Youth Summer Camps at Brentwood
Set on one kilometre of shoreline on the Pacific Ocean, in sheltered Mill Bay, the Brentwood College School campus is a perfect spot for summer camp experiences that explore arts, sports, academics, fitness, and culture. More than anything, it’s a great place to make new friends!
Choices
Browse individual camp offerings to find the best fit for your child and your schedule. There is a wide variety of camp types available, and key features of each camp are highlighted below. Finer details and documentation will be provided by each program director upon registration and payment. If you have any questions, please write to us at events@brentwood.ca
Interested in mid-March programming? Learn about our Spring Break Camps >
Junior Musical Theatre
Suggested Age: 7-12
Dates: July 7-12, 2024
Pricing: $495 - Daily snacks and lunch included
Camp Directors:
Amy Staples, Dance Program Lead at Brentwood College School
Phil Newns, ARCT, RMT, Head of Music at Brentwood College SchoolSchedule:
Sunday 12:30 to 5:00 pmMonday through Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
*Public performance at 3:00 pm on the Friday
Spend the week singing, dancing, acting, and making new friends at the beautiful Brentwood campus! This one-week intensive camp is designed for the younger performer, focussing on skills-building through drama games, group singing & harmonizing, movement, and dance. We welcome any skill level. Led by industry professionals and experienced educators Amy Staples and Phil Newns, the week will culminate in a final presentation by the children of 'Hansel and Gretel'—on Brentwood’s George Killy Theatre stage for friends and family. The final performance will take place at 3 pm on Friday, July 12.
Henry Shapard: Orchestral Director
Henry Shapard was appointed the Principal Cello of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra in 2020. In addition to concerto appearances with the VSO, Henry has led the North Shore Chamber Orchestra. For three years, he was assistant conductor of the Yale Symphony Orchestra. His work as Music Director with the Berkeley College Orchestra and the Saybrook College Orchestra, he won the university-wide Bach Society Prize and Sharp Prize. Henry is extremely enthusiastic about joining the WCAMS family this summer and looks forward to sharing a love for music-making, great repertoire, and growth with all the musicians who converge in July.
Geordie Roberts: Large Choir, Vocal Technique, Collaborative Singing
Geordie holds a B.Mus. from UBC and a Performing Arts Diploma from the Vancouver Academy of Music. Geordie is an instructor of choral and voice classes for the Diploma in Music Program at Capilano University. He sings with the Vancouver Chamber Choir, and he also directs choirs at Highlands United Church in North Vancouver.
Mike Keddy: Wind Ensemble Director, Percussion
Dr. Michael Keddy completed his PhD in Music Education/Conducting in Victoria, where he now teaches, and is Music Director of the Don Wright Symphonic Winds and The Greater Victoria Concert Band. At Parry Sound High School in Ontario, both concert and jazz ensembles under his direction were consistently praised for their musicality and energy, receiving numerous Gold standings at National and International Festivals. Mike has adjudicated and provided numerous clinics at many festivals throughout Canada. As a percussionist, Mike has performed in a variety of genres and venues, from solo performer at Buckingham Palace to the World Champion Blue Devils Drum and Bugle Corps.
Rock Band
Suggested Age: 10-16
Dates: July 8-12, 2024
Pricing: $195 for a half-day
Camp Director:
Scott McGill, Brentwood Rock Band TeacherSchedule:
9:00 am to 12:00 pm/noon daily
This beginner to intermediate camp will focus on popular music of all commercial styles: rock, pop, country, hip-hop—with improvisation and creativity. It will offer practical, audio, and performance opportunities with an emphasis on the current music scene. Participants will explore and gain an understanding of the audio/visual equipment used by rock bands for performance and recording. Further instruction will be given in band etiquette, instrument role, microphone technique, balance, blending, mixing, lead singing, dynamics, and showmanship. Instruments will be provided but feel free to bring your own!
The group will assemble by 8:45 am on Monday, rehearse throughout the week, and take part in a final performance at 11:30 am on Friday, July 12.
Climb to New Heights - Summer Climbing Camp
Suggested Age: 7-16
Dates: Optional weeks to select from: July 8-12; July 15-19, 2024
Pricing: $295 - Lunch included
Time: FULL DAY 8:30 am-4:00 pm
Head Coach: Jack Whitney
Join us at our exciting Summer Climbing Camp for an experience like no other! This camp is designed for kids and teens who love the thrill of adventure and want to explore a variety of exciting activities.
What We Offer:
Participants will learn the basics of rock climbing from certified instructors. When scaling indoor climbing walls, they'll build confidence, strength, and agility while having a blast. Along with other activities throughout the day to enjoy a wide range of diverse games and sports.
Expert Staff: Our team of experienced and passionate instructors is dedicated to creating a positive and supportive environment where campers can thrive. All coaches are former competitive climbers who have represented Team BC at the National Championships.
Jack Whitney
Jack Whitney started climbing at the age of three in the middle school gym where his dad taught climbing. Jack grew up on the wall and at the age of 10 began to climb competitively; he has since represented Canada at Youth World Championships and at a men's World Cup event. Jack is currently enrolled at the University of Victoria. He also works at Boulders Climbing Gym, where he coaches a junior competitive team. Jack is a member of the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides, as Climbing Gym Instructor - Level 1. He spends most of his time training for world cup season.
Multi-Sport Youth Strength and Conditioning Camp
Suggested Age: 8-12; 13-17
Dates: July 8-12, 2024
Pricing: please see website linked below
Camp Director:
Avi Sherabi, Kinesiologist, Strength & Conditioning Coach
Schedule:
9:00 am to 12:00 pm
Multi-Sport Camp: Join us for a dynamic multi-sport camp that focuses on developing athleticism at Brentwood’s world-class facilities! This experience offers an enjoyable opportunity for youth to discover different sports and training methods. Tailored for young participants, this camp introduces the fundamentals of athletic training in a fun and engaging way. Each day features a new sport—including climbing, soccer, basketball, and more. These are followed by introduction sessions dedicated to strength, sprints, or mobility training—creating a well-rounded and enjoyable experience.
Speed & Power Camp: Experience training like a professional athlete in the second youth strength & conditioning camp held at Brentwood's top-notch training facilities. This camp offers young athletes across all sports a unique opportunity to enhance speed mechanics, lifting technique, agility, and conditioning. Beyond physical training, athletes will leave the camp armed with a toolkit for injury prevention, recovery techniques, general nutrition guidance, and strategies to optimize mental performance. Join us for a holistic and empowering training experience that goes beyond the field, providing young athletes with essential tools for overall athletic success.
WCAMS Family Music Camp
Suggested Age: 6-14, with parent/grandparent(s) accompanying
Dates: July 14-21, 2024
Pricing:
Child (6-9yrs): $700 (boarding), $500 (day)
Youth (10-14yrs): $900 (boarding), $600 (day)
Adult: $1,300 (boarding), $900 (day)
Financial assistance is available
Camp Directors:
Henry Shapard, Principal Cellist, Vancouver SymphonyGeordie Roberts, Voice Instructor and Music Department Coordinator, Capilano University
Mike Keddy, Professor, Conductor and Percussionist, University of Victoria
Schedule:
Sunday, July 14, at 2 pm until Sunday, July 21, at 10 am; daily activities from 8:30 am to 10 pmFaculty and Student concerts in the evenings and on Saturday
The West Coast Amateur Musicians Society (WCAMS) annual summer music camp offers a week of music-making for adults and families. The broad range of classes for singers and instrumentalists includes classical, Celtic, and vocal jazz choirs; orchestra, string, and wind ensembles; chamber music; ukulele; and more.
A morning program for children and youth entering grades 1-9 allows parents to enjoy their own music-making. Faculty are top-notch professionals who provide friendly instruction focusing on building confidence and musical skills. Three evenings a week, the faculty gives a chamber music recital, and the week concludes with student concerts.
Please visit www.wcams.ca for more information about classes, faculty, accommodation, and fee details. Financial assistance is available for those who would find the fees a barrier to attending. WCAMS welcomes all amateur musicians who would like to experience the joy of learning and making music with others.
Senior Musical Theatre
Suggested Age: 13-17
Dates: July 21-26, 2024
Pricing: $495 - Daily snacks and lunch included
Camp Directors:
Amy Staples, Dance Program Lead at Brentwood College School
Phil Newns, ARCT, RMT, Head of Music at Brentwood College SchoolSchedule:
Sunday 12:30 to 5:00 pmMonday through Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm
*Public performance at 3:00 pm on the Friday
Join us this summer for our amazing Senior Musical Theatre Camp. Spend the week singing, dancing, acting, and making new friends at the beautiful Brentwood College School campus. This one-week intensive camp is designed for the older student with an emphasis on dance, vocals, acting, and performance skills. We welcome any skill level and our program is aimed at both honing skills and having a blast! Led by industry professionals and experienced educators Amy Staples and Phil Newns, the week will culminate in a final presentation by the company—title to be selected—on Brentwood’s George Killy Theatre stage for friends and family. The final performance will take place at 3 pm on Friday, July 26.
Debate
Suggested Age: 11-15
Dates: July 23 - August 3, 2024
Pricing: Day Camp: $535; Overnight Camp: $2,143
Camp Director:
Nick Szymanis, Camp DirectorSchedule:
Please see registration website for details
Now in our 22nd summer, Debate provides both day and overnight camps to youth in grades 5 through 10. Our multi-level program specializes in parliamentary debate, public speaking, and Model United Nations formats. Debate generates a safe, enriching, and super fun learning environment—join us this summer and build your muscles in the fine art of public speaking!
Nick Szymanis
Nick Szymanis is the founder and lead director of Debate Camp, since 2002. He has been a career educator for 18 years, inclusive of academic leadership positions—most recently as Director of Academics at the Sterling Hall School in Toronto (2010-15). He has coached debating, hosted annual tournaments for the past 18 years, and is the current Vice President of the International Independent Schools Public Speaking League. Nick, his wife Oona, and two sons, Noah and Aaron, live in Halifax, Nova Scotia, where he currently coaches debating at Armbrae Academy and King's Edgehill School.
Phil Newns
Phil is well known as a jazz pianist, vocalist, bandleader, and educator. He studied music at the University of Natal in South Africa and later through the University of Toronto. His jazz bands, choirs, and private students achieve top honours in festivals across Canada each year—including the annual Nationals, Music Fest Canada. Extensive professional career credits include Musical Director of more than 40 major theatrical productions; most recently, Mama Mia, Chicago, Spamalot, West Side Story, Phantom of the Opera, Les Miserables, and many more.
Amy Staples
Amy started her training at Joy’s Dance Factory in Lethbridge, Alberta. She joined Ballet Victoria in 2016 where she performed in eight mainstage productions in addition to touring across North America. She has also performed in five mainstage productions with Lamondance Contemporary Company in North Vancouver, and held faculty positions at Joy’s Dance, Steps Ahead, RNB Dance, and Ballet Victoria Conservatory. In recent years, she has been branching into choreography and is currently working on a neoclassical piece for a company in Melbourne, Australia.
Amy joined Brentwood College School as the Dance Program Lead and Musical Choreographer in 2020—and is thrilled to continue building these beloved programs.
Scott McGill
West Coast born and raised, Scott McGill obtained his bachelor's degree in Jazz Guitar/Voice through Vancouver Island University. His professional career in music started with the Vancouver-based Urban/Pop group F-Jam (later known as or-gan-ik). The group released two studio albums, a number of EPs, one live album, toured extensively, and was nominated for Album of the Year at the West Coast Music Awards in 1999. After F-Jam, Scott was chosen to be a cast/contestant member of Global TV’s Season 2 Popstars and spent some time living in Toronto. He has played in many bands, in Canada and other parts of the world. In 2005, Scott started teaching music, privately and at the high school level. He has spent the last 18 years at Brentwood College School. Today, Scott is an active live performer and recording artist. He can be found performing solo, with his duo Rae&Scott, in community/high school/college theatre orchestra pits, and with the eight-piece Pop/Show Band The Phonix YYJ. His solo works can be found on all streaming platforms along with his latest release with Rae&Scott, ‘Still Like Falling in Love (with you)’.
Avi Sharabi
Prior to completing her kinesiology degree with a minor in psychology at the University of Victoria, Avi was an accomplished, high-level tri-sport athlete at Brentwood College School. While at UVic, she competed on the Varsity Women’s Rugby Team and became passionate about helping other young athletes achieve their goals. Currently, Avi continues to pursue her career in Strength and Conditioning by working with developmental, varsity, and professional athletes in various sports. She is also a practicing Kinesiologist at Back to Back Chiropractic Clinic and has been accepted to a Master of Exercise Science Strength and Conditioning Program at Edith Cowan University.
Vancouver Island Music Academy for Strings & Piano
Suggested Age: 8-18
Dates: August 1-16, 2024 (overnight)
Pricing:
On-Campus Student (full tuition, room and board, and activity) $3,985
Off-Campus Student (full tuition and activity) $2,475
On-Campus Guest (as an auditor/spectator—geared to family members of students in the camp; includes room and board) $2,475
Schedule: This camp is full day; please visit the VIMA website for details
Scholarships and financial aid are available
Camp Directors:
Jacob Lakirovich, Artistic Director
David Lakirovich, Operations & Program Director
The Vancouver Island Music Academy (VIMA) is a Program for strings and piano that strives to create an immersive and supportive musical environment for everyone—where absolutely everyone is welcome, regardless of age or musical background. We believe that being a musician is more than just playing an instrument at a high level and, as such, through our extensive program and course offering, each student at VIMA learns how to be the most complete and versatile musician possible. Furthermore, VIMA is a place where lifelong friendships are created. Apart from the daily musical and recreational activities, our students, parents, faculty, and staff all share meals together and stay in residence houses on campus. Everyone who attends the Academy is part of our family.
Jacob Lakirovich
Mr. Lakirovich is the founding director of the JVL Summer School for Performing Arts “Music in the Summer” Festival—bringing together some of the leading performers and teachers from North America and Europe. Mr. Lakirovich served as Head of the String Department at the New Conservatory of Music in Toronto (1997 to 2013) and currently teaches privately in his studio in Maple, Ontario. He is also the past President of Rotary Club of North Scarborough, Canada, and was named a Paul Harris Fellow—the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International Award—for his contribution to the community and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations among people of the world.
David Lakirovich
David completed his undergraduate degree at the Chicago College of Performing Arts at Roosevelt University in 2013, with Shmuel Ashkenasi and Vadim Gluzman, and his master’s at the Cleveland Institute of Music in 2015, with William Preucil. He previously served as the Associate Concertmaster of the ProMusica Chamber Orchestra in Columbus, Ohio, for three seasons, and played three seasons with the Calgary Philharmonic Orchestra (two years as Tutti 1st Violin, and one year as the Assistant Concertmaster). David was also invited to perform as Guest Associate Concertmaster with the Jalisco Philharmonic during the entire summer of 2015 in Guadalajara, Mexico, as well as Guest Concertmaster of the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra in April and November of 2019. David joined the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra as the new Assistant Concertmaster at the beginning of the 2018/19 season and is currently the Orchestra’s Acting Associate Concertmaster.
Learn to Play Tennis
Suggested Age: 7-11; 12-17
Dates: August 5-8; August 19-22; August 26-29, 2024
Pricing: $240 per four-day camp (two hours per day)
Camp Directors:
Art Hobbs, Senior Instructor and Brentwood College School Coach
Conrad Alscher, Instructor and Brentwood College School CoachSchedule:
Monday through Thursday weekly10:30 am-12:30 pm (ages 7-11)
1:30 pm-3:30 pm (ages 12-17)
Register by emailing Lillian Lamb
Spend your summer in the sun on beautiful tennis courts! In our tennis camps, students will have fun improving their tennis skills with a variety of tennis activities. All levels of tennis player are welcome—from those trying tennis for the first time to those who have been playing tennis their whole lives. Students who attend our summer tennis camps will feel confident in their improved technical skills and will enjoy the fun learning experience we provide. Equipment, including tennis rackets, is provided but players can certainly bring their own tennis racket if they prefer.
Art Hobbs
Art enjoys playing and teaching tennis! Art has competed and coached at national and international levels, was Junior ITF and Davis Cup Coach for Malaysia, and played doubles for Singapore's 1993 Davis Cup Team. Art has helped develop tennis communities throughout Asia and most recently in the Cowichan Valley—along with being a tennis coach at Brentwood College School. He is passionate about tennis and thrives passing on his love for the game to others.
Conrad Alscher
Conrad was a national-level tennis player as a junior and still plays competitively in tournaments. He coaches alongside Art to build up the tennis community in the Cowichan Valley and is also a tennis coach at Brentwood College School. Conrad is dedicated to ensuring tennis players have the best tennis experience possible by improving their skills and providing an enjoyable learning process.
Wesley Barrett
Wesley has spent over a decade coaching soccer, and is the co-founder of an organization called EPIC Sport Management Society. He completed his degree in Recreation and Health from UVic, and has held roles of Head Coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Northern Academy and Assistant Coach with the UNBC Timberwolves men's and women's programs. He continues to run and facilitate EPIC while serving as Head of Soccer at Brentwood College School.
