Last summer we stood with a group of young people, just off the coach and fresh into their Adventure Programme, staring up at a Welsh hillside wondering how they’d cope with the walk up the steep track ahead as their first challenge. Our first camp is a steep learning curve; literally and figuratively. There were nerves, over-packed bags and many declarations of “I can’t do this!”.
At Mountain Camp our young people must quickly adapt; early wake ups, late nights, managing their kit, a jam packed activity programme, group duties and, from the adults, relentless jokes and infuriating riddles! There can be initial resistance (and occasional dramatic sighing!), but within days we begin to notice a change. Their ability to throw themselves into a completely new environment with so many challenges is impressive to see. They learn quickly – soon figuring out that crocs don’t actually keep your feet dry, and roll mats work best under rather than next to your sleeping bag!
Fast forward to the recent May Half Term and we’re looking out across the Dorset coastline and things feel very different. The young people arrive more confidently, better prepared. They’ve packed accordingly and have an “I can do this!” attitude. There’s far fewer questions and worries. Tents are organised with less fuss, and we overhear young people sharing their camping top-tips; keep your shoes outside; put your torch under your pillow ready for the night; keep your snacks to hand! Crocs are replaced with wellies and sleeping systems are in order. Yet the adult’s unrelenting jokes and riddles continue….! The group are at ease with one another; there are new friendships and a more accepting atmosphere.
I felt at Coastal Camp it was much easier to make friends
Kieran
The days remain full-on with raft building, stand up paddleboarding, kayaking, climbing and coasteering. For some, just putting a wetsuit on is a big step, and for others it’s the idea of working with different people, getting in the water, or having to wait around while other people take their time to overcome their own worries. We see the way they approach these challenges now; knowing they’ve pushed themselves before and can do it again.
It’s easy to overlook the incremental changes from one camp to another, and with all the Activity Days inbetween, if you’re not looking for them. Our programmes aren’t always about immediate, transformational change or overnight success; often it’s the smaller stuff. Like the young person who wouldn’t speak to anyone at Mountain Camp who spoke out in a group review session at Coastal Camp. Or the young person who panicked at the idea of getting into a canoe at Mountain Camp, who was seen paddling a kayak at Coastal Camp with a huge grin, cheering to their friend to keep going.
“ Hannah helped me get into the water when I was scared and I feel more resilient now “
Bella
Soon we’ll be looking down the Wye Valley with the same group and no doubt things will feel different again. With two overnight expeditions at Forest Camp we’ll need to put into practice all of the camp craft we’ve practised so far. We’ll need to pack light, set up our own shelters, cook our own dinner, dry out our own kit and support one another. And no doubt the young people will continue to politely laugh at the jokes or respectfully attempt a riddle!
The changes may sometimes seem modest in the moment, but are far from insignificant, and add up to something far greater. That’s why we offer long term programmes with repeat opportunities to try things out, practice skills and embed changes. For the Youth Adventure Trust it’s not just about the destination, but the journey we travel on.
At Coastal Camp I did everything there was to do and broadened my comfort zone so much!!!
Hayden
