For more than 25 years, Queen’s Enrichment Studies Unit (ESU) has given elementary and secondary school students a taste of university life. Thousands of students have attended academically challenging programs in campus labs or classrooms led by Queen’s faculty, graduate students or community professionals.

Now ESU wants to give students the leadership skills they’ll need in the years ahead, in high school and in preparation for post-secondary education.

“The new and innovative Queen’s Excellence in Skills Training (QuEST) program aims to guide students as they build the foundation for being an effective leader,” says Tracey Mallen, Manager, ESU. “The activities and classes we have designed for this program are tailored to nurture teambuilding, leadership and communication skills.”

The three-part summer program is open to students who are entering Grades 7 and 8 in the fall. It includes three sessions focused on core, intermediate and advanced leadership skills. The final activity of the program requires the participants to work together and apply their leadership skills to complete a unique task.

“We believe the program will help students prepare for post-secondary education,” Ms. Mallen says. “The experience is something they can add to their portfolio or refer to when preparing the personal statement of experience portion of their university applications.”

More summer fun
Athletics and Recreation also offers a staff discount on its summer camps. Visit its website for more information about its summer offerings.
Looking for even more summer camp options? The Gazette online has compiled a list of summer camps offered by various departments and groups this summer. Learn more

‘Something for everyone’

In addition to QuEST, ESU offers several other summer programs for students who are curious and love learning – “something for everyone,” according to Ms. Mallen.

The Summer Enrichment Experience at Queen’s (SEEQ) features academic courses, extra-curricular activities, and the opportunity to experience life in a residence. SEEQ has two streams: junior for students entering grades 8 and 9 and senior for students entering grades 10-12. ESU also hosts Academic Allstars – a program that combines athletics and academics in a week-long program.

ESU – a department of Student Affairs – is currently offering a staff discount for both SEEQ and QuEST programs. Visit the ESU website for more information about the summer programs and to register your child.