Download Junior English & NYC Discovery Fact File

ENGLISH & MUSIC

With this option, the afternoon program is divided between a music component and activities to discover NYC. The music component takes place at the Brooklyn Music School, where students will receive instruction in a small group of max 12 students, from teaching artists in different genres (Rock, Jazz, World Music) for 7.5 hours per week (3 afternoons).

On the other 2 afternoons (Tuesdays and Thursdays), students will join the NYC Discovery program, and also take part in the full-day excursion by ferry to the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island on Saturday.

  Download Junior English & Music Fact File

ACCOMMODATION IN RESIDENCE

The residence

Our junior residence is located in the heart of Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn’s most central and vibrant neighborhood, only 5 minutes’ walk from one of the best views of the New York skyline from the Brooklyn Promenade.

On-site features include 24 hour security, key card entrance to residence and rooms, recreational lounges including a pool table and movie room, vending machines, and 24 hour access to I-pads in the lobby. Laundry facilities are also available for students’ use in the residence (about $5 for a wash and dry).

There is a BSL leader staying on-site for the duration of the program to ensure student safety.

The benefits of staying in the residence

It is the opportunity to stay in the heart of the city, with everything close by and no subway commute! Students are just 3 minutes’ walk away from the American diner/restaurant where they have breakfast and dinner everyday, and 6 minutes’ walk away from the junior meeting point where they meet their teacher and classmates every morning.

It is the perfect location for a Summer Junior English camp in New York, giving our young students easy access to all activities taking place each day, and only one subway stop from Manhattan.

How does it work day-to-day?

Students stay in twin rooms with another BSL student of the same gender but different nationality, and share an en-suite bathroom. Rooms are fully furnished with beds, desks and closets that maximize living space. There is free wi-fi, cable tv, refrigerator, and microwave in all rooms.

Bed linen is provided but students need to bring their own towels.

Breakfast and dinner are served in a restaurant just 3 minutes walk away. Lunches will be packed lunches. Students make their way together by foot to the meeting point in the morning and back after the activities.

  Download Junior Summer Residence Fact File

SAFETY & SUPERVISION

Overview

Our leaders

Activities and excursions are led by experienced activity leaders, at a ratio of 15 students per leader. They are here to make sure the students are safe at all times during outings. The activity program is compulsory and students must attend all the supervised activities organized by the school.

Health form

A health form informing us of any allergies/treatments/diets will be sent out to the parents at the time of booking and should be returned to the school completed and signed no later than 6 weeks before the start of the course.

Host Families

We visit and meet all our host families, many of whom, have worked with us for a number of years. We want to ensure that their homes are suitable to host our young students, in terms of their safety, security, accessibility and comfort. All our host families also undergo a background check to ensure their suitability to host young students.

Student Residence

For those students who are staying at our student residence, we have live-in chaperones who are on-site 24/7 to look after our students. Students also receive an ID card on arrival.

Evening Curfew

Students have to be back in their homestay every day after the activities at 6.30pm. One of the host families’ duties is to inform the program if a student is arriving late for dinner. Students are not allowed in the evening unless their host families or chaperones (in the case of the residence) take them out or if they are given written permission to do so by their parents.

Student Welfare Officer

The EO Coordinator is also the student welfare officer and is available 24/7 in case of emergencies.

FAQs

Q: Is New York safe enough for teens?
A: Despite having a population of more than 8 million people, New York City consistently ranks in the top ten safest large cities in the United States. As in any large city, travelers should be careful of pickpockets and hustlers, but our leaders are here to guide students and give them safety tips.

Q: Where will the English classes take place?
A: All junior classes will take place outside the classroom in places such Brooklyn Bridge Park, Dumbo, Essex Market or Brookfield place. So instead of being in a room with 4 walls, students will learn English in authentic locations and the city will become their classroom!

Q: Will it be comfortable for the students? Will there be restrooms?
A: Yes and yes! Locations have been carefully chosen based on comfort, space, ease of access, points of interest close by, proximity of public restrooms, etc. They take place in small classes of 8 students maximum. Students seat around a table, in semi-circular seating, or in a row.

Q: How will teachers be able to teach without a traditional classroom and a blackboard?
A: Teachers will continue to utilize the coursebook, supplementary materials, and mini-whiteboards to target key grammar and vocabulary points throughout each class. Students will also complete homework assignments regularly and be assessed on language objectives weekly just like with previous summer programs. Teachers will also have portable internet routers and use technology in the form of iPads, smartphones, language apps, and online games to keep lessons fresh and interesting to ensure young learners are continually engaged throughout each lesson.

Q: What are the benefits of an outdoor class?
A: Since classes will predominantly take place outdoors throughout the city, students will naturally be immersed in NYC life and culture. With this interactive class concept, not only will students be exploring all that NYC has to offer, but they will be able to live like a real New Yorker and experience the city first-hand!

Q: Will there be homework?
A: Yes, just like in a regular classroom setting. In addition, students will complete coursebook assignments, participate in pair work and discussion, and will get the added bonus of a hands-on approach to learning about NYC!

Q: What happens if it rains?
A: On the rare days when it rains in the morning or if it gets too hot, classes will switch to one of our carefully selected indoor venues or be taken on one of our many cultural or educational field trips located in indoor locations. New York City is full of great museums and semi-secret indoor public spaces.

Q: What about the COVID sanitary measures?
A: This is one of the advantages of being outdoors: students will make the most of the space and natural airflow rather than being inside in a crowded classroom and using Air Conditioning. We recommend that each student brings a mask for public transport and a small bottle of hydroalcoholic gel to sanitize their hands as often as needed.

Q: My child has a food allergy, how will this be handled?
A: Any health and dietary requirements (allergies, special diets, medical conditions, etc…) need to be included in the enrollment form so that we can inform the host at the time of booking. Staff and families will be aware of these and take them into account at mealtimes.

Q: What if my child is homesick and wants to go home?
A: The first couple of days are often quite daunting, as students adjust to a new country and customs, a new language, and new friends. This is normal and usually goes away after they’ve settled in. If the homesickness persists, however, your child can go home but please note that no refund will be possible and the school will not be held responsible for extra charges involved (change of flight, etc…). We recommend that you encourage your child to stay in New York though, as we know from experience that after the initial fear of the unknown, our students have a great time and don’t want to leave!

Q: How do I contact my child?
A: You will be provided with the address and telephone number of the host family. You will also be able to be in touch by email as all students get some free time to use the internet.

Q: Should insurance be taken out to cover my child’s stay on the course?
A: Yes, it is highly recommended that every student has an insurance package before leaving home.

Q: How much pocket money will my child need to bring?
A: We recommend about $150 per week (already changed into dollars) to make sure they can make the most of their shopping opportunities. It may sound like a lot but students often want to purchase clothes or shoes as well as souvenirs, drinks, and snacks. Money can be given to staff or group leaders for safekeeping.