Unlocking Potential: How Camp Experiences Foster Lifelong Confidence and Connection

Last week was camp week—a highlight of the school year that always leaves me coming home completely drained. We all know the feeling: the mental exhaustion from all the planning, the pressure to create the perfect mix of fun and educational, and the non-stop pace that keeps students entertained and engaged. By the time I walked through my front door on Friday, I was absolutely exhausted—but also incredibly fulfilled.

This camp was special, I think I probably say that after every camp, but I do really mean it! Being at a new school this year, this was my chance to connect with our group of Year 8 students on a deeper level. I watched them tackle challenges in the great outdoors, pushing past their self-doubt and encouraging each other to do the same. I saw problem-solving in action, tolerance taking root, and an appreciation for different perspectives and abilities emerging among them. It never ceases to amaze me how often students rise to the occasion, showing empathy and care for one another, expecting the best from their peers.

As I reflected on the week, it became clear just how much profound learning had taken place in such a short time. This was about real-life learning—discovering more about ourselves, each other, and the world around us. These are the experiences I value most and exactly what The Classroom Connections Project strives to cultivate.

Connecting to Self

Throughout the week, our students participated in a variety of exciting outdoor activities, from an amazing race to tramping, skiing, and snowboarding. As expected, there were those who had done it all before, feeling completely at ease, confident they’d sail through without a hitch. But then there were those who found themselves far outside their comfort zones.

What really stood out to me, though, wasn’t just the usual mix of confidence and apprehension. It was how every single student, regardless of their experience or nerves, rose to the occasion and gave their all—110%, no less.

Kathryn Berkett, the great Kiwi neuroscientist, talks about how resilience is built through many ‘mini moments’ of tolerable stress. This week, I saw that theory come to life. Time and again, students pushed their limits, stepped into the unknown, and came out stronger on the other side. Camp is more than just a break from the classroom; it's an incredible opportunity for students to build resilience in a way that's both challenging and supportive, all while having fun.

Connecting with Others

This week wasn’t just about individual growth; it was also about the incredible power of teamwork. I witnessed students stepping out of their comfort zones, not just for themselves, but for the benefit of the group. At the start of the week, when students were assigned to groups, there were the usual eye rolls—after all, not everyone was paired with their closest friends. But what surprised and impressed me was how quickly they moved past those initial hesitations.

Instead of dwelling on the differences, they focused on the task at hand, collaborating effectively to achieve their goals. This experience highlighted the natural capacity our students have for tolerance and understanding. Even when they weren't working with their preferred peers, they showed an ability to make the best of the situation, coming together to succeed as a team.

Connecting to the Wider World

Loving nature myself, one of the highlights for me this week was watching our students connect with the natural world right in our own backyard. There's something incredibly powerful about spending time in nature, and it’s clear that when given the chance, students naturally gravitate toward it.

Even those who don’t usually spend much time outdoors, and who may have felt a bit uneasy at first, couldn’t help but be captivated by the beauty of the bush. They were completely engaged, collecting items for nature art and carefully building fires to cook the shared lunch they had planned together. These activities did more than just entertain—they helped students develop a sense of belonging and connection to the land, while also cultivating their resilience and problem-solving skills.

Throughout the week, our students had countless opportunities to step outside their comfort zones and overcome challenges. What stood out to me most was how camp offers these experiences in such an authentic and meaningful way. It’s not just about trying something new; it’s about discovering that they are capable of so much more than they ever imagined. This is the true power of camp—it may only last a week, but the self-confidence, resilience, and sense of belonging it fosters can last a lifetime.

As educators, we have the chance to bring this same transformative learning into our classrooms. I encourage you to visit my website, www.beingeducation.co.nz, and order your copy of The Classroom Connections Project. Together, we can continue to nurture these vital skills and create lasting connections that empower our students for the future.