I am very sure this phrase will sound all too familiar to many of you who have attended the camp and have tried the Zipline (I am oblivious to why some of you would stubbornly don that station as the 'Flying Fox'!).
This camp would be a memorable experience for many of you all in years to come... In this camp, there are many significant first-time experiences you have
For some of you it would have been your first time away from home, and all the comfortable things you will have at home. For some of you all, it would be the first time you realised that you had been taking your parents, siblings and loved ones for granted, thinking that they should always be there to protect you, to pamper you and do things for you...
It is hoped that through this camp, each of you will go away from the camp, maturing in thoughts, deeds and behaviour, to be responsible, independent, and to have greater confidence, perseverance, and appreciation of the loved ones around you.
Here is an account of what has taken place during the camp:
Day 1:
Pupils hopped onto the bus and set off from SVPS and arrived at MOE Dairy Farm Adventure Camp. Many were shocked, they thought it was like a chalet, but soon realised it was not so. They had no beds to sleep on, no air-conditioned room, but just the fans and their sleeping bags...
They were briefed by Mr Yap about the camp rules and expectations, introduced to their leaders, and taught some cheers.
Soon, it was meal time and everyone gathered at the canteen, where they learnt a cheer before they could eat their meals.
Students, excited and restless at the canteen! Hungry hungry! Thirsty thirsty!
After dinner, it was time for night walk! Pupils wore their light sticks around their wrists and made their way out. It was a nice, slow and easy walk out where we got to see part of the beautiful Bukit Timah Hill under the clear night sky. When we got back to the camp, it was time for supper.
Students were enjoying their hot milo, before they were given time to wash up and be back for the night briefing.
Day 2:
Day 2 started with morning exercises for the pupils, and soon it was breakfast.
After breakfast, the highlights kicked off and various groups were sent to different learning stations to experience outdoor education and adventure. They were introduced to a variety of activities such as the Challenging Rope Courses, Abseiling, Zipline, and Rock climbing. Apart from these confident building courses, they were also brought through camp craft, jungle survival skills and team building activities.
Shiqi reaching the top of the wall... WOW! Strong girl! She was really fast!
Mr Yeoh, taking a cheeky picture with the Sports Girl of the class.
Day 3:
Some more of the climbing activities and camp craft skills!
Stylo-Milo Xinyin on the wall!
In this camp, I was thankful that I got to know some of you better by observing how you would handle challenges and problems you would have faced...
To Trilyn: I loved the way you faced the rock wall with such gusto and never-say-die spirit. You may have slipped a few times, but you have trusted your leaders, and me to your safety, and you tried until your hands were tired. That is courage!
To: Xin Yin: I love the way you have not given in too easily to your fears and difficulties. You climbed so well during the start, but perhaps began to doubt or did not trust yourself that you could do it, and you gave up finally. Still, at least you realised that you were able to go further if you had not given up. That is good enough.
To: Jorrell: I'm sure through this camp, you have learnt a lot more to be a team player, more than always being a lone ranger. Thank you for trying to step out of your fear, and try as much as you can.
To: Adelphia: Thank you for being so willing to try to stay through out the whole camp. You were fearful at first, and you missed home... Yet, after talking to Ms Tan and me, you decided to give yourself as well as the teachers your very best effort. I hope the camp did not disappoint you and you have learnt to see that you can also take good care of yourself even though you are away from your family. Congratulations Adelphia, you have grown up more again!
To: Yisheng: I saw another side of you, with regards to how good a team player you can be... I think you can actually be a very responsible and good leader as you are friendly with nearly everyone. I can tell you have little problems in the camp... Continue to stay positive and focus in your goals as a student and as a child at home. Hope the camp has taught you good independence as well.
To: Shi Qi: you never fail to amaze and surprise me. You have conquered the rock wall, and have proven to many that actions speak louder than words. You are a very humble leader, responsible and mature in thoughts. Keep that up!
To: Many boys and girls of 5.7: I am so glad most of you have stayed and have given your best during this camp. I hope you will remember the camp, not just because of the fun, joy and laugher you have, but also the learning points and experience you have to tell yourselves never to give up, never to doubt yourselves but to believe, to persevere and to persist!
"Campers!"
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