During the regular school year, students spend their entire day in a learning environment. This isn't a joke either. They literally spend the majority of their waking hours in some sort of classroom. They spend their regular school hours at school, but then continue on at a private after school academy (called a hagwon).
During winter break, this doesn't really change much. Just because they call it winter vacation does not actually mean they get a break to rest their exhausted minds. Most parents continue to send their students to private academies too. Since the Korean government is trying to reign in English education, they've started winter English camps in cities and at the majority of public schools.
For me, this entails daily classes with about 12 students in each class. From what I've read and heard, this class size is average for winter camps. (During the regular semester, class sizes can easily average 40+ students.) Although teachers can struggle to come up with exciting lessons and educational materials, I find this experience rewarding. I'm bonding with a smaller group of students and and actually learning their names. They seem to thoroughly enjoy the English practice and experience too. Also, there are no co-teachers during winter break. (I actually enjoy that aspect a lot.) You're on your own with the students.
Although the circumstances of a camp might be demanding or even bizarre, it is ultimately a great time. For example, I'm teaching in a closet with absolutely no supplies. (I did buy some of my own materials... Jenga, etc...) I only have my voice and students to work with. The school is under complete renovation and it literally freezing. However, the students and I are enjoying our time.
Check out some pictures of the school renovation:
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| They ripped up all of the wood floors and knocked down all of the classroom doors. |
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| There are loose nails, rocks, dust, and broken pieces of wood everywhere. |
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