Child 1 Age 11 - 13 (Male)
Program(s) focused in Traditional (multi activity)
(5) Overall experience
Fred absolutely loved his time at the learn and experience camps so much so that this is his 3rd year. After the COVID years, which separated kids from their peers, the camp put joy back into childhood. He flourished in the multinational environment making new friends of all ages. The camp counsellors were all young and super energetic and great role models. Each day he called home enthusing about his activities that day. Childhood should be about learning freedom in a safe environment and this was exactly what the camp gave him on his journey to become a happier and fulfilled person. Thank you L&E team
(4.5) Reason for choosing the camp
The initial reason to choose any camp for us was to cover childcare and do something which would enhance his childhood, avoiding excessive holiday screen time. We had certain dates to cover and L&E had dates in early July, which suited us. In addition, it wasn't too far away so we could drive easily. The camp location has now moved but Fred loved it so much that we are following them down south this year. There were no hidden costs. You could choose extra activities, eg tennis, but we didn't feel this was needed. Compared to day camps, it was more expensive, but we had a UK camps grant initially and now a UK discount so yes, definitely worth the money. He came back each year more mature and buzzing from the camp, so full of life
(5) Program quality and activities
Fred had a varied activity program largely outdoors and sporty. He especially loved the campfire nights with singing. He enjoyed the theme night, (he loves acting) and team sports. Scuba diving was another favourite. The day was shared on Instagram with photos ( always smiling). The organisers ask for feedback each time, (mine was always good). Young Global Leaders program helped him to mature and think about issues affecting the world.
(5) Social dynamics and experience
Fred made new friends each time. They bonded very well and that they were different ages and nationalities made this a great opportunity to expand his social group and interpersonal skills. All the children seemed very well behaved, too busy having fun to do otherwise. We visited mid-camp and all were playing in team games or with others. Some overseas children would talk to each other in their own language but this is understandable (it's pretty hard to talk in English all the time if you're just learning the language) and on reflection Fred recognised this and saw the value in knowing another language (in fact he learned a little french too!). For me, the multinational element was a strength. I understand the camps are now limiting the numbers of foreign speakers from each country to try to make sure English is spoken by all. He has kept in touch with some of his friends from camp
(5) Skills and growth
Fred grew into a more mature, happy, rounded person. He enjoyed the leadership activities, learning how to organise activities as a team. He was a little anxious about heights, so abseiling pushed him outside his comfort zone, but a great sense of achievement. He had never scuba-dived before, so he was also a little nervous but loved it. The chance to try new things and take a little risk outside his comfort zone was a lesson for life.
(5) Staff/Instructors/Counsellors
We chatted to the counsellors at the drop-off bbq, mid and end of the week. All were lovely young people who were great role models for the children. Some had been in camp themselves, and that they were back helping was a great advert for the camp. The daily photos update on Instagram showed us all the fun of the day. I wasn't aware of any conflicts or problems, so no experience of this.
(5) Preparation and packing
The packing list was very detailed and I think covered everything needed. Fred forgot his cap the first time. He took a full suitcase and did use everything. The camp washes clothes, so there was never an issue of running out of clean clothes. He took 2 swimsuits and they dried in the dry room overnight, so [they were] comfortable to put back on.
(5) Advice and tips
Both Fred and ourselves were a bit nervous about him going away overnight on his own. We actually had nothing to worry about. The camp was very flexible and allowed him to come out with us at the weekend. The first year he came out for the weekend, as we worried he'd be missing us, but actually he was having so much fun he would have preferred to stay. The reality is, as parents, it was us missing him. The task of childhood is to become independent and a happy, resourceful adult- I see that camp helped him on that journey, and am proud to see a glimpse of the young man he will become.
