Program Reviews

Before coming to Berridge I would get a depressingly little amount of creative work done relative to the free time I had, because I was such a perfectionist. Berridge obligated me to go out there and plan, shoot, and edit. I always knew this was the remedy but I wouldn’t do anything about it. Berridge forced me to. This program instilled within me that imperfections are completely ok if the alternative is being too hesitant to create any art at all. The film program was incredibly helpful and was an amazing pre-college experience.

Berridge creative pathways is a great program for those who want to grow and build their creative skills. The staff is incredibly kind, caring, knowledgeable, and talented, you will learn lots from these people. The chateau is beautiful, it’s a very cool experience to learn and create in such a cool place. Especially if you are an actor, this program is a great place to do theater work. Not necessarily related to the learning but the food is INCREDIBLE, dinners never fail to be delicious and working in the kitchen is lots of fun.

This program was an amazing experience into the food and life of the Normandy region in France. Our small group was able to learn from a variety of teachers each skilled in their own craft. Leaning about both the culture and food was able to bring more knowledge than just cooking. There is immense value in the program for what you can learn as well as the cost. Very few things come out of pocket, allowing you to spend money on gifts and other French products you would like to bring home. The staff that I met here were great to talk to and always helpful with any questions.

It was a privilege to attend this program and get to know its coordinators. Such kind people run this program, and you can see how much care they have for each student—past, present, and future. These teachers are dedicated to their craft and very knowledgeable as well. The trips we took were exciting and fully immersed in French culture. Every day was a new adventure, but they also made time for us to hang out and get to know one another. I’d recommend this program to all food lovers, and culture lovers as well!

My experience was wonderful. I got to meet new people and make new friends. I learned so much about the Normandy culture. We were always out and about. I never felt bored. I’ve got to try and do new stuff. I probably would’ve never done back home. It was a very safe environment, and I never felt unsafe. I got along with everyone. I liked that we didn’t have to wake up super Duper early. We never started earlier than 9:00 on those days. I would’ve loved it if we got to try more local restaurants. Thank you!

This program was amazing. Filled with opportunities for growth, creativity, and long lasting friendships. I expanded my creative abilities and learned so much while exploring the beautiful coast of Normandy, France. Such a beautiful wonderful time. The community was great and everything was structured very well. Food never failed to be amazing and all the staff were nice. This is a good place to grow in many ways and im so grateful for this experience. Living in this chateau is really a magical place.

It was an awesome experience with the most wonderful and knowledgeable staff. I truly can't explain how good of a time I had and the lifelong connections that were developed. I absolutely loved every moment of this program. The knowledge earned and learned easily is crazy. I love every single student and staff member to the bottom of my heart. If you have the time and money, then this program can be life-changing, especially to people with a passion for the arts. I hope this program finds you. Would definitely recommend!

If you want to get to know yourself as a creative and meet the most wonderful people doing it, Berridge is the spot. I enjoyed the close proximity with all the other students and staff because it felt like a big family. The food is amazing. I really enjoyed going on outings with the group and they are some of my most cherished moments. My teacher Simon taught me so much and made me realize my love for art in ways I didn’t expect before I came. The program allows space for your personal needs and is so supportive and understanding.

Gap years can feel extremely isolating but this program does a great job to create a constant supportive group. It’s a place for people who are already on the path to finding themselves and loving themselves. Here you will get new insights on your own creative focus as well as the other creative focuses. The staff is extremely down to earth and are great motivators. The food is better than you will find at most gap year programs. Over all this program has helped me discover new pieces of myself and allowed me to give myself more grace. Berridge will not change who you are but it will evolve you.

This was the best program I have ever been on. The chateau is so beautiful, and the housing is surprisingly nice. Normandy is gorgeous, and we have found so many different ways to have fun. The food is ten out of ten, and the staff were all so kind and caring. I feel genuinely close to many staff members, as well as the students. I have grown so much not only as an artist but as a person as well. I have had so many new experiences and tried so many new things as an artist, and I have truly grown. I have made lifelong friends here and could not be more grateful and happy to have come here. I cannot recommend Berridge enough!!!