Star-gazing and rock pool-prodding all part of Canterbury University summer camps

 

Published by the Communications and Development Department

 

21 November 2002

 

From gazing at the spectacular night skies to exploring the world of atoms and molecules; from examining the gene pool to studying a rock pool . . . it’s all on offer in the University of Canterbury’s summer camp programme.

 

Summer programme co-ordinator Gill Jordan says the camps this year are offering an exciting and challenging range of activities and learning experiences.

 

The camps all run from 13 to 17 January and include activities such as field trips, laboratory work and, in the case of the Aurora Summer Camp in Astronomy, two nights at the Mt John Observatory observing the spectacular southern skies.

 

“Thanks to a very generous donation from an anonymous donor, the Aurora camp is offered free of charge. It includes two nights staying in Tekapo and visiting the Mt John Observatory. The trip and accommodation at Tekapo and in Christchurch (if needed) is all free of charge,” Ms Jordan says.

 

The other camps are in Chemistry, Computing, Engineering, Teen Writing, Management Science and Zoology.

 

Cost varies from $100 up to $170 for the Zoology camp, which includes an overnight stay in Kaikoura spending two days at the University’s Edward Percival Field Station taking part in field studies in the amazing Kaikoura marine environment.

 

The camps are pitched at Year 12 (sixth form) level, although Ms Jordan says Year 11 students would be accepted. “Accommodation for out-of-towners is available at University Hall for $50 per night, which includes breakfast and an evening meal in a fully supervised environment.”

 

“We are planning to kick off the week with a movie night and barbecue at the students union on campus . . . so students can get the best of both worlds, with a great social summer experience as well as stimulating and interesting learning.”

 

Enrolment for the camps closes on 30 November. More information is available from Gill Jordan on 0800 VARSITY (0800 827 748) or by emailing ucheadway@canterbury.ac.nz