Families studying at CPI

Family Arrangements

CPI offers a family friendly learning environment for parents travelling to Costa Rica with their children. For children 12 and under, an age appropriate course corresponds with the particular learning needs of young people. Class time is divided into modules with emphasis on basic communication skills, vocabulary, and the introduction of grammatical concepts, coupled with art, linguistic games and hands on learning. This possibility perfectly combines Spanish immersion with a family vacation. The end result is a memorable linguistic and cultural experience!

Adult family members are placed in classes amongst other adults at a similar level and the children with other children of the same level.

A number of CPI's Costa Rican host families have enough space to accommodate families of up to 6 people so the entire family can be together. Also, at CPI you are able to find excursions of interest for the whole family, for example: butterfly farms, sailing trip, frog pond, cruise to Tortuga Island, and lots of other fun options for everyone to enjoy!

Babysitting services during class time hours can also be arranged. The family is responsible for the cost of these services.

Please ask the Admissions Office about our special discounts for families travelling together.

Unaccompanied Minors

In order to secure the best service and attention for teenage students, CPI policy was extended beyond the camp model to permit unaccompanied minors, aged 14 - 17 years, to study at CPI year-round when the following requirements are followed:

• Payment of a £50 minor fee in addition to the tuition cost. This fee permits CPI to assign a Minor Student Coordinator available to both the minor student and parents upon the minor's arrival and during his/her stay in Costa Rica.
• Completion of the minor/parent contract.
• Confirmation of international travel/medical insurance.
• Homestay is the only accommodation option offered to minor students.

In these cases, CPI always maintains contact with the students' parents to inform them about how their children are advancing with their studies, and about how they are adapting to the environment in general. Also, the families that are hosting the young students give them special treatment and they are always in direct contact with the CPI staff regarding the minor's well being and general experience.

At the end of their studies, CPI can provide a certificate indicating the amount of hours of Spanish studied and the level that was attained by the student. This certificate may be presented at their senior school/college or it may be useful for the students' cv when entering university.

Another special programme offered for teenagers is the Intensive Language Camp. This is only available during the "summer" and on specific dates. Click here for more information.