Is lunch provided for the summer camps? + dietary requests (is there halal?)
ESQ provides a pizza lunch at an optional cost on Fridays. We offer pizza ordered by the slice on Fridays ($2.50+HST per slice) which includes pepperoni (halal) and cheese. More details can be found on our ESQ Summer Camp page.
Catalyst programming has its own procedures for purchasing lunch, and all information will be distributed to those registered in advance of their camp week.
What is the Staff to Camper ratio?
ESQ follows the University of Waterloo’s Camper Ratios for in-person programming. In general, our programs typically have three Staff members and one to three Volunteers per 25-person Camp. The ratios in our Camps vary based on age group.
Who are ESQ's Instructors? What are their qualifications?
Engineering Outreach employs ESQ Instructors for the duration of the Summer. The ESQ Staff are comprised of individuals who are currently enrolled in Teachers' College, University programs in STEM-related disciplines, and high school (as Staff and Volunteers). Every Staff member employed with Engineering Outreach has completed a Vulnerable Sector Check. Additionally, all Staff are trained in Standard First Aid and CPR-C, and also complete an intensive training program to best prepare them for working with Youth.
In addition to ESQ Staff, Engineering Outreach has a team of full-time professionals who work behind the scenes to ensure Camp is a safe and fun experience for everyone involved.
Please note, Engineering Outreach refers to Staff as paid employees bounded to an employment contract.
Are the camps different from last year?
Yes. We create new content every year, ensuring every camp is packed with original and exciting activities!
Can I request a camp theme/section for my child?
There are no specific “camp themes” offered through ESQ; all camps are based on science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) and work to incorporate fun hands-on learning experiences!
For age groups where there is more than one section offered, the camp content does differ between these offerings. For example, Curiosity A, B and C all have different content, allowing the same camper to attend each section once in the summer (subject to availability).
Can my child be in the same group as their friend/sibling?
If Campers are eligible and registered in the same camp section and week (e.g. Discovery A, July 2nd-5th, 2023), then they will be together during camp. Please connect with your friend groups before registration to ensure you share the same expectations.
Do you offer support for children with disabilities?
Yes! We provide Program Support in our ESQ Camps. ESQ's Program Assistants can work "as needed" or in a "low ratio" with your child. Typically, we have one Program Assistant for three Campers.
While registering your child for camp, we ask that you please indicate the need for Program Support by answering the following questions: “Does your child require unique levels of support?” & “Please tell us anything you feel we should know.” In May and/or June, one of our Staff will be in touch to discuss how we can make the camp experience a success!
We are unable, however, to offer one-on-one support to your child. If your child does require this level of support, we ask that you please contact us to discuss bringing a parent/guardian or equivalent to Camp alongside your child. All personal support attendees are required to have a Vulnerable Sector Check.
Can I request that my child be put in a different grade/age group?
Unfortunately, we are unable to accommodate requests which ask for a Camper to attend in a different grade/age group, unless it is for campers with disabilities or special needs. We make sure to have accommodations and extensions for all of our activities in order to cater attendees with varying learning levels.
What building/room is the camp located in?
ESQ, Catalyst and LIT Camps are located at the University of Waterloo Main Campus in Waterloo, ON., unless otherwise stipulated in your registration as being Discovery (Cambridge Campus Gr. 2-5).
Our Camps at the Waterloo Main Campus take advantage of many buildings and spaces offered to Campers. We will share drop-off and pick-up locations with participants in an information package in advance of their week of camp.
Do you go outdoors?
ESQ strives for a balance of all activities, ensuring Campers get to experience learning and fun in both indoor and outdoor settings! Campers get to be in university labs and classrooms for many activities, and also go outside to enjoy the beauty that summer on campus offers. Weather permitting, we go outside after lunch and body breaks, as well as for our pick- up and drop-off.
Do you go on field trips?
ESQ Summer Camps keep all of our activities on Campus (Waterloo or Cambridge). We do tour impressive labs and facilities, but this is all on campus! Some programs for high school students may explore off campus opportunities, however, will not be scheduled without parent/guardian consent.
Is ESQ camp nut free?
Are all the activities science-related, or are there games and sports too?
Sports activities and games are lots of fun - and they can be all about science! Whether it's playing a game of Synaptic Tag or Electron Dodgeball, or doing a Digestive System obstacle course, ESQ aims to keep science active and accessible!
My child takes medication. Can you administer this?
We have a medical consent form accessible in the registration system. Please complete it and inform us through email at esqininfo@uwaterloo.ca.
Please note: we can only dispense medication that comes in the ORIGINAL prescription bottle, and can only accept one daily dose at a time.