Summer Camp this year was held at the Bell Heath Centre in Worcestershire from 29th July-2nd August. This year we had 22 campers, with nearly all of last year's campers returning and some new campers arriving for their first ever Summer Camp. Sadly, our Summer Camp did begin with a bit of sadness as Br James Woolford, our Camp Leader, tested positive for COVID on the first day of camp. Thankfully, we had prepared for this eventuality as a team, so I stepped in as honorary camp lead.

Many Campers and Leaders endured long delays on their journey to Summer Camp whilst others had arrived surprisingly quickly, so our first day was a bit of a busy one as Sr Claire, Sr Libby and Sr Rachel sorted people into their rooms. Once everyone had arrived and settled in we began with creating our usual set of Camp Rules, organising everyone into their house groups and enjoying our food prepared by Camp Cook Sr Claire. Our evening's activity was a competitive quiz! We ended our shared time together with our first Simmer Down session led by Sr Claire. The theme at Camp this year was 'Belonging', so we looked at belonging experienced by the different disciples of Jesus via Godly Play. We then were encouraged to contemplate the story further in a creative way using pens and paper or playdoh. Juniors went to bed whilst Seniors began to play the game Werewolf. I hope this might give a small insight into the variety of what happens at Camp even within the first day. Our aim is to keep the young people engaged so that feelings of home sickness aren't too strong but also allow enough space for them to simply relax and get to know one another.

Like last year, at this Summer Camp, the young people helped prepare their food and wash up. The feedback from the young people last year had been so positive; they enjoyed making and trying the food, including new foods, at camp. We found this year that many did enjoy the cooking, including some putting in requests for recipes to try and make together next year. However, one or two struggled more with the washing up this time! These times together in the kitchen did seem to encourage a sense of belonging amongst their house groups. It was also a moment when the Summer Camp Leaders could get to know their house group teams better. The kitchen this year was bigger but also hotter, so we were particularly thankful for anyone who helped in the kitchen.

Particular thanks go to Claire for her organisation and finding recipes that all the young people would try and enjoy making. Sr Joy came to camp for a day and spent a lot of that time supporting Claire in the kitchen; special thanks go to her too.

Every day we had a Bible Study led by Sr Rachel, Br JD and Br Louis. Every Bible study linked to our theme of belonging and often involved conversations and some activity or craft. We also had Simmer Down each night which, aside from the first night, was split into Juniors' Simmer Down and Seniors' Simmer Down. These varied in style but the aim was to create a calming reflecting time for everyone ahead of bedtime. This year the Simmer Downs were led by Sr Lol, Sr Libby, Br JD and Br Louis.

Particular highlights of the week were the Problem Solving Activities offered by the centre on the Tuesday afternoon. It was fascinating to see how Juniors tackled things versus Seniors. Both had natural leaders in the group, people who were great at championing and encouraging, individuals who thought creatively and could solve a problem sometimes quicker consequently if they were heard by the group. Listening and teamwork were essential for these activities, and it was great to see their communication strengthening throughout the time.
Another highlight was the High Rope Course for Seniors and the Climbing Wall for Juniors. All showed immense bravery on Wednesday afternoon as they approached these sports. The Climbing Wall was tall and steep. Many of the Juniors had never been on one before so they had to learn not only how to climb but also do the important job of belaying for one another too. Once they had climbed the wall once, they then attempted to climb it blindfolded!

Meanwhile the Seniors were experiencing the challenge of a high ropes course. This involved a lower level (which still felt very high) of balancing across wooden steps, passing through a net etc at the height of the trees. They then had the option to repeat this but higher still! It was wonderful to see how they encouraged and supported one another to complete these courses. Afterwards some of the Juniors attempted the lower level and were equally courageous whilst a few of the Seniors had a quick go at abseiling down the side of the Climbing Wall. Everyone ended by having fun on the zip line.

After this exciting afternoon we ended the day with a film night and popcorn plus our daily Simmer Down time.

Our Thursday highlights were the Mini Olympics led by Br JD who was the perfect person for this role. We had a mix of true competitive sprinting with a selection of primary school sports such as egg and spoon and the sack race. We ended this time with a water fight; very much welcomed by all as we had a perfect week of hot weather. Needless to say, all were soaked by the end, including the leaders! Our final highlight was the Ceilidh in the evening. This had been sourced by Sr Claire. Many had never experienced a Ceilidh before and were surprised to see a band appear before teatime to set up. It was such a treat to have live music and a professional caller who was able to teach us all the right moves and positions for our ceilidh dancing. I hadn't realised how much ceilidhs were a true team activity, and it seemed a fitting end to our week centred around the theme of belonging.

A huge thanks goes to Br James: his excellent preparation, positive nature and the fact he was happy to be contacted despite having COVID throughout Summer Camp meant we had a good week. Personally, I want to thank the whole team. Br JD, Sr. Libby, Sr Rachel, Br Louis and Sr Claire; thanks for your dedication to make Summer Camp the best camp despite us being without our Summer Camp Leader, James. I should like to thank Sr Joy for being on call, such a good listener and offering an extra pair of hands.

Summer Camp is a place filled with fun where deep conversations happen as much as light ones. It is a place where people are brave, where they can feel safe, known and closer to God. We are hoping to continue to grow Summer Camp and are therefore on the lookout for new Summer Camp Leaders for next year. If you want to find out more information please feel free to contact me via email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Being a Summer Camp Leader is a privilege, you learn more about trusting in God and about the skills and wisdom that the young people who are connected to our church have and that, in and of itself, is inspiring. You think about Summer Camp for a long time afterwards; it stays a part of you as you know you have been involved in something truly unique, sacred and special.

Sr Lol Wood

Youth and Childrens Committeea