The Grade 11 Camp - at Ilkley Adventures this year - changed its focus slightly to encompass the development of all Grade 11s for their vital role in the College as effective leaders in Grade 12. In addition, we added an extra night away to fully satisfy the desired workshops encompassing leadership. The busy programme was organised by Mr Hilton Barnett whose expertise and knowledge greatly enhanced the profile of the camp. We were fortunate to have MANCOM and Mrs Sue Adams attend the camp as well as the assistance of Mr and Mrs Visser.

The keyword, “leadership,” was facilitated throughout the camp in a number of group work activities. All of the activities, which varied from physical to mental acts, required careful analysis of tasks, conflict management and belief in the particular leader for that group. Points were allocated for each task as well as deductions for latecomers and penalties in tasks. The pupils completed solitaire, completed the “Amazing Race”, delivered war cries and reflected upon the College’s mottoes. A number of the blindfolded activities produced a few laughs and frustrations whilst the “Piranha Peril” exposed the opportunity to manage conflict and group tensions effectively. Despite the hunger pangs of a number of the young men, the participants had a huge amount of fun. On the last night a fashion show was held, wherein groups were only allowed newspaper, glue, and scissors in order to create an outfit for men and ladies within an hour. Hidden talent on the catwalk emerged from Sam Wood, Shelley Adams, Galia Margalit, Josh Rood, Kate Haslam, Ruth de Borchgrave, Nico van der Merwe, Gage Abell, Christopher Schoeman, Rhett Bridgens and Brian Whitehorn. In addition, Jessie van de Vyver may just have a career in fashion commentary.

On a lighter note, there was a princess crown and a blue party hat for the girl and boy respectively who said the “blondest” comment or did something which was genuinely humorous. Worthy recipients of these awards included Bronwyn Tod and Bambi Stewart. The Red Team must be congratulated on their overall victory over the other groups.

This camp provided every pupil with the skills and thoughts necessary to equip themselves for their Grade 12 year. Moreover, the camp was vital to introduce the notion that every Grade 12 is crucial to leadership in Uplands College in 2011.