The Leaders in Training (L.I.T.) program is designed for youth ages 11–17 who are interested in developing leadership skills, building confidence, and gaining experience in a supportive camp environment. Through a combination of learning, skill development, and hands-on experiences, participants are introduced to the responsibilities and expectations of leadership at an age-appropriate level.
The L.I.T. program is structured across multiple levels, allowing youth to progress as their skills, confidence, and readiness grow. Each level builds on the previous one, supporting youth as they move from learning foundational leadership concepts to taking on increased responsibility within the camp setting.
Dates, rates and further information about the 2027 Leader In Training Program will be posted in January 2027!
Leader In Training – Level 1
Level 1 of the Leader In Training (L.I.T.) Program is the entry point into leadership for youth aged 11-13 years old who are beginning to explore what it means to be a leader in a fun, supportive environment. Participants engage in a structured day that is evenly balanced to support learning, practice, and fun, including:
- 30% Leadership Learning
- 40% Hands on Leadership Skill Development
- 30% Camp Activities
Throughout the program, participants will:
- Build confidence and independence
- Develop communication and teamwork skills
- Learn how to participate positively in group settings
- Begin understanding what it means to be a leader
LIT Level 1 focuses on building a strong foundation and helping youth develop readiness for future leadership opportunities
Leader In Training – Level 2
LIT Level 2 builds on the foundations introduced in Level 1 and is designed for youth, 11-13 years old, who are ready to take on increased responsibility and deepen their leadership skills. Participants follow a balanced daily structure that includes:
- 25% Leadership Learning
- 25% Hands on Leadership Skill Development
- 25% Volunteering in Camp Groups
- 25% Camp Activities
Throughout the program, youth will:
- Strengthen leadership and communication skills
- Practice decision-making and problem-solving
- Model positive behaviour and teamwork
- Build confidence in leadership roles
LIT Level 2 prepares participants for progression into higher levels of the Leaders in Training program.
Leader In Training – Level 3
Level 3 of the Leader In Training (L.I.T.) Program, is a 4 week program designed for youth 13-15 years old who are ready to deepen their leadership skills and begin taking on intentional responsibility. This level is designed to offer invited successful participants from level 2 of the L.I.T. Program an opportunity to prepare for positions as camp counselors or recreation leaders.
In this program youth will focus on:
- Leadership skill development
- Personal growth and self-awareness
- Supporting younger participants and staff
- Preparing youth for future volunteer and employment opportunities
Throughout the program participants spend their time intentionally building skills through a balanced daily structure:
- 25% Learning and Formal Lessons
- 25% Hands on Leadership Skill Development
- 50% Volunteering within summer camp groups
Participants will continue to build confidence, learn how to lead by example, and develop skills that translate beyond camp into school, work, and community settings.
Counsellor In Training Program
The Counsellor In Training (CIT) Program is our advanced leadership and mentorship program for invited youth aged 15+ who have successfully completed level 3 of the Leader In Training Program and are preparing for future roles as staff, volunteers, or community leaders. This program requires a full summer commitment with participants on site every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 9-4pm.
In this level youth will focus on:
- Hands-on leadership experience
- Mentorship and coaching
- Professional skill development
- Career and employment readiness
Participants follow a structured weekly schedule that emphasizes real world leadership experience:
- 25% Learning and Formal Lessons
- 75% Volunteering within summer camp groups
Participants gain real-world experience while being supported by experienced staff, helping them build the confidence and skills needed to succeed in leadership roles both within and beyond BGC Brantford.
