Why Teamwork Matters #
Adventure Camps is built on the belief that every child deserves a world-class experience — one that feels as magical as Disneyland. That doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because every single staff member plays their part in the team.
Think of camp like a show: some of us are on stage leading activities, others are behind the scenes setting up, but together we create the magic.
When we work as one team:
- Children feel safe, supported, and inspired.
- Parents see professionalism and trust us.
- Staff enjoy their jobs more and leave proud of what they’ve created.
The Adventure Camps Team Promise #
- One Team, One Purpose → We back each other up, always.
- Energy is Contagious → If we bring the magic, children feel it.
- Clear Roles, No Confusion → Everyone knows their responsibility and delivers it.
- Respect & Support → We speak kindly, listen actively, and help each other shine.
- The Show Must Go On → Even if plans change, we adapt and keep the magic alive.
Roles & Responsibilities #
Site Manager (Formally Camp Director Role) #
- The “captain of the ship.”
- Oversees the whole camp: safety, safeguarding, staff, and daily operations.
- Liaises with parents, venue, and emergency services if needed.
- Makes final calls on behaviour, safeguarding, and schedule changes.
- Leads morning/afternoon assemblies with enthusiasm and clarity.
- Supports staff with encouragement and accountability.
Disney Principle: The Site Manager sets the “big picture” atmosphere — they are the park director, ensuring every guest leaves with a smile.
Zone Leaders (Department Managers) #
- Responsible for a whole “zone” (e.g., Sports Arena, Creative Den, Performing Arts, Pool).
- Ensure sessions are set up, delivered, and packed down safely.
- Mentor Activity Leaders and Assistants, checking quality and energy.
- Monitor behaviour and step in with positive reinforcement.
- Carry radios and coordinate with the Site Manager.
Disney Principle: Zone Leaders are the heads of departments in Disneyland — making sure their area runs smoothly and always looks magical.
Activity Leaders (On-Stage Performers) #
- Deliver high-energy, safe, and inclusive sessions.
- Use Session Delivery Basics (prepare, set scene, demo, run, close with impact).
- Adapt activities for age, ability, and SEND needs.
- Supervise children during transitions, meals, and breaks.
- Celebrate achievements, encourage effort, and manage behaviour positively.
- Always end sessions on a high so children leave buzzing.
Disney Principle: Activity Leaders are the performers on stage. Children don’t just watch them — they experience them. Your energy is the magic.
Assistant Leaders (The Glue) #
- Support Activity Leaders with equipment, set-up, and supervision.
- Watch out for children on the edges (the shy ones, the unsettled ones).
- Help with behaviour management calmly and consistently.
- Join in activities to model effort and enthusiasm.
- Step up to lead when needed.
Disney Principle: Assistants are the cast members who bring everything together — maybe not always centre stage, but without them, the show can’t run.
Specialist Roles (Add Extra Magic) #
- SEND Lead
- Champions inclusion for children with additional needs.
- Advises leaders on adaptations.
- Provides 1-to-1 or small group support where needed.
- Paediatric First Aider
- Always available in sessions and transitions.
- Responds first in any medical situation.
- Keeps first-aid kit ready and visible.
- Lifeguard (Pool Sessions)
- Solely responsible for water scanning, rescues, and first-aid in pool areas.
- Works alongside leaders who manage behaviour, headcounts, and transitions.
Disney Principle: Specialists are the attractions experts — they bring unique skills that make the whole park richer and safer.
How We Work Together #
Communication #
- Radios for urgent/safety updates.
- WhatsApp for admin (not when supervising).
- Face-to-face for quick clarifications.
- Always keep tone respectful, solutions-focused, and calm.
Supporting Each Other #
- If someone is struggling, step in without judgment.
- Cover each other’s blind spots (e.g., headcounts, behaviour checks).
- Celebrate each other’s wins in briefings and assemblies.
Energy & Attitude #
- We bring 100% energy — no slouching, no negativity in front of children.
- We smile, greet by name, and make children feel they belong.
- We reset quickly — even if the morning was tough, the afternoon can still be magic.
Example Scenarios #
Scenario 1: Lost Equipment
The Activity Leader realises a key piece of kit is missing. Wrong: Blaming others.
Right: Assistant quickly improvises with alternative kit while Zone Leader fetches replacement. The show goes on.
Scenario 2: Behaviour Escalation
A child refuses to join in. Wrong: Ignoring them.
Right: Assistant quietly checks in, offers them a helper role; Activity Leader continues with main group. SEND Lead may step in if ongoing.
Scenario 3: Staff Energy Dip
Leaders feel drained by midweek. Wrong: Complaining in front of children.
Right: Zone Leader runs a 2-minute staff energiser before assembly; Site Manager reminds everyone of the “Disney principle” — we are performers.
The Adventure Camps Magic Touch #
At Disney, every cast member knows: “You may be the only smile that child sees today.” At Adventure Camps, it’s the same.
- If you’re on stage, perform.
- If you’re behind the scenes, prepare.
- If you’re supporting, lift others up.Together, we make camp the happiest place in a child’s school holiday.
Quick Tip 💡 #
Ask yourself: “Am I adding to the magic or draining it?” If it’s not magic, reset and bring the spark.
