I noticed at the camp our rich natural reserves and a lot of insects around. I learnt how to manage my resources. I managed to sleep in a tiny and hot space. Now I know how to kayak and abseil. Capsizing was my best moment. Despite my fear of water, I enjoyed myself while participating in the capsizing drill. Abseiling was a challenge for me at the camp. There was a part where we had to hang on the rope with our legs in the air. When I was going down, I got stuck and hit the rocks. Next time, I will listen to the instructions, lean back, and trust myself. I identified and demonstrated the following learning outcomes: Strength and Growth, Initiative and planning, Commitment and Perseverance. I increased my stamina during the hike and didn’t nag about the pain. I planned well for the trip. I kept abseiling, even though I was terrified. The activities were engaging and challenging. The singing during the hike took my mind off the pain. Also, my arms started to ache from kayaking. I learnt that I am brave and daring. This experience taught me to be self-conscious and made me aware that we often do not appreciate the little things in life until they are taken from us. Immanuella Ashiagbor (Grade 11)

At first, I thought the camp would be hectic and boring because we did not have our laptops, running water, or electricity. However, I have found that social interactions are much more beneficial than using a device. I discovered that anything you set your mind to can be attained. And I realised it is wise to seek assistance when you need it. My best moment was during the bonfire because the view was exhilarating, and I enjoyed the beauty of nature and the night in the woods overall. Kayaking presented the biggest challenge for me because it was a long sail, I had to exert more force to turn the kayak, and I got tired. I overcame it by psyching my mind to make the journey feel smaller. I will start practising much earlier the next time before camp. I demonstrated perseverance during the hike. I could not focus most of the hiking because I was feeling dizzy, but I was determined to finish it because I had not yet reached my end goal.

I also gained new skills during the kayak ride, like the 180-degree turns and saving a kayak when it capsizes. I worked with different calibres of people, from the rangers to staff to students. I had to work with them to make the camping experience worthwhile. I had to plan before the camp to bring the necessary things to help me survive. The activities were engaging because I got to involve myself fully and develop new skills that required my output. I learnt that if I put my mind to something, I can get through many difficulties. I have improved my thinking abilities and working collaboratively with other people. My key takeaway from this experience is that no matter how uncomfortable or distraught you find where you are, you can make your living comfortable. And you can live without technology. Nana Aisha Hussein (Grade 11)

Although the camp was challenging, it was an intriguing experience. I learnt on the camping trip to always try new things. My best moment was when I capsized because the water was refreshing after staying under the sun for a long time. I found sleeping in the tent in the heat my greatest challenge. I overcame this challenge by just enduring the heat. I swim on the lake or have a cold bath before bed next time I go camping. We picked up any trash we accidentally dropped on the ground while camping at the paintball field and were careful not to leave any trash behind while hiking. It is a demonstration of the ethics of choices and actions. The activities were engaging but not challenging. I found the activities interesting because I didn’t struggle to complete them. One thing I learned about myself is that I like trying new activities because I am excited about them. This experience taught me that I like nature more than I thought. And because of this experience, I would sign up for the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. Blessed Quashie (Grade 11)

The camping was astonishing, but the tent was unbearably hot. I discovered that if you work collaboratively as a group, then everything will be much easier. The best moment for me was capsizing because I enjoy being in the water. It was the first time I capsized. Abseiling was the greatest challenge I faced. I was very focused on the instructions the ranger gave me. By leaving my family, I have seen growth and gain strength from mountain climbing. The activities were challenging and engaging, and it’s because those activities are things I haven’t tried before. Since I am new to everything camp-related, I am personally seeking out more knowledge. I have also discovered my colleagues’ and teachers’ hobbies and living habits. I now know how to mountain climb, abseiling and capsizing. Jerry Huang (Grade 11)

I discovered that resources are scarce in some parts of the world, so we have to sustain resources. I had to overcome my fear of water and heights. I was able to do this by challenging myself from my comfort zone and facing my fears. I had to kayak, which was something I had never done. I was scared, so I had to challenge myself to face my fears and learn a new skill. I have developed the skill of adapting to other living environments. I have started to place a higher value on things like water and a house. My takeaway is that we should always be content with what we have because others may not have what we have, which makes us privileged. Kelvin Kasami (Grade 11)

The camp trip was fantastic. I had a more intense encounter than I had anticipated. There were many obstacles to overcome, but I persevered. I learned that when you are out of your comfort zone, you should not complain because other people also suffer. I also learned to work as part of a team because you cannot accomplish everything alone. My best moment was when I went kayaking because I was terrified to capsize at first, but once I did it, I loved it and wanted to stay in the water for longer. Capsizing was the most difficult challenge I faced. I observed that other individuals had capsized, which motivated me to get through mine. I demonstrated Commitment and Perseverance at the camp. It was evident to me during abseiling. I was terrified when I first started, but because I couldn’t go back up, I had to commit and finish abseiling. The activities were enjoyable but not too difficult. Hiking and abseiling, for example, were not difficult since I was determined to complete them. I discovered that I can live outside and enjoy being in water, even though I cannot swim. I’ve learned to be patient and cooperative. I have learned to be grateful for everything I have and stop whining. Paa Kwesi Dennis (Grade 11)

I discovered that I am incredibly fortunate and that resources are not always available. I didn’t trust the rope when I was abseiling, but next time I will do it without fear. Strength and Growth, Challenge and Skills, Initiative and Planning were the learning outcomes I identified and demonstrated. It was evident when I faced my fear of heights during abseiling. In our efforts to complete tasks in groups, initiative and planning were also visible throughout the camping.

The activities were engaging. I discovered that I can be a good leader. We shouldn’t take what we have for granted, was my takeaway from the camping experience. Naeem Naasr- Deen (Grade 11)

Living in the wild is distinct from life in the city. I developed a stronger sense of responsibility and a constant appreciation for the resources I have at home and school. Because it was my first time performing the drill and my best moment at the camp. Before the exercise, I was frightened, but after completing it, I enjoyed it and wanted to perform it again. Abseiling was the only activity I found challenging among all the activities. When I was abseiling, I wanted to quit because I didn’t want to look down and get more frightened, but I persisted. I looked down to see where to put my legs and continued abseiling until I reached the bottom. The activities were engaging and challenging, especially the abseiling. I discovered I am friendly and always willing to help anyone in need. To always be grateful for what I have rather than complaining was my takeaway from this experience. Kelvin Asante (Grade 11)

Throughout the camp, I realised that sometimes one has to step away from the busy life in of the city and seek refuge in nature. Even though some tasks must be completed alone, one still requires the help and support of those close to them to meet their needs fully. One of my favourite memories is paintballing because it showed me how competitive some of my classmates and teachers are and reminded me how important it is always to pay attention. Hiking has to be the greatest challenge I faced during the camp. I found it difficult to hike, especially up steep hills, after spending two months at home and doing no exercise. Next time, I would engage in physical activities at least a week or two before the camp. Since there was no trash when I arrived on the island, I had to make a conscious effort to always pick up after myself to leave the area in the same condition as when I arrived. For initiative and planning, it was demonstrated during the hiking period that you have to be attentive and plan well not to fall or cause destruction while hiking. The activities were very engaging as they were entertaining and caused us as a grade to bond effectively.

I have learned from this experience that it is important always to appreciate what I have around me and not take things for granted. I have also learned to be attentive and developed a new attitude toward how I treat people and the things around me. Teamwork is essential and produces the best out of you. In times when too much may be going on, it is necessary to take a step back into nature and let it heal you. Alswell Adelaide Egbenya (Grade 11)

I learnt how much of my privileges I have taken for granted. I learnt to be grateful to God for the opportunities and privileges He has given me. I learnt to be tough as well. My best moment was the kayaking and capsizing drills. I learned to enjoy kayaking and appreciate the surroundings. It was so peaceful. I find abseiling to be complicated. It was really scary the first time I did it, but

my Alpha team supported and guided me through it. Next time, I hope not to be too scared and ensure proper pictures of me are taken. Kayaking requires a lot of strength to row. Abseiling was challenging for me, but I was able to do it.For skills, I learned how to set up and fold a tent and what one should do in the event of a capsized kayak. I committed and persevered through every activity done at Trident. Abseiling was tough because it was my first time doing it. I enjoyed hiking because I was in the middle of nature and I went with a fun group. We sang songs and chanted our motto. I learnt that I am stronger than I initially thought. I learnt to be mindful and patient with others and encourage those scared. Now, I can confidently say that I know how to set up and fold up a tent, abseil and even kayak (just a little). Always appreciate and thank God for every privilege and opportunity I have was my takeaway from the experience. Nana Yaa Arthur (Grade 11)

I had anticipated the camp to be a very challenging and uncomfortable experience, but as it turned out, it was not all that bad if you fully committed to the process, and it was enjoyable. I learnt the importance of teamwork and physical activity. Some activities, like kayaking and even hiking, require teamwork to be successful. It’s necessary to do enough physical activities to become fit and healthy. My best moment was the kayaking. I thoroughly enjoyed moving in the water as it made me feel closer to nature and appreciate the beauty of nature more. The greatest challenge I faced was sleeping in the outdoors. It was very uncomfortable, and there was a lot of insects. However, through teamwork and perseverance, I was able to overcome this.

My partner and I had to look out for each other to ensure we didn’t get bitten. Next time I’ll get a better brand of insect repellent and go for the camp with a new mindset, ready for any casualties. I realised strength and growth during the hiking. At first, it wasn’t easy, but as I continued, it became easier and more enjoyable. I recognised challenge and skill when setting up the tent. It was very challenging to do but now, it’s a new skill I can add to my itinerary. I demonstrated initiative and planning during the paintballing. My group had to plan a strategy that we thought would make us win, and I had to take the initiative to lead the group to success. The kayaking taught me commitment and perseverance. I had to be fully committed to the process and persevere to make it to the end. Lastly, during the hike, I learned the ethics of choice and Action. The rangers always reminded us to throw rubbish in bins and not on the ground as that is home to a different species, and we must be mindful of it. Kayaking was a very engaging activity as I enjoyed moving along with the waves of the water while also pedalling and taking directions. However, it was also very challenging in some areas as it required a lot of arm strength and perseverance. It engaged my muscles in a challenging but fun way. Through this experience, I discovered my love for nature and the outdoors. I learnt how important it is for me to step out into nature once in a while to be more in touch with my surroundings. As working in pairs made the process simpler, I also realised that everyone needs someone to respond to. I developed a new attitude of putting myself out there and the mindset that I can do anything I want. I realised I need to be more conscious of my surroundings and what is happening around me. I also learnt sometimes it’s important to get closer to nature to improve your wellbeing. Keziah Botchway (Grade 11)

The camp would be extremely challenging and not very enjoyable. Awareness of how my mistakes and choices affect my team helped me learn to take accountability for them. An example of this was setting up my tent with my partner. The time we went abseiling was my favourite because it felt liberating to finally overcome my fear of falling. My greatest challenge was abseiling. I overcame it by quickly changing my mind from fear to focus. When I experience that fear, I try to take deep breaths and concentrate on completing the task at hand rather than on my fear. My strength and growth were achieved during my abseiling. I was able to conquer my fear of heights and cliffs. Doing this allowed me to grow past my fears. The activities were engaging and challenging because they required lots of work and effort to achieve the goals. Hiking is a good example of this; it was challenging. I learnt that the things I fear aren’t as big as I make them seem. I have learned how to pitch a tent and have a risk-taking mindset. In terms of values. At this point, I am appreciative of my current life. My main takeaway from this experience was that difficulties and challenges lead to development and strength. Dentu Gymapo (Grade 11)

My perception of the camp was that it would be a fun experience and that I would learn new skills, which I was able to accomplish. I noticed the camping was indeed fun because I experienced new skills. I learned self-rescue during capsizing drills and how to put up a tent. My best moment was capsizing because it was my first time, and I initially didn’t want to participate, but when I did, I proved myself wrong by thinking it would not be fun. My greatest challenge was hiking because it had been a while since I participated in such activities, but I overcame it by motivating myself. I will prepare better next time and have extra motivation. I demonstrated Strength and growth during the hiking. I was able to learn new skills and new experiences from capsizing and abseiling. I had to plan by packing and putting up the tent. I was able to work as a team. All the activities seemed scary at the beginning, but I was able to grasp the action in seconds. I did that by trusting the process. I learnt that I am stronger than I thought I was during the hiking, and I enjoyed creating things with my hands during the time I was putting up the tent. I even learnt that I can grasp things early from the abseiling and mounting the tent. My main takeaway from the camping trip was to keep trying new things and not give up on myself. Jenevieve Achemdey (Grade 11)