#English Camp #U-GAKU #Crepity

U-GAKU Winter English Camp 2025

In a remarkable initiative aimed at young learners, Crepity’s U-GAKU program successfully concluded the 2025 Winter English Camp, which ran from December 25 to December 31. This unique camp took place in two vibrant locations: Shiojiri, Nagano, Japan, and Cebu, Philippines. A total of 15 students, comprising 12 elementary schoolers and 3 middle schoolers, participated in this enriching experience that blended English education with nature immersion.

The feedback from both participants and their parents has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have shared sentiments about not just learning the English language, but also about discovering a sense of independence and personal growth. The camp provided a safe and comfortable English-speaking environment, allowing students to take their first steps in friends with the language and culture.

Overview of the 2025 Winter English Camp

U-GAKU English Camp in Shiojiri, Nagano

During the camp in Nagano, participants engaged in a well-rounded program combining indoor and outdoor activities. Starting with self-introductions in English, the morning sessions focused on fundamental expressions. In the afternoons, children were offered hands-on cooking experiences, where they learned to make pizza and gyoza using English recipes. The activities went beyond mere classroom learning; the camp provided opportunities for practical usage of the language through activities such as chopping wood, making tempura, and soba noodles, culminating in a winter barbecue. This variety added to the children’s opportunities to 'use' English rather than just 'learn' it.

Learn more about the Nagano location

U-GAKU English Camp in Cebu

In Cebu, the camp utilized the island's warm winter climate to offer experience-based learning. Morning sessions involved tailored one-on-one English lessons adaptive to each student's level. In the afternoons, fun games and activities were led by teachers, promoting natural communication skills. The program also integrated cultural experiences, such as orphanage visits for intercultural understanding, island hopping adventures, market explorations, and night-market visits, providing students with a rich encounter with local culture and the warmth of the Filipino people. The cooking lessons included sourcing ingredients from Carbon Market, encapsulating the real-world application of English and nurturing both language skills and a global perspective.

Discover more about the Cebu location

Parent Feedback

Parents expressed their gratitude, noting a noticeable increase in their children’s interest toward learning English. One parent shared the transformation of their child, stating, “After the camp, my daughter started watching English YouTube videos and using Duolingo. She frequently asks, 'What do you call this in English?' during conversations.” Another parent recounted the touching moment when her daughter thanked her: “Mom, thank you for letting me join U-GAKU,” highlighting the camp’s impactful experience.

Significant Outcomes and Relevance

A total of 15 students participated across both locations, with many expressing greater affection for English and motivation for future overseas endeavors, marking a significant success for the U-GAKU initiative. The camp not only introduced students to practical English usage but also fostered independence and a deeper understanding of cultural diversity.

In light of Japan's growing tourism sector, where foreign visitor numbers are expected to top 30 million in 2024, the importance of cultivating global talent becomes apparent. To prepare future generations who will thrive in this landscape, early exposure to English and foreign cultures is downright essential. The U-GAKU program provides such exposure by giving children real-life experiences with foreign staff and in multicultural settings.

Moreover, the camp serves as a valuable opportunity for children to step away from their parents and tackle challenges independently, while also giving parents a moment to reflect on their child's growth. Research by the Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology indicates a direct link between overseas experiences and enhanced independence and learning motivation in younger students. This program exemplifies such innovative practices.

Future Developments

Building on the success of the Winter camp, U-GAKU has announced plans for additional camps in Spring (March 21 - April 5, 2026) and Golden Week (April 29 - May 6, 2026) in Shiojiri, Tokushima, Cebu, and Niseko. The upcoming sessions aim to further enrich students’ experiences, weaving in opportunities to nurture self-efficacy through daily routines such as organizing shoes, cleaning tables, diary writing, and engaging in digital detoxes.

Furthermore, advanced programs tailored for students with higher English proficiencies, as well as qualification-focused courses (such as Eiken Grade 3 & 2) are on the horizon. Moving away from traditional education methods focused on