What an adventure we have had on camp. Class 3 – 4 did their first 2 night camp and ventured out to Ganguddy, Dunn Swamp. We were delighted to drive through rocky pagodas and arrive at our serene camping spot, with lots of big gum trees, hugged on one side by a big rocky cliff and close to the water’s edge on the Cudgegong River.
I feel so proud of the class for their independence and the way that they all looked out for each other on camp, in pristine and beautiful natural surroundings. What an incredible experience for the children as they navigate feelings around separation and unity, experiencing themselves as integrally connected to the world and an individual being at the same time. I’m very grateful to the parents that supported us on camp. Well, done, Class 3 – 4!
You Never Regret a Camp
Last week I had the pleasure of accompanying my son with his class 3 and 4 friends for two nights at Ganguddy, Dunn Swamp on school camp. Camps are a highlight for the children and to be part of this is a privilege I can highly recommend.
I’m not sure how often you’ve seen 20 eight and nine-year-olds put up seven different tents simultaneously, but it’s pretty wild! Watching and helping them navigate this and other camp challenges: working together, discovering what works and what doesn’t, ranges from comedic to heartwarming. They are a beautiful riot!
Throughout camp the children were guided and led expertly by their teacher Lesley, assisted by Erica and Sue. The realities of camp dictate that teachers are unable to do everything and be everywhere at once for 72 hours straight, so parents provide the vital support crew that allow the teachers to concentrate 100% on the children. A lasting highlight was witnessing the children’s obvious affection for the teachers, whether that be quiet one-on-one moments or huge, loud, splashy games in the river together.
Feeling part of the whole class energy and watching the change from nervous excitement on first arrival to tired satisfaction on the way home (and everything, everyway in-between) brings a priceless connection between all involved, not least between me and my son.
So, I’d urge you, next time you get the ‘camp call’ from your class teacher, do all you can to hop on the bus! It’s an opportunity only available for a few short years, and, in my experience, you never regret a camp.
Charlie
Lesley has been teaching in Primary and Early Childhood settings for over 13 years, and has taught in schools in
both Australia and the UK. Lesley has a Bachelor of Early Childhood Studies and Master of Teaching
(Early Childhood), Foundations Course in
Rudolf Steiner Education (ECF), Introduction to Forest Schooling (Australia) and has
experience holding space for Bush Kindy groups in the Blue Mountains.
“Steiner education allows me to connect my two passions; art and teaching. I enjoy supporting children to find
meaning, identity and purpose through their connection to community, spirit and the natural world.”
