Make memories, build bonds, and prepare for the summer of your life.

Before the campers arrive and the whirlwind of activities, challenges, and belly laughs begins, there’s a golden window of time reserved just for you – Counsellor Week. It’s your first taste of life at Summer Camp, and it’s nothing short of unforgettable.

Guest blogger Liv Sewell shares what makes this week so special—and how to make the most of every single moment.

Quick links

What is counsellor week?

Counsellor Week (sometimes called Orientation or Staff Week) is the calm before the glorious, noisy, energetic storm. It’s the one or two weeks before the campers arrive, giving staff a chance to settle in, bond, and train.

But this is no ordinary training week – it’s a mix of campfire nights, hilarious icebreakers, laughter-filled bonding sessions, and hands-on prep that gets you fully into the camp mindset. You’ll feel like a camper, before becoming a mentor.

Jump in with both feet

From the second you arrive, say “yes” to everything.
Even if you’re tired from travelling or adjusting to jet lag, the more you put in, the more you’ll get out. Every team challenge, trust fall, goofy song, and ropes course moment is a chance to bond with your fellow counsellors – and these people will quickly become your camp family.

Liv recalls:

“Looking back at my camp journal, the first few days are full of: ‘I feel like I’ve known them my whole life.’ Corny? Maybe. But 100% true.”

Learn the lingo, the culture & the vibes

Whether you’re teaching kayaking or crafting friendship bracelets, you’ll spend Counsellor Week learning how camp runs – from daily routines and camper needs to your specific role.

You’ll also be trained in safeguarding, leadership techniques, communication skills, and emergency procedures. But don’t worry – it’s not all classroom sessions. You’ll be running through obstacle courses, acting out skits, dancing like no one’s watching, and discovering the power of a silly hat.

Use the time to prepare (and grow)

During camp, the pace can be intense – but by then, you’ll be ready for anything, thanks to Counsellor Week. This is your chance to practise running sessions, test out games, and prepare lesson plans.

Even more importantly, it’s your opportunity to get comfortable being outside your comfort zone. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you grow in just a few short days.

Make friendships that last a lifetime

Camp friends aren’t just summer friends – they’re lifelong ones. Counsellor Week is where those bonds begin. You’ll laugh together, support each other, and maybe even cry from laughter or sheer joy. This week lays the foundation for unforgettable memories, and you’ll still be talking about these moments years later.

Final tip: Be present and be yourself

It’s easy to feel nervous. You’re in a new place, surrounded by strangers. But those strangers? They’re just future best friends you haven’t met yet.

So lean into the adventure. Be open. Be silly. Be real.
This is your moment. And it’s just the beginning of an incredible summer.