Counsellor in Training (Ages 14-16)
The AGO Counsellor In Training (CIT) camp is for 14-16 year olds who want to learn lifelong leadership skills in a practical setting. CITs learn to lead both younger children and their own peers through an intensive two week session, then put that knowledge to work in a two-week practicum, all while counselling art camp participants.
The CIT program offers a tool kit of skills aplicable to camp, but extends far beyond that to future educational and emplyment experiences. Participants are given the chance to practice these skills in a supportive setting, with both feedback and mentorship. Our program builds and strengthens not just leadership skills but also empathy, optimism, flexibility, risk-taking, and out-of-the-box thinking. Leadership is provided by an experienced and dedicated counselor and is supported by lead camp staff and senior AGo staff.
Following the two week training program, each CIT spends two weeks in the camp program, assisting and leading. CITs receive feedback and evaluation from their counselor leader and assigned camp counselors, and participate in fun and exciting art projects, theme days, and camp wide activities. CITs who complete the program may be offered an interview for a March Break counsellor position in the AGO's March Break Art Camp the following year.
The main components of the CIT program are:
LEADERSHIP Theory and TRAINING
- Leadership philosophy and styles
- Child development
- Counselling techniques
- Group dynamics and conflict mediation
- Program planning
- Organizational skills
- Communication skills
PRACTICUM
- Field placement in the AGO's Art Camp
Session 1: Part 1 and 2: July 2-26 (no camp July 1)
Session 2: Part 1 and 2: July 29 - August 23 ( no camp August 5)
Hours: 8:15- 4:15pm daily
Public $765 | Members $645 per session
Watch this AGO Counsellor in Training public performance piece! Comfort Zones is a video project by the Change is Awkward Art Collective and Robert Anthony exploring personal space in the public sphere. This is one of many art making lessons designed by our Counsellors in Training!