Fun in the Sun

A Summer of Discovery at Wakefield School

By Grayson Banning, Michele Dudley, & Elise Scalise

Published in: Warrenton Lifestyle Magazine - May 2025, p. 8 & Haymarket Gainesville Lifestyle Magazine - May 2025, p. 10

"Wakefield’s small, connected community gives its camps a special edge. With a 12:1 camper-to-counselor ratio and educators who bring engaging lesson plans to life, every child receives thoughtful attention. That sense of community really shines through.”

—Katie Vanderveldt

The end of the school year doesn't mean the end of learning—or fun—at Wakefield School in The Plains. Each summer, Wakefield transforms into a vibrant hub of creativity and adventure, offering a wide range of thoughtfully curated summer camp experiences.

Designed by dedicated teachers and the Auxiliary Department,  Wakefield’s summer camps combine hands-on exploration, creativity, and play. “Each summer we create new camps to pair with long-time favorites for a dynamic and engaging experience,” said Carolyn Findler, former Summer Camp Director and current Science & STEM Integration teacher.

While the camps are exciting for children, they’re also designed with families in mind. “Our goal is to provide as much childcare as possible for parents who need extra support—especially those with children in Junior Kindergarten through 1st grade,” Findler explained. Of course, safety is always top priority. “We hold our counselors to a high standard of conduct. All are background checked and genuinely great with kids.”

Katie Vanderveldt, Wakefield’s current Auxiliary Program Manager, reflected on the strength of the team: “Last year, we had more people than ever, and this summer’s team is amazing. Plus, we have a really great group of kids.” The positive atmosphere is infectious, thanks to passionate counselors who bring energy and joy to each day. Their love for working with kids is evident: “The fact that we get paid for this is crazy,” laughed counselor Abigail St. John. “I love getting to know all the different personalities. Every day is new.”

It’s not just the campers who grow—staff members develop, too. “I’ve definitely learned patience and how to find my voice,” said St. John. For many children, Wakefield summer camps become a highlight of their year. “Kids are genuinely excited to come to school in the summer because of these programs,” Vanderveldt shared.

Beyond the activities, the camps help new and prospective families feel at home in the Wakefield community. “We’re often the first glimpse into how the school operates,” said Vanderveldt. “Summer camps let new students meet classmates and get comfortable before fall.”

Planning for the future is always part of the process. As soon as one summer ends, brainstorming begins for the next. “By the end of last summer, we already knew we’d be offering a Little Farmers Camp this year,” Vanderveldt said. Feedback from campers and counselors helps shape future offerings. “I like to check in throughout the year and ask different age groups what they’d like to see—you’ve got to know your audience.”

With 63 rural acres to explore, Wakefield’s campus offers the perfect backdrop for discovery, featuring diverse ecosystems, a pond, an outdoor classroom, butterfly gardens, and more. These natural elements provide ideal settings for hands-on learning, from bug-catching to nature walks. Camps like the upcoming Little Farmers take full advantage of these outdoor resources, sparking campers’ curiosity about farming and nature through immersive, nature-based activities.

Wakefield’s small, connected community gives its camps a special edge. With a 12:1 camper-to-counselor ratio and educators who bring engaging lesson plans to life, every child receives thoughtful attention. “That sense of community really shines through,” Vanderveldt noted.

Asked to describe Wakefield summer camps in just one word, she didn’t hesitate: “Fun!”

At Wakefield School, character, curiosity, and clear voices are nurtured year-round, and the school’s mission doesn’t take a break when the school year ends. Explore Wakefield’s enriching and exciting summer programs today.

Learn more about our summer camp program here, or contact the Auxiliary team at [email protected].