IMAGINE an opportunity to travel to the United States to participate in a fun, exciting and challenging immersion program that combines all the fun of a summer camp with the opportunity to improve English proficiency and a greater confidence in applying mathematical problem solving skills. This full immersion language program allows international kids to spend two weeks learning and playing with same-aged kids in the United States on the campus of one of the East Coast’s most prestigious boarding schools: George School. This is the opportunity of a lifetime!
EXPERIENCE the rich, multi-cultural and social experience of working and playing side by side with other kids from the United States. Achieve greater language fluency through this full immersion adventure. Make new friends in an ever-increasing connected world. This program is ideal for those who may consider attending a private, independent high school in the United States, or for those who just want to vastly improve their English language skills or math skills upon returning to their country of origin. This is the dream of a lifetime!
LIVE on the beautiful and prestigious campus of one of the top independent high schools in the United States: George School. Located on 265 acres of beautiful secluded and manicured campus in the heart of Bucks County, Pennsylvania, George School is conveniently located only 45 minutes from historic Philadelphia. George School has been educating and challenging our nation's top students since its inception in 1853. We have a strong belief that our program develops motivated and ultimately successful students. After spending time with us, we feel our students are equipped with the skills to be successful in all kinds of industries including finance, arts, life insurance, writing, and many more. The scenic and wooded campus contains air-conditioned dormitories, a 25-meter indoor swimming pool, 10 tennis courts, horseback riding, playing fields, a theater, state-of-the-art technology labs, as well as easy access to some of our country's greatest historical landmarks. Allow us the privilege of making your children's dreams come true.
George School, 1690 Newtown-Langhorne Road, Newtown, PA 18940
Program
Session Length
Trip Adventures
Travel Arrangements
Dates & Rates for 2010
Cell Phone & Computer Policy
Spending Money
Medical Forms
What to Bring
Daily Meals and Schedules
Camper Behavioral Contract
Medical Coverage & Information
Ownership
Select this link to see the Horizons USA brochure (PDF format).
What makes HORIZONS USA such a unique program?
Horizons maximizes three unique opportunities:
• Full immersion residential program for fast language learning and cultural exchange opportunity.
• Playing side by side with same-aged American kids each day in a variety of games and activities at the George School Day Camp.
• Academic advancement in our innovative Horizons Math and English Academy.
• Ages 10-16.
Each summer for the past 31 years, George School Day Camp has served the summer camp needs of nearly 275 kids ages 6-14. Throughout the structured day, campers participate in a wide variety of exciting games and activities as they work hand in hand and play side by side with same-aged peers from the United States. Whether participating in soccer, basketball, swimming, tennis, arts & crafts, archery, mountain biking, kayaking or any number of crazy kickball or large group games, campers will experience one of the areas best summer day camps right on the George School campus.
Following a fun day of games and activities at camp, HORIZONS campers will transition into the HORIZONS ENGLISH & MATH ACADEMY where, under the guidance of certified teachers, campers can choose to do both courses or focus primarily on just one. The certified instructors have been carefully chosen because they have proven proficient in their academic field. They have also demonstrated an ability to work with kids and understand how to make learning fun and effective for our campers.
Language: The course is taught in English (which will be the enforced language throughout the entire day). HORIZONS is designed to promote fast growth and development of vocabulary recognition and use, pronunciation and practice, and basic and intermediate grammar, with an emphasis on conversational language skills. Campers will be challenged to and provided with excellent opportunities to practice speech, conversation, and writing skills in a fun and relaxed atmosphere.
Mathematics: This course is designed primarily to foster creative thinking and problem solving strategies by applying mathematical and conceptual applications to given scenarios. Students will be guided through individual and group activities to arrive at solutions to the proposed challenges. These fun problem solving scenarios not only allow campers to apply mathematical concepts but also integrate language skills, communication skills and advanced problem solving techniques. Small group size and instructor excellence makes this a highly valued and productive course.
Teachers assign evening “homework” throughout the course. Many of these assignments are group related problem solving assignments where the process of working out a solution is as important as the answer.
Campers are guided through a resource period in which tutoring help is available to them as they progress through the educational course material or simply have questions or need encouragement. Our attentive tutors love working with kids and do a marvelous job relating and assisting in the work and in the process.
Horizons USA is a two-week session: July 25 through August 8, 2010. Please read the travel arrangement section carefully.
When the weekend comes, more fun begins! We have planned several valuable cultural and historical trip experiences for our campers.
CULTURAL, EDUCATIONAL & FUN WEEKEND TRIP ADVENTURES
Several weekend trip options have been planned. The cost of these trips (transportation, admission and entrance fees) are included in the cost of tuition. Lunch will also be provided. Campers will be reminded to bring spending money with them for any additional food, snacks and souvenirs they may want.
FREEDOM RISING!
A historical trip of AMERICAN INDEPENDENCE and LIBERTY
Campers will travel back in time to experience and feel the historic wonder of America’s legendary fight for independence in 1776 as they visit nearby historic Philadelphia. They will visit the birthplace the US Constitution, see the Liberty Bell, learn about the inventions of Benjamin Franklin and even eat a famous Philly cheesesteak!
IMMIGRATION EXPERIENCE
This trip to New York City will retrace the steps of those immigrants who decided to make their new life in the US. Campers will tour Ellis Island (gateway to America) and the famous Statue of Liberty. Campers will also see the original World Trade Center site. We’ll cap off this exciting day with a trip to the famous South Street Seaport where campers will enjoy and taste the many flavors of New York City.
EXPERIENCE AMERICA’S FAVORITE PASTIME SPORT
Campers will enjoy a minor league baseball game in the scenic riverside stadium in Camden, New Jersey. Campers can enjoy a grilled hot dog, an exciting baseball game and watch the sun go down across the Delaware River! It is picture perfect American event.
HOME STAY SPECIAL
We think one of the highlights of this immersion experience will be an extraordinary opportunity for an overnight home stay. Campers can practice their newly learned and refined language skills in a warm and friendly home of an American family. This home stay provides an excellent opportunity for reciprocal cultural growth and exchange between the camper and the host family.
INDEPENDENT SCHOOL TOUR/RECEPTION
One of the great things about Horizons USA is that it is located on the campus of one the nation's best independent high schools. George School is a boarding/day high school - grades 9-12. http://www.georgeschool.org Founded in 1893, George School is home to over 540 students, many of whom come from different states as well as different countries from around the world. Horizons USA campers will be received at a special guest reception sponsored by the George School Admissions Department. The reception will include a tour of the campus as well as an opportunity for campers to hear about the excellent educational opportunity that George School has to offer for their college preparation stage.
GAMES AND ACTIVITIES
Each day, Horizons USA campers will play side by side with same age American peers as they enjoy a variety of games and activities as part of the George School Summer Day Camp. Games and activities include: swimming, tennis, soccer, volleyball, hockey, basketball, softball, mountain biking, kayaking, archery, low ropes course, horseback riding, and more. Other non-sport related activities include arts & crafts, nature, stage and theater, dance, computers, off-campus trips, etc. We also do many activities which are designed to be fun games with crazy names such as: Jurassic Park, Rapid Fire Kickball, Capture the Golden Egg, Ga-Ga, etc. The games and activities are meant to be fun and enjoyed by everyone regardless of their experience or skill.
That's not all...
Campers may also take in a shopping trip to a nearby shopping mall, visit a museum, attend concerts and a movie, and play miniature golf and tennis, as well as attend area religious services. Campers can enjoy peaceful strolls around the tranquil campus of George School during their unstructured free time. The opportunities for making memories are endless and abundant!
Travel Arrangements to and from the United States
Air Transportation: Air transportation is the sole responsibility of each participating family. Parents must arrange and purchase a round-trip ticket for their child. We ask that all campers arrive at John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport on Sunday, July 25th between 11:45 AM and 2:00 PM Eastern Standard Time (United States time). Once your flight information has been confirmed, please email us the flight information (or fax: 215-491-3259) and we will arrange for ground transportation service from the airport to HORIZONS on the George School campus. Campers arriving after those times will be charged an additional $80 transportation fee.
Return Flight Transportation: All return flights should be arranged to depart from JFK International Airport between 11:45 AM and 2:00 PM on Sunday, August 8th. Ground transportation will be provided back to John F. Kennedy International Airport.
VISA Information.
You should consult with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate about necessary travel visa requirements. Below is some helpful information that may help in planning your child’s trip. The information below can be seen by visiting: http://travel.state.gov.
Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. The visa allows a foreign citizen, to travel to the United States port-of entry and request permission of the U.S. immigration inspector to enter the U.S. The "visitor" visa is a nonimmigrant visa for persons desiring to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1), for pleasure or medical treatment (B-2), or combination of both (B-1/B-2) purposes.
Business Visitor Visas (B-1) - For example, if the purpose for your planned travel is educational, then a business visitor visa (B-1) would be the appropriate type of visa for your travel. After reviewing this website information, should you need additional information about business related (B-1) visitor visas, select Business Travel to the United States – What Type of U.S. Visa Will You Need.
Pleasure, Tourism, Medical Treatment - Visitor Visas (B-2) - As examples, if the purpose of your planned travel is recreational in nature, including tourism, and amusement, then a visitor visa (B-2) would be the appropriate type of visa for your travel.
Currently, 35 countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program, as shown below:
Andorra |
Iceland |
Norway |
Australia |
Ireland |
Portugal |
Austria |
Italy |
San Marino |
Belgium |
Japan |
Singapore |
Brunei |
Latvia |
Slovakia |
Czech Republic |
Liechtenstein |
Slovenia |
Denmark |
Lithuania |
South Korea |
Estonia |
Luxembourg |
Spain |
Finland |
Malta |
Sweden |
France |
Monaco |
Switzerland |
Germany |
the Netherlands |
United Kingdom |
Hungary |
New Zealand |
|
Session Dates
Sunday, July 25th to Sunday, August 8th, 2010
Note: Campers must arrange arriving flight into JFK International Airport in New York between 11:45 AM and 2:00 PM on Sunday, July 25th. Departing flight from JFK International Airport must also be arranged for between 11:45 AM and 2:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 8th.
Deposit and Registration
To register your child for this amazing opportunity, complete the following steps.
1. Register online by clicking here.
2. Pay non-refundable $500 deposit at time of registration to reserve your child’s placement.
To reach us by mail:
HORIZONS USA
c/o Camp Concepts
560 Center St.
Warrington, Pa. 18976
Fax: 215-491-3259
Phone: 267-261-4098
Email: campconcepts@comcast.net
Website: http://www.campconcepts.org
HORIZONS USA 2010 TUITION FEE $2,580 USD
DATES:
Arrival: Sunday, July 25, 2010
Departure: Sunday, August 8, 2010
Tuition includes room and board, all meals, admission and entrance fees to all weekend trips, exciting day camp activities and night time activities, a free Horizons USA camper t-shirt, transportation to and from John F. Kennedy International Airport to Horizons USA camp at George School. Round trip airfare is the sole responsibility of the camper's family. Tuition does not include discretionary spending money. Please refer to SPENDING MONEY section below. Initial deposit required at time of registration is $500 (US currency).
Sibling Discount: There is a $350 discount for 2nd child from the same family.
Balance of tuition money is due by APRIL 15th. If, for whatever reason, a camper withdraws between April 16 and May 15th, families will be charged a cancellation fee of $400 and all other tuition monies (less initial $500 deposit) will be refunded. No refunds will be awarded after May 16th. Any outstanding balance after that time can jeopardize your child's attendance at HORIZONS USA and families may be assessed a $100 late payment penalty. You can pay your deposit and/or balance from our secure payment site by clicking here.
Refund Policy: No refunds will be given after July 1st. Select this link to review payment policies.
We believe that camp is an opportunity for campers to learn independence. In order to help kids develop a healthy sense of independence, we encourage campers and parents to communicate by email rather than through phone calls. All campers need an adjustment period that will help reduce anxiety and alleviate homesickness. Upon arrival to HORIZONS, we encourage campers to place a call home to let parents know they have arrived safely. We do not want campers using their phones during the first week of camp. This will go a long way in allowing the kids to adjust to their new routine. After that first week, kids are permitted to call home during their evening free times. Phones are not permitted any time during the camp day. If it is urgent that you speak with your child, please call either the HORIZONS USA camp office with Camp Concepts (at 267-261-4098) or the dorm supervisor who will arrange a time for the child to take the call.
We strongly encourage parents and families to write to campers (letters or emails); they are very appreciative of letters from home. George School has wireless Internet connections in various locations on campus including our residential dormitories. Campers may bring a laptop with them but it is not required. Campus computer labs are easily accessible. You will want to make sure campers travel with the proper voltage converter and adapters.
If your child is having a difficult time adjusting to camp, or if there are any other questions or concerns, we will definitely call to discuss them with you. Our staff has been trained to work with campers who are homesick.
SKYPE: If you have a SKYPE account, we can set up SKYPE sessions!
We suggest that campers travel with additional discretionary spending money. Every person’s spending habits are different. Please discuss with your child how they will/should spend the money they travel with. We recommend that each camper travels with between $400 and $700 in American currency. Camper money will be kept in a locked safe. Written verification of the amount of money that is deposited will be provided to each camper. Campers may withdraw any amount of money they need or want. Campers will simply sign a verification form for each withdrawal made. Camp Concepts will not tell campers how they can spend their money. We expect that all families will discuss spending habits prior to their arrival at camp. In addition, some families also choose to send campers with a Visa/Debit purchasing card.
All necessary medical forms must be submitted by May 1st. It is very difficult for us to track down forms so please take the necessary steps to make sure those forms are submitted in advance of the due date. You may fax medical information or records to us at 215-491-3259.
To ensure the safety of all campers, HORIZONS USA requires verification on the camper history of the following immunizations:
• MMR (2 shots)
• POLIO (2 shots)
• TETANUS, DIPTHERIA, and PERTUSSIS (Booster within last 7 years)
• HEPATITIS B (3 shots)
• VARICELLA (or proof of illness)
• PPD (Purified Protein Derivative- Tuberculosis test)
Please be sure to check off the immunization shots your child has received and indicate the date of the last shot when completing the online Medical Emergency Form.
We recommend all campers have a physical before coming to camp. PLEASE MAKE YOUR DOCTOR APPOINTMENT WELL IN ADVANCE OF ARRIVAL.
Suggested Packing List
CLOTHING:
Average summer temperatures in eastern Pennsylvania range from 80 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and 65-75 degrees at night. Dorm rooms are air conditioned.
Socks (8-10 pair)
Underwear (10)
Pajamas or nightgown (2)
Lightweight shirts/T-shirts (10-12)
Sweatshirt or hooded sweatshirt (1)
Shorts (8 pair)
Long pants or jeans (3 pair)
Rain jacket or poncho or umbrella
Sweatpants (2)
Bathing suits (2 or 3) Swimming everyday, sometimes twice a day
Towels: bath (2), beach (2)
Flip flops (1 pair)
Sneakers (2 pair) (flip flops not permitted during camp day)
Shoes- nice occasions or church visits
Tevas or water shoes
One dressy outfit for Sunday church or Independent School reception events
OTHER ESSENTIALS
2 fitted sheets, pillow, and 2 pillowcases
toilet kit for personal hygiene products
large laundry bag (name tagged- mesh is preferred)
backpack for weekend day trips
flashlight (name tagged)
Camera (batteries and/or charger) necessary adapter for US electricity current.
Valuables
Please be selective when deciding to bring irreplaceable valuables with you to camp. We cannot be responsible for lost or stolen items.
Personal Listening Devices, iPods, and Video Games
We realize these items are important to kids. Whereas we do not ban them from being brought on this trip, we do limit their use to evening free times and on weekend free times or in dorm rooms. We also remind campers that they are responsible for these valuable items.
Luggage Weight & Packing Restrictions
Most airlines restrict the number of bags and the total weight of the luggage. Please check with your airline as to their packing limitations.
Daily Meals
Campers will eat daily meals in the full service dining room at George School. Each meal consists of a variety of main entrée items, fresh fruit, fresh salad and vegetables, and fresh, home-baked desserts.
Daily Schedule and Activities
Typical Monday through Friday sample schedule:
7:00 a.m. Rise and shine
7:45 a.m. Breakfast
8:15 a.m. Room inspection
8:45 a.m. Dorm meeting
9:00 a.m. Camp day begins
2:45 p.m. Camp day ends
3:00 to 5:00 p.m. English/Math Academy
5:00-5:45 p.m. Clean up for dinner
5:45-6:30 p.m. Dinner
6:30-8:00 p.m. Resource Time- individual/team study hall for English and Math Academy
8:30-9:45 p.m. Free time, special events, movies, swimming, games, etc.
10:30 p.m. Lights out.
One of the things that make this experience so valuable is that during the day, campers are fully immersed and engaged in various games and activities with same age, American kids. The George School Day Camp has been in operation since 1977 and seeks to provide campers with the exposure to a wide variety of fun games and activities. Some of these activities include: archery, mountain biking, kayaking, indoor rock climbing, various individual and team sports, swimming in the 25-meter, indoor pool, and more. These activities take place from 8:45 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Example of Saturday Schedule:
8:30 a.m. Rise and shine
9:00 a.m. Breakfast
9:00 a.m-10:00 a.m. Room inspection/laundry
10:00 a.m-4:00 p.m. Day trips
5:30 p.m. Dinner
6:15 p.m. Free time
7:00 to 9:00 p.m. Social hour-games, special activities, camp fire, etc.
Example of Sunday Schedule:
8:30 a.m. Rise and shine
9:00 a.m. Breakfast
9:45 a.m. Religious Services- choice of attending Quaker Meeting for Worship on the campus of George School, attending a local church or other local non-denominational church service.
12:30 p.m. Lunch
1:00-4:00 p.m. Free time
5:30 p.m. Dinner
6:15 p.m. Dorm Meeting
6:30 -7:30 p.m. Resource Study Hall to prepare for upcoming week
7:30-9:30 Activity Period
10:00 Ready for bed/ Lights out
Whereas participation in Camp Concepts’ Horizons USA is voluntary, campers and parents need to understand that we rely on camp acceptance and understanding that it is the responsibility of each camper to follow written and unwritten rules of safe behavior while enrolled in Horizons USA. We will work hard to instill a sense of community within the camp. Towards that end, we expect campers and staff to work together in a spirit of mutual respect. Each camper needs to accept responsibility for his/her own actions but should also look out for the best interest of others as well. We understand that even good kids may make a bad decision or use poor judgment at times, and we will address those situations with care and concern for each individual involved. However, there are those extreme situations when campers will not be given a second chance and may be asked to leave Horizons USA.
Types of things that will not be tolerated: use of illegal drugs or alcohol, threats or acts of violence or aggression, stealing, leaving dormitory or campus without staff supervision, consistent disrespect and disobedience. Again, we work very hard to handle each situation with care and concern and certainly do not expect any problems. Parent and camper must sign the behavioral contract on the registration form that clearly states that if a camper were to be asked to leave Horizons USA due to bad behavior, it would be at the sole expense of the family to immediately book and pay for a return flight and no tuition would be refunded. Please speak to your child in advance of departure so they understand these expectations.
We strongly encourage all campers to purchase additional camper medical coverage. This provides coverage for any unforeseen emergency treatment that may be required during their stay. There are many such programs available. One program is http://www.europusa.com. You should also check with your insurance carrier to see if your insurance will be accepted in the United States. Any uncovered medical expenses will be the responsibility of the registering family. St. Mary’s Medical Center is less than 1 mile from the George School campus. A Registered Nurse is employed by the camp and available from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM.
Ownership:
Horizons USA is owned and operated by Camp Concepts, Steve Haines, President. Camp Concepts owns and operates several summer camp opportunities for kids including Little Buds, Expressions, Summer Explosion, Summer Blast, and the Cougar Sports Camps. If you have any questions, please call Steve Haines, 267-261-4098 or email at: campconcepts@comcast.net.
Mail: 560 Center Street, Warrington, PA 18976
Email: campconcepts@comcast.net
Phone: Steve Haines: 267-261-4098
Fax: 215-491-3259
EIN#: 74-3082740
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