Annual 9-12 Camp November 2002

from Usha's & Margaret's Northside News article November 18, 2002

As we were travelling on our way back to school from camp, we all pondered what an incredible week we have had!

In planning the camp, we tried to balance educational experiences, such as visits to BHP, Nan Tien Temple, Museum of Flight, tour of the Bherewerre area (giving insight into the Aboriginal culture, local flora and fauna and their fishing industry), with recreational activities, such as rock climbing, ten pin bowling, swim at the beach, and a four hour visit to Jamberoo Recreational Park.

The children’s enthusiastic response to the itinerary has even exceeded our already high expectations.  We are very proud of their exceptional behaviour and conduct for the entire trip.  They were a delight to be around.

It was gratifying to see 9-12 children spontaneously supporting and helping each other.  They helped clean up the dining hall after each meal, and were so protective and encouraging of each other.  If a child forgot to pack his sunscreen, a jacket or money in his/her day bag, the others shared what they had with him/her.  Everyone should feel very proud of their conduct.

The Level 5s and 6s were wonderful leaders and role models, and level 4s, some of whom had never been away from home before, coped magnificently.  Their enthusiasm and independence were amazing.

Also amazing was the incredible patience and resilience of our camp parents, Chris and John.  Spending a week away from work and family commitments on a bus with 33 children is quite a sacrifice.  You both helped make the camp such a wonderful success.  The children really appreciated the care and respect you showed them.

Chris was able to impart her extensive knowledge of insects and animals, and John was always there to help whether it was to serve meals, answer some questions, or join in the chorus of ‘99 bottles of beer’ at the back of the bus.

The children kept a diary of their adventures, and we will include excerpts from them in the next newsletter.  While each child had a different favourite part, the consensus is that this was the best camp ever.

from Usha's & Margaret's Northside News article December 9, 2002

During the camp the children were given a camp diary to fill out.  Here is just a selection of some of their comments:

“My favourite part was the afternoon when we went to the beach.  After dinner we fed the lorikeets from our hands.  They were so tame – 3 of them sat on my head as I walked around.  Then we listened to aboriginal stories under the stars.”

“I liked the tour of BHP, especially the blast furnaces.  The guide told us a lot of things that I didn’t know about before.”

“I loved watching the baby dolphins.  The boat captain told us to look for a huge splash in the distance like someone had dropped a house in the water.  Then we waited and waited.  Then we saw it – two whales.  They were amazing.”

“Rock climbing was fun.  It felt great to get to the top.”

“It was easy getting to know everyone from Forestville (Montessori School).  Now I have even more friends.”

“I liked rain forest walk.  The suspension bridges were a lot of fun.  We saw lyre birds on the floor of the forest.”

“My favourite part was the talk on the spiders.  Our Aboriginal guide showed us lots of different spiders.  Some were as big as your hand.”

“The Blow Hole was amazing.  We got really wet but it was fun.”

“The best bit was going on the waterslides and rides.  I didn’t want to leave.”

“It was the best week of my life.”

from Chris' Northside News article December 9, 2002

A few weeks ago the 9-12 class spent 5 days exploring the south coast and I was fortunate in being able to join them.  It was a wonderful trip, not only for the educational value but to experience the care and patience which Usha and Margaret have for their students.

The dedication didn't finish once the children were asleep; Usha and Margaret took turns to check on the well-being of their charges throughout the night, sleeping very little yet appearing bright and cheerful when they were up before anyone else at dawn.

I'd like to thank Usha and Margaret for organising a rewarding excursion for the students and in such a safe, caring environment.