FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1 – WHERE

2 – WHEN

3 – LANGUAGE

4 – REGISTRATION AND FORMS

5 – WHAT TO DELIVER ON ARRIVAL AT THE CAMP OR DEPARTURE BY BUS

6 – TRAVEL

7 – EXTERNAL ACTIVITIES

8 – OUTDOOR/TREKKING

9 – FOOD

10 – GROUPS AND FACILITY

11 – CANCELLATION POLICIES

12 – HEALTH CARE

13 – CONTACTS

14 – VALUABLES AND MONEY

15 – COVID

16 – PHOTOS

1 – WHERE

Where is the Camp held?

The International Camp Sancelso is held in Castione at the Casa Vacanze Villa Sanceso: the address is via Risorgimento 42, 24020 Castione della Presolana (BG).

The Camp was once held in Bellamonte: is this location still available?

The Camp has Castione as its only location: in this location we organised Camps from 1968 to the early 2000s and then again in summer 2022!

2 – WHEN

When is the Camp held?

The International Camp Sancelso will be held from June 23, 2024 to August 10, 2024. This year we are offering something new: 3 periods of 2 weeks! Our experience has led us to prefer longer shifts, because only in this way can everyone have an unforgettable experience: getting to know each other and establishing friendships that will be remembered for a lifetime, having time to experiment, observe and reflect.

Are these periods of one week or two?

We offer 3 one-week period and 3 two-week periods.
ONE WEEK periods: 23 June – 29 June; 28 July – 3 August; 4 August – 10 August.
TWO WEEK periods: 30 June – 13 July; July 14 – July 27; July 28 – August 10.

All periods refer to the year 2024.

What if I want to participate in longer periods (e.g., three or four weeks)?

Feel free to contact us before enrolling: together we will find the most suitable solution for your children.

3 – ENGLISH

Are all the tutors/counsellors native english speakers?

Our counsellors are either native English speakers or foreigners and Italians with a Celta, IELTS, TOEFL or similar certificate: this ensures that the common language is necessarily English, so that our participants can experience a true full immersion in the language.

Can you see results after only one week?

A full language immersion program allows participants to put into practice and consolidate on a daily basis the experiences gained during the school year. At International Camp Sancelso our counsellors can take advantage of every useful moment of the day (e.g. evening entertainment activities) and every opportunity (e.g. “bed time”, “wake up”, choice of clothing and equipment necessary for activities and excursions) to pass on knowledge of the language, and the participants’ little challenge will be to relate to those in charge with a language other than their own by practicing day after day and moment after moment, thus putting their skills and knowledge into practice. Taking part in an educational vacation, even a short one, which is as complete as possible from a linguistic point of view, allows children and young people to assimilate the language and learn it spontaneously, especially in moments of real social interaction.

Are there many foreign participants?

The International Camp Sancelso caters for participants of all nationalities: over the years we have hosted children and teenagers from all over the world (China, Japan, England, USA, Oman, Russia, Latvia, France, Austria, Germany, Switzerland, Venezuela…); last year we have had an increase of registrations from abroad, which has allowed to create a truly international atmosphere!

Do the kids speak Italian among themselves? 

Among Italians, the kids will always want to express themselves using their mother tongue; the fundamental ‘challenge’ that they will face at the International Camp will be to relate to foreign participants: in this case the desire to create a new and interesting international friendship will push them to practice as never before!

4 – REGISTRATION AND FORMS

How can I apply?

You can fill out the online application form.

If one of the periods is not listed on the form is it possible to apply anyway?

NO, in this case the maximum number of participants for the period has been reached. Please write to us at internationalcamp@sancelso.com to be added to our waiting list in case a place becomes available.

Is there a regulation to follow?

Yes, there are RULES to be followed and approved expressly at the time of registration. Any violation of the same provides that the participant in the Camp can be removed from the structure. NOTE in this case the Management has no obligation to provide for the organization and the cost of the return trip of the participant.

When is the application considered effective?

The application is considered effective when the deposit (€ 300,00) has been made.

What documents should I upload when filling out the online application form?

We kindly ask you to upload a copy of the

• Participant I.D. (rename the file as “lastnameParticipant_firstnameParticipant_ID”)
• Participant Health Card or Insurance valid for Italy (rename the file as “lastnameParticipant_firstnameParticipant_health_card”)
• Participant Vaccination Certificate with all the previous vaccinations (rename the file as “lastnameParticipant_firstnameParticipant_vaccination_certificate”)
• if necessary Medical Certificate Food Allergies/Intolerances (rename the file as “lastnameParticipant_firstnameParticipant_food_certificate”)
• if necessary Medical Certificate Pathologies and Therapies in progress (rename the file as “lastnameParticipant_firstnameParticipant_therapies_certificate”)
• Download and print the PERSONAL EXPENSES AND EXTERNAL SPORTS ACTIVITIES FORM

NOTE for partecipants extra UE it is necessary to provide an Health Insurance.

Do I need a medical certificate for non-competitive sports activities?

NO, the proposed activities are recreational and playful and for this reason it is not necessary a medical certificate stating the health of the child for non-competitive sports activities. However, any health problems, diseases or chronic disorders must be clearly indicated when filling out the online application form.

Is it possible to make an appointment in person with the International Camp Sancelso staff?

YES, from May 2nd to June 14th in our office in Milan, via Pinamonte da Vimercate 6.

What is the IBAN reference?

Here it is: Sancelso srl IBAN: IT02F0501811200000011609419 – BIC (o SWIFT) ETICIT22XXX

What are the details of the company?

Here they are: SANCELSO SRL, via Pinamonte da Vimercate 6, 20121 Milan, REA No. 1698587, C.F. 03743780961

5 – WHAT TO DELIVER ON ARRIVAL AT THE CAMP OR DEPARTURE BY BUS

Is it necessary to deliver something at the departure BY BUS of the Camp to the Camp organizers?

YES: we kindly ask to deliver directly to the person in charge at the departure in Milan a sealed envelope, marked with the name and surname of the participant, containing:

• the filled personal expenses form;
• the fee (optional) for travel (see: FAQ section 6 – TRAVEL, How much does the bus service cost?);
• the fee (mandatory) for external activities (see: FAQ section 7 – EXTERNAL ACTIVITIES, Is the fee for external activities included in the registration fee?);
• the money for the participant’s personal expenses (see: FAQ section 12 – VALUABLE OBJECTS AND MONEY How much money should be brought for small personal expenses (‘pocket money’)?

Is it necessary to deliver something UPON ARRIVAL AT THE CAMP, IF ACCOMPANIED BY PARENTS, to the management?

YES: at the check-in we kindly ask to deliver a sealed envelope, marked with the name and surname of the participant, containing:

• the filled personal expenses form;
• the fee (optional) for travel (see: FAQ section 6 – TRAVEL, How much does the bus service cost?);
• the fee (mandatory) for external activities (see: FAQ section 7 – EXTERNAL ACTIVITIES, Is the fee for external activities included in the registration fee?);
• the money for the participant’s personal expenses (see: FAQ section 12 – VALUABLE OBJECTS AND MONEY How much money should be brought for small personal expenses (‘pocket money’)?

6 – TRAVEL

Where do the buses leave from?

We have two different pick-up points, both from Milan: Piazzale Lotto 15, Milan(in front of the Lido di Milano) and Via Guido Gozzano 19, Cinisello Balsamo (parking lot of Metro Cash&Carry). For information on times and dates of departure and arrival, see the TRAVEL section of the website.

Where do the buses arrive at the end of the study vacation?

The pick-up points are the same as on the outward journey; we recommend that parents be punctual when dropping off their children and be patient if there are delays due to traffic. For information regarding times and dates of departure and arrival, please refer to the TRAVEL section of the website.

Is the cost of the bus service included in the registration fee?

NO; it has a separate cost, see: FAQ section 6 – TRAVEL How much does the bus service cost?.

Can I accompany my child in person?

YES; the address is Casa Vacanze Villa Sancelso, via Risorgimento 42, 24020 Castione della Presolana (BG). For the check in time please refer to the TRAVEL section of the website.

Can I accompany my child in person but use the bus service for the return?

YES; we kindly ask you to include this information in your application form. Any subsequent changes must be communicated promptly and clearly to internationalcamp@sancelso.com.

Can I use the bus service for the outward journey but come in person to pick up my child at the end of the stay?

YES; for information regarding schedules, departure dates and check out time from the hotel please refer to the TRAVEL section.

How much does the bus service cost?

The fee required for a one-way trip is €45.00, while the fee for a round trip is €90.00. Transportation is guaranteed by private bus with assistance.

Can I arrange a pick up service from an airport?

For additional information please refer to the TRAVEL section. 

7 – EXTERNAL ACTIVITIES

What are the external activities?

External activities are experiences that are part of the Camp program and allow children and teens to enjoy sports and small adventures while participating in the learning vacation; two days a week are dedicated to external activities. They are loved by the participants!

8 – OUTDOOR/TREKKING

Do I need a sleeping bag?

YES: one night in a tent in a mountain hut is planned, so it is necessary to bring it with you. NOTE: This program may be subject to change in case of bad weather.  In general, we consider the experience of a night in a tent or hut to be very important in the growth path of children and young people, and we will do our utmost to guarantee it.

Do you need mountain boots?

Yes, they are essential for walking.

What kind of clothing do you recommend?

We recommend a ‘layered’ (or ‘onion’) clothing with fleece, long and short pants, light windbreaker, a daily change of underwear. A hat and sunglasses are very important. For further information please refer to the section ‘clothing’ in INFO.

Is there a laundry service?

Only in case of need, a free laundry service is available: for hygienic reasons, washing is done at high temperature and with disinfectants and therefore not suitable for delicate and expensive items.

9 – FEEDING

What will the diet be like at Camp?

The stay includes full board with a varied menu, balanced and healthy, oriented to organic products.

If my child has food intolerances or allergies could this be a problem?

NO, but it is important to communicate it in writing at least one week before the beginning of the stay.

Do I need a medical certificate?

YES: any food intolerances or allergies must necessarily be justified by a valid medical certificate; if the medical certificate is not shown, these indications cannot be followed.

10 – GROUPS AND FACILITY

How will the children be divided?

Depending on their age in groups of about 20 children and young people, assigned to two counsellors. The ratio of participants/counselors will therefore be about 1 to 10 and the groups will be composed of peers or participants of a very similar age (e.g. 6 and 7 years old).

How will the children sleep in their rooms?

The division into rooms will respect the division into groups, so participants will only sleep in a room with children/young people from the same group.

How many beds are in the rooms?

Four-bed rooms with private bathrooms.

Do you prefere your children to be roomed toghether?

Only if participant are same age it is possible to request to be in the same room.

How can I make the request?

by writing an email to internationalcamp@sancelso.com indicating name and surname of the participants.

IMPORTANT: for organizational reasons requests for rooms will only be considered untill Sunday May 21st 2023 (30 days from the start of camp).

Will boys and girls sleep in the same room?

NO: there will be no mixed rooms under any circumstances.

Will the educators sleep next to them?

The counsellors (educators) will sleep next to the children and young people in their group, often right in the next room or in some cases, depending on the availability of beds and the organisation of the rooms, a bed in the participants’ room will be reserved for the educator. This ensures constant assistance, even at night.

Will my child/ren have to bring their own towels?

YES: we ask that the towels (bathrobe; towels for face/hands and bidet) be provided by the parents, as it is important that they are absolutely personal.

Should my child bring shampoo/soap?

YES: we ask that the personal cleaning products (shampoo, soap, bath foam) be provided by the parents: we prefer that they bring their own trusted products, to which they are already accustomed, in order to respect the dermatological sensitivity of children and young people.

11 – CANCELLATION POLICIES

Can I cancel my child’s stay?

Yes, but in case of cancellation the participant must pay:

• 50% of the fee if the cancellation is communicated in writing up to 30 days before the beginning of the stay;
• 100% if the cancellation is communicated in writing after that date.

Can I cancel my child’s stay while he/she at the Camp?

YES, parents have the ability to withdraw the participant from the stay at any time and for any reason, for example, sudden alternative vacation, change of parents’ vacation, family problems or bereavement, or in the case of supposed dissatisfaction of the participant: EVEN in the latter case, the management, aware of its correct work, the long and deep experience gained and offered, the complete fulfillment of the services offered and the correct work of their counsellors (educators) will not respond to requests for refunds.

If my child has to be removed from the Camp for disciplinary reasons am I entitled to a refund?

NO: in case the participant violates the RULES the family will not be entitled to any refund, in addition, in this case the management has no obligation to provide for the organization and expenses of the return trip of the participant, and if it should provide the same, the family will be charged a cost of return of € 180.00 (cab service).

What if there are problems related to the ongoing epidemiological emergency (COVID- 19)?

In this case, the organizers reserve the right to cancel the stay for reasons related to the epidemiological emergency by COVID-19, giving back in full and only the amount paid if the stay is cancelled before the beginning.

Insurance coverage: safe holiday!

12 – HEALTH CARE

My son/daughter is undergoing medical treatment. Can he/she continue to do so at Camp?

YES: in this case the family must communicate these indications in writing at least one week before the beginning of the stay, provide the medicines and a valid medical certificate with a clear dosage. Please note that the health care of the Camp is generic and in case of need the Camp uses the tourist medical service and local hospital assistance; in any case the communication with the family will be clear and timely.

13 – CONTACTS

What is the e-mail address of reference?

Here it is: internationalcamp@sancelso.com. We will answer as soon as possible.

What is the telephone number of the Milan office? When can I contact you?

Here it is: +39 026551716. We are gladly available for the entire period before the start of the Camp, from Monday to Friday, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and from 2.30 p.m. to 5.00 p.m..

What is the phone number of the Camp? 

Here it is: +39 0346 60051: Casa Vacanze Villa Sancelso, via Risorgimento 42, 24020 Castione della Presolana (BG).

When can I call the Camp (secretary)?

During the Camp period, from June 23, 2024 to August 10, 2024, in the morning from 9:00 to 11:00.

Can I talk to my child?

Calling the structure (+39 034660051) it will be possible to speak with the participant only during the hours of phone calls, between 20:00 and 21:00; our advice, based on years of experience, is not to call every day to facilitate a proper integration of the participant in the Camp: often during the phone call at home you notice an ’emotional peak’ favored by voice contact that is absolutely not a mirror of the daily life of the participant! In any case, in the event of an emergency or need, we will immediately contact the parents by phone.

Can I talk to the management?

YES, the Camp directors are always available.

Can I speak with my child’s counselor/educator?

YES, our counsellors/educators are always available: please ask to be put in touch with them during phone call hours (between 20:00 and 21:00) at the number +39 0346 60051 (secretary).

14 – VALUABLES AND MONEY

What about valuables (headphones, money, video games, MP3 players, cell phones, cameras, GoPro…)?

We do not recommend bringing valuables with you: in any case, we recommend that you always hand them over to the Camp secretary for safekeeping. We are not responsible in case of theft, loss or damage of personal items of the participants if this provision is not observed: in any case, the Management is not responsible for any object when it is given to the participant for use or at the time of packing and traveling to or from home.

What about money?

Money for small personal expenses will be kept in the secretary’s office and given in small amounts (5/10.00 €) to participants.

How much money to bring for small personal expenses (‘pocket money’)?

The amount is at the discretion of the parents; we suggest a maximum amount of 50,00 € per week. By personal expenses we mean the small expenses that each participant sustain during the vacation (e.g., drinks at the bar, entrance to museums and shows, any medical examinations and personal medicines, etc.).

At the end of the Camp will be given to the participant a report of their small personal expenses, and what is not spent will be returned and placed in the suitcase at the time of departure: from that moment on, it will be under the responsibility of the participant.

15 – COVID

What about summer 2024?

For summer 2024 we will comply with the regulations in force during the reference period: we will notify parents as soon as possible. The activities may be subject to changes in reference to the emergency legislation related to the current pandemic: the organizers reserve the right to cancel the stay for reasons related to the epidemiological emergency by COVID- 19.

Will there be contact with people outside the Camp?

YES, for excursions and external activities, but attendance at crowded places will be avoided and will be organised in such a way as to guarantee the exclusivity of participants or due measures on distancing.

16 – PHOTOS

Can I see photos of my child?

During the study vacation, photos will be frequently posted on the Facebook page ‘Sancelso International Camp – Private Group 2023’, a closed and private group to participate in which you will need to answer specific questions related to your enrollment.

The photographs will be general and we will NOT be able to respond to specific requests from parents, as the collection of photographic material is considered incidental to the conduct of the Camp and subordinate to the activities. We ask for patience and understanding if your child does not appear in the photographs every day and assure parents that the participant is still having a great time!

Personal data of photographic and/or video type may be used by Sancelso srl for information and advertising purposes (e.g. social), including publication in the press and on the website “www.internationalcamp.it”.