ELL Camp: Exploring Their New Province

Saturday, August 17 saw the start of an amazing English Language Learning (ELL) Camp where 42 international students from Grades 8-12 arrived on campus to meet new friends, explore Nova Scotia, and learn a little English. Over the course of two weeks, students engaged in incredible learning experiences that helped them settle into King’s-Edgehill life before the hustle and bustle of the regular school year began. Students and parents arrived from Mexico, Germany, Japan, and China to a group of eager student volunteers who helped them move into their new dorms, meet their new roommates, and take them on tours of our scenic campus.

Once settled, students dove right into camp life at KES with some games and activities to help them connect with each other and to get to know the incredible staff who would be supporting them through the next two weeks and into the school year. The camp staff quickly realized that this was a really special group of students who are incredibly kind, enthusiastic about being with us, and willing to learn as much as possible. While English abilities vary from beginner to almost fluent, students all found ways to connect with each other and with the learning opportunities provided for them. Aside from morning classes in speaking, listening, reading, and writing, students got to practice their English skills in local areas. Some of the most loved adventures included tidal bore rafting, trips to Halifax, Lunenburg, kayaking in Blue Rocks, and regular shopping trips in Dartmouth. All of these trips were designed to give students the opportunity to engage with the local community, try a new activity, and utilize their English skills in an immersive environment.

Our culminating adventure was a three-day trip to PEI where students enjoyed the outdoors on the beaches of Cavendish, ate all the seafood they could, and enjoyed some local ice cream at the famous Cow’s Ice Cream shops! Back on our home turf, every chaperone was met with the sincerest of thanks from our students as they departed the bus. These thank yous topped off the incredibly joyous couple of weeks teachers shared with some star students. We can’t wait to see what they do through the year!