support students' learning and development.

St. George's School has state-of-the-art science laboratories, equipped with the latest equipment and technologies to support scientific inquiry and experimentation. Our labs provide students with hands-on experience in chemistry, physics, and biology.

CAMP FACILITY HIGHLIGHTS

A large, multi-purpose sports’ hall

High quality boarding facilities

An all-weather sports pitch.

BOARDING HOUSE SCHOOL FACILITIES

All our campers will stay at St. George's School campus, Montreux. All bedrooms are ensuite, and each one comes with a range of contemporary features including individually Wi-Fi, fitted wardrobes, desks, and chests of drawers Most bedrooms will be shared with one other camper, who we will try and pair with the same age and language

Views from the bedrooms are impressive, with either with a lake view or a view of our green campus

Parents area

We use the registration platform parents area to add photos so you can see how your child is enjoying their experience and so you know they are safe and well.

This will be used for:

• A window into the camp daily life, with regular photos and updates on what campers have been getting up to.

• Important contact numbers.

• Permission forms

• Example timetables Log in using the qr code below...

Calling home

It is likely that during the first few days of camp, your child may feel homesick, so rest assured that we’ll encourage them to call you and that we’ll take care to ensure they are integrating well We have a buddy system for those who are struggling to settle

When contacting your child, we recommend that you don’t dwell on home problems, favourite pets, or how much everybody misses them. Try to be cheerful and upbeat. Junior campers are allowed to make or receive phone calls at designated time slots 17h - 18 30 as phones are not to be carried during activities or lessons To check on your child’s progress, feel free to email summerdirector@stgeorges.ch

COMING TO SCHOOL

If you are bringing your child to Camp, we recommend that you use the north entrance as there is a car park available to all parents.

The amount of pocket money given to a camper is at your discretion. All costs for meals and excursions are included, but please remember your child may like to bring money for snacks and refreshments, and for presents or souvenirs (we recommend 50CHF/week).

You will be asked to leave your child’s pocket money with a Camp Leader upon arrival, along with any travel documents and mobile phones

MOBILE PHONES

Campers may bring a mobile phone with them, but they will only have their phones from 17h00 until 21h30

Failure to adhere to this rule will result in confiscation of the phone

MISSING

HOME POCKET MONEY

Staying away from home can be an exciting adventure for many people, but for others the idea of being away from home for any period of time can cause homesickness. Homesickness is something we all experience at some point, and we understand that emotions to being away from home may need support and guidance. We therefore aim to make the transition of nervous individuals to independent campers who are able to cope with change. We will encourage campers to communicate with us if and when they feel a bit low and if necessary we will enable a call home

MAKING FRIENDS BEFORE YOU GO

If you would like the opportunity to meet a fellow camper before coming to Camp we can facilitate setting up a Teams Meeting so you can socialise and chat. This is a lovely way to start Camp and ensure you see at least one familiar face on the first day

CAMPERS’ CODE OF CONDUCT

To ensure safety and enjoyment for all - CAMPERS MUST

RESPECT - I will be respectful to all involved at Summer Camp This includes behaviour towards other campers and camp staff and appreciation of belongings either personal, borrowed or on loan from camp.

TIME MANAGEMENT - I will respect the timings of the Summer Camp and arrive on time and prepared for the next activity

CARE - I will respect the school property and take care to keep it clean and tidy. This includes all areas of the school grounds including the boarding houses and personal space.

SAFETY - I understand that I must take responsibility for my own safety and be mindful of the safety of others by ensuring that I follow the rules in the Code of Conduct. I will sign in and out when arriving / departing campus in lessons and activities.

PERSONAL BELONGINGS - I understand that any items brought to camp are my own responsibility Electronic devices - such as mobile phones, hand-held devices, i-pads and consoles - may be brought to camp but must be handed to a member of camp staff on arrival so that it can be documented and retained safely. Mobile phones are not allowed during lesson or activity time and all electronic devices will be put 'on-charge' in a central area over night Students may have their devices in free time between the hours of 5 30 and 9pm They may also have them on excursion days. The Summer Camp cannot be held liable for any loss or damage to personal items brought to camp.

PRIVACY - I understand that everyone needs their own space and will respect the privacy of others. I will not go into another person ' s room unless invited in and I will not help myself to their personal items without asking permission first. I will not go into another person ' s room after 'lights-out' unless in the case of an emergency.

MEAL TIMES - I understand that it is compulsory for me to attend all meal times

ILLEGAL SUBSTANCES - There is no drinking alcohol, no smoking or vaping, or use of any kind of drugs; onsite or outside of campus.

AGREEMENT

The Code of Conduct keeps everyone at camp safe and well. I understand that if I do not follow this Code of Conduct, the following steps will be taken:

Step 1: Loss of Team/House points

Step 2: Asked to carry out a suitable consequence decided by the staff which may include loss of privileges

Step 3: Meeting with the Camp Director - Warning Sent home

Step 4: Dismissal From Camp - We do not tolerate poor behavior

MEDICATIONS/ HEALTH CARE

We need to know your child’s medical information before they arrive, so if your child has any specific medical needs, please make us aware of it in the medical section of the application form If you forget, please get in touch so we can send you an alternative medical form to complete before arrival

If your child needs regular medication while at Camp, please give our nurse the relevant medicines in their original prescription container, along with the pharmacy instructions.

Place the prescription containers in a clean Ziplock bag labelled with your child’s name and date of birth. Please do not pack your child’s medication in with their luggage

SECURITY

The school is a secure area with supervised access, 24 hours a day. Campers can move freely and safely inside the campus.

INSURANCE

Please make sure your child has adequate travel insurance cover for Switzerland

IMPORTANT CONTACT DETAILS

St George's International School Chem de Saint-Georges 19, 1815 Montreux

Reception: +41 21 964 34 11 - 9am - 4.30pm

Boarding Phone: +41 21 989 21 83 - 4.30pm - 9am

Email: Direction: summerdirector@stgeorges.ch

Administration: summeraccount@stgeorges.ch