Please confirm that you are available to be part of the helper team from midday on the 22rd July until 2pm on the 2nd of August.  If for whatever reason you are unable to, please give a brief description of the dates that you can do and why. The preparation in the run up to the camp is very important for the smooth running of the camps as well as for creating a shared ethos and working dynamic. This includes pre-camp meetings, on camp set-up, and we will need you stay to help with the packing down and for the closing meeting on the Sunday. This is an important reflection time, to see what went well, what might need changing for next year etc. so on the whole we expect you to be able to participate. 

Every member of the helper team, regardless of role, is expected to maintain and contribute to the helper ethos in a positive way. The most important elements which maintain this are willingness and enthusiasm – starting well before the camp takes place in our preparation and continuing right up until everything is packed away and stored. This is essential in creating the positive up-beat atmosphere which the camp, the children and the helpers all rely on.

All of the roles on the camp are of equal importance and value. By extension every task, no matter how small or mundane, is vital for the camp as a whole. Therefore it is expected that helpers care for all the work that they are doing.

If these key elements are taken seriously, it makes the whole experience much more enjoyable and fulfilling for everyone, helpers and children alike. Although, enjoying the space and enjoying being part of a wonderful team is partly the glue of the camp, all helpers have to appreciate that the children - their needs, wellbeing and experience - always come first.

The work is very rewarding, but also very demanding. The days are long and packed full. All hands on deck are required throughout the camp, so it is important that Helpers look after themselves and get a good night’s sleep so that they can be there for the children and for their fellow helpers.

All helpers are expected to take part in all camp activities with enthusiasm. This includes singing and active participation during all aspects of our Morning and Evening Circles, engaging in whole camp activities such as the hikes and sports as well as preparing and taking part in the helpers play and treasure hunt.

All helpers attendance is expected at helpers meetings in the run up and during camp as well as at the daily Close of Day service.

Awareness for the structure and timings of the camp and of each day is also required - everyone has to keep an eye on the time.

The role of the Spring Helper is vital to the everyday running of the camp; without it the camps would not be possible. Essentially, anyone who is not a group helper or a cook is a Spring Helper. Some tasks are taken on by more experienced helpers or the leadership team: roles such as leading the circles, acting as camp nurse and having an oversight on how the camp is run. However, we all take part in the daily tasks of making the camp environment a home-from home experience for the children.

Tasks include:

-    Helping in the kitchen with roles such as veg chopping or bread spreading and pot washing
-    Serving food
-    Preparing snacks
-    Maintenance of the dining area
-    Maintenance of the circle space
-    Ensuring the toilets are kept clean and stocked up with paper
-    Preparing the washing up area after meals and helping the group washing up
-    Managing the hand washing tubs
-    Looking after and mending the camp infrastructure including tents
-    Sorting the rubbish, recycling and compost
-    Running the afternoon sports/games sessions
-    Supervising and organising a schedule for swimming
-    Assisting in the craft area and schedule for groups to do camp crafts(tie dying, led pouring, candle dipping)
-    Helping to organise treasure hunt and helper’s play
-    Supporting groups when required
-    Participating in camp activities such as circles, hikes and treasure hunt
-    Attending and participating in helper meetings

These are shared out amongst all Spring Helpers, so that everyone will get a chance to get to know the children more personally, as well as doing their practical tasks. Nonetheless there does need to be a willingness to do whatever is needed and tasks can shift during the camp.

The role of the Group Helper is to lead the children in their group through the entire camp, acting as parent/friend and guide. Each group has two helpers so you will be working together in partnership with another helper.  There are normally between 7-12 children in each group. The Group Helper stays with their allocated group throughout, helping them to feel welcome, integrated and comfortable in the camp environment. Generally new Group Helpers work together with someone more experienced for there first year  and have support from the camp Leadership Team, as well as other helpers. Group Helpers are expected to be with their group from morning till bed time, with the possibility to have a rest during rest hour and sports time. The Group Helpers sleep in tents next to their group so that they are at hand during the night and the children know where to find their helper if needed. The role is challenging but highly rewarding, as one can form strong bonds with all the children in your group, and be able to observe their journey through the camp closely.

Tasks include:

-    Preparing a project and other creative activities with the other helper prior to the camp, and sourcing and bringing all the needed materials to the camp. One will also check in advance with the Craft Helpers what materials the camp already has. Expenses are refunded but should be approved first with the Craft Helpers. The activities should be planned to fit the duration of the camp
-    Planning small indoor and back up activities which can be done if for instance the weather is bad.
-    Preparing a story (can be a chapter book) and verse for bed time
-    Helping the children to maintain a clean and tidy tent throughout camp
-    Helping the group create a group name within the first 2 days of the camp
-    Helping the group come up with riddle answers for evening circle
-    Encouraging and supporting a healthy group dynamic: dealing with the needs of individuals in the group as well as the group as a whole (with the support from experienced helpers)
-      Participating in whole camp activities such as circles, hikes and games
-      Attending and participating in helpers meetings