The Gaeltacht has the disadvantage of being somewhat uncool - despite the fact that many people still look fondly back at some of the seminal experiences and firm friendships that were forged during this pivotal time in their lives.

The Irish language is just not exotic enough for some parents and some students, those who are looking for an extra hand up in future exams. These might instead opt for a modern European language course, or even another academic summer school - because the discipline may be different, but the experience of living outside of the home situation is equally beneficial no matter what academic course is followed.

But there is more to a summer course than pure academia - and much of the value of a summer camp or college will be the experience that the student actually gets by being a part of a group that is not made up of his or her school friends. Sporting and adventure camps are growing in popularity and scope, and can teach children as much about bonding and, conversely, individuality as they do about skiing and soccer.

There is, however, another subset of summer school that is not as easily earmarked with terms such as "academic", "language" or "sport".

These are the unusual schools and workshops that exist to fill needs and niches in teenagers lives - whether these same teenagers realise that they have such needs and niches.

For example, adults are well versed in cookery courses, but Dublin-based Food Active is a school with a difference - it brings the message of healthy eating, good nutrition, fitness and wellbeing to kids, while at the same time teaching them how to cook for themselves.

But perhaps an even more individual concept for a summer workshop is that which is offered by Geraldine Brand Style. Geraldine is a former model and owner of Brand Model Agency, and every year she hosts a session of weeklong workshops for girls aged between 14 and 19 (although she prefers girls to be at least 16 years old). At their most basic levels, these workshops are all about showing girls how to make the best of themselves.

In the past, these might have been called finishing schools, and some of the topics covered (such as deportment and etiquette) could have come from the finest Swiss establishments. But Geraldine Brand's take on the concept is much more modern, with advice on skincare, diet and wardrobe alongside the more traditional skills which may have been lost through living in modern society. And with make-up by such names as Bobby Brown and wardrobe from outlets like A Wear, Geraldine cann't be accused of living in the past.