Written by Lynda Fisher, Head of Primary School, in conversation with Tamar Balkin, Year 5 Team Leader

Year 5 students embarked on an unforgettable leadership camp filled with excitement and adventure. They soared through the sky on the flying fox, scaled the towering wall during rock climbing, and balanced their way to the top in the crate climb. The group also honed their skills participating in archery, bush cooking and navigating the challenges of the catapult and orienteering. Students engaged in thrilling rounds of Laser Tag and explored the serene waters while canoeing. Each activity provided a unique opportunity to learn about themselves and their relationship with their peers and educators, grow in their various capabilities, and have fun in the great outdoors away from technology. 

Leadership in Action 

The camp fostered the students’ leadership skills through activities that encouraged teamwork and collaboration. They tackled problems together, relying on one another to reach shared goals. At times, individuals took charge, while others focused on listening and supporting their peers. Clear communication and cooperation were essential, helping the students develop critical skills like problem-solving, adaptability, and respect for diverse perspectives. Each challenge brought new opportunities for the students to step up, support one another, and build their confidence as emerging leaders. 

Space to Explore  

Generation Alpha has grown up in an era of unprecedented closeness between parents and children, thanks to technology and more involved parenting styles. While this connection has many benefits, it’s equally important for children to experience moments of independence. This camp experience provides a safe environment for Year 5 students to step outside their comfort zone, explore new surroundings, and build self-confidence. Being away from the careful management of parents allows children to test their decision-making skills, develop resilience to overcome the obstacles that crop up as we encounter each day, and discover their unique strengths without the immediate safety net of home. Managing their cabins at night, their possessions and self-care, and their interactions with peers under the guidance of professionals, progressed their personal skills and increased their self-belief and independence to lead themselves.  

Building Character Strengths 

In preparation for camp, the students explored their top five character strengths through a special survey, identifying unique qualities such as bravery, perseverance, or teamwork. During camp, they embraced these strengths, applying them to the various activities they tackled. Whether demonstrating resilience on the rock-climbing wall or leadership when orienteering, the students actively developed their personal qualities. This experience not only highlighted their strengths, but also inspired them to grow in areas that will support their future as leaders of the Primary School and onwards.  

Tech Detox 

For many students, this time away provided a much needed disconnect from technology. It proved to them that they would be okay even when they are not connected to the virtual world and that they could persist through the difficult withdrawal they might experience. These moments turn off the noise that impacts their daily lives, reduces levels of cortisol in the brain and inspires them to dip into their skill to listen to others and engage with what is happening in the real world around them.  

The Leader in Each Individual  

The students who attended this camp emerged with a stronger sense of self-leadership. They gained increased personal resources, connections, self-regulation, and self-awareness. These aspects of self-development are crucial for Generation Alpha as they mature and assume various leadership roles, both prescribed and incidental. As they returned to the warm embrace of their devoted parents, a profound gratitude emerged for the privileged lives they lead. Alongside this, they carried a newfound strength—the power of personal voice and action, grounded in the knowledge of their own independence and capability.