Grade 10 Camp

COLLEGE ACTIVITIES GRADE 10 CAMP

We felt that the Grade 10 boys who missed out on their annual Journey at the end of 2020 due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, needed to get out and be “rewilded” (to use the expression of the camp manager, Mr Nic Shaw). The boys boarded the bus on 22 September and travelled to Magalies Retreat where they were able to get a taste of what they would have experienced on the Journey. They were also given a chance to just “get-back-to-nature” after being in isolation for such a long time.

The campgrounds are designed to give the boys a broad number of activities to get stuck into, including a gladiator obstacle course and a version of human foosball, and the boys jumped in wholeheartedly at every opportunity. There was even much excitement when our campground was visited by a baby snake. Over the six days, the boys had the chance to reconnect with old friends, make new ones and discover more about themselves.

The survival night and long walk was a challenge for all, testing the boys’ grit and resilience, and a practical demonstration of the benefits of working together. The boys’ mental agility and leadership skills were also put to the test through several specifically designed tasks.

Our thanks are extended to Mr Black, Mr Whyte, Ms Vazzana, Mrs Stewart and Mr Ireland for accompanying the boys for the six nights so that they could again experience the adventure which we normally offer the boys at St David’s.

Mr S Bauer

Deputy Head Student Affairs