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CampLeadersReviews 62

2.9

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CampLeaders Reviews Summary

CampLeaders has a rating of 2.9 stars from 62 reviews, indicating that most customers are generally dissatisfied with their purchases. CampLeaders ranks 2nd among Camping sites.

service
12
value
11
shipping
2
returns
2
quality
8

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GB
1 review
3 helpful votes
Follow Nicole F.
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Best company ever
May 14, 2015

I've been to camp through Camp Leaders for 3 years and they have been a fantastic organization to work with. The staff are always friendly and helpful and have answered all the questions I had. The fees are affordable and they organize all the important stuff like visa paperwork. Their application is simple and the interview was very relaxed. I would strongly recommend this company to anyone who is thinking of going to camp.

Date of experience: May 14, 2015
GB
1 review
5 helpful votes
Follow Connor S.
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I have been to summer camp twice already and have previously used Camp America, this year I'm using Camp Leaders and they are way better! In my two previous summers I have never once spoken to anyone from the Camp America office, in contrast just within a day of applying to Camp Leaders I had been called by a member of their team. With Camp Leaders I feel like an individual and would thoroughly recommend them over Camp America where I felt like just another applicant. Great service, competitive rate and awesome team!

Date of experience: January 30, 2015
GB
1 review
3 helpful votes
Follow Gavin S.
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Camp Leaders are a fantastic company who can take a task that could potentially be daunting to some, and make it one of the easiest processes going! When I first applied to Camp Leaders, within 2 hours of submitting my application they had phoned me to tell me how excited they were to have me, and that my application already looked great, this spoke massive volumes to me about how important customer care was to them and them made me feel so comfortable and relaxed in every single stage I had to go through. They helped me get all my forms in with ease, explained anything which I was unclear on so that I understood it perfectly, and everything was well run from within so I could live my American dream as soon as possible. I would highly recommend anybody looking to work in America to apply through Camp Leaders as there is nobody who will make the process as comfortable as they will.

Date of experience: January 29, 2015
GB
1 review
5 helpful votes
Follow David G.
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I've been to camp for 3 years and have always used Camp Leaders. They have the best balance between fees you pay and the money camp pay you. One of the best things that I love is when I first signed up, they gave me a call and explained everything to me (from the application process, to what it is like at camp). My camp even encourages us to return through camp leaders and even though I wasn't placed at a job fair, the support they gave me and help to still get a job was amazing. I know people hate on the job fairs but being able to speak to directors really helped me decide what type of camp would suit me - I was also hired 2 weeks after the job fair - not long at all.

Date of experience: January 27, 2015
GB
1 review
7 helpful votes
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Camp Leaders is the best thing I have ever experienced. They helped me find my dream summer job in America through expertise and top quality customer service. The overall process from my application to getting hired was smooth and easy. Help and friendly advice was always available through the amazing Camp Leaders staff who came across very professional. Their vision to positively impact and inspire people has definitely rubbed off on me. I got a real sense that they care for each individual applicant and overall I am over-joyed to have chosen Camp Leaders! Looking forward to the best summer of my life! I encourage everybody to apply!

Date of experience: January 27, 2015
GB
1 review
5 helpful votes
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Signing up for my 3rd summer returning to camp. The CampLeaders program is great. With a great office staff that were always happy to help with my massive amount of questions and queries about the costs, visa information, and anything else that I asked. I've never questions the costs, the program is amazing value for money. Flights included, AMAZING. They made my summer camp experience simple and hassle free. Would HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND this program to everyone. (top LADs)

Date of experience: January 26, 2015
GB
1 review
5 helpful votes
Follow Victoria B.
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Camp leaders is one of the most approachable companies I can think of. They send applicants out to the USA to work at summer camp. Whenever I had a problem with my application I could get straight on the phone or go into the office and they foxed it as soon as possible. I recently attended a very well run job fair where people got hired on the spot, the staff were easily visible and very approachable, even if you werent placed there was a room where you can get support and improve your application. This year will be my second at camp and I will be going with the leaders as they make it so easy.

Date of experience: January 26, 2015
GB
1 review
6 helpful votes
Follow Liam C.
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I have never found a company with customer service as incredible as Camp Leaders.

Every step of the camp application process they would ring you up, drop you an email and do all they can to make the process of camp as simple as possible. The office staff, the person who did my interview and all the staff at the visa/prep days were also so friendly.

The camp experience itself was incredible too - and more than worth the application fee!

Date of experience: January 26, 2015
GB
1 review
4 helpful votes
Follow Aisha s.
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I went to a job fair with these guys last year, it was crazy busy with hundreds of people like me trying to get a job at a camp. The ques were long, but it was totally worth it. The staff were really helpful and looked through our profiles to help us get to talk to the right camp for us! I sadly didn't get placed at the fair, but that was ok too! The camp that I got placed at through the online system was 100% the right place for me - these guys know how to do it right! The job fair was a really good experience meeting other people in the same situation and getting to talk to camp directors to understand what they're looking for. Camp leaders were really supportive during the whole process and even though I had a few problems (my fault), the office staff waded through them with me and got me to camp! I would recommend them to anyone thinking of camp over summer - and those who aren't!

Date of experience: January 25, 2015
California
1 review
4 helpful votes
Follow Gareth W.
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I've just started my application process for the third year running with Camp Leaders and I'm still just as impressed as I was back in 2012. I researched a large group of similar companies before committing to anything as the prices can be a little bit intimidating to a student who hangs on to every penny. Since my first application I've received nothing but outstanding service from Camp Leaders and every member of staff I've ever dealt with.

Any questions I have about the program, costs, camps, visas etc are dealt with immediately by knowledgeable staff and I truly feel time after time like all of their attention is focussed on me, when I know they actually have hundreds of applicants to deal with everyday.

As far as costs go, it does come off as expensive initially but it's no different to any other company and I think that some people forget what they're actually paying for. You'd pay a significant amount more if you were looking to spend 3 months on holiday in America, and the whole program is based around the experience. The reason I'm going back for the third consecutive year when I could be spending my time and money elsewhere is because the experience I'm gaining and the fun I'm having every summer is incomparable.

In a now saturated market I rate Camp Leaders as the best company by far to work with and I'd highly recommend them to anyone thinking about a summer abroad.

Date of experience: January 25, 2015
GB
1 review
5 helpful votes
Follow Kira C.
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I applied to go to camp through Camp Leaders 4 years ago, they were so friendly and helpful. Any question, not matter how small, they would be very happy to answer and was always there to point me in the direction I needed in order to get me into the right summer camp for me. They weren't just helpful before I went to camp; checking everything I needed was done, even ringing me before I flew to check that my paperwork was all correct and being packed. They also had people in the states who would come and see me through the summer to see how I was getting on. Its this experience with Camp Leaders and my own summer camp that kept me returning for the last 4 years. I have never met a group of people who love their job so much and are happy to help no matter what is going on.

Date of experience: January 25, 2015
GB
1 review
12 helpful votes
Follow Rachael S.
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Camp leaders is a complete scam. I paid my 49pound deposit, I was really looking forward to the program. I attended to ye job fair on sat the 17th ques up for a camp called club get away, the girls into were very 2faced and $#*!. One of th come dowe the que to speak to everyone being friendly to us then pointed out who her boy friend was so oversupply she felt threatened pointed out her best mate was one of the judges then made a remark about not being able to wear make up or use straighteners which is discriminations. I feel disgusted that someone can judge you for what you look like and five minutes of speaking to you.We then qued up in the que for a hour and half, one of the co leaders whispers something to her friend and the agreed. We then was told we wasn't successful during the five minute interview the camp director wasn't there to see me. I think if he was there I would of got a good chance. I've rang up to complain about the situations they told me to ring back in the morning. I rang be the next day and was told I wouldn't get a refund of my 49pound even tho I've been told but different people if I withdraw because I decide the program wasn't for me I would have money bk. The manager I spoke to was very rude and helpful and was raising her voice. It was a real bad experience and wouldn't recommend it for any one to try. I think there out for what money they can get. It's discuting how they can treat people like this.

Date of experience: January 20, 2015
Virginia
1 review
5 helpful votes
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I applied to Camp Leaders quite late in the day for this summer (2014). The Camp Leaders team were very helpful in getting my application through and ready to be placed and because of that I had the best summer of my life and plan to go back next year!
The people who say this company is money grabbing and sneaky are plain wrong, the fact the flights are included in the fee you pay shows that it's good enough value in the first place! The guys at the end of the phone are always knowledgeable and helpful and I could not have hoped for a better service throughout my application.

Date of experience: October 2, 2014
GB
1 review
5 helpful votes
Follow Rebecca M.
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I had always wanted to work abroad and as basketball player and coach working in the USA was the dream! I went to university in Cardiff in 2009 and the boy who lived opposite me in halls had just come back from his first summer working at a camp in Boston - it was all he talked about. He also got a job working for Camp Leaders. I decided to check out the website one day and found that it was so easy to apply it would be silly not to do it there and then, so I did.
A few days later I had a phone call when I was on the bus to university from Camp Leaders asking me about my application and about my qualifications. Next thing I knew I was had an interview and was accepted onto the programme. Two months later I had a Skype interview with my Camp also in Boston and was hired. I was so excited for the summer ahead. I ended up going to the sister camp of the boy who lived opposite me in halls. It was such a great experience all made easier by Camp Leaders who helped me even whilst I was in the USA. I loved it so much I returned to the same camp the following summer!

Camp Leaders helped me every step of the way, always knew you by name when you rang up and could solve all your problems and answer any questions you had. They make the costs very clear up front and even heavily promote ways you can save money through them.

I would highly recommend them to anyone who is thinking about going to work a camp in America. Thank you Camp Leaders for an unforgettable, life changing experience!

Date of experience: September 26, 2014
GB
1 review
12 helpful votes
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I feel like campleaders just only cares about the money during the application process. They only contact you if they want payment or they want you to make a video for the company. I assume the video which is to be uploaded on YouTube is for promotional reasons. They also take a % of your wages from working at the camp and make money from you. However the company does have an easy application process and support.

Date of experience: September 13, 2014
Camp L. CampLeaders Rep
over a year old

Firstly we would like to make clear that we are incredibly passionate about our participants and sending them to summer camp. Our company was built on a passion for camp back in 1999 and to this day every member of our company has been, or still goes, to camp. We feel that to say that we only care about money is an unfair assessment of our intentions.

In regards to the videos, we don't ask for you to make a video for the company, but to make a video for your application for camp jobs - the vast majority of camp directors want to see a video of the participants before hiring them, so by not completing a video, your chances of getting a job decrease - that's why we ask you to make a video.

As far as money from your wages, we set up the costs of going to summer camp in a way that's achievable to the majority of people. We pay the upfront costs for the majority of your placement, with some input from you (which covers things like admin, customer service, visa forms etc.) then you work off the rest of the cost while at camp (which covers flights, insurance, placement costs etc.) This is all made clear in our literature and within your program agreement.

We’re glad to hear that you are positive about the application process and support - we work very hard to be the best we can be and provide a strong service and we appreciate your comments.

If you have anything else to add, we are more than happy to discuss with you, we are more than happy to discuss it with you, whether on here, through email ([email protected]) or you could even call us on 0151 708 6868.

Thanks for your feedback,
James - Camp Leaders

GB
2 reviews
8 helpful votes
Follow Jessica B.
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I don't know about the negative experiences of other reviewers but I couldn't be happier with the service I've received from Camp Leaders! I originally applied with a different agency but after a recommendation from a friend, I cancelled that application and registers on Camp Leaders instead. Best decision ever!

Every step of the way, Camp Leaders has been exceptional. Every single staff member I've encountered has been friendly, highly knowledgable in their field and has done anything and everything they can to help me. The support and instructions the company provides have made what will be my first summer at camp so straightforward to organise.

I also think that the fees I've paid are well justified. It's a lot of money but for the service you receive as well as the flights, insurance, paperwork (the list goes on), I can see where my money is going.

Thanks to Camp Leaders, I'm going to have the summer of a lifetime!

Date of experience: March 10, 2014
GB
1 review
9 helpful votes
Follow Issy G.
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I would love clarity from camp leaders about how the money they take from the participants is actually justified. The total costs have been £500 approx with the camp contract received showing a payment of additional £1000 approx to camp leaders. Therefore a total for camp leaders of £1500. This has paid for an interview, reviewing paperwork and will pay for a flight and insurance. Also someone will attend the visa appointment. As flight to the USA cost around £550 return currently and travel insurance for 3 months no more than £100 it is not clear where the remaining £850 is spent. The upfront costs are clear on their website but the amount they are paid from the camps is not broken down or justified anywhere. £850 camp leaders - what do you do for this?

Date of experience: February 12, 2014
Camp L. CampLeaders Rep
over a year old

Hi Issy G,

To provide some background to the payments due to Camp Leaders, the full cost of sending a participant to work on a camp in America would be out of the reach of the vast majority of our participants. So, to make the program accessible to all, we have set up the fee structure in such a way that the participant only has to pay a portion of the fees in advance of their departure to America. The rest of the fees are then covered by the camp at which the participant will work for the summer. The camp pays this agency fee to Camp Leaders when the participant completes the full contract. So in essence, the participant is 'working off' the fees which have been covered on their behalf. Camp Leaders therefore take a financial risk in paying out in advance for the costs associated with a participants placement.

The average flight cost last season was £550 and will increase this year so you can see that straight away the cost of the flights isn't even covered by programme fee which is paid before departing. The fees associated with attending a camp go to cover (but are not limited to covering)...

- Cost of interviewing participants

- Work done by Camp Leaders in processing all paperwork and providing all the information required for the trip to the resort (e.g. Guidebook, preparation stage of the application, online application etc)

- Work done by Camp Leaders in finding a placement at a camp

- Preparation day (venue and staffing) - this day is a requirement of the US Department of State

- The cost of visa paperwork which Camp Leaders applies for and purchases on the participants behalf

- Embassy appointment meeting space (venue and staffing)

- Medical insurance

- Remainder of flight cost

- All other admin work, including phone calls, emails and advice given to ensure we have provided all the correct information and documents in order to go to the USA

- Costs and overheads of running a business

I hope this helps to answer your question. If you have any further questions then please feel free to get in touch with your customer service team.

Thanks,

The Camp Leaders team

GB
1 review
11 helpful votes
Follow Carly N.
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Camp leaders is not a travel agency. All they do is set you up an application, have you interviewed, maybe meet you at a job fair... BUT THAT'S ALL. They do not give you a job. They do not pay for your flights, they just place you. So don't sign up with them when you can easily apply at any camp for free.

Secondly, the website says there are no hidden fees, lies! From £389 is mentioned, but I paid £724 and none of it got refunded, apart from £145 and a 'free' t-shirt.

You could easily pass your interview and get an outstanding application, have all your fees paid - but not get placed. Like others have mentioned before, this is against the law because you're paying them for nothing.

So like I said, get a good CV uploaded to whatever camp suits you. Then you would still have to pay for your own travel like you would do with camp leaders. Save your money, time and 100 phone calls!

Date of experience: February 10, 2014
Camp L. CampLeaders Rep
over a year old

Hi Carly,

You are correct in saying that we are not a travel agency. We do not offer holidays but rather cultural experiences for our participants who are applying to work on a summer camp in America. As with any job in the UK, the process is dependent upon the participant applying, and whilst we provide every level of support and assistance possible, there are a small percentage (less then 1% last season) who will not receive a placement. It may be that they do not have the skills/experiences camps are looking for, they did not perform well during their application process with a specific camp.

Camp Leaders does provide flights for it's participants. I believe you may have us confused with another agency who do not provide flights.

Our website outlines the full programme fees due to Camp Leaders, along with the third party costs that you may meet along the way. For the most part (the exception being the medical check which you may not get charged for), the third party costs are all mandatory elements which are required due to the nature of the programme you are applying for.

I can not comment on your individual case but the withdrawal and refund procedure are clearly outlined in the programme agreement every participant signs prior to joining the programme. Outlined in there are the varying levels of refund provided, dependent upon which stage your application is at when you withdraw.

In regards to your final paragraph, it is not possible for applicants to attend camp without a visa and this requires that applicants have a visa sponsor which Camp Leaders provide. An individual is not able to gain the required paperwork without having a visa sponsor. And again, Camp Leaders do provide your travel to camp.

I hope this helps to clear up the apparent confusion but if you have any further questions then please feel free to get in touch with the Camp Leaders office.

Thanks,

The Camp Leaders team

GB
1 review
8 helpful votes
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This company appears to be very keen to get you to part with your hard earned cash with lots of incentives - so called early bird discounts. There's a lot that they don't tell you and by the time you find out, they have hundreds of pounds which they will not pay back. If you want to work at an American summer camp, avoid this company like the plague. Take your money elsewhere and make sure you know every detail about what's involved before you pay the company a penny.

Date of experience: January 30, 2014
Camp L. CampLeaders Rep
over a year old

Hi Margaret,

All of our fees are clear and well explained before you join the programme. They are featured on a dedicated costs page on our website. http://www.campleaders.com/gb/cost/

Best regards,
James - Camp Leaders

GB
1 review
3 helpful votes
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I did look at many agencies before choosing which one was best for me. As a student I didn't have much money to give upfront so their 'flight included' option worked really well. Camp Leaders booked my flights & arranged all the travel arrangements including the hostel when I first arrived.

The best thing about camp leaders is the fact that every time I had a question I just called my team and always spoke to the same 3 people. I even got to meet them twice as they helped me get placed at a fair and they were there to support me at the job fair. I could not be happier with the service that I received!

Date of experience: February 8, 2013

From the business

Think of Camp Leaders as a super hero factory. You? ۪ll tell us what makes you great and we'll match you up with an awesome camp in America. We can help you sort out your application, your visa, even your flights. Basically, we? ۪ll take the best care of y...


campleaders.com
Founded in 1999
Liverpool, CT