Real
Learning
Take a look at some of the comments on the right from former pupils and you'll see that ECS is about much more than just learning English, important though that is.
We aim for every part of the day to be an opportunity for real learning: in classes and workshops, on the sports field, in the boarding houses and during free time.
By Real Learning we mean learning that is relevant, engaging and deeply understood. In workshops like cookery, drama and photography pupils learn real-world skills that not only may help with their career but will also give them pleasure for life. Because pupils choose to attend particular workshops they are naturally interested. This kind of direct, self-motivated, physical learning is powerful, memorable and lasting.
On the sports field too pupils learn the fun of friendly competition and how to work as a team. They learn new physical skills and how to accept success and defeat gracefully. They strengthen the relationship between body and mind. They begin to understand that practice makes perfect and discover the great feelings of energy and relaxation that come from regular exercise.
Pupils continue learning in free time. The school grounds are extensive, with woodland, ponds, even a small river. Whether it is little ones jumping, laughing and playing in the school playgrounds or older children exploring in the natural environment, we provide an opportunity for kids to be kids, learning through play that is physical, exploratory, constructive, imaginative and social.
Teens also have a tremendous amount to learn from each other. 'Just hanging out together' is a powerful vehicle of education. We encourage the free exchange of ideas between pupils from different countries and cultures who become more open-minded and respectful towards each other while they explore each others mind through language.
Our adventure camp also provides an ideal setting for exploration and discovery. Age-mixed activities allow younger children to learn skills and sophisticated ways of thinking from older ones; older children learn how to nurture, lead and in general be the mature person in a relationship. Add to this the sense of community and wonder (think camp fire under the stars..) and physical challenge that comes from a technology-free camp in very beautiful natural surroundings and you will appreciate that this is a very special learning environment.
It is difficult to fully articulate all of the learning opportunities that we provide at ECS. Suffice to say we are professional educators who know our limitations, understand the inherent capacity of children to learn from each other; and provide time, space and opportunity for them to do so.
© Christopher Etchells
ECS, November 2018
Real Learning
"ECS gave me a unique opportunity to meet people from multicultural backgrounds, improve my English and develop open mindedness." (Beatrice, from Poland)
“ECS is not only about learning English, but about acquiring tolerance, respect and interest for diversity without even realising it.” (Elena, from Belgium)
“I learnt to be independent, to take care of myself, to make new friends, to be open to other cultures, to be curious about the world and how it works…” (Fabiola, from Italy)
“ECS taught me how to depend on myself and adapt to new places and different people.” (Shahd, from Egypt)