Stories of MECS

MP Flight Camp 2009

It’s a long time ago now and my memory of exact details is probably not great but who could forget a joyful, learning-filled image such as this! This tree had come down next to The Lodge in Belgrave Heights where we were staying for the MP Flight Camp in 2009. These inquisitive young people in the photo are now adults and as I write this, I wonder what their memories of this event might be.

Camps are a wonderful learning experience that have been integral to the educational program at MECS for a long time. Often these times are a highlight of a student’s year, or even school journey. Why is that and why do we make them such a priority?

Rich learning happens on camps too, not just in the classroom. Camps allow for students to have ‘authentic experiences of adventure, appreciation, celebration, challenge, community, curiosity, service and stewardship’ (Transformational Education, p.27). They provide opportunities for students to make sense of God’s creation in new and varied settings. Being in a space where they have to serve and support others in community, students learn to appreciate each other more and discover gifts and skills they may not have been previously aware of. Facing challenges such as hiking, camping in tents, cooking for yourself and your group, doing duties, builds character as students celebrate each other’s achievements. What wonderful, diverse ways for students to flourish!

Coming back to the photo, it might be considered too risky to allow kids to climb all over a fallen tree these days, and perhaps even an interruption to the camp program. However, this opportunity allowed students to be curious, adventurous, and to build community as they supported each other as they clambered over around the branches.

Yes, we did learn a lot about flight on that camp and in our unit that term, but the opportunity for free exploration, excitement, investigation, trying new things, challenging yourself, and living in community were, and still are, a huge part of the camp experience. May you and your children continue to be blessed in your joyful exploration of God’s world in this way.

Mic Dempsey

MP Teacher in 2009 & Current MECS Staff Member