Paddle Overnight Camp

One success of the summer term 2023 was our senior paddle after-school course that culminated in our overnight camp. YP took part in a 9-week course, learning paddling skills on various crafts including canoes, kayaks and paddle boards. This group was made up of individuals who knew one or two attendees and finished with the whole group bonding and forming new relationships. 

We invited these attendees to participate in our overnight camp which involved paddling on a journey from Cardington lock near priory marina, to matchstick woods near the Danish camp in Willington. It was a 3-hour journey that required YP to manoeuvre their own crafts around river bends and through locks.

Our YP managed the journey very well, overcoming tiredness and the torrential rain to arrive in camp with smiles on their faces. They then set up their own tents and ate a BBQ dinner around the campfire before bedding down for the night. One YP commented the burgers were “actually nice”, high praise indeed!

In the morning we ate breakfast together and packed down camp. There were lots of tents to neatly fold away which took teamwork and resilience, especially after a night in a tent. The YP then enjoyed a final fun session on the water before heading back home, weary eyed but happy. 

It was a great opportunity to spend extended time with our YP and have in depth conversations, building memories with them and strengthening relationships, many of whom had never stayed away from family or camped before.