High School Programs - Summer 2024

Summer 2024 will see an expansion to high school summer program options offered by Science Venture. This summer we are proud to offer seven different summer institutes, each with a unique theme, under three different program umbrellas (L.E.D., P.U.L.S.E. and HighTechU). All programs require an application and acceptance into the program to register. Applications for high school programs will begin in early May.


If you’re a high school student who is interested in pursuing Engineering in post-secondary, this program is for you! Our L.E.D. programs are led by senior UVic Engineering students to provide you with an engaging and hands-on experience exploring different fields of engineering (that UVic offers as degree specializations). If you want to gain hands-on lab experience, meet UVic Faculty researchers and their graduate students, and see what the UVic Engineering experience is all about - these programs are for you!

Summer 2024 Options:

  • Grades 9-12 | Cost: $0** | July 29 - August 2, 2024

    Similar curriculum as 2023. Through partnerships with the Capital Regional District, LED is proud to present a “Regional Civil Engineering Experience.” This new LED program will provide participants the opportunity to learn about engineering infrastructure across the CRD. Field trips are planned over the span of 4 days to Hartland landfill, McLoughlin wastewater treatment plant, Sooke Lake watershed, Elk Lake and others. Accompanied by CRD staff, participants will get a behind-the-scenes look at the infrastructure that is planned, designed and managed by engineers to meet the needs of our community. Activities and case studies will be incorporated into the tours to provide hands-on learning and skill building for participants. The tours will be complimented with time spent on-campus at UVic with faculty members to learn about water quality management and infrastructure design. *We have an inclusive view of the word 'girl'. All-girl programs welcome non-binary, two-spirit, trans, genderqueer and any other youth that identify with these programs.

    ** After acceptance, this program requires a $100 deposit to hold your spot. After successful completion of the program, this deposit will be returned to you.

  • Grades 9-12 | Cost: $295 | July 22 - 26, 2024

    Similar curriculum as 2023. Spend time with UVic faculty and staff experiencing from the ground-up videogame realization. Beginning with 2D and progressing from there, participants will - among many things - build fractal trees, explore collision detection, and drive their way through math, physics, computer science, and the fascinating world of videogames.

  • Grades 11-12 | Cost: $295 | August 6-9, 2024

    New for 2024. Presented in collaboration with the newly established Health Core facility, this program delves into the production, purification, and practical applications of a biologically significant protein model. Participants will engage in comprehensive university-level training covering Lab Safety, WHMIS, and Biosafety protocols. Enrollment is restricted to students entering Grades 11-12.

  • Grades 9-12 | Cost: $295 | August 19-23, 2024

    New for 2024. Partnering with the Accelerating Community Energy Transformation (ACET) initiative led by UVic, this innovative LED program offers participants a unique opportunity to learn at the interface of technology and communities. ACET collaborates closely with communities to inform and realize their visions for a net-zero future and create positive impacts for people, places, and the planet. Dive into workshops, lab tours, and site visits to learn about the low-carbon and renewable technologies that drive transformation across diverse social, economic, and political contexts. Join us for this immersive week to become a leader in the global effort toward a more sustainable future!


Program for Unleashing Potential in Laboratory Sciences & Engineering (P.U.L.S.E.)
Grades 9-11 | Cost: $0** | August 12-16, 2024

Designed to ignite a passion for the sciences and prepare participants for success in post-secondary education, our P.U.L.S.E program offers an immersive experience like no other. Led by senior science undergraduate students from the University of Victoria, participants will have the unique opportunity to explore a wide array of laboratories, experiments, and engaging discussions with faculty and staff from our Faculty of Science. Join us and be part of a transformative experience that will set you on the path to success in your scientific endeavors. To apply for this exciting program, complete our application posted on our website.

** After acceptance, this program requires a $100 deposit to hold your spot. After successful completion of the program, this deposit will be returned to you. 


High Tech U – your gateway to unlocking the full potential of your engineering aspirations. Created with a mission to bridge critical gaps in today's educational landscape, we're here to empower youth with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to thrive in the dynamic world of industry. High Tech U offers participants a unique blend of hands-on learning, mentorship, and real-world experience. Through interactive workshops, industry insights, and immersive projects, students will gain a holistic understanding of engineering and its myriad applications. Acceptance into this program is dependent on a group interview.

Summer 2024 Options:

  • Grades 9-12 | Cost: $295 | July 8-12, 2024

    In this unique program, participants will form small teams and immerse themselves in the exhilarating process of designing, building, deploying, and pitching a cutting-edge React app. Guided by seasoned mentors, you'll navigate a startup-like environment, mastering industry-relevant skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and project management using Agile methodology. Collaborate with fellow enthusiasts, leveraging each other's strengths to bring your vision to life. Join us and become the tech innovator of tomorrow!

  • Grades 9-12 | Cost: $295 | July 15-19, 2024

    Participants collaborate in small teams within a startup-like setting to conceive, construct, and present an Arduino device. This dynamic environment fosters the development of essential industry skills such as teamwork, problem-solving, and project management, utilizing Agile methodology. Attendees gain expertise in product design, sensor utilization, microcontrollers, C-based programming, and crafting compelling business pitches. Forge connections with the local tech sector, UVic faculty, and senior UVic students during this enriching learning experience.


How do I apply to take Part in High School Programs?

Applications for High School Programs will begin in early May.

2024 Application Form

2024 Teacher Reference Form - Instructions about filling out the form are located on the 2nd page of the form.

Complete an application which has 3 main sections:

  1. Contact Information (name, school, grade, etc)
  2. Statement of Interest - using your preferred communication style - show us why you are the right fit the LED Summer Institute. Be as creative as you like! Video, audio, artwork, a poem - the format is up to you, but be sure to show/tell us about:
  • Yourself and your interest in science, engineering, and leadership
  • Why you want to attend the LED Summer Institute
  • What you can contribute to the program
  1. Teacher Reference - when asking a teacher for a reference, choose somebody that knows you well and can comment on all your strengths. This might be a math or science teacher, but it could be a teacher from another subject too. Please provide your reference with the form above. Can't get in touch with a teacher? Contact svregistration@uvic.ca for alternate sumbission.

What is the cost of high school summer programs?

Our high school programs have different costs, please check the individual program.

Bursaries can be provided for youth who may be facing financial barriers or who are underrepresented in the field of engineering (Indigenous and Women).

Students who attend the summer institute whom have also been accepted to Science Venture’s JC Program will be provided a $100 discount.

What are the application deadlines?

TBA.

How will I know if I have been accepted into the LED Summer Institute?

All applicants will receive an email from svregistration@uvic.ca. Due to limited spots, not all applicants may be successful.