How to Become a Camp Counselor?
First and foremost, you must – like US – love children. While this isn't officially checked during recruitment, it's important to enjoy what you do ;)
Camp counselors and supervisors typically receive compensation for each completed session. Read more about Salaries of Camp Counselors and Supervisors.
What Qualifications Are Needed to Become a Camp Counselor?
Obtain the necessary qualifications: camp organizers often require education in pedagogy, or you can complete a camp counselor course.
How long does a camp counselor course last? The courses are typically held over weekends and last 36 hours. It's important that the camp counselor course is approved by the Educational Curator.
Look for training opportunities. Many camps offer training sessions for their counselors to ensure they have the appropriate skills and knowledge to conduct activities for children. Make sure you have the opportunity to participate in such training.
Some organizers conduct preparatory camps for 17-18-year-olds to support the staff the following year. This is a great way to take your first steps in this profession and see how you adapt to working with youth.
Foreign Language Skills.
This skill will significantly expand your job opportunities. Consider your current level. You can also take a language test. More and more camps offer language courses as part of their program. If you dream of working abroad, knowledge of a foreign language is essential. Knowing English will open up the most new opportunities for you; with this language, you can apply for most overseas trips, not only to England but also to Spain, Greece, Croatia. Working as a supervisor or counselor is a great motivation to learn, and the trips themselves provide an opportunity to practice communication.
If you know a foreign language at a good level but are hesitant to speak, try to incorporate more elements of that language into your daily life.
Read conversation scripts aloud, find articles in a foreign language. If you have friends who are proficient in a foreign language, ask them to switch languages when you communicate (in chats, on the phone, live). Small, systematic changes yield the greatest results.
In conclusion, being a camp counselor is a very responsible job. A camp counselor must have the proper education, preparation, and skills. If you feel this is your dream job, you can develop in this profession using our tips. Good luck!
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