Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools

Community Connections: Resources & Events

Welcome to the Community Resources page for Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools! We believe in the power of collaboration between our schools and the wider community to ensure the success and well-being of all our students. Whether you are looking for support services, local organizations, or educational resources, this page offers a variety of helpful links and information to connect families, students, and educators to valuable community programs and services.

If you have an event, program or service that would benefit our students and their families, please email us at communications@sd68.bc.ca. Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools shares resources and events that meet the following criteria: 

  • Relevant to a K-12 audience. 
  • Non-profit, local organizations only. (Based in Nanaimo or the Mid-Island region).
  • Low to no-cost to families and caregivers. 
  • Event/organization aligns with the district’s commitment to a safe, inclusive and equitable learning community for all. 
  • The district reserves the sole discretion to determine what information is shared on this page. Postings are dependent on department capacity.
  • Information shared on this page does not equal endorsement and/or support from Nanaimo Ladysmith Public Schools. It is for information purposes only.

Programs & Camps

The Royal Soccer Club summer camps is hosted in Nanaimo this year. Sign up before March 31, 2025 for savings. Find out more and sign up today.

Scouts Canada overnight program runs for ages 9-14 and offers skill building (apocalypse training), archery, canoeing, hikes, astronomy, low ropes, arts and crafts, and so much more. They are located in Roberts Creek on the Sunshine Cost in a 200 acre forest right on the ocean. Its a great place for kids to disconnect for their computers and phones and makes new friends. They offer a service to meet parents at the ferry and bring them to camp!

The Leaders in Training (LIT) program is specifically designed for high school students looking for one last chance to experience camp. This 12-day, 11-night program not only provides valuable leadership training but also guarantees participants the volunteer hours they need for graduation. Plus, if they successfully complete the program, they are guaranteed a spot as a staff member at Camp Byng once they’re old enough!

There is currently a flash sale for the next 50 registrants to use the code MARCHRUSH to receive 20% the early bird discount. Find out about all the program details.

The Morrell Nature Sanctuary offers a junior leader program and a Summer Day Camp 2025.

Visit their website, call 250 753-5811 or email info@morrellnaturesanctuary.ca to find out more.

Registration is now open! Geneskool invites you to step into the shoes of a forensic investigator and unravel a scientific mystery. Collaborate with your fellow detectives in teams or 4-5. You can explore cutting-edge techniques, from DNA analysis to the intricacies of bacterial genotyping.

  • July 14-18, 2025
  • Registration fee $350 (bursaries are available)
  • Register today – deadline to register is June 29, 2025

RDN offers summer programs for students – registration opens May 20, 2025. Visit the website or call 778-674-0466.

Minerva offers an opportunity for youth to cultivate and enhance their emotional and mental wellness during the summer break.

Rise and Shine is a FREE wellness program for girls and gender diverse youth ages 15-24. There are seven workshops via zoom from 10-11:30am to help youth with their mental and emotional health. Sessions cover:

  • Self-awareness and thinking traps
  • Boundary-setting
  • Sandness and Depression
  • Self-compassion
  • Stress and anxiety
  • Self-care

Find out more – apply today.

Branch Out Learning is a Nanaimo-based company that offers recreational programs and workshops for children, designed to spark creativity, curiosity and lifelong learning. the programs cover a wide range of topics, including STEM, arts, movement, nature exploration and life skills.

More information can be found here.

Events & Initiatives

Interested in inspiring your students to start building real-world financial awareness and knowledge for life.

Teachers of students in Grades 4-12 are invited to sign up for this FREE National Smart Money Event. This is a fun, entertaining and engaging way for students to learn about money! It’s designed to spark curiosity and confidence in students when it comes to money and business.

Sign up today.

This is a community-centered event showcasing African cultures and heritage. There will be a live DJ, dance demonstrations and performances and delicious food.

It will be a wonderful opportunity to experience cultural diversity, foster inclusion and bring together the community through music, dance, food and art.

  • Saturday, May 31, 2025
  • 12:00PM – 4:00PM
  • Wellington Hall, Nanaimo
  • Admission is free for kids, teens and seniors
  • $10 for adults
  1. Family Friendly Barn Dance on Friday, May 9 at Cedar Hall. Students in Grades K-12 can purchase tickets for $10 and adults are $15.
  2. Fiddelium with the Nanaimo Cello Choir, the Nanaimo Suzuki Strings and Folk Band. Port Theatre Matinee Show, Sunday June 8. All seats $37.
  3. Fiddle Camp 2025 at Spruston Road Camp. August 5 – 8, 2025
  4. Find out more.

The students from McGirr Elementary are set to take the spotlight for two performances of the beloved musical Annie Jr. There will be nearly 50 students participating in a variety of roles.

Parents, teachers, and the local community are all eagerly anticipating the show, proud to support the young talents who are bringing such energy and enthusiasm to the stage. It’s not just a play—it’s a celebration of hard work, teamwork, and the joy of bringing a story to life. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming performance that will surely leave a smile on your face and a song in your heart!

Tickets are $11 and can be purchased at McGirr Elementary between 8am and 3pm. Questions, email info.mg@sd68.bc.ca with the subject line “Annie Jr Tickets.”

The VIDSS is hosting an Awareness Walk and Family Picnic. The event features a 2 km walk, followed by light snacks and a BYO family picnic.

  • Saturday, June 14, 2025
  • Airforce Beach, Comox
  • 10:30 am – 2:00 pm

Black Press Media is hosting a career and education expo at Country Club Centre May 29 from 11:00am until 3:00pm. It’s free, it’s open to the public and features 35+ exhibitors.

The Qualicum Beach School Of Dance is presenting Shrek The Musical at the VIU Malaspina Theatre May 16-28, 2025. Please see link for tickets.

Grants

The BC Chapter of the Learning Environments – Enhancing the Educational Experience is offering more than $8,000 in grants/prizes to enhance learning environments or activities for any school organization. The grant is open to students enrolled in a public or private BC school (K-12)

Find out more; submit an application today. Deadline to apply is May 17, 2025.

Contests

Econova Education launches this eco-comic competition for young people aged 8 to 19 years. Until June 30, 2025, students are invited to image and illustrate the City of the Future through a sustainable and innovative lens.

Students can express their vision of an eco-friendly future by proposing technological, collaborative or civic-minded solutions to rethink urban life.

Register a class or students for free on https://donorbox.org/events/745127/steps/choose_tickets  

Entries should be done on A4 size pager on 1-3 pages and can be in English, French or any Indigenous Language of Canada. Works to be sent via We Transfer to contest@econova.ca.