At our camps each child is encouraged to use the time independently within the framework of mutual respect and enjoyment.  There are plenty of qualified staff on hand to guide and support as everyone explores new ideas and develops their skills.  Some of our older children settled into selecting wood with a view to creating something special:  wood carved spoons, carved walking sticks, beautiful boats and so many more amazing ideas.  The younger children continued to practice the basic skills of whittling whilst being inspired by the older children’s creations.  

 

There are no pre-arranged groups or timed activities during the day so each child was able to bring their own agenda and balance their time with rest and activity.  The exception was the 2pm daily game of ‘Capture the Flag’ – highly popular and a superb opportunity for older children to support younger children within their teams.

 

During the week we worked on the wildlife pond as well as the damp habitat using the natural spring at the top of the woods.  We built bug houses and a wormery, enjoyed nature art and clay modelling. At the top of the field we had a chance to try archery and practice shooting disciplines.   Down on the field we had some games when folk needed a little break from being busy:  kite flying, bubble making, boules, skittles and dominoes.  In the woods we have an amazing range of books:  some provide ideas and information others are useful to use as a break to enjoy a story or some poetry.   

 

The allotment harvest provided some lovely resources for our fireside cookery.  Learning to use what we have grown provided some yummy snacks:   courgette chips and courgette omelettes, colourful chard salad and delicious potato salad as well as popcorn, pancakes and flatbreads.  

 

Some children enjoyed exploring some mindful activities:  observing nature by the pond; finding a tree or little place for a ‘sit spot’ to relax; mindful art with water colours or natural paints made from foraged resources.  

 

And of course there were plenty of dens being created as well as practicing fire lighting skills.