Student Profile
Yuchen’s academic path is a true cross-cultural tapestry. After early years in the U.S. and five years in the rigorous Chinese public school system (Grades 5–9), she is now finishing her final year at XCL World Academy in Singapore. Her story is a powerful example of how shifting environments can spark a total mindset transformation.
The Shift: From Memorization to Mindset
The jump from a traditional “teacher-led” system to the IB Diploma Programme was about more than just a change in subjects; it was a change in identity.
Previously accustomed to passive learning and rote memorization, Yuchen had to redefine her role in the classroom. She transitioned from a student who waited for answers to a proactive inquirer who seeks out knowledge and treats her teachers as partners in her learning journey.
Skills Forged in the IB Fire
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Logical Precision: Through the IB Personal Project, Yuchen moved beyond simple task-switching to master high-level organizational skills and logical structuring.
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The Power of Voice: Frequent presentations transformed her communication style. What once caused anxiety has become a core strength; Yuchen now communicates complex ideas with the poise and clarity of a seasoned professional.
Pro-Tips for Future International Students
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Own Your Learning: Adaptability isn’t a passive trait—it’s an active one. Don’t just follow the curriculum; explore the “why” behind it and keep the dialogue open with those around you.
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Consultation is Key: Your teachers and advisors are your greatest assets. To make the most of your meetings, come prepared with a “problem-solving” agenda rather than just a request for information.
What was improved for readability?
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Dynamic Headings: Used more descriptive, evocative titles (e.g., “Forged in the IB Fire”).
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Streamlined Sentence Structure: Reduced “wordiness” to ensure the message hits home immediately.
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Parallelism: Ensured that bullet points follow a consistent grammatical structure, which makes them much easier to digest.
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Impactful Vocabulary: Replaced generic terms with more precise words like “tapestry,” “catalyst,” and “poise.”
XWA August Intake – Special Double Offer for International Students! 
For International Students Applying from Overseas:
Special Application Fee: Only S$88 (Usual: S$975) Enrollment Fee of S$5,668 Waiver Total Savings: S$6,555
Apply now with this promotion CODE: MEPOIS
Note for Transfer Students Already in Singapore:
Regular application fee of S$975 applies Enrollment fee of S$5,668 required
Enjoy a special rebate – the $5,668 will be deducted from tuition fees across 2 semesters
Submit your application documents and payment proof to: consult@mightyedupath.com
Don’t miss your chance to secure a place at one of Singapore’s top international schools!Studying in the United States can be a dream come true. But language barriers like TOEFL can stand in the way. However, you can transfer to a US university without TOEFL. This story shows how Ning Nan successfully transferred to the University of Washington, bypassing English tests.
Two Paths to Transfer to a US University Without TOEFL
Zhang Jian and Ning Nan both wanted to study in the US but took different paths. Zhang Jian worked hard to meet competitive requirements like the TOEFL. Ning Nan, on the other hand, chose a different route and managed to transfer to a US university without TOEFL.
Instead of taking the test, she started at a community college, earned a strong GPA, and then transferred to the University of Washington. Zhang Jian was amazed by this strategy, proving there’s more than one way to a top US school.
How Community Colleges Can Help You Transfer Without TOEFL
The first two years of a US undergraduate degree focus on general courses. This gives international students the time to improve their English and adapt to US academic life.
Transferring to a US university without TOEFL is possible if you choose the community college route. Here’s why:
- Dual Enrollment Opportunities
Many community colleges have agreements with four-year universities. You can apply for dual admission and secure your spot in both schools. - No TOEFL or IELTS Needed
By starting at a community college, you can skip TOEFL or IELTS. With a good GPA, you can transfer to a US university without TOEFL. - Lower Costs
Community colleges are more affordable than four-year universities. Tuition and living expenses typically total $20,000 per year, making this route cost-effective. - Visa Benefits
Dual admission programs make your visa application stronger. Presenting a clear four-year study plan increases the trust of visa officers. - Flexibility and Options
Over 40% of US universities accept transfer students. You have the flexibility to transfer between schools and change majors during your studies.
A Smart Way to Transfer to a US University Without TOEFL
Zhang Jian followed the traditional route, while Ning Nan took advantage of the community college system. Both ended up at the University of Washington, showing that there are multiple paths to success.
If you’re worried about taking the TOEFL, consider the community college option. It’s a smart and flexible way to transfer to a US university without TOEFL while saving time and money.
Studying in the USA: Essential Guide for Singapore Students Applying to American High Schools
Singapore, known for its exceptional education quality, attracts numerous international students seeking K12 education. Currently, around 62,000 international students are enrolled in various international schools in Singapore. Many families choose Singapore not only for its high-quality education and work opportunities but also as a transitional stage before sending their children to study in the U.S. or Europe.
Among various study abroad options, American high schools are a top choice for many parents due to their extensive educational resources, diverse campus cultures, and strong college guidance systems. Parents hope that attending an American high school will provide a solid foundation for future university applications and career development. As your child approaches high school, have you prepared adequately for their admission process?
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the application process, required documents, and key considerations for Singaporean students applying to American high schools, helping your child successfully transition to a new academic journey.
Types of American High Schools
In the U.S., high schools are categorized into public and private institutions. Public high schools, which make up 85% of American high schools, are funded by the government and are available primarily to local students and a few international exchange students. Private high schools, accounting for 15%, operate independently of government funding, relying on charitable donations and tuition fees. These schools admit both local and international students.
Private High School Types:
- Boarding vs. Day Schools: Boarding schools provide accommodation, while day schools do not.
- Gender-Specific: Includes all-boys, all-girls, and co-educational schools.
- Religious Affiliation: Ranges from non-religious to schools affiliated with religions like Christianity or Catholicism.
American High School System
The American high school system spans four years (grades 9-12), equivalent to the Chinese junior and senior high school years. Students can apply for admission in 9th grade, which is the optimal time for entry. Applications for 10th-11th grades are available at some schools, but by 12th grade, most schools no longer accept new students.
Standardized Test Requirements
International students are generally required to provide standardized test scores such as TOEFL, TOEFL Junior, or SSAT. Top boarding schools may have higher language proficiency requirements and might also require SSAT or ISEE scores to assess students’ overall capabilities and academic potential.
Application Requirements for U.S. Private High Schools
- Academic Records: Provide transcripts for the last 2-3 years with average grades typically above 80%, and 90% for top schools.
- Recommendation Letters: Submit at least three recommendations from teachers and/or principals.
- Interview: Participate in interviews, which may be conducted in person or via video.
Costs of Studying Abroad
Studying at a U.S. private high school can be expensive. Boarding schools typically cost between $70,000 and $85,000 annually, while day schools range from $40,000 to $60,000 per year. Additional costs include accommodation, meals, medical insurance, and textbooks.
Benefits of Attending an American High School
- Holistic Development: U.S. high schools focus on comprehensive student development, offering a wide range of electives and extracurricular activities.
- Enhanced College Application: Attending an American high school can improve the competitiveness of university applications, particularly for Ivy League schools.
- Language Immersion: Early education in the U.S. helps students adapt to an English-speaking environment, enhancing their language skills.
Application Tips
- Plan Early: Understand the U.S. high school education system and create a strategic application plan.
- Improve Academic and English Skills: Enhance standardized test scores and participate in extracurricular activities.
- Choose Schools Wisely: Select schools that fit your child’s profile and avoid the temptation to apply to only prestigious institutions.
Thorough preparation and early planning can significantly increase the chances of successful applications to American high schools. For further assistance with the application process, contact Mighty Edupath for expert guidance.
Recommended Schools:
- Bishop Blanchet High School: bishopblanchet.org
- La Reina High School & Middle School (Girl School): lareina.com
- St. Bernard’s Academy: saintbernards.us
- York School: york.org
- Bellarmine Preparatory School: bellarmineprep.org
- Archbishop Murphy High School: am-hs.org
- The Northwest School: northwestschool.org
American high schools offer a wealth of educational resources and diverse opportunities. If you’re interested in applying to American high schools, contact Mighty Edupath for more information and support!
Founded in 1615, The Perse School is one of the oldest private schools in the UK, with a remarkable history of over 400 years. Renowned for cultivating talent for centuries, it stands as a pillar of educational excellence.
Located in the academically vibrant city of Cambridge, The Perse School maintains a strong connection with the University of Cambridge. Its rigorous academic standards and forward-thinking educational philosophy have earned it a global reputation.
Why Choose The Perse School?
The Perse School is celebrated for its outstanding academic achievements and dedication to holistic student development. While academic rigor is a core focus, the school also emphasizes well-rounded education, nurturing talent in sports, the arts, and beyond.
- Strong Faculty: The school boasts an experienced faculty with deep academic expertise, ensuring students receive the highest quality education.
- Personalized Education: The Perse encourages students to pursue their passions and excel in areas where they show talent.
A Track Record of Success: University Placements
Year after year, students from The Perse School achieve impressive university placements at some of the world’s most prestigious institutions, including Cambridge, Oxford, and Harvard.
- In 2023, among the 219 graduates:
- 22% were admitted to Oxford or Cambridge
- 36% secured places at the UK’s G5 universities or Ivy League schools in the US
- 86% gained entry to Russell Group universities in the UK
The school’s university counseling team offers personalized guidance, helping students stand out in the competitive university application process. (For more details, visit The Perse School’s official website: The Perse School University Destinations)
Exciting News for Singaporean Families: The Perse School is Coming to Singapore!
To bring its exceptional educational model to Asia, The Perse School Singapore will open its doors in January 2025 under the Foreign School System (FSS). Staying true to the values of its parent school, it aims to provide a world-class education to students in Singapore and across the region.
Mighty Edupath is proud to be The Perse School’s strategic partner in Singapore, supporting admissions and promotional efforts to benefit families looking for outstanding, cost-effective education.
Meet the Headmaster: Join Us for an Exclusive Event
To help families learn more about The Perse School and its new Singapore campus, Mr. Ed Elliott, Headmaster of The Perse School Cambridge, will be visiting Singapore soon. During his visit, Mr. Elliott will share insights on how this historic school nurtures outstanding students through its educational philosophy and curriculum.
This is a rare opportunity for parents to discover how The Perse prepares children for success in their academic journeys and beyond.
Interested families are invited to register by scanning the QR code at the end of this post.
About the Headmaster
“Ed Elliott is the Headmaster of The Perse School in the UK. A graduate of St Anne’s College, Oxford University, he earned a first-class degree and several academic awards. He began his career as a management trainee at De La Rue plc before transitioning to education, starting as a teacher at Whitgift School in 1992. He joined The Perse School in 1997, where he served as Head of Sixth Form, Director of Studies, and Deputy Headmaster, before becoming Headmaster in 2008.
Under his leadership, the school became fully co-educational, doubled its student numbers, and added several new teaching and sports facilities. Ed is the first in his family to attend university and is passionate about promoting a holistic education model, focusing on academic, extracurricular, and mental well-being. He has served as an inspector for independent schools, Vice Chairman of the HMC Education Committee, and a member of the boards of the Cambridge Assessment Group and Marlborough College. He is also a founding member of SAGE, a global alliance of top schools. Ed has published ‘The Successful Guide to University Applications’ and ‘Leadership in Schools for the 21st Century’ and holds key positions in several international educational organizations.”
Scan to Register
Stay tuned for more updates on The Perse School events!
Singapore’s Gifted Education Programme (GEP) has been a staple of its education system for 40 years, but starting in 2027, the programme will see significant changes. These changes aim to create a more inclusive education model, allowing more high-ability students to benefit and offering them new pathways for development.
Expanding Access: More Support for High-Ability Students
Currently, about 1% of each student cohort is selected for the GEP, which is offered at nine designated primary schools. The new model will expand to include approximately 10% of each cohort. These high-ability students will remain at their current schools and participate in school-based enrichment programmes designed to develop their strengths further. This expansion means that many more children will have the opportunity to experience a richer and more varied education than the current system, where about 7% of students participate in similar programmes.
Deeper Learning Opportunities: After-School Enrichment Modules
For students who show exceptional abilities, there will be additional opportunities to participate in after-school enrichment modules. These modules allow students to explore their interests in greater depth and collaborate with peers who have similar abilities and passions. It is anticipated that more than 1% of each cohort will take part in these after-school programmes, which is a higher percentage than those currently selected for the GEP. This approach will provide an enhanced learning experience for these students, helping them to maximize their potential.
A More Inclusive and Flexible Approach to Education
Education Minister Chan Chun Sing has highlighted that schools have gained valuable experience and resources over the years in nurturing high-ability students. With the new model, schools will have greater flexibility to support student development, ensuring that every high-ability student has access to the education that best suits their needs.
The Ministry of Education also recognizes that some students’ talents may not emerge until later in their schooling. The new approach aims to provide these students with more opportunities and support, reducing the risk of missing out due to early selection processes. Furthermore, these changes are intended to alleviate the stress and pressure on students and parents that comes with GEP selection, encouraging a more enjoyable and interest-driven learning experience. The focus will shift from preparing for selection exams to discovering and nurturing each child’s unique strengths and interests.
Broader Distribution of Educational Resources
Currently, out of the over 30,000 primary school graduates each year, about 3,000 high-ability students are involved in enrichment programmes at more than 180 primary schools. Going forward, the Ministry of Education will ensure that schools have sufficient resources to support these expanded programmes. This effort will provide every high-ability student with the best possible learning environment, tailored to their individual needs.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong announced this transformation during the National Day Rally, marking a new chapter in gifted education in Singapore. For parents, these changes mean more options and support for their children’s education, enabling more students to thrive in environments that are well-suited to their needs and abilities, ultimately paving the way for their future success.
Singapore’s Education System: A Global Leader
Singapore’s education system is recognized globally for its outstanding performance, which is attributed to strong government support, a results-oriented framework, and a commitment to high-quality teaching. The curriculum places a strong emphasis on mathematics, science, and problem-solving skills, while also focusing on holistic development and global competitiveness. Education is highly valued in Singaporean culture, with active parental involvement and robust societal support. Continuous innovation, partnerships with industry, and a safe learning environment further enhance Singapore’s ability to excel in education, making it a leader on the global stage.
Most of the applications for fall 2024 admission have ended, and Xiaomai has started to receive good news about the admission of various students! Xiaomai is very pleased, and I would like to share with you the situation of students receiving offers.
US University Undergraduate Admissions
Introduction:
Cornell University
Cornell University (English: Cornell University /kɔːrˈnɛl/ kor-NEL) is a private research university located in Ithaca, New York, United States. It has two other campuses in Manhattan, New York City and Education City, Qatar. It is one of the twelve founding members of the Association of American Universities and a member of the Ivy League of the NCAA sports league.
In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, Cornell University ranked 13th in the world and seventh in North America! As of October 2023, Cornell University has a total of 62 Nobel Prize winners, 4 Turing Award winners and 1 Fields Medal winner.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Institute of Technology (commonly referred to as Georgia Tech and GT, or Tech or the Institute in Georgia) is a public research university and polytechnic institute in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 1885, it is part of the University of Georgia system.
It is one of the three most famous polytechnic institutes in the United States, along with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the northeast and the California Institute of Technology (CalTech) in the west.
University of of illinois urbana-champaign
The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (U of I, Illinois, University of Illinois, or UIUC) is a public research university located in Champaign, Illinois and Urbana, Illinois. It is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois system and was founded in 1867.
UIUC alumni, faculty, or researchers include 30 Nobel laureates, 27 Pulitzer Prize winners, two Fields Medalists, and two Turing Award winners.
The above is the result of this issue! Follow us to learn more about first-hand information about applying to American universities~
Fall 2024 Admissions: Exciting Updates from Mighty Edupath!
Most applications for Fall 2024 have closed, and Mighty Edupath is thrilled to announce that students have started receiving admission offers from top universities! We’re excited to share some of the good news with you.
Singapore Public Universities: Admission Success
National University of Singapore (NUS)
The National University of Singapore (NUS) is Singapore’s premier world-class university, renowned globally for its excellence in engineering, life sciences, biomedicine, social sciences, and natural sciences.
- In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, NUS is ranked 11th in the world and 1st in Asia!
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Founded on July 1, 1991, Nanyang Technological University (NTU) has evolved into a globally recognized research-intensive university. It traces its roots back to the Nanyang Technological Institute (NTI), which was established in 1981 as part of the former Nanyang University. In 1991, NTI merged with the National Institute of Education, giving rise to the NTU we know today.
NTU is now ranked among the top 100 universities globally, thanks to its exceptional academic programs and groundbreaking research.
- In the 2024 QS World University Rankings, NTU is ranked 26th in the world and 4th in Asia!
This is just a glimpse of the exciting admission results we’re seeing! Follow us for more updates and first-hand information on university admissions in Singapore.
As the 2024 application cycle for Singapore’s prestigious universities comes to an end, NUS and NTU continue to attract top talent. Both universities recently hosted open days—NUS on March 9, 2024, and NTU on March 2, 2024—to offer valuable insights and guidance to prospective students. With applications closing on March 19, 2024, this article provides a comprehensive look at the latest updates for those applying to the 2025-26 academic year.
Admissions Events at NUS and NTU: What You Need to Know
While Singapore may not hold large-scale college entrance exam fairs like China, its universities, including NUS and NTU, conduct open days to give students ample opportunity to learn more about the schools. These events were attended by a massive number of students, offering direct access to valuable information on application processes and student life.
One standout feature: unlike in many countries, the majority of attendees were students themselves rather than parents, reflecting an encouraging shift towards student independence in education decision-making.
Competition for NUS and NTU Admissions: Is It Tough?
NUS and NTU each receive around 30,000 applications annually, admitting approximately 6,000-7,000 students. While this sounds competitive, it’s worth noting that 30% of Singaporean students—based on an annual birth cohort of 40,000 (although declining)—gain entry into these top schools. Singaporean students can pursue admission not only through junior colleges (JC) but also via O-level examinations, providing multiple pathways to these universities.
Comparing this to the competition in China for top universities like 985 institutions, applying to NUS and NTU is relatively less intense. However, some majors are more competitive than others. For instance, medicine, law, computer science, and artificial intelligence are among the most sought-after courses.
Popular Courses and Admission Score Requirements
Aside from traditional fields like medicine and law, interdisciplinary courses like business analytics, big data, and economics have seen a surge in popularity at NUS and NTU. These programs typically require top-tier grades, with 90% of students in recent intakes achieving AAA/A grades.
NUS and NTU release detailed admission score data for various courses, showing the 90th and 10th percentile scores for previous intakes. This can serve as a helpful reference for applicants. Notably, starting in 2026, the University Admission Score (UAS) will change from 90 points to 70 points, and GP (General Paper) and PW (Project Work) will no longer be included. This change is expected to benefit international students, particularly those from China.
What Does This Mean for International Students?
NUS and NTU reserve about 10% of places for international students each year, ensuring a diverse student body. These international spots are highly competitive, with students vying for scholarships and tuition subsidies offered by Singapore’s universities and Ministry of Education. Therefore, it’s crucial for international applicants to stand out in their applications by meeting or exceeding the high standards set for local students.
Final Thoughts: The Purpose of Education
In conclusion, no matter where you choose to pursue your university education, it’s important to remember the broader purpose of education. As illustrated by the pyramid of educational goals, lifelong learning and adaptability are key to maintaining competitiveness in today’s world.
The summer vacation of Singapore International School is coming. What’s more exciting is that you no longer need a visa to study in Singapore during this vacation. You can go to an overseas holiday camp at any time to give your children an extraordinary holiday experience. Therefore, it is expected that the holiday camps of Singapore’s high-quality international schools may be hard to find if you book them late. Xiaomai recommends that whether you are a parent or our partner, contact us as soon as possible to book a place for the upcoming summer camp.
As summer vacation approaches, XCL Camps has prepared a variety of summer activities for children aged 3-16 from June 18 to August 2, 2024. Singapore, new discoveries, new experiences, just waiting for you!
All the following camps are taught in English, so students are required to have some basic knowledge of English. Some courses (marked in yellow) require students to have an intermediate to advanced level of English. Don’t miss this great opportunity to learn new knowledge and skills while improving your English skills through the colorful, lively and interesting camps!
第一周：2024年6月18-21日，9am-3pm
Week 1-June 18 to 21 （9am-3pm, Tuesday to Friday
- Multi Activity for 3 to 5 years old – $520
- Multi Activity for 6 to 8 years old – $520
- Game Design with Minecraft Level 2 for 7 to 14 years old – $548
- Engineering Explorers for 6 to 11 years old – $560
- Aviation and Drones for 9 to 14 years old – $548
Week 2: June 24-28, 2024, 9am-3pm
Week 2-June 24 to 28 (9am-3pm, Monday to Friday)
- Robotics for 7 to 10 years old – $685
- STEM Junior for 4 to 5 years old – $650
- Art Studio for 6 to 8 years old – $650
Week 3: July 1-5, 2024, 9am-3pm
Week 3-July 1 to 5 (9am-3pm, Monday to Friday)
- Multi Activity for 3 to 5 years old – $650
- Coding for 6 to 7 years old – $650
- Drama Camp for 7 to 10 years old – $685
- Entrepreneurship 101 for 8 to 12 years old – $685
- Digital Animation for 8 to 13 years old – $685
- XSports for 6 to 8 years old – $650
- Aviation and Drones for 6 to 12 years old – $685
- STEAM Explorers for 6 to 8 years old – $685
- Football camp for 6 to 14 years old – $685
Week 4: July 8-12, 2024, 9am-3pm
Week 4-July 8 to 12 (9am-3pm, Monday to Friday)
- Multi Activity for 3 to 5 years old – $650
- Drama Camp for 4 to 5 years old – $685
- Art Studio for 6 to 8 years old – $650
- Star Chef for 7 to 15 years old – $788
- Sports Camp for 9 to 12 years old – $650
- Minecraft Level 1 for 6 to 9 years old – $685
- Budding Builders for 9 to 11 years old – $700
- Entrepreneurship- Build your own business and Introduction to Cryptocurrency for 6 to 14 years old – $850
- Aviation and Drones for 12 to 16 years old – $685
- Media Makers- Launch your own podcast Media Production Camp – Launch your own podcast for 8 to 14 years old – $850
- EAL English Learning Camp for 7 to 9 years old – $650
- Outdoor adventure camp for 11 to 14 years old – $950
Week 5: July 15-19, 2024, 9am-3pm
Week 5-July 15 to 19 (9am-3pm, Monday to Friday)
- Multi Activity for 3 to 5 years old – $650
- Multi Activity for 6 to 8 years old – $650
- Drama Camp for 7 to 10 years old – $685
- Design and Thinking for 8 to 12 years old – $685
- STEAM Discovery for 6 to 12 years old – $850
- Media Makers- Youtube Content Creation for 8 to 14 years old – $850
- Star Chef for 7 to 15 years old – $788
- Game Design with Roblox for 7 to 12 years old – $685
- Robotics for 7 to 10 years old – $685
- Virtual Reality for 10 to 15 years old – $685
- Entrepreneurship 101 Marketing Mini MBA for 12 to 15 years old – $900
- Football camp for 6 to 14 years old – $685
- EAL English learning camp for 10 to 14 years old – $650
Week 6: July 22-26, 2024, 9am-3pm
Week 6-July 22 to 26 (9am-3pm, Monday to Friday)
- Multi Activity for 3 to 5 years old – $650
- Multi Activity for 6 to 8 years old – $650
- Public Speaking for 6 to 12 years old – $850
- Science Camp for 6 to 12 years old – $850
- Technopreneurship for 10 to 14 years old – $685
- Star Chef for 7 to 15 years old – $788
- Art Studio for 6 to 8 years old – $650
- Aviation and Drones for 6 to 12 years old – $685
- Engineering Explorers for 6 to 11 years old – $700
- Entrepreneurship 101 Marketing for 12 to 15 years old – $900
- ESPORTS Camp for 12 to 16 years old – $685
- EAL Camp for 7 to 9 years old – $650
- Outdoor adventure Camp for 7 to 10 years old – $950
Week 7: July 29-August 2, 2024, 9am-3pm
Week 7-July 29 to Aug 2 (9am-3pm, Monday to Friday)
- Science Camp for 6 to 12 years old – $850
- Game Design with Minecraft for 7 to 9 years old – $685
- Budding Builders for 9 to 11 years old – $700
- Public Speaking for 6 to 12 years old – $850
- Aviation and Drones for 12 to 16 years old – $685
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