Founded in 1573, Cordoba is Argentina's second city with a population of 1.5 million. It has many colonial buildings and is the site of the first university in the country, established in 1613 by the Jesuits. Today Cordoba is a lively city with a flourishing shopping centre. Outside the city you can enjoy the beautiful mountains and lakes, ideal for horseriding, hiking and other outdoor activities.

Language Programme

• Maximum number of students per class - 7
• Average number of students per class - 3
• Spanish levels offered - For Beginners: 2 levels. Intermediate: 2 levels. Advanced: 2 levels. Translation classes also available at times.
• Teaching Method - Covering all aspects of language learning. Active participation in class is encouraged. Taught in Spanish with a cultural component about life in Argentina.
• Private Instruction - Available at extra cost.Handling of advanced & superior levels - The teachers are well-educated and can handle more than just standard Spanish studies (literature, art, culture, politics, history, etc.). Since Cordoba is a University City, educational resources and qualified teachers are easily found. We especially recommend private instruction since most advanced students often have specific areas they want to work on.
• Placement test - On the first school day there is an oral and written test.

School Atmosphere

• Students' nationality - European and North American.
• Age group - Most participants are university students, professionals and independent travellers.
• Facilities - The school is located very close to the city's shopping district. It is a modern 2 storey house converted into a school. It currently has 4 indoor classrooms. There is a large roof deck, a kitchen for socialising and a salon for videos, tango classes etc.
• Organised activities - The school organises optional afternoon activities on a Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
• Weekend trips - Normally an excursion is offered each weekend. There are lots of adventure activities available: trekking, rafting, horseriding, fishing, skiing etc.

Accommodation

Homestays and hotels

• We can organise 3-4 star hotel accommodation for you as an alternative to staying with a family. Please enquire for prices. Budget accommodation can be organised locally.
• Airport pick up in Cordoba is organised if staying with a family. (Cordoba is a 1 hour flight or a 10 hour bus journey from Buenos Aires).
• Distance to school - Normally a 15-25 minute bus ride to school.
• Number of students per home - One English speaking student (unless otherwise requested). There are sometimes other European or Argentinian students although you can request to be the only student in the home.
• Private or shared room - Private, unless otherwise requested.
• Meals included - Breakfast and dinner are provided by the host family.
• Private bathroom - Available in some homestays, but very few.
• Extra homestay nights - It is best to arrive Sunday and depart Saturday from the host family. Anything outside of this time frame is considered extra homestay time.
• Laundry service - Not included. Students can use the family's washing machine if they have one, but must buy their own soap. Launderettes are are also available.

Family Home - One of the most important parts of your learning and cultural experience is the homestay. You will receive a key to the outside door and will be able to come and go as you please. Please inform your family when you are travelling or coming home late. It is a good idea to bring some pictures of family, friends, your house and even a map that shows where you live. These can be used to begin discussions with your host family. Notify the director of the school if things are not working out and you wish to change families (there is no charge for this).