We all have fond memories of our school camps: the fun activities, the experience of being away from home, the food (good and bad), and bonding with our classmates. These days, however, school camp isn’t a given.
In the final week of term three, after a hiatus of approximately 15 years, Rosebank School enthusiastically welcomed their senior students to school camp. They divided their six senior classes into two groups, allowing each student to experience a three-day, two-night camp adventure out at Carey Park in Henderson Valley. The weather was exceptionally cooperative, with perfect conditions adding to the students’ enjoyment.
During their time at camp, the Rosebank students experienced a range of activities, including archery, air rifle shooting, bush survival skills, a confidence-building course, crate stacking, an exhilarating flying fox ride, and the challenge of rock climbing. Evenings were equally enjoyable, as students gathered around a campfire to toast marshmallows and embarked on a thrilling Burma trail, an entirely new experience for most of them.
Meals saw the students very well fed, with “kai time” a moment of excitement and anticipation. A huge mihi to all the amazing parent helpers who generously gave up their time to make this memorable event possible.
Looking ahead, the senior camp will now be held every second year. We can’t wait for the next one in 2025!
Here are a few words from the students:
Bella Grace: The time I had at camp was extraordinary. Every second, minute, hour, and day was fantastic. My favourite activity was definitely the confidence course – climbing, jumping, and balancing just like a monkey! The food was very different to what I had at home, but I loved it. The pie and fruit snack was my favourite. I would like to thank all the parent helpers and teachers for making time to help us on our camp trip. This year’s camp is one that I will always remember.
Dan Lord: At camp, I had the most AMAZING experience. There was a man named Scott, and he was brilliant. He made me feel like I was at home. There was also another man named Joe, and he was very funny. He was good at making jokes that made some of the kids laugh. He was kind, too. I loved the confidence course because Solomon and Matthew gave me the confidence to finish the course. Also, I would like to thank the adult helpers for helping everybody at camp. They were awesome!
Rosebank School would like to express its gratitude to the Rosebank Business Association and the following businesses for their generous sponsorships of the students going to camp: Alstef Group, Apex Valves, ARA Security, Autex Acoustics, Blum, C-Tech, Fair Food, NCFS, Machines ‘R’ Us, Syntech NZ, Total Property Services, and Carla Gee.
