Beat the odds Tag

The usual flurry of activity accompanied the departure of the Year 7’s and 8’s, last Wednesday morning, as they set off for Buffalo Drift Boot camp in Gouda.  Under the watchful eyes of the accompanying teachers- luggage was stored, seats chosen, pillows propped into comfortable positions and appropriate ‘bus-sing-along’ music chosen.  The year 7’s and 8’s were on their way to camp!A few enthusiastic sing-alongs and a snack-stop later we arrived at Buffalo Drift Boot camp. The students were efficiently rounded up by the sergeants and sent to unpack and settle in for the next two nights. The students were split into teams and each team decided on their name, flag and war-cry! The students would stay in their teams for the duration of the camp and the winning team, the team who outdid the others in the different activities and challenges, would receive a prize at the end of the camp. After a hearty lunch the competition began, with an afternoon of round-robin activities. The students thrived in the crisp air as the afternoon wore on until rumbling tummies summoned them back to the dormitories.
After dinner the students enjoyed an evening hike and later, after hot-chocolate and fire-singed marshmallows, the students were packed off to bed after a busy and fulfilling day.

On day two, the teams faced off over an obstacle course and learnt the value of teamwork, determination and the necessity of packing extra socks. Muddy but cheerful, they emerged from the course, even convincing a teacher or two to brave the mud.
Soaped and showered, the afternoon activities commenced and the day wore on. As the shadows lengthened, the four teams battled for points and the coveted title of ‘winning team.’ Leaders emerged and friendships cemented, as the students laughed and battled their way to glory. Dinner was a serious affair that evening after a day of such high-energy activities and after a round of ‘hide the lantern’, it was time for bed. Silence came early to camp that night as the excitement of late night chatter was overcome by sore feet and drooping eyelids.

Morning saw a flurry of packing and clean-up operations. Awards were announced and the winning team celebrated. Thanks were said, hands shaken, and the students herded onto the bus for the return journey. The camp was a great success, and congratulations must go to our year 7 and 8 students for their perseverance, good humour and team spirit.