Background and Philosophy Putney Student Travel was founded in 1952 by George and Kitty Shumlin, devoted educators and parents of the present Directors, Peter and Jeffrey Shumlin. Putney Student Travel programs are special. They emphasize doing, having fun, getting off the beaten track, making friends, and being involved with people, rather than just touring or sightseeing. Participants are encouraged to take responsibility and to help develop group spirit. All programs are designed for motivated, inquisitive students who are mature and responsible.
Admission is selective.
Many trips include a one-week, carefully selected homestay. Groups are limited to 16 students and 2 leaders. Another option is to travel from Paris to Barcelona by bike. The Putney way of learning a language emphasizes having fun in France or Spain while speaking French or Spanish in natural, everyday living situations. Over the past forty-eight years, Putney has learned that sitting passively in a classroom with other Americans does not enhance language learning.