French International Language Camps

Stories

• A Summer Camp Near Geneva in the French Alps
  For international families looking for a summer camp near Geneva, the French Alps offer a unique combination of accessibility, nature, adventure and cultural discovery. The International Language Camps in Megève, located approximately one hour from Geneva, welcomes children and teenagers aged 6 to 17 for an international summer experience combining language learning, outdoor activities and friendships with campers from around the world.
  
  Founded in 1996, International Language Camps has been welcoming young people to Megève for 30 years. Our philosophy is simple: children learn and grow through experience. Language lessons are therefore only one part of camp life. Campers use English or French throughout their stay while playing sports, taking part in Alpine adventures, sharing meals and building friendships with children from different cultures.
  
  A Small International Camp with Personal Attention
  
  International Language Camps intentionally maintains a small-scale environment, welcoming around 40 campers per week. With approximately one adult for every five campers, children and teenagers benefit from personal attention while enjoying the energy of an international community.
  
  Language classes are also kept small, with a maximum of eight students per class. Campers are grouped according to their level and learn through communication-focused activities designed to help them gain confidence using English or French.
  
  Three Programs Designed for Different Ages
  
  Our summer programs evolve with the age, interests and independence of each camper.
  
  The FUN Program, for ages 6–9, introduces younger children to international camp life through language learning, sports, creative activities and age-appropriate adventures.
  
  The ADRENALINE Program, for ages 10–13, combines language learning with more challenging sports, outdoor experiences, teamwork and discovery.
  
  The TEENS MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE Program, for ages 14–17, gives teenagers greater opportunities to develop independence, initiative, communication, teamwork and leadership while experiencing mountain adventures in the French Alps.
  
  A Different Approach to Summer Camp Accommodation
  
  Accommodation is an important part of the experience, particularly for families sending a child abroad.
  
  Rather than traditional camp dormitories, our residential campers stay at Hotel Au Vieux Moulin, a high-quality hotel in the heart of Megève. Campers can enjoy the comfort of a real Alpine hotel while remaining fully immersed in camp life.
  
  International Language Camps staff stay on site with the children and are present day and night, combining comfort with continuous supervision and support.
  
  More Than Language Learning
  
  A summer at International Language Camps is about much more than improving English or French. Living within an international community encourages children to become more confident, independent and open to other cultures.
  
  They learn to communicate with people from different backgrounds, try unfamiliar activities, solve problems, work as a team and create friendships that can continue long after camp ends.
  
  And all of this takes place in Megève, in the heart of the French Alps and approximately one hour from Geneva.
  
  For families searching for an international summer camp in France, a language camp in the French Alps or a summer camp near Geneva, International Language Camps offers a small-scale and highly personal environment where language, adventure and international friendships become part of everyday life.
• Why Choose International Language Camps? The Ultimate Experience for Your Child
  At International Language Camps, we offer more than just a summer program—we deliver a transformative experience that combines learning, adventure, and personal growth. Here's why families from around the world trust us year after year:
  
  1. Language Immersion in an Inspiring Setting
  Nestled in the heart of the French Alps in Megève, our camps provide a unique opportunity for children to practice and improve their French (or English) in a natural, immersive environment. Through interactive workshops, cultural activities, and real-world communication, language learning becomes exciting and effective.
  
  2. Tailored Programs for Every Age and Goal
  Whether your child is a first-time camper or a returning adventurer, we have a program suited to their needs. From introductory language lessons to advanced sessions and specialized activities like sports and leadership workshops, our programs grow with your child.
  
  3. A Global Community
  With participants from over 30 countries, our camps are a melting pot of cultures. Children make friends from all over the world, learn to appreciate diversity, and build lasting relationships in a warm, inclusive environment.
  
  4. A Perfect Balance of Fun and Learning
  At ILC, we believe in combining the joy of adventure with the benefits of education. Our carefully curated schedule includes language lessons in the morning and exciting activities like hiking, tennis, rock climbing, and arts in the afternoon.
  
  5. Exceptional Safety and Care
  Your child’s well-being is our top priority. Our experienced team of counselors, educators, and activity leaders ensures that every camper feels safe, supported, and encouraged. With a low camper-to-staff ratio, every child receives personal attention.
  
  6. Stunning Natural Surroundings
  The French Alps offer the perfect playground for our campers. Surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and fresh alpine air, children reconnect with nature while exploring the great outdoors.
  
  7. Life-Changing Experiences
  Our camp is not just about fun; it’s about growth. Children leave with improved language skills, increased confidence, and unforgettable memories. Many return year after year, feeling more independent, resilient, and inspired.
  
  Choose International Language Camps for Your Child’s Adventure
  Give your child the gift of exploration, learning, and connection. Discover why International Language Camps is the ultimate choice for families looking to enrich their child’s summer with a unique and meaningful experience.
  
  Visit ILC Website Link to learn more and secure your spot today!
  
• why do you absolutely have to enroll your children in our summer camp?

  Enrolling your children in our Summer Camp in Megève, France, provides a rewarding experience. In the mornings, our language classes, whether in French or English, ensure a valuable linguistic immersion. Children develop their language skills in a stimulating environment, enhancing their ability to communicate effectively.

   

  The afternoons are dedicated to a variety of sports and artistic activities. Children have the opportunity to discover new passions, whether through dynamic physical activities or inspiring artistic projects. This diversity allows for overall growth, fostering creativity, self-confidence, and teamwork.

   

  The picturesque setting of Megève offers a safe and stimulating environment. Children are immersed in an atmosphere conducive to learning, surrounded by the natural beauty of the French Alps. Safety is our priority, and parents can have peace of mind when enrolling their children in our Summer Camp.

   

  By promoting bilingualism, we offer each child a valuable language skill that will be an asset in their educational and professional journey. Learning a language is not just an educational act but also an open door to a deeper understanding of cultures, thus reinforcing tolerance and open-mindedness.

   

  Moreover, our qualified instructors ensure that each child is supervised attentively. They create a caring environment, fostering autonomy and self-esteem. Activities are designed to stimulate physical, social, and emotional development, contributing to the balanced growth of each child.

   

  By enrolling your children in our Summer Camp, you are investing in their future, offering them language skills, enriching experiences, and lasting memories. We believe that this immersion is more than just a summer program; it is an opportunity for overall development in an exceptional setting.

   

  Megève, with its Alpine charm, also provides parents with the opportunity to enjoy their free time, exploring the region or relaxing in this picturesque landscape. In summary, our Summer Camp in Megève offers a holistic experience that combines education, entertainment, and adventure in an idyllic setting.

• News in 2021

  Dear parents and campers,

  following our ‘special’ experience with the camp this summer in Megeve we are very happy to announce that we are already preparing the next winter and summer camp. We learned a lot this summer and the camp was a great success, different from the other years and adapted fully to a covid sitution .We strictly respected all the measures that were imposed and the children enjoyed the mountains even more . Specially after a lockdown they were finally able to run and do activities freely outside. Mountains proved to be the best place to be in such a situation. Big spaces, outdoor activities, fresh air… all this and more made our campers very happy. We are very proud of what we have achieved this summer. We proved that it was possible to organize a camp in safe conditions. We also had quite a few ‘virtual’ campers and we are planning on organizing a virtual camp again next summer for those who might not be able to come.

  We have introduced a new cancellation policy due to a covid. All the students enrolled will be fully reimbursed in case:

  – we have to cancel the program

  – you cannot leave your country or enter France due to covid governemental orders

  – you cannot leave your home area in France due to covid governemental orders

  – covid health problems

  ---

  At the heart of the French Alps, in the prestigious village of Megève, the children spend an unforgettable summer surrounded by the beautiful mountains. EXCELLENCE, SAFETY AND FUN!
  What better way for them to engage in numerous sports and artistic activities than to be with young people from all over the world, to LIVE a foreign language? In the morning, they take language classes in small groups and by levels. The goal is to learn while playing, having fun and creating thanks to language, theater and civilization workshops. The afternoon is dedicated to different activities: golf, rafting, climbing, fishing, yoga or tree climbing. Once a week, the campers have the opportunity to explore the glacier Mer de Glace on the Mont Blanc or visit Annecy and its famous lake.
  The excellence of the program, the great experience and the safety of every child have made International Language Camps famous. From the reception at the airport – at the families’ convenience – until the end of the stay, the camp team is available at all times for parents to keep them informed about the well being of their children.
  An exciting and fun opportunity to learn not only a language but also to live with children from other countries and learn about their cultures.
  In the morning, we have language workshops but forget about school! With small groups, every camper participates and gets involved! They have language lessons but also a theater workshop and a civilization workshop where they can practice the language in a fun way. On Saturdays it’s show time! The campers put on a show that they’ve been preparing all week and it’s amazing to see how much fun they can have speaking a language they weren’t confident in at the beginning of the week. We have about 50% of the children that come from all over the world to learn French but also 50% of French children who come to learn English. This is a unique opportunity for the children learning French to actually practice the language with native speakers their own age.

  But it’s not all lessons and workshops. The afternoons are for fun, exciting activities. Being in the mountains and in the world-renowned village of Megève, there are so many activities to enjoy: rafting, climbing, swimming, hiking…. And these are just the obvious ones – every year we add new surprises.
  On Sundays, we have a field trip to amazing places such as the glacier ‘Mer de Glace’ on the Mont Blanc mountain range or the wonderful Lake Annecy – the Venice of the Alps.

  Our camps are so much fun and our dedicated multi-national team adds that extra touch. We like to keep things small and you can be assured that your child will be looked after as if in a big family. We are very proud of the excellence of our program and our staff.
  Next year we will welcome campers from July 4th to August 7th, 2021.

  We will propose 3 differents programs:
  – the Fun program for 6 to 9 year olds
  – the Adrenaline program for 10 to 13 year olds
  – the Mont-Blanc program for 14 to 17 year olds

  This year, camper can also choose options such as tennis, golf, Climbing and Dance lessons with a professional or Intensive language lessons in private lessons.

  VIRTUAL FUN LANGUAGE CAMPS
  While International Language Camps is well-known for its fun-filled Summer Camps, our team has worked tirelessly to move quickly and begin offering virtual programs. We are now ready to provide families with “Virtual Fun French and English Camps” of a high quality content for their children while they can’t join us this summer in Megève.

  We are offering a variety of Virtual French Classes using our Webroom platform so that our families can receive high-quality French content from the comfort and safety of their own homes!

  Our Virtual French Camps range from lighter academic- and fun-focused classes for youngsters to more rigorous academic programs for teens.

  We also offer flexible 1-on-1 online tutoring as well for children or adults for many languages (French, English, Spanish, German, Italian, Russian, Japanese and Chinese)

  There are several classes available, organized in 3 levels: Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced.

  Our French and English virtual programs will be available from Monday to Friday, 2h30/ day during summer and in the week-end during the year.

  We offer Fun and engaging programs to build verbal skills through a variety of fun activities for students aged 7 to 16.

  From their room, your child will travel with us and visit France- LE TOUR DE FRANCE for French Classes- or the USA- THE GREYHOUND BUS USA TOUR for English classes.

  Road Trip Games- Fun country and cultural discoveries
  Books, songs and more- A fun interactive hour for children in French/English immersion
  Arts and Crafts Club- Learn, Create, Imagine
  All of our classes are limited to a maximum of 6 students to guarantee the highest quality.

• Summer Camp and Security

  Given all the factors to consider when choosing a summer program, parents should look at the security of the Summer Camp. There are several things that must be considered: Location, facilities, staff, medical support and activities are points to consider as safe.

  Choosing a Great Summer Program: Advice for Parents

  What is a good program?
  Good summer programs encourage kids to learn new things about themselves and to explore unfamiliar activities. As you begin to research programs, you should ask how a program will influence your children now and in the future.

  What about ILC’s program?
  “At ILC Camps, we offer holidays and vacations with a multitude of activities and a complete language teaching program, all in the heart of the French Alps.  Children have the possibility to develop their linguistic skills and discover new activities and cultures.

  Our language programs not only offer an opportunity to learn a foreign language but also encourage campers to discover new cultures, to make new friends from around the world , to value different activities, to learn to live and work with others, to get involved with an international community and, most importantly, to blossom with this success.

  Everything is designed to establish an atmosphere of confidence and we encourage the campers to be active in their own learning, creating the desire to continue to learn and to communicate.

  11 questions to ask to evaluate the security of the camp

  Parents often ask about the ratio of campers to counselors. While that’s a valid question, the maturity and experience of the staff is of utmost importance. Here are 11 important questions concerning safety at ILC and our answers.

  1. What is the ratio of counselors to children?
     The staff/child ratio is above the current requirement by the French government. We have one adult for six children maximum.
  2. How do you select counselors?
     All our counselors have been carefully selected in accordance with ILC criteria for skills and experience in working with children. Our team members are selected for their experience with children, for their age and their training. They are all bilingual.

  All the service providers are qualified in their relevant activities (mountain guide, ski instructor…). Our dedicated and enthusiastic team of staff is 100% focused on the safety of the participants and the smooth running of the activities programs. Our staff are typically aged 18 to 28, and are fun, outdoors loving people from all over the world. All activity staff must be able to provide us with a copy of a police statement from their country of origin showing a clean record.

  1. Is there medical personnel on the staff?
     Our camps have a nurse and we have a doctor just near the camp.
  2. What would happen in the event of an emergency?
     In the event of illness or accident, we are only minutes away from our doctor. We have a hospital in Sallanches only 15 minutes away or just 5 minutes by helicopter.
  3. Do your counselors carry mobile phones in case of emergency?
     All our counselors carry a mobile phone at all times that allows them to react very quickly in case of emergency.
  4. Is the health insurance and accidents coverage included?
     Our company, our team and the participants are covered in case of: accident, civil responsibility, defense and assistance.

  Personal effects of minors are not covered (send clothing which is not expensive and not easily soiled).

  Repatriation of minors is not covered. We recommend you take out repatriation insurance.

  1. How do you deal with weather conditions?
     Sports and activities are practiced only in suitable conditions and we are well informed of any weather condition changes. If necessary we modify the day’s program according to the weather conditions.
  2. How are the kids supervised?
     Security is an essential part of our camps: the children are supervised 24 hours a day.  There’s always a counselor with them.
  3. What is the experience and history of your camp?
     ILC has been operating since 1994. The resort of Megève became the main base of ILC, a French ski resort with an international reputation.
• HOW WE MAKE THE DIFFERENCE:

  • The quality of the accommodations in a 4* hotel
  • Megève, an authentic Alpine ski resort with exceptional views in an environment
  which is friendly and secure
  • The quality of the staff who are permanently present with the children with a ratio
  of 1 qualified counselor to 6 campers
  • Smaller groups for language learning for better progression
  • The use of multimedia equipment for more fun and interactive lessons
  • Qualified and experienced teachers for language learning
  • Sporting activities run by professionals
  • An international clientele, a real cultural mix
  •More than 20 year experience of organizing camps

• About International Language Camps

  International Language Camp is a French Camp for children and teengers from 6 to 17 years old from all around the world.

  We are convinced that our camps are the best place to enjoy summer and winter vacations, Megève, a French si resort with an international reputation.

  We are the only camp organizers to propose accommodations of this quality.

  Our aim is to teach languages to children so they can progress and enrich their vocabulary while enjoying learning. 

  Livinq the Language"

  Participants have the opportunity to develop their linguistic skills and discover new activities and cultures.

  Our language and summer camp programs encourage campers to make new friends from around the world, to value different activities, to learn to live and work with others, to get involved with an international community and, most importantly, to blossom with this success.

   

  Everything is designed to establish an atmosphere of confidence and we encourage the campers to be active in their own learning, creating the desire to continue to learn and to communicate.