This summer we're going virtual!
Along with our in-person camps, we are running some virtual camps this summer.
Our virtual camps will run in a kit-based, virtual summer camp format that combines online and offline components. So even if you can't join us in person, we still have some exciting plans for you this summer!
What will virtual camp look like?
Here is a glimpse at what virtual camp will look like this summer:
- Everyone registered for camp will receive a pre-packaged kit that contains all the materials necessary to complete weekly activities.* **
- Activities will involve an online component as well as offline time to work on their activities and projects.
- These activities will involve hands-on STEM-based projects so students can have fun while exploring different areas of science and technology.
- Campers will have the chance to meet their instructors, connect with other campers, design and build amazing creations, play camp games and so much more!
*Please note: An international shipping fee will be applied to registrants requesting kits to be shipped outside of Canada.
**Virtual camps will run the same content each week.
Camp Descriptions
Grades are based off the grade the student will enter in Fall 2022.
Virtual camps will run the same content each week.
Neutron (Grade 2-3)
Campers will use the engineering cycle to explore stable structures and learn how they are created in the real world. Campers will also integrate circuits to create their own minigame and learn how circuits can be applied to perform a variety of tasks.
Price: $115
Dates & Times: July 18-22 (Morning 9:30-11:30am), July 25-29 (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm), Aug 15-19 (Morning 9:30-11:30am), Aug 22-26 (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm)
Proton (Grade 4-5)
3, 2, 1 LIFT OFF! Campers will be introduced to the world of environment and physics! We will cover concepts such as gravity, aerodynamics, adaptation and more. Campers will also develop their very own movable bug using a simple circuit.
Price: $125
Dates & Times: July 18-22 (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm), July 25-29 (Morning 9:30-11:30am), Aug 15-19 (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm), Aug 22-26 (Morning 9:30-11:30am)
Quark (Grade 6-7)
This is the final lap! Campers will have the opportunity to integrate the concepts of circuits, simple machines and coding into various projects. Campers will use the engineering cycle to design and build activities such as an electric car and their own Newton’s cradle!
Price: $155
Dates & Times: July 4-8 (Morning 9:30-11:30am), July 11-15 (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm), Aug 2-5 (Four Days; $125) (Morning 9:30-11:30am), Aug 8-12 (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm)
Muon (Grade 8-9)
Have you ever wondered how machines can do tasks no humans could ever do on their own? Campers will learn about various architectural and engineering principles as they design and build machines to perform simple tasks. They will also use motors and switches to create their very own jumping frog all while learning about circuits.
Price: $155
Dates & Times: July 4-8 (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm), July 11-15 (Morning 9:30-11:30am), Aug 2-5 (Four Days; $125) (Afternoon 1:00-3:00pm), Aug 8-12 (Morning 9:30-11:30am)
How do the kits work?
What if there is something missing in my kit?
It's a good idea to check your kit before your session starts to make sure you have everything you need. If you notice a piece missing from your kit, please notify us right away and we will coordinate getting a replacement to you.
Do you have bursaries available?
With generous support from our supporters, ESQ is able to offer bursaries for our summer camp program. A bursary can cover up to 95% of the camp fee, and are awarded based on the completed application form and offer the opportunity for children who normally would not be able to afford our programs to attend. In order to ensure as many children as possible benefit from these bursaries, there is a limit of one per child per summer.
Do not register for a program if you are applying for a bursary for that program. Bursary spaces are separate from the main camp capacities and must be evaluated before registration takes place.
The application for bursaries is available in the registration system under 'Eng Outreach Awards and Bursaries 2022.' See our Bursaries and Awards page for additional information.
What is the refund policy for camps?
If arrangements for cancellations are made with ESQ before a kit is shipped out, a full refund minus a $25 processing fee will be given.
What if I want to cancel, but I have already received the ESQube camp kit?
Once kits have been shipped, we are not able to issue a refund.
How will ESQ keep my child safe online?
We understand that the virtual world is different and presents many dangers that don’t appear during in-person camps. One of the biggest concerns and areas of focus for ESQ is ensuring that our campers are safe and protected while online during camp.
In order to provide a safe, secure and positive learning environment for everyone, we will take the following measures in all of our virtual interactions.
1. Meetings will be password protected and are only shared with instructors and registered participants.
2. Our instructors will control who is able to use their microphone, video or share their screen.
3. All registrants will be provided with a copy of our Digital Code of Conduct. Camp instructors will go through this guide with their campers at the beginning of camp to make sure everyone understands how to behave appropriately in a virtual setting.
4. The chat feature will be actively monitored by our instructors to make sure that camper posts are appropriate.
5. Any camper who behaves in a way that does not align with our policies and Digital Code of Conduct may be removed from the virtual meeting depending on the severity of the situation.
Your child’s safety is our top priority. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact us at esqinfo@uwaterloo.ca