AISM 2024
Newsletter Issue 4 - Term 1

In one of my previous schools, we rebranded camp week as “Learning Without Walls.” The concept behind this was to emphasise the valuable opportunities for students to learn beyond the confines of the classroom.

It was delightful to spend evenings with the Middle School students during their recent camp. I observed them engaging in and honing a diverse range of skills that are essential for their future success. Some of these skills include:

Teamwork and Collaboration:
Students participated in various activities that necessitated teamwork towards shared objectives.

Leadership:
I was impressed to witness Year 8 boys taking the lead in organising activities for all students over two evenings of the camp. Other students also had ample chances to develop their leadership skills within these activities.

Resilience and Adaptability:
The camp experience, away from home and in unfamiliar settings, teaches students to adapt to new circumstances and overcome challenges. Seeing students conquer their fears on high ropes courses, adjust to new routines, and overcome obstacles independently are invaluable experiences that will benefit them greatly in the future.

Communication:
Camp activities foster effective communication among students and camp leaders. Whether expressing ideas, providing feedback, or resolving conflicts, students enhance their verbal and non-verbal communication skills.

Independence:
School camps offer students opportunities to make decisions and take responsibility for themselves under supervision. They learn crucial life skills such as managing belongings, following instructions, and organising their time. However, our teachers are always on hand to support their growth in independence, often assisting in collecting misplaced items and returning them to their owners throughout the camp.

Problem-Solving:
Engaging in outdoor challenges requires students to think critically and creatively to find solutions. Whether building a raft or tackling team challenges, students develop problem-solving skills and learn to think innovatively.

Respect and Empathy:
Interacting with peers from diverse backgrounds fosters empathy, understanding, and respect for differing perspectives. Students learn to value differences, show empathy, and demonstrate respect for the environment.

At AISM, we are committed to enhancing our camp experiences to offer the best educational opportunities for our students outside the classroom. These experiences not only facilitate learning but also create lasting memories for our students.

Finally, I would also like to acknowledge the teachers who were involved in the camps. I observed them working tirelessly, patiently and joyfully throughout my time there. They ensured the safety of all students while also ensuring that they had the very best camp experience possible. I trust that they will all have a very well earned rest this weekend.