English + Computer Coding for Teenagers

Overview

This comprehensive English and Computer coding syllabus is combined with an activity programme containing classic activities which have now become traditional favourites. 

Students are always busy and more importantly always having fun because of the packed programme. We think that this is an outstandingly good English summer camp and an experience not to be missed.

Course content

The syllabus incorporates computer coding, language study, language for life, project sessions, excursion link lessons and academic skills sessions.

The language study lessons focus on the communicative style of language learning and provide grammar and vocabulary tailored to a student’s ability. Whereas language for life lessons integrate a wider range of topics including learner training, literacy, culture and life skills.

Key Course Aims

1. Learn and develop computer coding skills
2. Develop English language confidence gradually through our multi-level syllabus.
3. Help students achieve their individual goals in language learning.
4. Gain a better understanding of English books, films, songs, the internet and other media.

Computer Coding Classes 

Coding classes provide students of all language abilities with the opportunity to combine English language tuition with learning the fundamental elements of software design.

This is a unique opportunity for students to bring together two key languages for the future: English and Computer programming. The course runs as part of the larger Summer programme, with the addition of 7.5 hours of coding classes in a modern computer laboratory in place of English lessons.

As an introduction to computer programming, the course uses the innovative Raspberry Pi as a learning tool. The Raspberry Pi is miniaturised computer that allows anyone to explore the essentials of computing.

At the end of the course, all students are given their own Raspberry Pi to take home in order to continue their learning. Students will also have an understanding of the software and hardware components that form the structure of computer systems, and how they communicate with one another as well as other systems. This will help students identify and comprehend the function of the main internal parts of basic computing structures.

 

 

Excursion Link Lessons

Excursion link lessons bridge the gap between the academic and activity programme. Students learn about popular tourist attractions and destinations through the medium of English.

Lessons are chosen and adapted by the centre’s Director of Studies to complement the excursions on the programme that week.

Covering a range of destinations including London, Cambridge, Oxford and Brighton, the lessons provide students with vocabulary and language functions necessary to make excursions at Bucksmore that much more memorable.

Assessment

Assessment was initially introduced in 2016 after thorough research and analysis of student English language performance.

Uniquely developed by the Academic team to evaluate all abilities in English. It assesses a learner’s skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening and provides a well-rounded assessment of a student’s English ability.

The Assessment provides more relevant and appropriate language so learners are motivated to perform better than other, more adult-focused, exams.

Taken at the end of the course, the Assessment is designed to complement the CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference) and to provide learners with a realistic determination of their English ability.

It can be applied against other international English exams such as Cambridge ESOL & IELTS. Students will leave the course with a certificate of recommended English level measured against the CEFR scale.

All students receive a personalised Education report card and certificate during the graduation ceremony at the end of their stay

Course highlights

• 15 hours of English tuition each week
• 7.5 hours of computer coding classes each week
• 2 full day excursions and 1 half day trip per week
• Full afternoon and evening activity programme including sporting, cultural and fun activities
• End-of-course Assessment
• Maximum class size of 11 students

Activities

Excursions are often the highlight of the week for many students and the school works really hard to make sure students have a great time as well as being fully informed about what they are going to see.

All students will have two full day excursions per week and 1 or 2 half day trips, depending on the chosen course. They allow students to explore some of the most famous places in the UK, including Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton, Stratford, Warwick Castle, Bath, the English seaside and of course, London. 

Please note that no student aged under 12 will be allowed free time on excursions. These students will remain with a Counsellor at all times and a school staff member will accompany them while shopping.

 

 

Excursions

Most weeks will include one London visit because there is so much to see. London excursions will cover a famous landmark in the morning before giving the students a choice between an exciting attraction or simply a bit of free time to explore and maybe visit Oxford Street for some relaxing shopping!

Half day trips will involve visits to closer locations and will often involve activities such as swimming, bowling or ice skating. These vary according to the location and what each Activity Manager thinks the students as a group will most enjoy.