Summer Programs
In This Section
Château des Enfants (CDE)
Ages 7-10
Features
- Choose between English, French, or Italian as main language course (approx. 2 hours per day), take part in daily STEAM classes
- Select a morning sport or activity
- Explore Switzerland on day-trips and cultural visits, and participate in an optional camping adventure
Courses
![English as an Additional Language (EAL)]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1623744908/tasislugano/yng8k6tkt6m938pz9p1o/CDE_EAL_thumb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1623744908/tasislugano/yng8k6tkt6m938pz9p1o/CDE_EAL_thumb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1623744908/tasislugano/yng8k6tkt6m938pz9p1o/CDE_EAL_thumb.jpg","width":750}])
CDE offers a truly immersive English-language learning experience. English is the language of instruction and communication program-wide, and the courses offer students time to practice and build on their existing skills. Class sizes are small and cater to beginning, intermediate, and advanced learners.
![STEAM class]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1666000748/tasislugano/qe8fy49djoddwiagiqm1/summer_viewbook_CDE_italian_thumb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1666000748/tasislugano/qe8fy49djoddwiagiqm1/summer_viewbook_CDE_italian_thumb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1666000748/tasislugano/qe8fy49djoddwiagiqm1/summer_viewbook_CDE_italian_thumb.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1666000748/tasislugano/qe8fy49djoddwiagiqm1/summer_viewbook_CDE_italian_thumb.jpg","width":900}])
CDE Italian classes are immersed in the culture and language of Ticino, the only Italian-speaking Swiss canton. This course teaches vocabulary and phrases that children can use when off-campus (learning how to order gelato is a favorite) as well as Italian culture. It is designed for beginning or intermediate learners.
![French]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1623744909/tasislugano/g0oprlfo2657yhqold0h/CDE_French_thumb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1623744909/tasislugano/g0oprlfo2657yhqold0h/CDE_French_thumb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1623744909/tasislugano/g0oprlfo2657yhqold0h/CDE_French_thumb.jpg","width":750}])
This course introduces students to a variety of French-speaking countries and cultures while focusing on vocabulary and phrases that help students build their confidence. This course is designed for beginning or intermediate learners.
![Performing Arts]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1699541643/tasislugano/sqoefdofjdytzlubqhan/CDE_Musical_Theater_thumb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1699541643/tasislugano/sqoefdofjdytzlubqhan/CDE_Musical_Theater_thumb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1699541643/tasislugano/sqoefdofjdytzlubqhan/CDE_Musical_Theater_thumb.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1699541643/tasislugano/sqoefdofjdytzlubqhan/CDE_Musical_Theater_thumb.jpg","width":1200}])
Talented performing arts professionals challenge students’ creativity in singing, dancing, drama, musical theater, percussion, and ukulele! Children prepare an original musical and songs to perform at the Summer Arts Festival.
![STEAM class]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1662638986/tasislugano/zvpbdankbruakthi0epa/2022_CDE_Steam.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1662638986/tasislugano/zvpbdankbruakthi0epa/2022_CDE_Steam.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1662638986/tasislugano/zvpbdankbruakthi0epa/2022_CDE_Steam.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1662638986/tasislugano/zvpbdankbruakthi0epa/2022_CDE_Steam.jpg","width":900}])
All children also attend an hour of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics—or STEAM—every afternoon, focusing on creative thinking and problem-solving skills.
Sports
Optional Sports Clubs
As an alternative to our morning activities, students can enroll in optional sports clubs that take place at the same time. These are at an additional cost and are in lieu of our morning activities. Possible options include Milan Academy Scuola Calcio, featuring coaches from the distinguished club AC Milan; Tennis Junior Camp with Lugano-based professional coaches; and time with award-winning instructors from local top-tier horse riding schools.
![Tennis Club]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1644401657/tasislugano/v5qvxeltmfbvc9tsqjbk/CDE_tennis_thumb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1644401657/tasislugano/v5qvxeltmfbvc9tsqjbk/CDE_tennis_thumb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1644401657/tasislugano/v5qvxeltmfbvc9tsqjbk/CDE_tennis_thumb.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1644401657/tasislugano/v5qvxeltmfbvc9tsqjbk/CDE_tennis_thumb.jpg","width":900}])
Tennis Club is for all students who wish to enhance and improve their existing skills. Students are issued a kit and are expected to bring their own racquet. Coach-to-student ratio is 1:5, with a maximum of 20 students.
Cost:
Session One: CHF 600
Session Two: CHF 500
![Milan Academy Scuola Calcio]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1662638985/tasislugano/uhjcdfuzbxuxjx0tqqkd/2022_CDE_AC_milan_01.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1662638985/tasislugano/uhjcdfuzbxuxjx0tqqkd/2022_CDE_AC_milan_01.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1662638985/tasislugano/uhjcdfuzbxuxjx0tqqkd/2022_CDE_AC_milan_01.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1662638985/tasislugano/uhjcdfuzbxuxjx0tqqkd/2022_CDE_AC_milan_01.jpg","width":900}])
All students have the exceptional opportunity to work under coaches from the renowned Milan Academy Scuola Calcio as they improve their ball control and skills. Players are issued an exclusive Milan Academy soccer kit.
Cost:
Session One: CHF 600
Session Two: CHF 500
![Horseback Riding]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1695718098/tasislugano/n41gc0b1t61xacyhocgq/cde_sports_horseback.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1695718098/tasislugano/n41gc0b1t61xacyhocgq/cde_sports_horseback.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1695718098/tasislugano/n41gc0b1t61xacyhocgq/cde_sports_horseback.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1695718098/tasislugano/n41gc0b1t61xacyhocgq/cde_sports_horseback.jpg","width":900}])
Boarding students have the opportunity to participate in Horseback Riding as a Sunday club. They will learn how to care for the horses and practice trail riding. Appropriate for beginner riders and those interested in learning about horses. Limited to 6 students.
Cost:
Session One: CHF 600
Session Two: CHF 500
![Paddleboarding]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1695633364/tasislugano/ej8fdpdfpfcy5q4a6oy8/CDE_SUP_thumb.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1695633364/tasislugano/ej8fdpdfpfcy5q4a6oy8/CDE_SUP_thumb.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1695633364/tasislugano/ej8fdpdfpfcy5q4a6oy8/CDE_SUP_thumb.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1695633364/tasislugano/ej8fdpdfpfcy5q4a6oy8/CDE_SUP_thumb.jpg","width":900}])
Boarding students may join Paddleboarding (SUP) as a Sunday club and learn the basics of this fun and relaxing sport. Limited to 6 students.
Cost:
Session One: CHF 600
Session Two: CHF 500
Clubs and Activities
Morning & Afternoon Activities
Morning activities at CDE focus on fitness and movement. Students choose from a number of options, including organized sports (kickball, basketball, dodgeball, cooperative games), individual activities (yoga, hiking, table tennis, mindfulness), or swimming. Afternoons at CDE are filled with creativity and hands-on learning through the arts and sciences. These activities allow children to grow in courage and confidence as they express themselves in new ways. Students choose two afternoon electives each week that center around the culinary arts, visual arts, design, and science. Previous activities have included crêpe-making, wax sculptures, painting, ukulele, drumming, knitting/crocheting, soap-making, fashion design, robotics, and environmental science.
Daily Schedule
CDE Schedule
Mornings
Every morning, CDE students spend two hours learning English, French, or Italian. All children also attend an hour of STEAM class. Morning activities focus on fitness and movement, activities such as yoga or hiking, tennis, soccer, or swimming.
Afternoons
Afternoons at CDE are filled with creativity and hands-on learning through the arts and sciences.
Weekends
Boarding students take part in off-campus trips and activities every weekend, including adventures to nearby mountains and cities.
| CDE Boarding Student Schedule | |
|---|---|
|
7:15 |
Boarding student wake up |
|
7:30–8:00 |
Breakfast |
|
8:00–8:30 |
Room clean-up, phone calls |
|
8:35 |
Day student arrival |
|
8:45–9:00 |
Morning Meeting |
|
9:00–10:30 |
Language classes |
|
10:30–12:10 |
Sports & Recreation |
|
12:10–12:45 |
Lunch |
|
12:45–13:45 |
Rest time |
|
13:45–14:30 |
Singing |
|
14:30–15:30 |
STEAM Hour (in language class) |
|
15:30–17:30 |
Arts & Music |
|
17:30 |
Day student departure |
|
17:30–18:00 |
Boarding student dinner |
|
18:00–19:45 |
Evening Activities |
|
19:45–21:00 |
Prepare for bed, phone calls, bedtime story, snacks |
|
21:00 |
Lights out |
| CDE Day Student Schedule | |
|---|---|
|
8:30–8:45
|
Arrival
|
|
8:45–9:00
|
Morning Meeting
|
|
9:00–10:30
|
Language classes
|
|
10:30–12:10
|
Sports & Recreation
|
|
12:10–12:45
|
Lunch
|
|
12:45–13:45
|
Rest time
|
|
13:45–14:30
|
Singing
|
|
14:30–15:30
|
STEAM Hour (in language class)
|
|
15:30–17:30
|
Arts & Music
|
|
17:30
|
Departure
|
CDE Videos