Over the month of March, we took almost 750 year 8 students down to Finlay Park on Lake Karapiro for our four-day camping experience.

Thanks to the staff and parent volunteers who were able to come down and take part in camp, supporting both the school and students. We love the experience of camp, not only as it supports students to grow in confidence and resilience, developing friendships, and try new activities not usually available in a traditional school setting, but also providing our teachers with a different opportunity to build connections with students.

Some reflections from our Year 8’s demonstrate a few of the activities available to them:

‘..animal survival was so fun, I love tramping in the mud and being hunted while escaping with mates.’ Jae Room 20

‘All activities were amazing, but the best was the magic carpet because we got to watch the parent helpers fly off, and me and Callum were the fastest – we went over a wave and it made us fly.’ Coby Room 20

‘Outcamp was a blast as it was fun doing the activities there. The river was cold…in general camp was amazing’ Eason Room 32

‘I really enjoyed the glow-worm trip because it was my first-time seeing glow-worms glow in the dark and learning about their lifestyle and lifespan.’ Avery Room 20

And from one of our classroom teachers: My favourite moments at camp included doing the Tubing activity at camp and seeing the majority of the students face the challenges of being cold and doing something out of their comfort zone. I thought they were brave, courageous and really took on and overcame the challenges thrown at them at Bush Outcamp. I was really inspired by their attitudes.

We would like to thank all students, staff and parents for ensuring our camping programme at Finlay Park was such a success.

Christina England
Deputy Principal/Camp Leader