Specialist Camp Counsellor

If you have a passion for a particular sport, hobby, or activity, why not share it this summer?
As a Specialist Camp Counsellor, also known as an Advanced Skills Counsellor, you’ll get to teach what you love to children at camp! With over 100 different camp activities, there’s a perfect role for you.

What Does a Specialist Camp Counsellor Do? 

As a Specialist Counsellor, you’ll lead or assist in delivering fun and engaging sessions in your chosen area. Whether it’s sports, performing arts, adventure activities, or creative arts, you’ll help campers improve their skills and build confidence. 

Your role might involve: 

  • Running sessions in your specialist activity.
  • Assisting other counsellors and ensuring campers are engaged.
  • Helping to create or improve a program for your activity area.
  • Getting involved in general camp life, games, and traditions!

You’ll live alongside your campers, take part in evening activities, and have plenty of time to enjoy everything camp has to offer. There’s never a dull moment, and no two days are ever the same!

Where You Can Work 

We work with over 700 summer camps across the USA. You could spend your summer in New York, Washington, Boston, or California, with your days off giving you the chance to explore even more! After camp, you’ll have four weeks to travel and see even more of America.

Be a Leader This Summer 

If you have experience or qualifications in a specific area, you can take your skills to the next level. Camps are always looking for talented individuals to lead activities such as: 

  • Sports: Football, basketball, swimming, tennis, gymnastics
  • Performing Arts: Drama, music, dance
  • Adventure Activities: Rock climbing, archery, survival skills
  • Creative Arts: Painting, ceramics, photography

Even if you don’t hold formal qualifications, a strong understanding of your skill and experience working with children will put you in a great position to secure a role!

Salary and Benefits  

  • A minimum salary of $2,300
    for the summer (varies based on flight package and age).
  • Free accommodation
    Stay on-site in cabins, tents, or dorms.
  • Free food and drinks
    Enjoy meals provided by camp.
  • Travel time
    Explore the USA for 30 days after camp.


A Typical Day in the Life of a Specialist Camp Counsellor  

As a Specialist Camp Counsellor, you’ll spend most of your time leading or assisting with your specific skill area, but you’ll also be part of the wider camp experience – getting involved in everything from camp games to lake swims! No two days are ever the same, and that’s what makes camp so exciting. 

  • Morning: 
    Join campers for breakfast and then head to your activity area to set up for the day’s sessions
    Run your first specialist session – this could be coaching soccer, leading an art workshop, or running the climbing wall
  • Midday:   
    Lunch with your campers and fellow counsellors.Enjoy a short break to recharge or join a free period activity 
  • Afternoon:
    Lead more activity sessions, helping campers improve their skills and try new things. Free time to relax, socialise, or jump in the lake!
  • Evening: 
    Dinner time with the camp family. Take part in evening activities – this could be campfire songs, talent shows, or themed events.
  • End of the Day: 
    A chance to relax, socialise with other staff, and soak in the unforgettable camp experience!

Skills you Need

No qualifications are needed, but experience or skills in your chosen activity will strengthen your application. Key skills include:

Communication
Effectively interacting with campers and staff

Leadership
Guiding and inspiring campers, and ensuring a positive camp experience

Teamwork
Work with fellow counsellors to create an amazing experience 

Creativity
Developing engaging and fun activities and programmes 

Expertise in a specific area
Specialised knowledge and skills in areas like:

  • Outdoor Activities
  • Sports
  • Arts and Crafts
  • Music
  • Drama
  • Science
  • Special Needs

Energy & Enthusiasm
A fun and engaging attitude goes a long way

Who Can Apply?  

To be a camp counsellor, you must: 

  • Be at least 18 years old by June 1st. 
  • Be available for at least 9 weeks over the summer. 
  • Have a clean criminal record. 
  • Be from the UK, Ireland, Germany, Spain, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, or Iceland. 
  • US citizens are also welcome to apply. 

J-1 Visa and Travel   

To work at camp, you’ll need a J-1 visa. We’ll help you with the process, partnering with an official visa sponsor to get everything sorted. 

After camp, you’ll have 30 extra days to travel, shop, or take part in events before heading home. 

Apply Now!

Teach what you love, inspire campers, and have the summer of a lifetime!
No formal qualifications needed – just passion and experience!

Apply today and get ready for an unforgettable summer adventure.

Apply Now

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Got questions? No stress – just give us a call! We’re here to help, no awkward chats, just friendly advice from people who’ve been to camp and know the deal.

0121 411 9165

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