The camps offer youth, aged 9 to 14, an early edge in foundational science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) skills in a fun summer camp environment on campus. Youth learn in NIC’s science and computer labs, classrooms and green spaces while participating in hands-on educational activities, games and challenges, that combine indoor and outdoor learning.
In summer 2022, Youth Academy offered coding, engineering, design and robotics camps. The programming was made possible by generous support from Navigate NIDES, Shaw Communications Inc., BC Hydro, Browns Bay Packing, the Hamber Foundation and Thrifty Foods.
The Youth Academy looks forward to welcoming many new and returning participants in the Comox Valley, Campbell River and Port Alberni.
NIC youth & community outreach liaison Ali Sandholm expects youth from more than 20 North Island communities to visit an NIC campus this year and join the fun.
“We are very encouraged by our level of engagement from the community and the positive feedback we have received,” said Sandholm. “Families value the opportunity to send kids to camp where they can learn, gain skills and confidence and have fun at the same time.”
To remove barriers to participation, NIC provides a fee subsidy to participants who meet the application criteria. Participants can apply for the fee subsidy when registration opens on April 5.
For more information, see www.nic.bc.ca/youth-academy.
