Boys’ home resident ‘loved’ Army camp

Press, 15 July 1987, Page 7

Boys’ home resident ‘loved’ Army camp

A five-day camping adventure with soldiers from Burnham Camp has changed the attitude of Russell, aged 15, a shortterm resident at the Christchurch Boys’ Home.

After the outdoor adventure with the Army, Russell said he had changed his attitude to school. He used to dislike it and had “cruised” along, but now he had set himself a goal of passing his School Certificate subjects this year. He said he was determined to achieve it. Christchurch Boys’ Home staff hope that activities with Bumham Camp will have similar effects on other boys. A senior social worker,

Mr Dave East, said Bumham had “come up with a tremendous amount of resources and opportunities for young people which we can tap into.”

The activities were aimed at building confidence, self-esteem, respect, and teamwork, as well as outdoor skills.

Although the home had used Bumham’s facilities in the past, recent discussions had focused on the boys’ becoming more involved in programmed activities with the Army. A work experience programme was also being considered, he said. The five-day camp at Mount Peel, which Russell and another boy from the

home attended, included rock climbing, bushcraft, and compass and confidence work.

Russell said he had learnt a lot about discipline and “just basic doing what you’re told.” “I loved it The best part was just being with a group of people and having fun.” Russell said a threehour walk which turned out to be much longer because they took a side track was the worst part He said he felt he had achieved something and through talking with the men he had decided to set his mind on getting his School Certificate.

“I have got a goal to reach,” he said.