Extreme camps that combine language in the morning with training in specific activities in the afternoon are another option on offer this year.
Nancy Hui Sze-nai, programme manager with ELC, which runs the camps said: 'More parents are now interested in sending their children to sports lessons in Hong Kong. We thought they would like to be able to learn with a professional coach in UK or Canada.'
Extreme activities in this case refer to the concentration on a particular subject, not the nature of risk. In Britain, these comprise a one-week intensive football camp taught by professional coaches; and a drama training course designed by the National Theatre, London.
In Canada, activities range from basketball to science camps at the University of Saskatchewan; nature camps at Heritage Lake near Prince Albert; and figure skating in Saskatoon. Some of the Canadian courses may also be attended by local students providing room for interaction.
All the extreme camps retain the focus on English language in the mornings. 'Our emphasis is always on the quality of teaching rather than travel or going to venues,' Ms Hui said. 'We want children to really learn about the language and culture.'