Soccer player kicking ball.

Weekly Themes

Hargrave’s Summer Experience offers an exciting blend of themed activities, multi-disciplinary learning, and real world applications. Each week presents a unique theme, providing immersive experiences that foster personal growth, leadership, and a deeper appreciation for learning.

Week 1: Leadership

Kick off the summer with leadership lessons guided by Hargrave’s retired military staff. Students will step into the past, exploring pivotal moments at historic sites like Appomattox Court House and the National D-Day Memorial, gaining valuable insights into leadership through real-world examples.

Building on these historical lessons, students will also engage in a Service Leadership course, where they will put leadership into action through meaningful community service projects. This hands-on experience will emphasize teamwork, responsibility, and the impact of service, preparing students to lead with integrity both in their communities and beyond.

Week 2: Historical Virginia

Step into the world of colonial Virginia and explore the influence of native Virginians on the creation of our nation. This week includes field trips to Poplar Forest, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, and Patrick Henry’s Red Hill. Juniors and seniors will visit the University of Virginia, founded by Jefferson, to explore higher education opportunities. Students will engage in discussions about Virginia’s historical impact, covering topics such as battlefields, governance, historical documents, and influential figures. The week also features an Etiquette Dinner, bringing tradition and learning together in a unique way.

Week 3: Environmental Science

Delve into Virginia’s natural beauty with a focus on cavern systems and geology. Students will explore Natural Bridge and its caverns and canoe on the James River. Other activities include reading topographic maps, studying cave formations, identifying wildlife, and conducting hazard surveys. Students will also take part in the Virginia Hunter Safety Certification Course, where they’ll learn firearm safety, responsible hunting ethics, and wildlife conservation. Those who complete the course will earn an official Virginia Hunter Safety Certification.

Week 4: College & Career Exploration

Prepare for the future with a week dedicated to college visits and career exploration. Unlike previous years, students will have the opportunity to select their preferred college destinations based on their individual interests. Career and college seminars will provide guidance on various professional pathways, and students will gain valuable insights into career preparation, leadership, and real-world applications. The week concludes with a fun trip to Emerald Pointe Water Park and a Project Fair, where students will present their summer projects. A special recognition event will celebrate their achievements and wrap up the program with a sense of accomplishment.

Join us for an unforgettable summer at Hargrave Military Academy, where each week brings new adventures and learning opportunities.