Donovan Shaw - Deputy Principal Head of Secondary School
The Importance and Benefits of Attending School Camps
School camps have long been an important and cherished tradition in education and a vital part of the educational experience. Camps offer students a breadth of opportunities for personal growth, collaboration, and authentic learning, all while fostering a sense of fun, adventure and independence, in ways that traditional classroom settings cannot provide.
After spending some time at Year 7 Camp earlier this week, as well as at all the camps last year, I could list any number of instances where I was privileged to observe students growing in their capabilities in front of my eyes. The Outdoor Education component of year-level camps provides such a rich context for this growth. Students challenging themselves to do things they would never think they could do, such as jumping off a 12-metre-high telegraph pole, sleeping outside by themselves and being self-reliant (without any technology!), swimming through a pool of mud whilst helping carry a peer on a stretcher, are a few examples that pop straight to mind. All these experiences and many others happen (and often only happen) with the genuine encouragement from and collaboration with their peers; and in many cases peers that are not in their friendship group or even their class. The stretcher carry in the mud activity on our Year 11 Camp simply cannot be completed unless all the members of the team are actively contributing and supporting each other the whole time (even the student on the stretcher). I struggle to think of any other activity in a school or even workplace context that is truly like this.
In trying to unpack why camps are so important and the benefits for students that permeate through all aspects of their life as well as their future pathway that God has laid out for them, I’ve grouped these into some categories.
Building Social and Teamwork Skills
School camps bring students together in a setting that encourages teamwork and collaboration. Through activities like setting up tents, cooking meals, and participating in group challenges, students learn to communicate effectively and share responsibilities. They also learn to support each other in quite often a differentiated way recognising that different people need different kinds of support. These experiences help build strong social and collaborative skills that are essential for personal and future professional success.
Enhancing Independence and Responsibility
Being away from home and family, even for a short period, teaches students to be more independent. They learn to make decisions on their own, to manage their time, and take care of their belongings. This sense of responsibility is crucial for their development into self-reliant individuals, preparing them for their future challenges.
Building Resilience and Confidence
School camps build resilience by challenging students to step out of their comfort zones in a supported and encouraging context. Whether it's managing their belongings or making decisions without immediate adult guidance, these experiences help students develop confidence in their own capabilities, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that are essential for success in all aspects of life.
Connecting with Nature and Promoting Well-being
In today's digital age, many students spend a significant amount of time indoors and in front of screens. School camps provide a much-needed opportunity to disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature and have opportunities for mindfulness. Group and individual activities like hiking, camping, and wildlife observation foster an appreciation for the natural world and promote physical health. Time spent in nature is also linked to improved mental well-being, reduced stress and higher levels of overall happiness.
Developing Leadership Skills
Camps often include activities that require students to take on leadership roles. Whether leading a group in a team-building exercise or organising a component of an event, students learn to guide others, make decisions, and handle challenges. These experiences are invaluable in developing leadership qualities that they can further develop in student leadership roles, and will benefit them throughout their professional and personal lives.
Creating Lifelong Memories and Friendships
The shared experiences and adventures at school camps often lead to the formation of strong bonds and lasting friendships. The memories made during these times are cherished for years to come and contribute to a sense of belonging and community among students. I have often met with former or past students and even friends and colleagues who say that a particular camp or camps was the experience from school they remember the most. These experiences contribute to students' overall enjoyment of their school years both during their time at school and well beyond, and help grow their love for lifelong learning and exploration.
In conclusion, school camps play a crucial role in the holistic development of students, offering a unique blend of learning, adventure, and personal growth. The experiences and skills gained at school camps permeate various aspects of students' lives, enhancing their overall development and preparing them for future challenges. These benefits align closely with the school's Graduate Statement, as an 'Andrian' strives to be a compassionate, principled, and thoughtful individual who embodies Christ’s love, justice, and humility. By nurturing positive relationships, pursuing lifelong learning, and contributing to humanity with determination, courage, and a commitment to excellence, students are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to society. Encouraging participation in school camps is an investment in the holistic development of young minds.