Vancouver Island North School District Hosts Explorations Summer Camps

In 2007, Explorations funding of $15,000 helped the Vancouver Island North School District offer three arts camps for 71 students, aged 7-12. Six schools participated in the camps which served Port Hardy, Port McNeill and Sointula. Organizers say many children in this remote area would not otherwise have had an opportunity to attend a summer program or receive arts instruction.

Local art specialists led the campers in activities that included singing, drama, folk dancing and visual art. Every camper received a donated book daily and reading time was built into the program.

Explorations provided students in kindergarten to Grade 7 with opportunities to explore arts, sport and recreation in summer camp settings. The program, which ran from 2005-2008, served students who were otherwise unable to attend summer camps due to location, local resources or financial limitations. Explorations was supported by the Province of British Columbia.