Almost half way through the camp, it has begun more difficult to wake up in the morning. Once I had gone through the challenge of waking up, it was time to face the next challenge:
to wake up the campers. Even they had begun to feel the strain of the long days and were making the most of their sleeping hours. Once the first few daily challenges were completed and we had all reached the dinning-room, we were pleasantly surprised with omlletes and scrambled eggs for the first time since our arrival.
The children then went of to classes where they were taught by the usual teachers with addition of Dr Akil Uncle Nurmohammed enlightened them on some topics connecting islam with health related issues.
Whilst the campers were in classes we the mentors would continue with some cleaning duties before having a moment to ourselves to freshen up. I spent a brief moment absorbing the atmosphere that is created by the scenery of the beautiful lake. This is something that we don't get at home. The relaxed mood that it provides is soothing and is something that I will be seeking when I return back to England.
The children poured out of classes and made their way to the dinning hall for a spot of spaghetti bolanase which was delicious. The afternoon activities for today was cooking! This from the outset was something that I thought would be fun, yet interesting to watch the campers do. As predicited it was, the kids seemed to have good fun, regardless that they got messy. Hasnain Panjwani and myself decided to make our own admin cake to compete with the campers and also to see if we could do it. There was success - we had done it. Personally I think our cake was the best!
Normal timetable resumed with dinner consisting of freshly made pizza, which tasted excellent and beat Pizza Hut, with the first dose of chips for the camp. This was good as it took us away from all the rice and curry that we have had this week. Once dinner was finished we headed for Namaz and then on to PDT.
PDT is a time where I find it difficult to engage all the campers in the task and facilitate the campers in the right direction. Never the less I have been persistent and feel that I have progressed on my path Towards Excellence in facilitation.
Then there was some planet time where we spent time with the campers discussing the days activities and lessons. This is the point where I get to learn what they were taught in lesson and take something away. We also discussed how the debate had gone in the PDT session and if they had thought we had one. In my eyes all the campers had done a magnificent job in structuring and delivering their arguments. But being biased towards Neptune, I think we won! So after some more discussions the campers were in bed and lights went out.
I feel that I have seen some progress in the development of the campers in the time that has already past. Many campers have taken on some responsibility that has matured them a little and given them something that they can take ownership over. Many have also learnt some time management skills.
My biggest challenge has been dealing with homesick children as it can be difficult to reassure children that they are in a safe, friendly and exciting environment where they will be busy, having fun.
This year has already had an impact on me and I shall treasure some of the moments that I have gained as I did the last time I was a mentor.
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