A Summer of Growth, Energy, and Connection: Berwick’s Summer Programs Reach New Heights

This summer marked an intentional shift toward bringing our seasonal offerings home. Rather than outsourcing programs, the day camp felt authentically Berwick, with programs predominantly designed and led by our own talented faculty and staff.

In total, 27 Berwick faculty and staff members ran summer programs, supported by three teaching assistants, one Berwick graduate, and 24 Upper School students who stepped up as camp counselors. This strong, internal, presence of familiarity created an immediate sense of safety, structure, and belonging for campers.

The community's response was overwhelming. An impressive 65% of current Berwick Lower School students attended camp this summer—a clear sign that our youngest learners simply couldn't wait to spend their break with the teachers they know and love. Overall, 45% of campers were current Berwick students, while 55% joined us from the broader local community, making the program a fantastic way to welcome new families onto the Hilltop.

One of the summer’s most celebrated additions was the decision to include full lunch service in The Commons Dining Hall for all campers, summer teachers, and staff. Parents widely praised the daily dining service and thoughtful schedule structure. One camp parent shared:

Another parent highlighted the convenient, relaxed flow of the day:

 

By blending nostalgic camp traditions—like friendship bracelets, songs, and plenty of free play—with professional administration, the team delivered the ideal balance of structure and traditional summer joy.

 

Complementing our traditional day camp offerings, Berwick also launched an exciting athletic pilot on the ice: the Bulldog Invitational Skills Academy.

For seven weeks, players hit the ice bright and early on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday mornings at Dover Arena for high-tempo skill work, edge development, and a whole lot of summer hockey fun. The academy was led by Grace Genest, Mike Landino, Kelly Souza, and Lem Randall, creating an encouraging, high-energy environment where skaters were pushed to step outside their comfort zones and elevate their game.

The fun didn't stop with our core leadership—the ice was buzzing with special guest appearances throughout the summer! Head of School Scott Erickson and Director of Athletics Jeremy Clements both dropped in to jump into drills and bring extra enthusiasm, while a fantastic crew of Berwick hockey alumni—including Ragan Schank, Aidan Lally, Emily Hester, and Cam Clark—came back to skate with the group, share advice, and mentor the next generation. A whole host of returning players popped in throughout the seven weeks as well, keeping the competition fierce and the camaraderie high.

In addition to sharpening our players' individual skills, the academy served as a premier recruitment opportunity, introducing strong prospective student-athletes and new families to the excellence, mentorship, and vibrant culture of Berwick Athletics.

With happy campers, refreshed families, and a seamless blend of fun and community connection, this summer set a new standard for seasonal programming on the Hilltop.

As one parent summed it up best: "It’s easy, consistent, affordable, and my kid feels very comfortable being there and comes home happy and tired."

Thank you to all of our incredible faculty, staff, counselors, and families who made the 2026 summer season such a resounding success!