Summer Institute: Ages 13–18

Summer Institute comprises fun-filled programs that allow campers expanded exploration in areas of interest. We bring together top-notch Durham Academy faculty members, university experts and community professionals to create a vibrant summer of learning and discovery. Special Summer Institute offers up to three-week camps, and some programs include overnight experiences! 

Summer Institute is held daily Monday–Friday from 8:15 a.m.–3:15 p.m. on our Upper School's state-of-the-art facilities and wide-open grounds.

Lifelong learners who are curious about new materials and/or seeking mastery of materials to generate more confidence will thrive at Durham Academy Summer Institute. Through a fusion of learning and play, we aim to challenge learners to take control of sometimes-stressful topics — such as test-taking, essay-writing and driving — and also guide learners toward a deeper love and mastery of Shakespeare, technological skills, math, literacy and writing, storytelling and so much more. Campers will have fun while learning and forging friendships.

Whether your camper is ready to learn the (literal) rules of the road or discover a new passion, join us this summer! 

Summer Institute Offerings

  • Academic and Essay Writing
  • Aerospace Engineering and Self-Driving Car Build
  • Advanced Woodworking
  • ACT Boot Camp
  • Coding Games with Game Maker
  • Cooking and Understanding Cultures
  • CPR/AED Red Cross Babysitting
  • D&D Adventure Writing and Publishing
  • Digital E-Sports Broadcasting
  • Digital Entrepreneurship
  • Digital Video
  • Driver's Education
  • Minecraft Coding
  • Photography
  • Roblox Coding and Scripting
  • SSAT/ISEE High School Entrance Exam Prep
  • Social Media and Graphic Design
  • Testing Fundamentals and ACT/SAT Selection

Overnight Experiences

  • Archaeology Overnight Experience

  • Southwest National Parks Overnight Experience

  • Washington, D.C. Overnight Experience

   

Summer Institute Schedule
8:30 a.m. Arrival
9 a.m.–noon Deep Dive Learning 
12:15–1 p.m. Lunch & Camp Store
1–3 p.m. Deep Dive Learning
3–3:30 p.m. Exploring Issues
3:30 p.m. Pick-Up

 

DA Summer 2023: Summer Institute

 

  • Week 2: June 19–23 (June 19 is optional)
  • Week 3: June 26–June 30
  • Closed July 3–7 
  • Week 4: July 10–14
  • Week 5: July 17–21
  • Week 6: July 24–28
  • Week 7: July 31–Aug. 4