Junior Science Explorers

Junior Science Explorers is a fun, hands-on STEM camp where curious young minds dive into the exciting worlds of physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science. Through experiments, building challenges, and interactive activities both indoors and outdoors, campers will explore the world around them. From building the tallest contraptions, to mixing colorful chemical reactions, discovering tiny living organisms, and experimenting with electricity, kids will learn by doing, questioning, and creating. Junior Science Explorers is for young science enthusiasts who believe that science is an adventure waiting to be explored!

When and Where?

Monday August 24 - Friday August 28, 2026; 10:00am-1:00pm.

Location: The Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology (VISST): 1490 West Broadway, Vancouver.

Who?

This camp is for students going into grades 4-5.

Why should you attend?

Build curiosity and creativity: Ask questions, test ideas, and invent solutions.

Explore many areas of science: Get exposure to physics, chemistry, biology, and environmental science and discover what areas of science they enjoy most.

Build confidence and teamwork: Work together on challenges and experiments and develop teamwork, communication, and confidence while having fun with peers who share similar interests.

Make science fun early in life: Early positive experiences with science can spark lifelong interest in STEM, helping you see learning as exciting rather than intimidating.

Earn a certificate of completion from the Vancouver Independent School for Science and Technology.

What will you learn?

Scientific thinking: Testing hypotheses and completing scientific challenges.

Physics: Making circuits to power mini LED lights.

Chemistry: Testing the pH of different substances and identifying metals by their flame colours.

Biology: Observing organisms in the park and taking samples to examine plants and animals under the microscope.

Environmental Science: Understanding the importance of biodiversity and taking action to protect our environment by doing a neighbourhood cleanup competition.

…..and more, if time permits.

Program Requirements

This is an indoor/outdoor camp. Please provide your child with a water bottle, sun screen, weather appropriate clothing, a hat, comfortable footwear and snacks.

Camp Instructor

Dr. Paloma Corvalan

FOUNDING SCIENCE TEACHER - VISST

Paloma Corvalan is a scientist and educator with a passion for protecting the environment and inspiring others to do so as well. During her doctorate degree at the University of Queensland, Australia, Paloma was a teaching assistant for Biology, Biostatistics, and Animal Behaviour courses. After returning to Vancouver, she took on the role of Program Manager at Sea Smart, where she taught workshops and created online courses that empower people to protect our oceans. Paloma also served as the Director of Youth Engagement and the President of the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology, inspiring girls and women to pursue their interests and passions for STEM. Paloma is a high school science teacher who takes some of her favourite grade 8 and 9 activities and adapts them for young learners. You can read more about Paloma here.

Questions: Please email [email protected].