As we start the new season after ten successful years of providing quality, life-changing experiences for young people from France, Spain, Germany and Austria, we are excited about 2008.

This past summer was a great success, judging by all the wonderful comments we received from our students who took part in our group and Immersion programmes in the US.

We had a lot of marvelous feedback, with the majority of our students telling us that the most rewarding part of the trip for them was living with their host families.

Our amazing Programme Coordinators in the US spent a lot of time carefully matching students with families, to make sure the host family experience would work well for everyone. This certainly paid off and we know that many lifelong friendships were forged this summer.

Our trip to Los Angeles was, as in previous years, one of the highlights for those who chose to go on this fun-packed optional three day trip. Universal studios is always a firm favourite, and many appreciated being able to visit the “California Adventure park” at Disneyland. Our LA trip is becoming ever more popular, so be sure to sign up early before space becomes limited.

We definitely plan to continue offering our July and August group programs to all European nationalities. The feedback is that students love being part of an international group with English as the common language. Last year, in one group alone, we had students from France, Spain, Austria Germany and Slovakia.

2007 saw an increase for us in the number of “immersion” students. The Immersion programme allows students the chance to have a host family experience, but as an individual and not as part of a group with organized activities. Our 2007 students reported they had a fantastic experience, and totally appreciated having to speak nothing but English throughout their stay. They told us their spoken English improved enormously as a result. Whether you choose a group or Immersion programme, we look forward to you joining us this summer!

Marie and Phyllis
ECI