Camp apprentice programs
Leadership programs designed to prepare teens to mentor younger campers in our Summer Apprentice program.
Cultivating leaders for the future
Sienna Ranch offers 2 distinct summer apprenticeship programs (Farm Hands Apprentice and Equine Apprentice) aimed to develop the next generation of naturalist leaders. Both Programs begin in the Spring (March-May) with a class in Session 4. Each class features a curriculum that prepares teens to become positive role models and mentors in leadership roles during summer camp.
In Summer, apprentices support younger students by facilitating a variety of activities including group games, animal interactions, crafts, and nature exploration.
Apprentices Develop Essential Skills for the Future
Teens gain real-world experience making valuable contributions while building essential skills to prepare for leadership roles with greater responsibility.
- Professional Etiquette: Practice respectful interactions with mentors and children.
- Organizational Skills: Follow a schedule and remain focused under pressure.
- Self-Reflection and Adaptability: Embrace feedback for growth.
- Self-Management: Identify physical and emotional needs; manage stress effectively in demanding situations.
- Career Development: Present yourself confidently in applications and interviews; set actionable and achievable goals.
Farm hands apprentice program
The Farm Hands Apprentice Program begins with a 5-week class (March 18 – April 22, 2025), where apprentices practice group facilitation, conflict resolution, and animal interactions. They observe experienced instructors to strengthen communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities.
The program culminates with at least two weeks of participation in Summer Camp. During this time, apprentices assist with activities, support campers, and apply their leadership skills in a hands-on outdoor setting.
Open to both new and returning participants.
- Engage in meaningful leadership opportunities
- Share nature experiences and enthusiasm with younger kids
- Learn through close-up observation of experienced instructors and their classes
Summer Camp Apprentices (ages 12-14 by March 2025) must:
- Be prepared for outdoor activities in all weather.
- Attend every day of their selected camp.
- Assist with leading activities, guiding campers, and supporting daily responsibilities like cleanup and restroom escorts.
Price: $300 (Includes the 5 Classes + 2 weeks of Summer Camp)
Session 4 Class Time: Tuesdays 3:45pm-5:45pm
Session 4 Class Dates: 3/18/25 | 3/25/25 | 4/8/25 | 4/15/25 | 4/22/25
Summer Camp Dates
(Monday-Friday, 8:45am-3:00pm)
6/2-6/6
6/9-6/13
6/16-6/20
6/23-6/27
6/30-7/4
7/7-7/11
7/14-7/18
7/21-7/25
7/28-8/1
8/4-8/8
8/11-8/15
New Applicants
Apply Now Here. Due February 21, 2025.
Returning Apprentices:
- Join for Class AND Summer! Email [email protected]
- Skip the class and join for Summer only: Email [email protected] with summer availability no later than March 14th, 2025
*Application and class enrollment approved on rolling basis*
Equine apprentice program
The Equine Apprentice Program begins with an 8-week class (March 22 – May 17, 2025), where apprentices learn horse handling, grooming, tacking, and husbandry. They train alongside the Equine Coordinator to develop skills in natural horsemanship, equine health, and an emotional connection with animals. Whether a first time horse enthusiast or a seasoned animal lover, students will build a basic foundation for horse handling and husbandry in order to assist with our summer horse camp program.
The program culminates with at least two weeks of participation in Summer Camp. During this time, apprentices assist with the riding lessons, lead grooming sessions for campers, and apply their leadership skills in a hands-on outdoor setting.
Open to both new and returning participants.
Able to safely lead, groom, and tack/untack our horses
Understand animal behavior and handling
Teach younger children how to groom a horse
Clean the horse stalls
Learn how to safely and independently interact with and care for our animals
NOTE: This is not a riding program and focuses on safely handling horses while children are riding.
Summer Camp Apprentices (ages 13-16 by March 2025) must:
- Assist instructors with campers and daily responsibilities like cleanup and animal care.
- Be able to complete the horse handling assessment during the spring class.
- Be able to respond to verbal directions in a distracting outdoor environment.
- Attend every day of their selected camp.
Price: $600 (Includes the 8 Classes + 2 weeks of Summer Camp)
Session 4 Class Time: Saturdays 10am-1pm
Session 4 Class Dates: 3/22/25 | 3/29/25 | 4/12/25 | 4/19/25 | 4/26/25 | 5/3/25 | 5/10/25* | 5/17/25
*5/10 for Community Event Class time may differ.
Training Meet and Greet during the week of May 26th-30th after 3pm. Exact day TBD.
Summer Camp Dates
(Monday-Friday, 8:45am-3:00pm)
Week 1 8/11-8/15
Week 2 6/2-6/6
Week 3 6/9-6/13
Week 4 6/16-6/20
Week 5 6/23-6/27
Week 6 6/30-7/4
Week 7 7/7-7/11
Week 8 7/14-7/18
Week 9 7/21-7/25
Week 10 8/4-8/8
Week 11 8/11-8/15
Learn More About Teen Opportunities
