YOUTH STEM CAMPS
WWEST offers a variety of STEM-focused camps and other opportunities during the school breaks throughout the year. These camps introduce youth to STEM through hands-on applications of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math in a safe, fun, and caring environment. Held in community, or at UBCO, camps are filled with exciting STEM activities, physical literacy, and personal skill development.
- WWEST’s top quality camps are designed for youth aged 5-18. *Please read more in the FAQ’s below.
- Depending on the theme, and time of year, camps will vary in target audience and availability.
Please follow the links below, and connected to our external registration system – ActiveNET
UPCOMING YOUTH CAMPS/OPPORTUNITIES:
STEM Incubator Afterschool Program (grades 6-12)
- 3:30-4:30pm
- October 15, 22, 29, Nov 5, 12, & 26, 2026
- In-Person at the Okanagan Science Centre (Vernon, BC) or Virtual Attendance
Join WWEST, the Okanagan Science Centre, and fellow next-geneartion scientists for an interactive science experience! This incubator will provide youth with support in planning and creating their own STEM project(s). Completed projects may be eligible for the upcoming Okanagan Shuswap Regional STEM Fair (April 2027). Registration is available for either in-person OR virtual attendance (through Zoom). Note: There will not be programming on November 19. For details and registration visit: STEM Incubator Afterschool Registration
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS: CAMPS
What age does my child have to be to attend camp?
Based on the target audience, our camps include youth aged 5+. In accordance with BC Child Care Regulations, if a camp is adverstised for youth in the summer (June though September), children starting their grade 1 year in the fall, must be 6 years or older, prior to December 31 of that year.
If they are attending a day camp (September to June only on days of school closures), and have started their Kindergarten school year they must be 5 years or older before December 31 of that year.
Who can I contact for more information about WWEST/iSTAND camps and events?
For general questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us at wwest.ok@ubc.ca
What do participants need to bring to camp?
Participants are required to bring personal NUT FREE snacks and lunch items as well as a water bottle.
Weather permitting, we will spend daily time outdoors so please bring appropriate clothing according to the temperature and conditions of the day. Sunscreen and a hat would are good optional items to pack along as well for Summer camps.
It is preferable that personal electronics are not brought to camp. Should participants arrive with personal electronics, please note that WWEST, iSTAND, and UBC will not be responsible for any loss or damage to them.
Are refunds available?
Unfortunately, refunds are not available, as supplies and staffing are determined based on registrations. We know unforeseen circumstances arise and wish to note that although we don’t refund, a transfer of funds to another WWEST/iSTAND event within the same season (spring for spring, summer for summer, and winter for winter) may be possible if space is available, and notice is received at least one week prior to the first day of camp.
If a child is sick, and there is space in another camp, we will do our best to accommodate a transfer within the same camp session (for example, a Spring camp day for another Spring camp day, NOT a Summer camp day). Thank you for your understanding.
What sickness policy is in place?
Current provincial and local regulations will be in place for the duration of camp. Please note that participants may be sent home if they display symptoms of illness or non-compliance with safety measures.
Who can I contact if I need to connect with my child during camp?
For camp-specific queries (eg. notification of absence, alternate adult picking up) please contact our team at wwest.ok@ubc.ca or by office phone (please note, this line is not monitored, but will alert staff via email of a message): (250) 807-9884. Please note that our camp staff will check email when breaks allow them to do so during the camp day, and respond at their earliest convenience. Should there be an immediate emergency when camp is being hosted at UBCO, please contact campus security.
