Scotch College

CAMPS: Scotch-At-Cowes

Background

In 1955 Arthur Mitchell (Staff Member), began an annual summer holiday camp at Cowes. It is run almost entirely by a committee of students who provide entertainment and keep the camp running smoothly, giving boys a chance at leadership. Today cabin and tent accommodation exists for approx 90 campers including 20 Committee Members.

Main activities

Camps: Each summer a Committee of approx 20 Year 11 students co-ordinate and organise camps for two separate groups.

• Year 9-10 Camp was held in December 2008, subject to confirmation will be held again in December 2009.

• Year 7-8 Camp was in January 2008 and subject to confirmation will be held again in January 2009.

Each camp has a focus on summer-based activities that include sailing, surfing, fishing, water skiing, cricket, golf, table tennis and talent quests. Equipment available for use by the boys is excellent and includes sailing dinghies, zodiacs, an aluminium runabout, a large range of surf skis, canoes and surfboards, in addition to two catamarans and water skiing equipment.

Year 7 Orientation program: All boys attend in class-groups a camp run by the School in February-March. This greatly helps boys form friendships and confidence in their new environment.

Committee meetings: The Committee meets regularly during the year to plan and co-ordinate each camp; drawing on their own experiences to ensure each week is a memorable experience for all in attendance.

Weekend Retreats: Other Auxiliaries can also benefit from utilising Cowes as a weekend retreat during the School year.

Major events

The May Annual Dinner Dance: A theme is created and the challenge set resulting in some great fun.

It remains a highlight with funds raised supporting equipment at Cowes. Subject to confirmation the 2009 Dinner Dance will be held in the Cardinal Pavilion at Scotch College on Saturday 9 May.

Annual General Meeting: The incumbent Committee and Auxiliary members hand over to the new Committee and Auxiliary members by showing a DVD of highlights of the camps.

Family Day Involvement: Like other Auxiliaries Scotch-At-Cowes views Family Day as a major date in the calendar and a perfect opportunity to promote the wonderful experience that the Cowes camps provide.

An information stall displays numerous action photos of the boys as well as providing a raffle that offers one free place in each of the summer camps over December and January.

How to get involved

The Auxiliary comprises parents of the Committee Members but voluntary contribution of time and ideas by other families is always welcome. If your son may be interested in Cowes as a summer camp get involved by:

• Watching the Torch