Schools
YMCA Camping Philosophy
The Y approach to working with young people on school camping programs is based on research in the developmental assets framework [ www.search-institute.org ], which identifies 40 factors (or assets) critical to the healthy development of young people. YMCA camps focus on six of these assets:
- Y camp instructors provide personal support and mentoring to students by modelling positive, responsible behaviour.
- The Y provides an away-from-home environment that is safe, caring and encouraging.
- The Y ensures students take responsibility for themselves and others by using their time constructively and participating in camp duties that benefits the whole school camp community.
- The Y encourages students to explore and engage in stimulating activity in the outdoors that fosters an enjoyment of learning and an appreciation of the natural world.
- The Y encourages students to demonstrate positive values by caring for and encouraging others in their school camp community.
- The Y develops students self esteem by encouraging individuals to overcome personal and group challenges that have positive learning outcomes.
School Camping Programs
Y school camping programs are individually designed in consultation with the school camp coordinator to meet the specific needs of your group. Factors considered in the design of a program include:
- Camp Outcomes
All YMCA programs are underpinned by our YMCA camping philosophy outlined above. While activities will vary according to individual activity selections the following core learning outcomes will be common to the experience of all children. Students will explore both interpersonal and personal development.
| INTERNAL (SELF) | EXTERNAL (OTHERS) |
|---|---|
| Positive Values (respect, responsibility, caring, honesty, equality, integrity) | Support |
| Technical Skill Development | Teamwork |
| Initiative | Decision Making |
| Challenge (Personal) | Challenge (Group) |
| Goal Setting | Tolerance |
| Confidence | Leadership |
| Environmental Awareness | Communication |
- Age appropriateness
Camp activities included in the program will reflect the capability of the students within the group. - Sequencing
YMCA camps offer sequenced camping programs, ensuring that students' learning is extended from their previous camp experience.
Y camping programs include access and inclusion for students with disabilities. Students with special needs are encouraged to participate in all aspects of the camp experience. Use of specially designed equipment e.g. "Universal Harness" and off road wheel chairs enable campers of all abilities to access and participate in most adventure activities on camp.
School Packages
YMCA programs are designed in consultation with schools to best meet the individual needs of each school. Schools may choose to select from two structured packages:
- Package One: 100% of the camp program instructed by YMCA staff i.e. all activities
[ 100% sample program ] - Package Two: 50% of the camp program instructed by YMCA staff i.e. 50% of adventure activities facilitated by YMCA instructors and 50% of passive activities are led by teaching staff.
[ 50% sample program ]
Pre-camp preparation
To assist teachers with the sometimes daunting task of organizing a school camp, YMCA camp staff are available to provide support, advice and valuable resources/tools to make this phase more manageable. Support includes:
- Camp Booklets - this is a specifically tailored resource, emailed to the school camping coordinator prior to camp, that provides students with the opportunity to identify personal goals and expectations pre camp and a framework for post camp reflections. It provides students with information about the day to day running of the camp detailing community living responsibilities, accommodation, activity groups, what to bring lists and safety information.
- Camp information evenings for parents are made easier by utilizing an informative YMCA camps PowerPoint presentation. Available on request.
- Camp Organisers Handbook - A complete guide to assist the school camping coordinator to organize the details of your camp. Information includes: program outcome selection information, administration procedures, camp program planning/wet weather contingency, meals/catering, transport, first aid, emergency procedures/telephone numbers, teacher roles and responsibilities, an organiser's checklist.
Connecting to the VELS
Clear links exist between YMCA core learning outcomes and the Victorian Essential Learning Standards. Engaging in a YMCA camp program includes:
| DOMAIN | DIMENSION |
|---|---|
| Interpersonal Development | Building Relationships Working in Teams |
| Personal Learning | The individual learner |
| Health and Physical Education | Movement and Physical activity |
More information regarding progression points is available on request once schools have identified their key camp program outcomes.
Teachers Role & YMCA Instructors Role
Teachers/camp leaders are encouraged to work closely with our YMCA instructors. A strong team approach provides supportive, nurturing environments throughout the camp ensuring camp outcomes are achieved. Specific roles are identified as:
- Teachers/Adult Supervisors Role
- Teachers/adult supervisors are responsible for student's behaviour, wellbeing and first aid at all times and will accompany students on all activities, including activities that are led by Y instructors. For a 50% instructed camp program where teacher/adult supervisors are required to facilitate passive camp activities, a full safety briefing together with teacher notes will be provided at the beginning of the camp. As per Department of Education guidelines, the Y recommends a teacher/student ratio of 1:10 for camping programs.
- YMCA Instructors Role
- Y instructors are responsible for the safe delivery of the camp's outdoor education program, coordination of the program and to liaise with teachers to ensure all school needs are met throughout the visit.
Camping with Confidence
YMCA Camps are proud to be accredited through the Australian Campsite and Outdoor Activity Provider Accreditation Program. Accreditation indicates that we have been independently appraised and meet the requirements for the safe and reasonable operation of a campsite.
