Youth camps Information and FAQ
Questions before the course
We're happy to be at your service if you are a parent with questions about courses, exams, dates and accommodation. With our many years of experience we are familiar with all of the concerns that matter to parents, children and teens. We'll help to make it easy for to prepare for your son or daughter's language-learning stay in Germany so that they can enjoy their course to the fullest.
Questions during the participant's stay/course
Please contact Customer Service even if you have questions or concerns during the course. We are in direct contact with all of the course locations. This allows the local teams to give their full attention to the children.
Contact information and office hours
We look forward to receiving your call, e-mail or letter.
We're happy to be at your service if you are a parent with questions about courses, exams, dates and accommodation. With our many years of experience we are familiar with all of the concerns that matter to parents, children and teens. We'll help to make it easy for to prepare for your son or daughter's language-learning stay in Germany so that they can enjoy their course to the fullest.
Questions during the participant's stay/course
Please contact Customer Service even if you have questions or concerns during the course. We are in direct contact with all of the course locations. This allows the local teams to give their full attention to the children.
Contact information and office hours
We look forward to receiving your call, e-mail or letter.
Courses and programs
All courses include:
blog.goethe.de/jugendkurse
Additional costs
- German instruction including teaching materials
- Placement test
- Sports, culture and leisure-time program*
- Accommodation in boarding schools (or hotels for young adults)
- Full board
- Professional supervision
- Internet access
- Two-day trips are included for three-week courses / one day trip for two-week courses
- Airport transfer on arrival and departure
- Medical Insurance
blog.goethe.de/jugendkurse
Additional costs
- Personal expenses for souvenirs, additional excursions, etc.
Lessons
Learning German at the Goethe-Institut means actively experiencing and using the language in pairs and in groups, for example through role plays, with interviews or in small projects. The lessons are suited to the various age groups and contain plenty of variety. Speaking, listening, reading, writing and grammar are linked in a meaningful way, quickly familiarizing the young learners with the German language. The lessons are in German from the very first day. We use textbooks for all courses. At higher levels the teachers also prepare supplementary materials for each course on an individual basis according to the topic of the lessons. Homework is given on selected days. The course materials are included in the course fee.
Levels
Lessons are given at various levels. Most course locations offer levels A1 to B2.
Two weeks
28 45-minute lessons per week
56 lessons in total
Three weeks
24 45-minute lessons per week
72 lessons in total
Ages: 12–17 years
Lessons are from 9:00 a.m. until 12:30
Project work is scheduled twice a week in the afternoons
Class size
The children learn German in an international group with 10 to 16 participants.
Learn German – all day long
In the leisure time program, the participants have enjoyable and informal opportunities to try out what they are learning in the lessons. An integral part of the program are the excursions to learn about Germany and its people. Immersion in a German-speaking environment, combined with our effective teaching methods, will ensure more fun for the learners through progress they can see within a short time.
Participation certificate / assessment
Each participant receives an attendance certificate at the end of the course, indicating the course level attended, the number of units and the length of the course.
Learning German at the Goethe-Institut means actively experiencing and using the language in pairs and in groups, for example through role plays, with interviews or in small projects. The lessons are suited to the various age groups and contain plenty of variety. Speaking, listening, reading, writing and grammar are linked in a meaningful way, quickly familiarizing the young learners with the German language. The lessons are in German from the very first day. We use textbooks for all courses. At higher levels the teachers also prepare supplementary materials for each course on an individual basis according to the topic of the lessons. Homework is given on selected days. The course materials are included in the course fee.
Levels
Lessons are given at various levels. Most course locations offer levels A1 to B2.
Course duration and lesson times
Intensive coursesTwo weeks
28 45-minute lessons per week
56 lessons in total
Three weeks
24 45-minute lessons per week
72 lessons in total
Ages: 12–17 years
Lessons are from 9:00 a.m. until 12:30
Project work is scheduled twice a week in the afternoons
Class size
The children learn German in an international group with 10 to 16 participants.
Learn German – all day long
In the leisure time program, the participants have enjoyable and informal opportunities to try out what they are learning in the lessons. An integral part of the program are the excursions to learn about Germany and its people. Immersion in a German-speaking environment, combined with our effective teaching methods, will ensure more fun for the learners through progress they can see within a short time.
Participation certificate / assessment
Each participant receives an attendance certificate at the end of the course, indicating the course level attended, the number of units and the length of the course.
Dates, enrollment, payment
Dates
Our youth camps take place only in June, July and August.
Course fees
Prices vary according to course type and duration. The current prices can be found in our online shop.
The course includes:
** We reserve the right to organise day trips close to nature in case of high incidence values and possible endangerment of our conservation concept.
Family discount
We have a special offer for families:
If you register two or more siblings at the same time, you will receive a discount of EUR 150 on the course price for the second or each additional child. Please contact us at jugend@goethe.de.
Our youth camps take place only in June, July and August.
Course fees
Prices vary according to course type and duration. The current prices can be found in our online shop.
The course includes:
- German instruction including teaching materials
- Placement test
- Sports, culture and leisure-time program*
- Accommodation in boarding schools (or hotels for young adults)
- Full board
- Professional supervision
- Internet access
- Opportunity to take exam (depending on course location)
- Day excursions**
- Airport transfer on arrival and departure
- Medical Insurance
- Exam fees
- Individual expenses for souvenirs, personal items, etc.
** We reserve the right to organise day trips close to nature in case of high incidence values and possible endangerment of our conservation concept.
Family discount
We have a special offer for families:
If you register two or more siblings at the same time, you will receive a discount of EUR 150 on the course price for the second or each additional child. Please contact us at jugend@goethe.de.
Required information
Please be certain to indicate with each payment the name of the participant and the participant number to ensure that we can credit your payment properly.
The full course fee must be paid before the beginning of the course. Payment in instalments is not possible.
Bank fees are not included in the course price.
Credit card
We will send you the necessary details for a credit card payment along with your preliminary confirmation.
Bank transfer
A foreign money transfer takes approx. 8–10 days. We cannot confirm receipt of your payment until the amount is credited to our account.
In urgent cases: Please send us a copy of the money transfer slip to the Customer Service department by e-mail to ensure that your place on the course is not canceled.
Confirmation
As soon as your payment is credited to our account you will receive a final confirmation by e-mail. The confirmation is to be presented when applying for a visa, and takes the place of the "invitation".
Please note: The Goethe-Institut cannot provide an ‘invitation’.
Changes to course bookings
The first booking change is free of charge. Each additional change is subject to a processing fee of €60.
Cancellation
To save costs, please notify us in a timely manner.
In case of cancellation no later than four weeks prior to the start of the course, only an administrative fee of €160 is charged.
In case of cancellation no later than one week prior to the start of the course, GI will withhold 30% of the course fee, but at least the administrative fee of €160.00.
In case of cancellation up to one day prior to the start of the course, GI will withhold 50% of the course fee, but at least the administrative fee of €160.00.
If a participant does not travel to the course location or withdraws from the course, there is no entitlement to a refund.
For further details, please refer to the terms and conditions.
Please send your notice of cancellation directly to the Customer Service department.
Travel cancellation insurance
We advise participants to take out insurance coverage for costs incurred if they are unable to travel.
Please be certain to indicate with each payment the name of the participant and the participant number to ensure that we can credit your payment properly.
The full course fee must be paid before the beginning of the course. Payment in instalments is not possible.
Bank fees are not included in the course price.
Credit card
We will send you the necessary details for a credit card payment along with your preliminary confirmation.
Bank transfer
A foreign money transfer takes approx. 8–10 days. We cannot confirm receipt of your payment until the amount is credited to our account.
In urgent cases: Please send us a copy of the money transfer slip to the Customer Service department by e-mail to ensure that your place on the course is not canceled.
Confirmation
As soon as your payment is credited to our account you will receive a final confirmation by e-mail. The confirmation is to be presented when applying for a visa, and takes the place of the "invitation".
Please note: The Goethe-Institut cannot provide an ‘invitation’.
Changes to course bookings
The first booking change is free of charge. Each additional change is subject to a processing fee of €60.
Cancellation
To save costs, please notify us in a timely manner.
In case of cancellation no later than four weeks prior to the start of the course, only an administrative fee of €160 is charged.
In case of cancellation no later than one week prior to the start of the course, GI will withhold 30% of the course fee, but at least the administrative fee of €160.00.
In case of cancellation up to one day prior to the start of the course, GI will withhold 50% of the course fee, but at least the administrative fee of €160.00.
If a participant does not travel to the course location or withdraws from the course, there is no entitlement to a refund.
For further details, please refer to the terms and conditions.
Please send your notice of cancellation directly to the Customer Service department.
Travel cancellation insurance
We advise participants to take out insurance coverage for costs incurred if they are unable to travel.
Before coming to Germany
Identification/Passport
Your daughter or son must bring identification or a passport. Please obtain information on entry regulations or visa requirements for children, especially minors. The Goethe-Institut in your country will also be happy to help.
Visa requirements
If your country is subject to visa requirements, please enroll your child no later than three months before the start of the course.
Schengen visa
Please note: a Schengen visa, which is valid for a maximum of 90 days, cannot be renewed in Germany. For a longer stay, for example if your child will be visiting friends or relatives for an extended period after the course or taking part in an internship, etc., a visa for Germany may be required.
For information and forms related to entry regulations, visit:
www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Your daughter or son must bring identification or a passport. Please obtain information on entry regulations or visa requirements for children, especially minors. The Goethe-Institut in your country will also be happy to help.
Visa requirements
If your country is subject to visa requirements, please enroll your child no later than three months before the start of the course.
Schengen visa
Please note: a Schengen visa, which is valid for a maximum of 90 days, cannot be renewed in Germany. For a longer stay, for example if your child will be visiting friends or relatives for an extended period after the course or taking part in an internship, etc., a visa for Germany may be required.
For information and forms related to entry regulations, visit:
www.auswaertiges-amt.de
Packing checklist
What should your child pack? What should parents get ready for their children?
We have put together a checklist of things to pack and to bear in mind.
New surroundings
Our advice: Discuss the planned stay in Germany once more with your child. It is important for your child to know that he or she will be spending two to three weeks in new surroundings, learning German and taking part in leisure-time activities with children and teens from other countries – without parents or relatives. If your child plays an active part in this decision, the stay in Germany will be even more enjoyable and successful.
If you have any questions in this regard, please get in touch with us. We'll be happy to advise you.
What should your child pack? What should parents get ready for their children?
We have put together a checklist of things to pack and to bear in mind.
New surroundings
Our advice: Discuss the planned stay in Germany once more with your child. It is important for your child to know that he or she will be spending two to three weeks in new surroundings, learning German and taking part in leisure-time activities with children and teens from other countries – without parents or relatives. If your child plays an active part in this decision, the stay in Germany will be even more enjoyable and successful.
If you have any questions in this regard, please get in touch with us. We'll be happy to advise you.
Your health insurance
Please check that the child's health insurance coverage also applies in Germany before he or she enters the country. EU residents can obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their insurer. Please give this card to your child.
Please check that the child's health insurance coverage also applies in Germany before he or she enters the country. EU residents can obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their insurer. Please give this card to your child.
Arrival, pickup, departure
Transfer service
Most of our young guests arrive unaccompanied by plane. We offer an airport pick-up/transfer service on the official day of arrival between 9 am and 5 pm.
Our service staff picks up all children with arrival times between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the exit of the transit area in the arrivals terminal.
In case of a flight arriving before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. we will arrange for an individual transfer service for your child: We have been working for years with hand-picked taxi operators. We arrange for transportation by a taxi driver who knows the destination (the boarding school) and will drive your child there. Please note: a transfer by taxi involves additional costs.
Pick-up
Our service staff are clearly identifiable: They have Goethe-Institut badges and will identify themselves with an ID card or passport. We will notify you of their names before the start of the course. Please give this information to your child.
Arrival at other times
! Important reminder: If the participant cannot arrive on the arrival date, please arrange for arrival on the following day.
We regret that our staff cannot provide a transfer service and accommodation or guarantee care of students before the course begins. There are also no meals available at the school at that time.
Waiting time
Naturally the children and teens will not be alone at the airport during any waiting times that occur. They will be supervised until the transportation departs for the boarding school. Transfers between the airport and the school are scheduled at regular intervals on the arrival and departure days.
Transfer to the school
Your child will travel with the supervisors by bus, van or train to the course location.
Unaccompanied Minors/UM
Most airports offer a service for unaccompanied minors. Children are provided with supervision and care before departure, on the aircraft and after landing. These costs are not included in the course fee.
If your child arrives under the care of this service, the airport staff will check the identity of our service staff before allowing your child to leave with them.
Details of this service vary among airlines. Ask your airline specifically for this service as described, for example, on these websites:
https://www.lufthansa.com/de/en/unaccompanied-minors
https://www.united.com/ual/en/de/fly/travel/special-needs/minors.html
Arriving with parents
If you are planning to take your child to the course location yourself, the ideal arrival time is between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. On the arrival day you are welcome to tour the campus and the accommodation.
Most of our young guests arrive unaccompanied by plane. We offer an airport pick-up/transfer service on the official day of arrival between 9 am and 5 pm.
Our service staff picks up all children with arrival times between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the exit of the transit area in the arrivals terminal.
In case of a flight arriving before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. we will arrange for an individual transfer service for your child: We have been working for years with hand-picked taxi operators. We arrange for transportation by a taxi driver who knows the destination (the boarding school) and will drive your child there. Please note: a transfer by taxi involves additional costs.
Pick-up
Our service staff are clearly identifiable: They have Goethe-Institut badges and will identify themselves with an ID card or passport. We will notify you of their names before the start of the course. Please give this information to your child.
Arrival at other times
! Important reminder: If the participant cannot arrive on the arrival date, please arrange for arrival on the following day.
We regret that our staff cannot provide a transfer service and accommodation or guarantee care of students before the course begins. There are also no meals available at the school at that time.
Waiting time
Naturally the children and teens will not be alone at the airport during any waiting times that occur. They will be supervised until the transportation departs for the boarding school. Transfers between the airport and the school are scheduled at regular intervals on the arrival and departure days.
Transfer to the school
Your child will travel with the supervisors by bus, van or train to the course location.
Unaccompanied Minors/UM
Most airports offer a service for unaccompanied minors. Children are provided with supervision and care before departure, on the aircraft and after landing. These costs are not included in the course fee.
If your child arrives under the care of this service, the airport staff will check the identity of our service staff before allowing your child to leave with them.
Details of this service vary among airlines. Ask your airline specifically for this service as described, for example, on these websites:
https://www.lufthansa.com/de/en/unaccompanied-minors
https://www.united.com/ual/en/de/fly/travel/special-needs/minors.html
Arriving with parents
If you are planning to take your child to the course location yourself, the ideal arrival time is between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. On the arrival day you are welcome to tour the campus and the accommodation.
Transfer to the airport
On the official departure day your child will travel with the counselors by bus, van or train to the airport.
Accompaniment to the check-in desk
A counselor will accompany your child until check-in. In case of a flight taking off before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. we will arrange for an individual transfer service for your child: We have been working for years with hand-picked taxi operators. We arrange for transportation by a taxi driver who will drive your child to the airport. Please note: a transfer by taxi involves additional costs.
Unaccompanied Minors/UM
Are you planning to use the airline's service for unaccompanied minors? In that case your child will be met in the departure terminal. The airport personnel will check the identity of our supervisors and will accompany your child from that point onward. Our counselors remain in the departure area until 20 minutes after the flight departs.
As in the case of arriving participants, you can enquire one week before departure for the name and ID number of the counselor taking your child to the airport. Please contact the course leader directly.
Waiting times and flight cancellations
If a departing flight is delayed or cancelled, our counselors will remain with your child. This may result in additional charges due to the extended supervision period.
Departure at other times
! Important reminder: If the departure cannot be arranged on the departure day, then please arrange for departure one day before the end of the course.
We regret that our staff is unable to provide a transfer service and accommodation or guarantee care of students after the end of the course. There are also no meals available at the school at that time.
On the official departure day your child will travel with the counselors by bus, van or train to the airport.
Accompaniment to the check-in desk
A counselor will accompany your child until check-in. In case of a flight taking off before 9 a.m. or after 5 p.m. we will arrange for an individual transfer service for your child: We have been working for years with hand-picked taxi operators. We arrange for transportation by a taxi driver who will drive your child to the airport. Please note: a transfer by taxi involves additional costs.
Unaccompanied Minors/UM
Are you planning to use the airline's service for unaccompanied minors? In that case your child will be met in the departure terminal. The airport personnel will check the identity of our supervisors and will accompany your child from that point onward. Our counselors remain in the departure area until 20 minutes after the flight departs.
As in the case of arriving participants, you can enquire one week before departure for the name and ID number of the counselor taking your child to the airport. Please contact the course leader directly.
Waiting times and flight cancellations
If a departing flight is delayed or cancelled, our counselors will remain with your child. This may result in additional charges due to the extended supervision period.
Departure at other times
! Important reminder: If the departure cannot be arranged on the departure day, then please arrange for departure one day before the end of the course.
We regret that our staff is unable to provide a transfer service and accommodation or guarantee care of students after the end of the course. There are also no meals available at the school at that time.
Campus life
What happens on day one
To ensure that your child feel safes and well taken care of, we have organized the first day so that all needs are met right from the time of pick-up at the airport. That means a calm arrival, unpacking, getting to know the school, the grounds, the teachers and the counselors, and starting to get acquainted with the other children and teens.
Once again, here is how the day unfolds:
To ensure that your child feel safes and well taken care of, we have organized the first day so that all needs are met right from the time of pick-up at the airport. That means a calm arrival, unpacking, getting to know the school, the grounds, the teachers and the counselors, and starting to get acquainted with the other children and teens.
Once again, here is how the day unfolds:
- arrival
- welcome at the airport
- transfer to course location
- welcome at the boarding school
- moving in to rooms, unpacking
- snacks and beverages
- contacting home to report a safe arrival
- getting to know the school grounds and other course participants
- time to relax
- dinner with the group
Here's what happens on a typical day on a young learners course:
| 8:00 - 9:00 | Breakfast with the group |
| 9:00 - 10:30 | Classes at various levels, language games, grammar |
| 10:30 - 11:00 | Break with refreshments |
| 11:00 - 12:30 | Lessons |
| 12:30 - 2:00 | Lunch with the group |
| 2:00 - 3:30 | Learning through fun and games Learning games and exercises, fun language activities |
| 3:30 - 4:00 | Break with refreshments |
| 4:00 - 6:30 | Leisure program Sports, creative activities, hiking, short excursions, sightseeing. Flexible breaks with refreshments |
| 2:00 - 6:30 | Two days per week Afternoon classes with focus on project work |
| 6:30 - 7:30 | Dinner with the group |
| Starting at 7:30 | Evening program Sports, creative activities, movies, disco or free time |
| Weekends Leisure program The leisure program also runs at weekends. |
Internet at almost every course location
At almost all of our course locations, WIFI access is available to course participants so that they can keep in touch with family and friends.
There is generally no need for participants to bring their own notebook computers.
Internet yes, but not at all times...
Participants can generally use the internet every day, but not for unlimited periods. We ensure age-appropriate internet use.
At almost all of our course locations, WIFI access is available to course participants so that they can keep in touch with family and friends.
There is generally no need for participants to bring their own notebook computers.
Internet yes, but not at all times...
Participants can generally use the internet every day, but not for unlimited periods. We ensure age-appropriate internet use.
Contacting home after arrival
After your child arrives at the course location, we will remind him or her to let you know. Participants who do not have their own cell phone with them can write an e-mail.
Telephone contact is possible at all locations
You can call your child at all course locations. The children will be informed of times and telephone numbers on arrival.
You can contact the course management by telephone or e-mail to ask how your child is doing. If your child is in class or taking part in an activity, you are also welcome to leave a message. Your child will then call you back.
Less is more
Contact with your child is a good thing and it is also important. However, our experience has shown us that children and teens adapt more quickly to their new surroundings when parents do not call, visit the school or pick them up for weekends too frequently. This gives the children and teens a chance to spend time with their group without distractions and become even better integrated.
After your child arrives at the course location, we will remind him or her to let you know. Participants who do not have their own cell phone with them can write an e-mail.
Telephone contact is possible at all locations
You can call your child at all course locations. The children will be informed of times and telephone numbers on arrival.
You can contact the course management by telephone or e-mail to ask how your child is doing. If your child is in class or taking part in an activity, you are also welcome to leave a message. Your child will then call you back.
Less is more
Contact with your child is a good thing and it is also important. However, our experience has shown us that children and teens adapt more quickly to their new surroundings when parents do not call, visit the school or pick them up for weekends too frequently. This gives the children and teens a chance to spend time with their group without distractions and become even better integrated.
Learning and having fun in an international atmosphere: Our courses are attended by children and teens from all over the world. Every course session brings together 60 to 100 young people from an average of 20 different countries.
Most participants come from Spain, France, Italy, Russia, the USA, Turkey, Switzerland, Greece, Poland and the UK.
The percentages of participants from the various countries varies by course location and session date.
As far as possible, children share their rooms with children from other countries so that they speak as much German together as possible.
Most participants come from Spain, France, Italy, Russia, the USA, Turkey, Switzerland, Greece, Poland and the UK.
The percentages of participants from the various countries varies by course location and session date.
As far as possible, children share their rooms with children from other countries so that they speak as much German together as possible.
Safety
Schools, boarding schools, continuing education facilities and youth hostels are subject to strict legal provisions regarding fire protection, emergency equipment, etc.
House rules
In all schools, boarding schools, continuing education facilities and youth hostels, the applicable house rules must be followed; in some cases (e.g. regarding the prohibition of alcohol), these rules may be stricter than those required by law.
General rules
In the interest of safety we must know the location of the children and teens at all times, around the clock.
Participants in children's courses may not leave the boarding school property (i.e. the campus) unaccompanied.
Older children or teens may leave the campus only by arrangement with the service team, but only in small groups of three of more participants. If course participants break these rules, we will inform their parents.
Please note that we cannot permit minors to travel unaccompanied. Children must be picked up at the course location by a relative. We will also require your written consent in advance. Bitte fordern Sie das Formular hierfür beim Kundenmanagement an.
Hitchhiking is not allowed.
Note
In case of repeated violations of regulations and house rules, early departure may be necessary in exceptional cases.
Sexual contact of any kind between participants, including consensual contact, will result in immediate departure. The same applies to repeated instances of bullying or physical aggression. Violations of the law may be reported to the authorities.
Parents will be required to pay the costs resulting from early departure.
Schools, boarding schools, continuing education facilities and youth hostels are subject to strict legal provisions regarding fire protection, emergency equipment, etc.
House rules
In all schools, boarding schools, continuing education facilities and youth hostels, the applicable house rules must be followed; in some cases (e.g. regarding the prohibition of alcohol), these rules may be stricter than those required by law.
General rules
- Order and cleanliness in rooms
- Respect for other cultures and religions
- Absolute ban on alcohol
- No smoking (in accordance with German law)
- Under our house rules and general regulations, sexual contact is not permitted either on or off campus during the course or the leisure-time programs.
- Bullying or physical aggression will not be tolerated.
- Unaccompanied departure from boarding school and campus is not permitted
- Departure from campus or absence is permitted only by arrangement with the course management.
- Overnight stays outside the boarding school are not permitted.
- Overnight guests in the boarding school are not permitted.
In the interest of safety we must know the location of the children and teens at all times, around the clock.
Participants in children's courses may not leave the boarding school property (i.e. the campus) unaccompanied.
Older children or teens may leave the campus only by arrangement with the service team, but only in small groups of three of more participants. If course participants break these rules, we will inform their parents.
Please note that we cannot permit minors to travel unaccompanied. Children must be picked up at the course location by a relative. We will also require your written consent in advance. Bitte fordern Sie das Formular hierfür beim Kundenmanagement an.
Hitchhiking is not allowed.
Note
In case of repeated violations of regulations and house rules, early departure may be necessary in exceptional cases.
Sexual contact of any kind between participants, including consensual contact, will result in immediate departure. The same applies to repeated instances of bullying or physical aggression. Violations of the law may be reported to the authorities.
Parents will be required to pay the costs resulting from early departure.
Teachers, counselors and course leaders – our team
Our course leaders have plenty of experience in working with children and teens. On the campus they are responsible for organizing the lessons, the sports, culture and leisure-time program, and also for health and safety.
They are available to the course participants and their parents at all times for any questions and suggestions, and are always ready to help or provide advice. Parents can contact the course leaders by e-mail or telephone.
They are available to the course participants and their parents at all times for any questions and suggestions, and are always ready to help or provide advice. Parents can contact the course leaders by e-mail or telephone.
Our teachers have degrees (generally in "DaF" – teaching German as a foreign language) and plenty of experience with children and teens. The young participants in the Young Learners Program benefit from the expertise and qualifications of our teachers.
Each class has its own class teacher. The lessons, with a maximum class size of 16, are designed with the age group in mind. The activities are varied, with plenty of changes of pace. Classroom activities take the form of a playful, interactive process. Naturally our teachers respond to individual abilities and learning objectives and are pleased to help when learners have special requests.
They are also available outside classroom hours for advice and individual study assistance.
Each class has its own class teacher. The lessons, with a maximum class size of 16, are designed with the age group in mind. The activities are varied, with plenty of changes of pace. Classroom activities take the form of a playful, interactive process. Naturally our teachers respond to individual abilities and learning objectives and are pleased to help when learners have special requests.
They are also available outside classroom hours for advice and individual study assistance.
Members of the counselor team are available for the course participants, including at night if needed. They plan the program of sports, culture and leisure-time activities, taking participants' wishes into account whenever possible.
The counselors are available to deal with all everyday questions and concerns that arise during the course. They are handpicked by the Goethe-Institut for these courses and have extensive experience in working with children and teens.
A love of working with children – that is the basic qualification in our extensive hiring process for counselors. All of our counselors have experience in working with young people, a first aid certificate, a DLRG (German Life Saving Society) life saving certificate and a full police background check. Some of them are musicians, music teachers and theater arts instructors.
Depending on the age group, at least one counselor is present for 10 to 15 participants. The younger the participants, the more intensive the support by the counselors. This ensures the best possible leisure-time program and the right level of supervision. The staff are on hand for the children during sports, games and excursions, and are also housed in the same building.
The counselors conduct group discussions with the course participants every evening. Course participants have the opportunity, either in the group discussions or confidentially, to talk about what they like or anything that is bothering them .
Please note that it is not possible to provide one-to-one supervision or care for health reasons or otherwise. In such cases we regret that we must request the child's departure from the course.
At every course location the Goethe-Institut team is made up of the course coordinator, a deputy coordinator, teachers (one teacher for 12 to 16 participants) and counselors (one counselor for 10 to 15 course participants).
The counselors are available to deal with all everyday questions and concerns that arise during the course. They are handpicked by the Goethe-Institut for these courses and have extensive experience in working with children and teens.
A love of working with children – that is the basic qualification in our extensive hiring process for counselors. All of our counselors have experience in working with young people, a first aid certificate, a DLRG (German Life Saving Society) life saving certificate and a full police background check. Some of them are musicians, music teachers and theater arts instructors.
Depending on the age group, at least one counselor is present for 10 to 15 participants. The younger the participants, the more intensive the support by the counselors. This ensures the best possible leisure-time program and the right level of supervision. The staff are on hand for the children during sports, games and excursions, and are also housed in the same building.
The counselors conduct group discussions with the course participants every evening. Course participants have the opportunity, either in the group discussions or confidentially, to talk about what they like or anything that is bothering them .
Please note that it is not possible to provide one-to-one supervision or care for health reasons or otherwise. In such cases we regret that we must request the child's departure from the course.
At every course location the Goethe-Institut team is made up of the course coordinator, a deputy coordinator, teachers (one teacher for 12 to 16 participants) and counselors (one counselor for 10 to 15 course participants).
Our German staff can generally speak several languages, so that the children can also communicate with them in their native languages in case of important questions or concerns.
Leisure time – sports, games and fun
With our varied and action-packed leisure program, boredom doesn’t stand a chance. Every day our team of counselors offers a wide range of sports as well as creative, musical or cultural activities. We are also happy to accommodate special requests from our young guests whenever possible, provided that sufficient numbers of participants are interested.
Naturally the children are supervised during their leisure time as well. They are more than welcome to contribute their individual talents – athletic, musical, artistic or otherwise – to the course and in our big celebration on the last evening.
Times
After lessons in the afternoons and evenings and on weekends
Activities
sports, creative and cultural activities: there are many options to choose from depending on the location, weather and interests, for example:
Many activities are held right on the campus. Other outings take place in the surrounding area. For the day trips the group generally travels by chartered bus or takes the train.
Costs
Most activities in the cultural, leisure and sports program are included in the course fee.
Additional costs
For some special sporting or artistic activities (pottery, riding, tennis, swimming pool) there is an additional charge of €5 to €15 per activity.
Pocket money
We recommend €80 per week.
Additional expenses such as the cost of shopping for personal items (souvenirs, electronic games, sports shoes, clothing, toys or games, jewellery, food or beverages, etc.) during outings are a matter of individual preference.
Naturally the children are supervised during their leisure time as well. They are more than welcome to contribute their individual talents – athletic, musical, artistic or otherwise – to the course and in our big celebration on the last evening.
Times
After lessons in the afternoons and evenings and on weekends
Activities
sports, creative and cultural activities: there are many options to choose from depending on the location, weather and interests, for example:
- games for the whole group such as soccer, volleyball, basketball, badminton, table tennis, billiards, swimming, hiking, cycling, jogging
- batik, painting, crafts, theater, pantomime, videos, disco
- excursions in the vicinity
- shopping trips (fares not included)
- barbecues and garden parties
- full day excursions
Many activities are held right on the campus. Other outings take place in the surrounding area. For the day trips the group generally travels by chartered bus or takes the train.
Costs
Most activities in the cultural, leisure and sports program are included in the course fee.
Additional costs
For some special sporting or artistic activities (pottery, riding, tennis, swimming pool) there is an additional charge of €5 to €15 per activity.
Pocket money
We recommend €80 per week.
Additional expenses such as the cost of shopping for personal items (souvenirs, electronic games, sports shoes, clothing, toys or games, jewellery, food or beverages, etc.) during outings are a matter of individual preference.
Accommodation
The boarding schools
Our young learners courses take place at renowned boarding schools, sports academies, conference centers and hotels in Germany's most scenic regions. The classrooms and dormitories are situated on a campus along with the sports facilities and green spaces.
The schools generally have several common rooms, games rooms, music rooms, and recreational and sports facilities, both indoors and outdoors.
The rooms
In the boarding schools double rooms and dorm-style multi-bed rooms are available with a shower and WC. Boys and girls are accommodated separately. Some course locations offer single rooms, in some cases for an extra charge.
Rooms are shared by children and teens of the same age from different countries. In this international setting they are quick to make friends.
Boys and girls stay on separate floors or in different houses.
Depending on the course location, showers and toilets are located in each room or on the same hallway.
Towels and bed linen are provided and are changed on a regular basis.
Supervision and care
Our team is on hand in the boarding school around the clock.
Laundry
Laundry is collected once or twice per course (included in course fee). It is washed either in the school's own washing machines or sent to an outside laundry.
At some course locations, participants wash their clothes at a laundromat. (Please ensure that clothes are machine washable.)
As a rule, ironing boards are not available.
Reminder: Please label all clothing with a name or other identifying mark.
Our young learners courses take place at renowned boarding schools, sports academies, conference centers and hotels in Germany's most scenic regions. The classrooms and dormitories are situated on a campus along with the sports facilities and green spaces.
The schools generally have several common rooms, games rooms, music rooms, and recreational and sports facilities, both indoors and outdoors.
The rooms
In the boarding schools double rooms and dorm-style multi-bed rooms are available with a shower and WC. Boys and girls are accommodated separately. Some course locations offer single rooms, in some cases for an extra charge.
Rooms are shared by children and teens of the same age from different countries. In this international setting they are quick to make friends.
Boys and girls stay on separate floors or in different houses.
Depending on the course location, showers and toilets are located in each room or on the same hallway.
Towels and bed linen are provided and are changed on a regular basis.
Supervision and care
Our team is on hand in the boarding school around the clock.
Laundry
Laundry is collected once or twice per course (included in course fee). It is washed either in the school's own washing machines or sent to an outside laundry.
At some course locations, participants wash their clothes at a laundromat. (Please ensure that clothes are machine washable.)
As a rule, ironing boards are not available.
Reminder: Please label all clothing with a name or other identifying mark.
Food and drink
All meals are included.
Full board means three substantial meals a day with plenty of variety, including a warm meal. It also includes a selection of refreshments and snacks during course breaks and in the afternoon.
To leave enough time for the leisure activities in the evening, the evening meal sometimes takes place relatively early and sometimes takes the form of a cold buffet.
On the arrival day, the meal plan begins with lunch or dinner, and on departure day the final meal is breakfast or lunch, depending on the departure time.
The children and teens have their meals together and afterwards clear the tables.
Vegetarian meals and dishes without pork are available at all mealtimes. We regret that we cannot offer Halal cooking or special mealtimes during Ramadan.
Food allergies and special dietary needs
Please let us know in advance of any special dietary habits (vegetarian meals, no pork, etc.) so that the boarding school kitchen can prepare accordingly and take your child's needs into account – especially in case of serious food allergies, etc.
Full board means three substantial meals a day with plenty of variety, including a warm meal. It also includes a selection of refreshments and snacks during course breaks and in the afternoon.
To leave enough time for the leisure activities in the evening, the evening meal sometimes takes place relatively early and sometimes takes the form of a cold buffet.
On the arrival day, the meal plan begins with lunch or dinner, and on departure day the final meal is breakfast or lunch, depending on the departure time.
The children and teens have their meals together and afterwards clear the tables.
Vegetarian meals and dishes without pork are available at all mealtimes. We regret that we cannot offer Halal cooking or special mealtimes during Ramadan.
Food allergies and special dietary needs
Please let us know in advance of any special dietary habits (vegetarian meals, no pork, etc.) so that the boarding school kitchen can prepare accordingly and take your child's needs into account – especially in case of serious food allergies, etc.
For example: Meals and drinks for a typical week
Drinks: Milk, cocoa, tea, juice
Breakfast
Food: Buffet: various kinds of bread, rolls, sweet breakfast spread, cold cuts, cheese, muesli, yoghurt, fruitDrinks: Milk, cocoa, tea, juice
lunch and dinner (examples)
| Lunch | Dinner | |
| Monday | ||
| Poultry kebab with pita bread, tsatsiki and salad bar Fresh cheese dessert with fruit vegetarian choice: Vegetable kebab, pita bread, tsatsiki, salad bar Fresh cheese dessert with fruit |
Pasta salad with sheep cheese, olives and tomatoes with baguette | |
| Tuesday | ||
| Spaghetti Bolognese with grated cheese, salad bar Ice cream vegetarian choice: Cappeletti with various choices of sauces, grated cheese and salad bar Ice cream |
Toast Hawaii Toast with tomatoes and cheese |
|
| Wednesday | ||
| Filet of chicken breast with curry sauce, buttered rice and salad bar Jelly with custard vegetarian choice: Baked fruit with curry sauce, buttered rice and salad bar Jelly with custard |
Bratwurst with potato salad Potato and pumpkin rösti with salad |
|
| Thursday | ||
| Pizza, salad bar Quark dessert vegetarian choice: Vegetarian pizza, salad bar Quark dessert |
Kaiserschmarrn (chopped pancake with sugar and raisins) with stewed fruit | |
| Friday | ||
| Fish nuggets, potatoes and remoulade sauce, salad bar Cream dessert vegetarian choice: Potatos and leeks au gratin, salad bar Cream dessert |
Pizza | |
| Saturday | ||
| Meat dumplings with summer vegetables and pureed potatoes, salad bar Yoghurt vegetarian choice: Oatmeal dumplings with summer vegetables and pureed potatoes, salad bar Yoghurt |
Garnished cold cut plate | |
| Sunday | ||
| Pork steak with herb butter and French fries, salad bar Fresh fruit vegetarian choice: Cauliflower au gratin, potatoes, salad bar Fresh fruit |
Potato salad with baguette | |
Feeling at home / Safety
Supervision and care
The very best of care from arrival until departure: We will provide professional care for your son or daughter at all times: from the arrival in Germany, on every course day, on weekends, and right through to airport check-in for the homebound flight.
Individual care
We regret that it is not possible to provide individual care for health-related or other reasons requiring round-the-clock supervision. In such cases we must ask you to pick up your child at the course location.
Safety
The safety and well-being of all course participants is our top priority. To ensure the safety of all course participants, it may be necessary in certain cases and for good cause to conduct night-time room checks.
Experienced teams
Our teachers and the counselor team have years of experience with children and teens, in the classroom and with the organization of the leisure-time program.
Languages
Our German staff can generally speak several languages, so that the children can also communicate with them in their native languages, or at least in English.
Homesickness
If your child feels homesick, please do not worry: We are there for your child at all times.
Facilities geared to young people
The boarding schools we select are geared specifically to young guests and are very child-friendly, from the atmosphere to the furnishings and facilities.
Our advice: Preparation is everything
Please go over the planned stay in Germany with your child once more.It is important for your child to know that he or she will be spending two to four weeks in new surroundings, learning German and taking part in leisure-time activities with children and teens from other countries – without parents or relatives. If your child plays an active part in this decision, the stay in Germany will be even more enjoyable and successful. If you have any questions in this regard, please get in touch with us. We'll be happy to advise you.
Of course a few rules are needed to ensure the peaceful coexistence and safety of all participants. The house rules for the accommodation and the general rules outlined above apply to everyone.
Carry course ID at all times
To ensure participants' safety everywhere and at all times: your child will carry his or her participant ID card at all times, indicating name, address and the telephone number of the course office.
Carry participant ID card at all times
To ensure safety wherever our learners go, your child will carry his or her participant ID card at all times, indicating name, address and the telephone number of the course office.
The very best of care from arrival until departure: We will provide professional care for your son or daughter at all times: from the arrival in Germany, on every course day, on weekends, and right through to airport check-in for the homebound flight.
Individual care
We regret that it is not possible to provide individual care for health-related or other reasons requiring round-the-clock supervision. In such cases we must ask you to pick up your child at the course location.
Safety
The safety and well-being of all course participants is our top priority. To ensure the safety of all course participants, it may be necessary in certain cases and for good cause to conduct night-time room checks.
Experienced teams
Our teachers and the counselor team have years of experience with children and teens, in the classroom and with the organization of the leisure-time program.
Languages
Our German staff can generally speak several languages, so that the children can also communicate with them in their native languages, or at least in English.
Homesickness
If your child feels homesick, please do not worry: We are there for your child at all times.
Facilities geared to young people
The boarding schools we select are geared specifically to young guests and are very child-friendly, from the atmosphere to the furnishings and facilities.
Our advice: Preparation is everything
Please go over the planned stay in Germany with your child once more.It is important for your child to know that he or she will be spending two to four weeks in new surroundings, learning German and taking part in leisure-time activities with children and teens from other countries – without parents or relatives. If your child plays an active part in this decision, the stay in Germany will be even more enjoyable and successful. If you have any questions in this regard, please get in touch with us. We'll be happy to advise you.
Of course a few rules are needed to ensure the peaceful coexistence and safety of all participants. The house rules for the accommodation and the general rules outlined above apply to everyone.
Carry course ID at all times
To ensure participants' safety everywhere and at all times: your child will carry his or her participant ID card at all times, indicating name, address and the telephone number of the course office.
Carry participant ID card at all times
To ensure safety wherever our learners go, your child will carry his or her participant ID card at all times, indicating name, address and the telephone number of the course office.
Your child's health is of paramount importance to us. Consequently, we do all we can to ensure healthy living on the campus.
Inform us
Please notify us by e-mail of any food allergies or other dietary concerns, health restrictions and previous illnesses. This will ensure that the counselors are well informed and can provide a doctor with this important information about your child in case of an emergency. We make inclusion possible.
Food allergies and special dietary needs
Please let us know in advance of any special dietary habits (vegetarian meals, no pork, etc.) so that the boarding school kitchen can prepare accordingly and take your child's needs into account – especially in case of serious food allergies, etc.
Past illnesses / health restrictions
In case of chronic health conditions (diabetes, allergies), please ask your doctor whether there are additional considerations for your child during his or her stay. Please inform us accordingly before the start of the course.
Please mention these pre-existing conditions. This will ensure that the counselors are well informed and can provide a doctor with this important information about your child in case of an emergency.
Medication
Be sure to give your child a sufficient quantity of medication, including the patient information leaflet in German or English and the doctor's instructions. Please note: Our staff are not permitted to administer medication to course participants unless it has been prescribed for the child.
Vaccinations
Tetanus vaccination: Please inform us if your child is vaccinated. Ask your doctor if you are not sure. Our advice: Please give your child a copy of his/her international vaccination pass if available.
Medical Insurance
Please check that the child's health insurance coverage also applies in Germany before he or she enters the country. EU residents can obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their insurer. Please give this card to your child.
In case of illness
Medical care in Germany is generally very good. At all course locations there are hospitals, doctors on call, general practitioners and specialists relatively nearby.
If a child is ill, our staff will accompany him or her to the doctor's office.
Inform us
Please notify us by e-mail of any food allergies or other dietary concerns, health restrictions and previous illnesses. This will ensure that the counselors are well informed and can provide a doctor with this important information about your child in case of an emergency. We make inclusion possible.
Food allergies and special dietary needs
Please let us know in advance of any special dietary habits (vegetarian meals, no pork, etc.) so that the boarding school kitchen can prepare accordingly and take your child's needs into account – especially in case of serious food allergies, etc.
Past illnesses / health restrictions
In case of chronic health conditions (diabetes, allergies), please ask your doctor whether there are additional considerations for your child during his or her stay. Please inform us accordingly before the start of the course.
Please mention these pre-existing conditions. This will ensure that the counselors are well informed and can provide a doctor with this important information about your child in case of an emergency.
Medication
Be sure to give your child a sufficient quantity of medication, including the patient information leaflet in German or English and the doctor's instructions. Please note: Our staff are not permitted to administer medication to course participants unless it has been prescribed for the child.
Vaccinations
Tetanus vaccination: Please inform us if your child is vaccinated. Ask your doctor if you are not sure. Our advice: Please give your child a copy of his/her international vaccination pass if available.
Medical Insurance
Please check that the child's health insurance coverage also applies in Germany before he or she enters the country. EU residents can obtain a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) from their insurer. Please give this card to your child.
In case of illness
Medical care in Germany is generally very good. At all course locations there are hospitals, doctors on call, general practitioners and specialists relatively nearby.
If a child is ill, our staff will accompany him or her to the doctor's office.
Money, valuables and important documents
You can rest assured. We keep airline tickets and passports securely in the safe of the boarding school, so that nothing can be lost or stolen.
The same applies to the participants' pocket money. Amounts are handed out to the children at certain times.
Electronic devices such as cell phones and notebook or tablet computers are also kept securely in the course office.
Personal items
In general, your child should leave at home any valuables not needed during the stay.
Clothing should be labeled with your child's name. This will ensure that we can return the items quickly after they are laundered. We also recommend labeling any valuables with the child's name.
You can rest assured. We keep airline tickets and passports securely in the safe of the boarding school, so that nothing can be lost or stolen.
The same applies to the participants' pocket money. Amounts are handed out to the children at certain times.
Electronic devices such as cell phones and notebook or tablet computers are also kept securely in the course office.
Personal items
In general, your child should leave at home any valuables not needed during the stay.
Clothing should be labeled with your child's name. This will ensure that we can return the items quickly after they are laundered. We also recommend labeling any valuables with the child's name.