Wellbeing - Middle School

Creating Memories at the Camp Site

Last week, the Year 7 cohort attended Camp Summerset on the Colo River. This four-day, three-night camp, which in previous years was set up for the Year 8 cohort, was designed to provide students with new experiences and challenges, build resilience and outdoor recreational knowledge and skills. Coupled with physical exercises such as hiking and canoeing, students took part in team building challenges, campfire games and fun recreational activities such as swimming in the river after crawling through the muddy wombat hole. Many of our cohort found this experience challenging, struggling with being away from the comforts of home, however they pushed through their fears and stresses to complete the camp experience, having learnt a little bit about themselves and what they can achieve in the process. 

Here are some reflections from our students:

 

Camp Somerset physically and mentally challenged all Year 7 students, with everyone completing various activities never done before. From hiking across the mountains, to canoeing along the crystal-clear Colo River, everyone had taken away a strong and meaningful message of being resilient, determined, and facing our fears. Also, boys had to sleep outside in tents, something many were uncertain, yet excited about. Also, swimming in one of the only unpolluted rivers left in NSW was also great. Overall, Camp Somerset was a true privilege, and we hope that it continues to hold its excellent reputation in the years to come with SPC. 

 

Camilio Chelala, Marcus Gregory and Luke Ilacqua

I would like to express my gratitude to the staff members who attended camp and facilitated groups. Leaving their own comforts and families to support this program and our Year 7 boys shows the amazing quality of staff we have here at SPC. 

I am very proud of our boys, they faced the challenges of camp head-on and made the most of the week, enjoying not only the activities but also making new friendships or strengthening existing ones with memories that will stay with them for a while.

Jordan Bottalico

Year 7 Coordinator