2021 campVIU/Mariners in Training Summer Camps FAQs
Updated April 30th, 2021
How do I register?
Register now by following this link (insert link to registration): Our registration process is the same as years before. If you are having difficulties registering please email camp@viu.ca so we can further assist you.
What is your refund policy?
*** PLEASE NOTE - There is an option for cancellation insurance through the ActiveWorks Camp Registration program offered at checkout. This is not mandatory and is not issued through Vancouver Island University and we therefore have no control over this insurance option.
If provincial guidelines change to the extent that we can no longer run our campVIU or Mariners in Training programming, we will be refunding all registration fees to participants.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our refund policy has flexibility, a full refund is available for anyone who wishes to cancel camp due to health and safety concerns 10 days prior to the start of camp.
Any other withdrawal from a camp will be subject to a 50% penalty.
If there are medical reasons that prompt a cancelled registration, a refund can be provided with the appropriate submission of documentation.
A 6.25% registration system fee will be deducted from all refunds. Please email camp@viu.ca to process your refund.
Why in-person camps and not virtual programming?
The decision to operate in-person camps is based upon three main factors. First, we feel that by implementing protocols that follow the guidelines from the BC Ministry of Health, we can run camps safely with the same quality as previous years. Second, by offering safe and controlled in-person camps, we address a need in the community for childcare, out-of-house adventures and physical activity during these unprecedented times. Third, we operated camps in person last year with a 100% COVID free summer, and trust with our educated staff and strict policies and procedures we can do the same again this year.
Why are camps operating in-person but not classes and other VIU activities?
VIU’s decision to run campVIU and Mariners in Training programs was made in consideration with current provincial health guidelines, current provincial sport organization guidelines, and current provincial child care guidelines. Youth sport and childcare are still open for groups under 50. Furthermore, we use these guidelines for safe facility opening, program delivery, and safe return to sport. Continuing a modified camp program was identified as a need within our community and we are confident that we can safely deliver programming to satisfy that need
What are the major changes to campVIU programs?
The primary change is the same as last year, a reduction in the maximum number of children in each VIU camp (50 children) and the use of sub-groups of 10 people in an effort to reduce physical contact. For parents, additional waivers will be required to confirm your emergency contact information and request that you outline your child’s “social bubble”. We are also asking you to monitor yourself and your child for symptoms 14 days before camp, during camp, and for 14 days after camp. Staff will also be monitored in the same way in order to ensure their health and well-being as well as our campers. We will also increase time outdoors, have staff wearing masks, and practice social distancing of 3 meters.
What is a “social bubble”? Why are you asking?
A “social bubble” consists of the people with whom you and your family are currently interacting. For example, if your children and the neighbour’s child have been playing together, the neighbour’s child is within your “social bubble”. Those who live in your house also count as people in your social bubble and, therefore, if you are registering siblings, please let us know.
What precautions are you taking to prevent the potential spread of illness?
COVID restrictions are changing quickly still, and we will continue to monitor and change policy as needed. As of April 5th, 2021 we will:
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Divide camp participants into sub-groups of ten children and two staff members
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Ensure the separation of sub-groups at all times
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Implement sterilization protocols for all indoor spaces and equipment
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Dedicated indoor spaces and equipment for each sub-group
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Increase outdoor activities
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Have staff wear masks at all times
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Administer symptom screening questions at drop-off
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Ongoing symptom monitoring for camp staff and participants
If my child gets sick in the middle of camp week, can we get a pro-rated refund?
Yes - if your child does get sick during a camp week, please keep the child at home and we will provide a pro-rated refund less a 6.25% registration system fee.
Are there going to be waitlists for camps? How will that work?
Yes - we will be offering a waitlist. When a camp session has reached its capacity, registrants have the option to join the session waitlist. Waitlist registrations will be processed on a first come, first served basis as spots become available. Participants will be notified via email of any opening and will have 48 hours to register before their waitlist spot is removed.
Will there be any swimming at camp this year?
No -currently swimming will not be part of any of our camps for 2021.
Can I still order the lunch option for my child during camp?
No - campVIU will no longer be offering the lunch option.