Spanish Immersion & Space Camp for Teens in Valencia, Spain

Course Description: Spanish Immersion & Space Camp for Teens in Valencia, Spain

A unique language, culture, and STEM immersion set in one of Spain’s most exciting coastal cities. This program blends Spanish language learning, full cultural immersion with a host family, and an extraordinary Space Camp experience developed in collaboration with Escuela de Ciencia, giving students the chance to train like real astronauts while discovering Spanish life from the inside.

Students may choose a 1-week or 2-week option, depending on their Spanish level and learning goals. No prior Spanish is required for the two-week program.

***

🌍 Program Overview

This immersive program is designed for curious, motivated young learners who want more than a traditional language course. Participants combine structured Spanish lessons, hands-on space science training, and daily cultural experiences, all while living with a carefully screened local host family in Valencia’s city centre.

• 1-Week Program: Ideal for students with some Spanish knowledge or those focused primarily on the Space Camp experience.

• 2-Week Program: Perfect for beginners or students wanting a deeper language foundation before Space Camp.

Programs run Sunday to Sunday or Saturday to Saturday, with 24/7 local supervision and support throughout.

***

⭐ Key Facts at a Glance

• Ages: 10–17

• Program Length: 1 or 2 weeks

• Language of Instruction is Spanish

• Location: Valencia city centre, Spain (Escuela de Ciencia for Space camp) & Carrer de Colón, 18, L'Eixample, 46004 València, Valencia, Spain

• Accommodation: Screened host families (full board)

• Classes:

• Spanish: 20 hours/week (Week 1 of 2-week program)

• Space Camp: Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:00

• Transport:

• Airport pick-up & drop-off are included to the price of the camp.

• Arrive at Valencia Airport.

• 20-trip public transport card (1 week) included to the price of the camp.

• 40-trip public transport card (2 weeks) included to the price of the camp.

• Supervision: 24/7 on- and off-site support

***

🚀 Space Camp Valencia – What Makes It Special

Delivered at Las Naves / València Innovation Capital, Space Camp Valencia offers an exceptional, real-world introduction to space science and aerospace careers.

Students do not simply observe, they participate, build, fly, and problem-solve.

🚀 What Students Will Learn

This programme introduces students to the core disciplines behind real-world space exploration, combining theory, hands-on experimentation, simulations, and teamwork. Each module is designed to build confidence, curiosity, and practical STEM skills while exposing students to genuine aerospace environments.

***

✈️ Aeronautics & Flight Fundamentals

Students explore how aircraft fly and what it takes to control them safely.

• Learn the basics of aerodynamics, lift, thrust, drag, and stability

• Understand cockpit instruments and flight safety procedures

• Experience co-piloting ultralight aircraft alongside licensed professional pilots

• Observe take-off, navigation, and landing techniques at a working aerodrome

• Gain insight into pilot training pathways and aviation careers

Skills developed: spatial awareness, safety discipline, technical understanding, confidence in controlled environments.

***

🌊 Gravity & Motion Training

Students investigate how the human body behaves in altered gravity conditions.

• Participate in zero-gravity inspired pool training, simulating astronaut movement

• Experience controlled human gyroscope sessions to understand rotation and inertia

• Learn how astronauts train to adapt to microgravity environments

• Explore Newton’s laws of motion through physical demonstrations

Skills developed: body coordination, physics application, resilience, adaptability.

***

🛰️ Space Operations & Mission Control

Students step into the roles of astronauts and mission controllers.

• Take part in International Space Station-style mission simulations

• Perform timed tasks under pressure while communicating with a mission team

• Practice decision-making, delegation, and emergency response

• Learn how real missions are planned, monitored, and adjusted in real time

Skills developed: teamwork, leadership, communication, time management, strategic thinking.

***

🚀 Aerospace Engineering

Students design, build, and test aerospace structures (Simulations).

• Learn the fundamentals of rocket propulsion and stability

• Design and assemble rockets using engineering principles

• Conduct live rocket launches, analysing trajectory and performance

• Evaluate design choices and improve builds through testing and iteration

Skills developed: engineering thinking, problem-solving, precision, creativity, iterative design.

***

🤖 Robotics & Programming

Students explore robotics through space-mission challenges.

• Design and simulate Mars-rover-style robotic vehicles

• Learn basic programming logic to control movement and tasks

• Solve navigation and obstacle-avoidance challenges

• Understand how robotics supports planetary exploration and research

Skills developed: logical reasoning, coding fundamentals, systems thinking, teamwork.

***

🧬 Space Science & Astrobiology

Students examine the science behind life beyond Earth.

• Conduct biology and chemistry experiments related to space conditions

• Explore how life might survive in extreme environments

• Learn about radiation, oxygen systems, and closed-loop life support

• Investigate current research on planets, moons, and habitability

Skills developed: scientific observation, hypothesis testing, analytical thinking, curiosity.

***

🧠 Mission Planning & Decision-Making

Students bring all skills together in collaborative mission scenarios.

• Plan missions using real-world constraints (time, resources, safety)

• Solve unexpected challenges through structured teamwork

• Reflect on outcomes and improve strategies

• Understand how collaboration is essential to space success

Skills developed: critical thinking, collaboration, leadership, adaptability, reflection.

***

🌟 Overall Learning Outcomes

By the end of the programme, students gain:

• A practical understanding of aerospace and space science

• Confidence working with advanced technology and simulations

• Improved teamwork, communication, and leadership skills

• Awareness of future STEM and aerospace career pathways

• A stronger sense of curiosity, independence, and problem-solving ability

***

🏫 Facilities & Location

Teaching and activity sites are centrally located and fully equipped for student comfort and safety.

Facilities include:

• Modern classrooms (whiteboards, desks, A/C or heating)

• Quiet study areas and small library 📚

• Student lounges and rooftop terrace with city views

• High-speed Wi-Fi and shared amenities ☕

• Excellent transport connections (Colón & Xàtiva metro stations nearby)

Space Camp sessions take place at Carrer de Joan Verdeguer 16, with scheduled excursions to:

• Olocau aerodrome (flight training)

• University pool facilities (zero-gravity training)

• Potential aerospace partner visits (subject to confirmation)

***

🏠 Accommodation & Meals

Students stay with carefully selected local host families in Valencia’s city centre.

• Full board included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner

• Nutritious meals adapted for dietary needs

• Daily opportunities to practise Spanish naturally

• A safe, supportive home environment

• Dietary requirements can be accommodated but should be communicated in advance.

• Students will follow spanish lunch and dinner times which would be 2:00 PM and 9:30 PM

During Space Camp days, lunch and snacks are provided on-site.

***

🚀 A Day in the Life

Spanish & Space Camp Programme — Valencia, Spain

This programme can be taken as 1 week or 2 weeks, with each option offering a very different daily rhythm. Below, you’ll see exactly how a student’s day looks in each option.

***

🟦 1-Week Programme

Full Immersion Space Camp Week

Focus: Space science, technology, hands-on learning + cultural experiences

Best for: Students who want an intensive STEM experience in a short time

🌅 Morning (Host Family → Space Camp)

• 08:00 – Pick-up from accommodation by programme staff

• 09:00 – 17:00 – Space Camp 🚀

• Hands-on science & technology activities

• Engineering challenges & teamwork

• Lunch included on site

🌇 Late Afternoon & Evening

• 17:00 – Return to accommodation

• On some days: guided city walking tour 🏛️

• 19:00 – Dinner with host family 🍽️

🌙 Special Evenings

• Flamenco Show Night 💃🔥 (mid-week cultural experience)

• Saturday Excursion 🚆

• Train trip to Gandia or Xàtiva

• Guided walking tour & sightseeing

🛫 Departure

• Sunday – Airport transfer and departure

*� In short:

A full, exciting day centred around Space Camp every weekday, with cultural discovery layered on top.

***

🟨 2-Week Programme

Spanish Language + Space Camp Experience

Focus: Language learning first, then Space Camp

Best for: Students who want both Spanish immersion and STEM

***

🗓️ Week 1: Spanish Language & Cultural Immersion

🌅 Morning

• 09:00 – 11:00 – Spanish Lessons 🇪🇸

• Small-group classes

• Practical, conversational Spanish

☀️ Midday

• 11:00 – 13:00 – Study time / return home

• Lunch with host family 🍽️

🌆 Afternoon & Evening

• Some days include:

• Guided walking tours of Valencia 🏙️

• Flamenco show 💃

• Other days:

• Free time to relax or explore locally

• Dinner with host family every evening

🧭 Saturday Excursion

• Full-day trip to Gandia or Xàtiva 🚆

• Cultural walking tour & sightseeing

***

🗓️ Week 2: Space Camp Week

Week 2 mirrors the 1-week Space Camp structure:

🌅 Morning to Afternoon

• 08:00 – Pick-up by staff

• 09:00 – 17:00 – Space Camp 🚀

• Lunch included

🌙 Evenings

• Return to accommodation

• Dinner with host family

• Some free evenings for rest and reflection

***

🛫 Final Departure

• Sunday – Airport transfer and departure

***

🏙️ About Valencia

Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city, offering the perfect balance of safety, culture, beaches, and innovation.

Students enjoy:

• Mediterranean beaches and marina 🌊

• Historic old town and modern science museums

• Famous paella and vibrant food markets

• Parks, bike paths, and outdoor spaces

• A welcoming, student-friendly atmosphere 🌞

***

🛡️ Safety, Health & Practical Information

Safety

Valencia is widely regarded as safe. Students are supervised at all times.

Health

Hospitals and clinics are readily available. Private insurance or a European Health Insurance Card is recommended.

Money

Valencia is affordable. Most meals are included. Small personal spending money is sufficient.

Food Culture

Late dining times are normal. Vegetarian and special diets are accommodated.

***

🎓 Tutors, Mentors & Certification

Space Camp sessions are led by experienced educators and professionals from aerospace, engineering, and science communication backgrounds, including contributors connected to European and international space initiatives.

Certificates & Recognition

• Certificate of Completion

• Activity passport with achievement badges

• Recognition of skills developed across the program

***

✅ What’s Included

• Full-board host family accommodation

• Airport pick-up and drop-off

• Public transport travel card

• Spanish lessons (where applicable)

• Full Space Camp programme

• Cultural activities and excursions

• 24/7 supervision and local support

***

✨ Why Parents Choose This Program

✔ Language immersion with real-world practice

✔ High-quality STEM education beyond the classroom

✔ Safe, structured supervision

✔ Cultural depth and personal growth

✔ A rare opportunity to explore aerospace careers early