Why Transitions Matter #
Adventure Camps thrives on variety. Children move between sports, creative workshops, drama sessions, swimming, and outdoor challenges every day. These transitions keep camp exciting — but they are also moments of risk. Without clear structure, children can get separated, safety rules may slip, and valuable time is wasted.
Transitions are not “in-between” moments — they are part of the camp experience. A smooth, professional transition keeps children safe, reassures parents, and maintains the fun flow of the day.
Core Principles of Safe Transitions #
- Safety First – Children are never left unsupervised, even for a moment.
- Clarity – Children must always know where they are going, who with, and what to take.
- Professionalism – Calm, confident transitions show that camp is organised and well-run.
- Consistency – The process is the same for every group, every time, so nothing slips.
The Standard Transition Process #
Step 1: Prepare Before Moving #
- End activities five minutes early to allow time for tidy-up and a calm exit.
- Give clear instructions: “We’re moving to the Sports Arena now. Please take your water bottle and line up at the door.”
- Remind children to collect belongings (water bottles, hats, jumpers).
Step 2: Count Before You Go #
- Perform a full headcount before leaving the zone.
- Where possible, cross-check with an assistant or co-leader.
Step 3: Supervise the Move #
- Staff position themselves at the front, middle, and back of the group.
- Walk together — no running, pushing, or wandering.
- Outdoors or across car parks: keep groups tight, and be extra vigilant.
Step 4: Handover at the Next Zone #
- On arrival, complete another headcount.
- Leader handing over communicates notes (injuries, behaviour, SEND adjustments).
- Receiving leader confirms numbers before starting the session.
Step 5: Settle Quickly #
- Get the activity underway promptly to avoid downtime.
- Support children who seem unsettled by giving them a role or responsibility.
Transitions During Elective Sessions #
Electives add variety and choice for children, but they make transitions more complex. Staff must apply the same safety principles, with extra checks for accountability.
Non-Elective Sessions #
- Children follow the pre-set timetable.
- Transition process remains exactly as above.
Individual Electives #
- Children split from their main group to choose their preferred activity.
- Registers must be updated before moving so every child is assigned to their chosen zone.
- Leaders count children before leaving and again on arrival.
- Staff must confirm headcounts with the elective register, not just the group memory.
Group Electives #
- Groups decide together on their next activity.
- Once a choice is made, treat it like a normal transition.
- Leaders still complete the headcount and handover checks.
- If groups split due to disagreement, the Site Manager must oversee the division to ensure ratios remain safe.
Common Transition Risks & How to Prevent Them #
- Lost belongings – Use a call-and-response reminder: “Bottles, hats, shoes!” before leaving.
- Stragglers – Always place one staff member at the back. Never let a child walk alone.
- Confusion at arrival – Receiving leaders must wait until the full handover is complete before engaging children.
- Bottlenecks at doors – Stagger departures if multiple groups are leaving the same space.
- Elective mix-ups – Cross-check elective registers before children start the next activity.
Example Scenarios #
Scenario 1: Sports to Creative
The Sports Leader ends football at 10:25, leaving five minutes to tidy. They line up the group, count 20 children, and move together with staff at front and back. On arrival at the Creative Den, the Creative Leader counts 20, confirms the group, and notes that one child needs extra support due to tiredness. The handover is complete and safe.
Scenario 2: Individual Elective
Children choose between swimming, crafts, and drama. Each child’s choice is recorded on the elective register before moving. The Crafts Leader confirms 12 children left Sports, and 12 arrived in Creative. Numbers align with the register, so the session begins.
Scenario 3: Group Elective
The 10–12s decide together to go swimming. The Zone Leader confirms the group count before moving. At the pool, the Lifeguard cross-checks against the elective register. A child who opted out is redirected to the alternative activity by the Site Manager to keep ratios safe.
Staff Responsibilities #
- Activity Leaders – Manage safe release and receipt of groups.
- Zone Leaders – Confirm headcounts and communicate notes during handovers.
- Assistants – Support supervision during moves, especially with younger children.
- Site Manager – Oversees elective organisation, manages complex transitions, and resolves group splits.
Quick Tip 💡 #
Transitions are a chance to role-model behaviour. Use songs, chants, or calm conversation to keep children engaged. A fun, structured move avoids chaos and keeps spirits high.
