“We tested water balloons and I was a practice target”
Why on earth would you sacrifice part of your summer vacation to go to a language camp? Well, let me guide you through my experiences and maybe I can convince you to join us next year!
For me, going on a language camp with Roeland feels more like going on a holiday, but… in French. Even though (for the +12 age groups) we speak French all day long, it is simply the intention to have fun together and to enjoy ourselves. All our activities are built around the having fun part: we have sports moments, big games, we organize crafts - and improvisation workshops, we go on field trips, we invent evening activities, and so much more.
Chillax mood
What makes Roeland so unique to me is the spirit of friendship. It’s always present and therefore very noticeable. For example, there is room for dialogue with the young ones about possible adjustments to the schedule and content of the activities, and ideas can be suggested to the people in charge. And most importantly: there is plenty of room to make mistakes. Because the best way to learn a language is to speak it and use it actively.
I was able to experience all of this when I went to language camp as a participant (almost six years ago). I always had a lot of fun there and at the same time I learned to organize my daily life in French and, most importantly, to dare to speak it.
Try out delicious recipes
I was so taken by that feeling that now, many years later, I have enjoyed being a part of the logistics team (I am also a first aid manager) for three years now. In that capacity, I try to give the children an unforgettable time, just like I had when I was a participant.
I enjoy trying out tasty recipes while the students repose at the dinner table, I chat with my colleagues while doing the dishes. I surprise everyone with my famous homemade brownies (eating them usually takes a lot less time than baking them; p) and I become a practice target for testing sponges and water balloons for the water games.
Logistics employee in heart and soul
People wonder why I don't become an activity leader, but I just feel that I am in the right place as a logistics employee. Going the extra mile, helping others to prepare the activities, making sure that everyone is having a great time: I really enjoy doing all that.
Being part of a fantastic team, where I can just be myself and have a lot of fun while maintaining my French speaking ability: that sounds like a wonderful vacation to me!
Won't you take my word for it when I tell you that a language camp can be great fun? Become a volunteer and find out for yourself, this next summer!
Katrijn Van Diest
Logistics volunteer
Douce France
