Marc, how lucky are we that we got to go on camp after our original plans were not able to be carried out. In Week 7 of Term 4 we all headed to Lakewood Lodge for a jam packed fun ‘day camp’. In the days leading up to the camp we spent time in class having discussions about all the different activities you would have the opportunity to participate in and how the timetable would work. Marc, you asked questions to ensure you were prepared and knew what to expect on the day.
It was a quick drive from Hamilton, about 45 minutes on the bus. There was a mix of excitement, and some sleepy children, still waking up from the early start we had, having to be at school at 7.00am. Once we arrived, Anya, the camp manager, got you to go up to the meeting area in your camp groups. When everyone was there, including our awesome camp parents, you were given instructions for the day. Marc, it was then that you found out the order of activities you would do.
Overall there were six activities you completed including horse riding, rock climbing, kayaking, archery, low ropes courses and the flying fox. It was great that you got to spend one hour at each activity. During the first half of the day you did 3 activities and in between each one you came back to the meeting area. This is where you had a snack, reapplied sunscreen, and passed by your peers, quickly swapping stories of your adventures before moving on to the next activity.
For lunch, we all met together and had a yummy BBQ plate. This time was much needed, as it was a very hot and humid day and the heat was beginning to suck out all your energy. Marc, once you were refueled, you headed off to finish your last 3 activities for the day. I know there were different highlights for everyone, such as riding fast on Britney the horse, hunting for arrows that flew over the top of the target, doing the flying fox with no hands, trying to ring the bell at the top of the climbing wall, working together to solve the tricky low ropes course and making sure your paddles were entering the water correctly to keep up with your fellow kayakers.
At the end of the day Marc, we were lucky that the slip ‘n’ slide was opened on for those who wanted a turn. Whether you joined in, perfected your dive onto the slide and slid down like a seal to the pond at the bottom, or you preferred observing those trying it out, it was a fantastic end to the day and really cooled everyone off.
Marc, it was such a pleasure to be able to see you connect with your classmates outside of school and try out some new, exciting and challenging activities. We packed a lot into one day, and watching you step outside your comfort zone and take up the challenge of new things, supporting and encouraging your peers along the way was amazing! All the teachers and parents had a wonderful time too and I know the memories you created on the day will stay with you forever.
- 07/12/2021
