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Python & AI Coding Camp

Spring Break 2026 · San Diego

A hands-on camp for middle and high school students to learn Python and build an AI-powered game.

March 30 - April 3 9am - 12pm Kearny Mesa

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Learn Python

Build a text-based game from scratch. No experience needed.

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Add AI Power

Create a smart AI opponent and use AI coding assistants.

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Just Bring a Laptop

Everything runs in the browser. No installation required.

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Expert Instruction

Taught by Dr. Andrea Zonca from UCSD's Supercomputer Center.

When

March 30 – April 3

9am – 12pm daily

Where

Kearny Mesa

Italian School of San Diego

Cost

$360

Sibling discount: 10%

How to Enroll

Ready to join? Submit your pre-enrollment to reserve a spot for your student. We review applications on a rolling basis and will send enrollment invitations as soon as possible, no later than March 1, 2026.

Enrollment is confirmed upon payment of the invoice. The cost of the program is $360 for the first student in a family; each additional sibling receives a 10% discount.

Submit Pre-Enrollment →

Note: Priority consideration will be given to applications received before March 1, 2026.

FAQ

Who is this camp for? ▼

Middle and high school students interested in coding and AI. No previous programming experience required—kids with prior Python experience are also welcome!

What do students need to bring? ▼

A laptop (fully charged), water bottle, and snack. No tablets/phones. Any Windows, Mac, or Chromebook works—everything runs in a browser.

What will students build? ▼

A classic text-based game in Python, first as player-vs-player, then upgraded with an AI-powered opponent. They'll use AI coding assistants throughout.

What's the exact location? ▼

Italian School of San Diego, 4550 Kearny Villa Rd Suite 202, Kearny Mesa. Large parking lot available.

What about refunds or missed days? ▼

50% refund if notified 14+ days before camp. If a student misses a day, we'll help catch them up—but full attendance is encouraged.

Do students get a certificate? ▼

Yes! Every student receives a personalized certificate and access to their completed code and game.

Class size and scholarships? ▼

8–12 students per session. We're seeking sponsors for scholarships—contact us if interested in financial aid.

How is AI used in the camp? ▼

Students explore AI in two ways: (1) using an AI coding assistant (like ChatGPT) to understand and improve their Python code, and (2) integrating an AI service to create a smart game opponent. The curriculum includes direct interaction with modern Large Language Models.

What's the teaching philosophy? ▼

Programming is best learned by doing. Students experiment, make mistakes, and build real projects from day one. With AI tools, they move faster, ask better questions, and build confidence as creators.

Can parents observe the class? ▼

To maintain a focused learning environment, we do not allow drop-in visits. Students will have access to all teaching materials after the camp.

Is lunch or snack provided? ▼

No, please have your student bring a snack and water bottle for the 15-minute break. Also ensure the laptop is fully charged each day.

Who developed this program? ▼

This program was conceived and developed by Dr. Andrea Zonca in 2025. He started learning Python in 2005 during grad school in astrophysics, and began teaching computing in 2014 through Software Carpentry. He has taught Python, HPC, and AI topics at the San Diego Summer Institute every August since 2015.

Have another question?

Dr. Andrea Zonca

Lead of Scientific Computing · UCSD Supercomputer Center

Teaching Python & AI since 2014. Hands-on approach refined through Software Carpentry and the SD Summer Institute.

We welcome students from all backgrounds. Our camp creates a supportive space for everyone to discover coding and AI.