Attending school camp is a formative experience in the life of a young person. Bendigo Bank Community Bank Seddon and Urban Camp Melbourne have partnered to support Sunshine Primary School’s grade 5/6 leadership camp for the next three years.
The collaboration, a first for a school group at Urban Camp, ensures Sunshine Primary School students are provided an invaluable opportunity for independence and growth away from the classroom and home, from Urban Camp’s unique purpose-built location in Royal Park, Parkville.
The school’s first camp was held in early March. Forty students embarked on a fun-filled three-day school camp, enjoying a raft of educational and social experiences together.
Urban Camp’s experienced team created a program of activities which included Melbourne’s top educational attractions including Scienceworks, Planetarium, ACMI, Melbourne Museum and the Immigration Museum. The students also visited the bustling Queen Victoria Market, enjoyed sweeping views across the city from the top of Melbourne Skydeck and a river cruise before gathering for a night-in to watch a movie at Urban Camp.
On the first day of camp, Sunshine Primary School gathered in the courtyard for the Welcome to Camp; joined by staff from Bendigo Bank Community Bank Seddon. Urban Camp’s CEO, Daniel Whykes acknowledged the generosity of the partnership noting without the support of Bendigo Bank Community Bank Seddon the school camp would not have been possible. ‘Bendigo Bank Community Bank Seddon dug deep into their pockets to make this camp a reality for Sunshine Primary School.”
Natalie Talbot, teacher at Sunshine Primary School reflected on their first day exploring Melbourne. ‘We could not be more grateful. We have had the best day together. Thank you so much.’
Sunshine Primary School students returned home with an even greater connection with their friends, peers and teachers through their shared experiences in the city.
More information about Urban Camp may be found at www.urbancamp.org.au
- Belinda Johnston, Communications Co-ordinator, Urban Camp
