I had the opportunity this year to chair the TSS Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp and I am very pleased that I took this on. In such ventures, success is not possible without gathering a competent, confident and committed team of staff whose only reward for a huge effort would be to see the transformational effect of the Camp on so many of our boys, both the full companions and the assistants.
ALAN PARSONS
Deputy Headmaster SONY Camp Coordinator
Ms Sophie Wain and Ms Emma Andrews brought with them not only much needed experience and expertise, but more importantly a level of enthusiasm and commitment that was infectious. The camp this year was only made possible through their passionate contribution. Mr Stephen Eardley was without doubt the foundations on which the camp was built. His precamp workshops, organisation and support of the companions throughout the camp, evening debrief sessions and post-camp debrief were crucial in the success of the camp. Mr Karel Bos once again exemplified the contagious effect of positivity and passion, organising activities and engaging companions, assistants and campers in a series of
adventures each day. His ability to improvise and problem solve ensured each activity was both engaging and enjoyable. Mrs Liz Green again assembled an extraordinarily efficient and caring team of highly qualified healthcare professionals who ensured the campers received the best possible medical attention throughout the camp. Mr Tony Watt, Mr Tom Thackray, Mrs Jill Margerison, Mrs Katrina Martin and Mrs Robyn Gibson worked tirelessly each day of the camp assisting wherever needed and supporting the boys when they needed a word of comfort or advice or maybe a few minutes respite. Mrs Jennie Alford was exceptional
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THE SOUTHPORT SCHOOL SOUTHPORTONIAN 2015
in her organisation of the logistics of accommodation and meals for the camp. Her tireless efforts in ensuring all was in readiness for us are sincerely appreciated. The impact of the Camp on the TSS boys is best seen through their own words. Below are reflections from two of the boys: After two full days of training, instruction and videos, I had some idea about what would happen on the camp. However, nothing could fully prepare me for the actual thing. The 2015 SONY Foundation Children’s Holiday camp brought with it challenges that I had never yet encountered and as such, had a profound and indelible effect on me.
For four days I got to see a glimpse of how children with mental and physical disabilities cope with daily life. For some, it was a walk in the park. For others, it was an outright struggle. Watching these kids and their carers struggle through simple things such as going to the toilet evoked a strong sense of gratitude and understanding in me. I am thankful that I don’t have to look after these kids all the time. Because of that, I have a huge amount of respect and admiration for what their parents must go through. I am also very thankful that I myself don’t have a mental or physical disability and this has made me much happier and more grateful for the life that I have been blessed with.
