Small steps, big confidence. This is where their camp journey begins.
Overview #
The Explorer Programme is designed for children in Reception to Year 2. At this age, we prioritise confidence, curiosity and community. Each day is packed with games, creative sessions, and active outdoor adventures — all led by nurturing, energetic staff who bring the magic.
Staff Roles & Key Responsibilities #
- Zone Leader: Oversees transitions, leads circle time, ensures ratios are met.
- Activity Facilitator: Delivers creative, sport, or outdoor blocks using pre-planned sessions.
- Support Staff: Helps with toileting, snack times, emotional regulation, shadows nervous campers.
- Camp Manager: Holds medical info, escalates safeguarding concerns, liaises with parents.
A Typical Day #
| Time | Activity |
| 8:30–9:15am | Drop-Off & Welcome Activities |
| 9:15–9:30am | Morning Assembly & Icebreakers |
| 9:30–10:30am | Adventure Activity Block 1 |
| 10:30–10:45am | Snack & Free Play |
| 10:45–11:45am | Creative Den or Outdoor Games |
| 11:45–12:30pm | Lunch & Chill |
| 12:30–1:30pm | Adventure Activity Block 2 |
| 1:30–1:45pm | Story Circle / Imagination Time |
| 1:45–2:45pm | Performing Arts or Den Building |
| 2:45–3:15pm | Circle Time / Reflection & Snack |
| 3:15–4:00pm | Pick-Up / Stay & Play |
Programme Pillars #
– Confidence Through Play: Low-pressure, high-joy environments where children feel safe to try new things.
– Imagination & Creativity: From storytelling to junk modelling — their world becomes the playground.
– Movement & Motor Skills: Climbing, obstacle courses, ball games — helping build balance and body confidence.
– Nurture & Belonging: Gentle routines, small wins, and supportive transitions ease anxieties.
Core Activities #
- – Nature Trails & Bug Hunts
- – Obstacle Courses & Mini Challenges
- – Painting, Junk Modelling & Den Building
- – Music & Movement Games
- – Group Games & Social Challenges
- – Drama & Storytelling
- – Water Play (weather dependent)
Supervision & Safety #
– Staff-to-child ratio: 1:10
– Children are escorted between all activities
– Shaded chill-out zones and indoor spaces available
– Enhanced safeguarding in place for toileting & changing
– Daily medical & allergy checks at registration
Social & Emotional Development #
| Skill | How We Support It |
|---|---|
| Confidence | Small group wins, praise & spotlight moments |
| Independence | Task ownership, self-led games |
| Communication | Circle time, buddy games |
| Self-Regulation | Calm corners, positive reinforcement, visual cues |
Settling-In Strategies for Younger Campers #
- – Meet & Greet games at arrival
- – Visual timetable display at basecamp
- – “Buddy up” system
- – Role play of transitions
- – Safe space / quiet corner with beanbags and sensory toys
Behaviour Management for 5–7s #
Staff should use age-appropriate behaviour support, focusing on redirection and positive reinforcement.
Examples include:
- – “First–then” language (First snack, then bug hunt)
- – Gentle redirection instead of discipline
- – Visual cue cards for expectations (sit, listen, calm hands)
- – Sticker charts or marble jars for group wins
What to Bring #
- – Refillable water bottle
- – Weather-appropriate clothing
- – Spare change of clothes
- – Packed lunch & healthy snacks
- – Hat and sunscreen (summer)
- – Wellies / waterproofs (spring/autumn)
📌 *Label everything! Lost property is real.*
Parent Info #
– Sign in with staff at the main entrance each morning
– Tell us about allergies, meds or worries at check-in
– Receive updates and highlights at pick-up or via our Parent App
– We aim to make every child feel like the main character in their own story
Parent Communication Cheat Sheet #
Examples of positive messages to share with parents:
- – “Your child was brilliant in obstacle course today — they helped a friend finish!”
- – “They were a little nervous at drop-off, but settled quickly during creative time.”
- – “We noticed they were a bit tired after lunch, so we gave them a quiet story moment.”
