First Time Camp Counselors FAQ's
Heading to Camp Canada as a first-time counselor?
Have a few questions? We can answer them all - but if we don't answer them here, feel free to call in and ask one of our friendly Camp Canada team members!
what are the costs?
Your Costs
A full breakdown of the costs that you will be required to cover are outlined under 'your costs'.
Can you refund my costs?
The costs outlined in your costs which the applicant is required to pay, cannot be refunded for any reason.
next steps
How does the Application process work?
You can check out our application guide to find out all the stages you will go through in order to secure your summer camp placement.
When do I need to request my references?
When you're filling out the written application sections, you must request your 2 references. You will not be able to be moved forward to the next stage until we have received your references.
What will happen after you receive my references?
You will be able to book an interview with one of our team. It will be a fairly relaxed interview with one of our friendly interviewers, who have all been to camp themselves. So if you have any initial questions about camp, ask them!
timeframe
How long does camp last?
Camp starts in June and ends in August - the specific dates will depend on which weeks your camp is in operation. You'll be at camp between 8-10 weeks, and your work permit will be valid for the duration of your contract.
job roles
Should I be an activity specialist or a general counselor?
Today's your lucky day - you've just stumbled upon one of the least-known summer camp application hacks out there. Ready? Here it is - on average, activity specialist roles are the most available, yet least applied for roles at camp. If you apply for one of these roles, you're giving yourself a great opportunity to work in a position you love.
Our advice is to find at least 3 activities you'd be interested in teaching at camp, and apply with those in mind. List them in the skills section of your application, and even consider getting a basic qualification before camp! If you think you would be able to teach a small group of kids, you might as well apply - if you don't get the role you want, you can still be a general counselor.
I don't have any qualifications or teaching experience - what should I do?
You'll be surprised what skills camps hire for - you can do almost anything at camp. That means that your experience doing an activity might qualify you automatically for a role you don't think you're eligible for.
Qualifications aren't required for most roles - you just need to be experienced enough in your activity to teach it to kids at camp. Remember, kids just want to have fun and learn at camp - if you can teach them the basics of your favourite sport, creative hobby, or even basic arts and crafts, you'll be a great candidate for the role you want.
camp placement
Where are the camps? Can I choose mine?
Many of our camps are located in Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and Alberta, but we've got other camps in different areas of Canada as well. Wherever you go, you'll enjoy the warm, sunny Canadian summer weather.
You can't directly choose the camp, as their hiring is done on an as-needed basis. If your skills match with an open position at a camp, they'll get in touch in order to hire you. The best way to influence which camp you end up at is to let us know your skills and preferences, which will help us match you with a camp that's a great fit for you.
what to expect and top tips
Will I get time off?
Of course - your specific days off will depend on which camp you end up working at, but you'll be able to rest, recover, or travel with your free time while you're at camp.
Can I travel before or after camp on my work permit?
Absolutely - depending on which work permit you have, and how much pre-or post-camp travel you plan to do.
If you have an IEC working holiday visa, you can work and travel in Canada for as long as it's valid. If you have a normal temporary work permit that's typical of summer camp programs in Canada, you'll typically be permitted a few weeks before or after camp to travel.
It's also possible to change your visa to allow you to stay longer afterward. Simply ask one of our friendly Camp Canada staff, and we'll help you sort it out.
How can I create a positive and memorable summer camp experience for my campers?
Plan Engaging Activities -
Campers often thrive on creativity and imagination, so don’t be afraid to use your creativity and think outside the box as a camp counsellor. This will come in handy when thinking of ideas for fun activities that will keep your campers engaged and excited all summer!
Create a Positive Environment -
Take the time to create meaningful connections with your campers. As a camp counsellor, you have a unique opportunity to impact their lives so make a genuine effort to get to know them. Find out their interests, their likes and dislikes, and their personalities. This will help you to connect with them better and create a more positive experience for everyone. Also, don't be afraid to share some of your personality and interests with them.
Be patient and empathetic -
Campers may be away from home for the first time or feel uneasy at camp, so as a camp counsellor, it’s important to be patient and a good listener when supporting them. Demonstrate they have a friend in you, and show kindness and empathy to help them build trust. If problems do occur, they will come to you!
Be a Role Model -
As a first-time camp counsellor, you will spend A LOT of time with your campers. Your behaviour and attitude will be noticed so it is important to be a positive role model; show them what it means to be kind, responsible, and respectful. This will help create a fun, safe, and inclusive environment at camp.
Take care of yourself -
Throughout the duration of your stay at camp, as a first-time camp counsellor, it can be both physically and emotionally demanding so it's important to practice self-care and wellness. Make sure you're getting enough sleep, staying hydrated and well-nourished, and ensure to schedule breaks and time off so you can recharge!
Finally, remember to have fun, be patient and enjoy the experience. Summer camp is an opportunity to create lasting memories with the people you meet on your journey. Make the most of every moment!
