Ski Camp Leadership

 My first year leading the ski camp was full of unexpected surprises.

The weather was the first one. Since we went in August, there has been a lot of rain around, and with the 65th birthday of the field, they were trying to preserve the snow for this event.

We went in the week when the celebrations were. This means that the field was packed; we had two days where the area was closed, and in my planning, I didn't think of this scenario or what to do on a rainy day. This was completely unexpected, and on reflection, I will plan some activities when the ski field is closed.

There were some things that I know for next time:

- Set all my cards on the table.

For example - Safety on the field, parents' responsibilities, and expectations of where the children are allowed on the field. 

I ran a meeting before the camp for the parents and helpers attending and set out the expectations verbally; I may have done this as a written copy with them signing it. I was just doing what Chris had done the previous year. 

I did doubt myself a lot on the ski camp; I was worried that I would make a mistake, make the wrong call, or people would disagree with me. I have more faith in my ability and make the best call for everyone and the best decision for the group.

The positive was that many children pushed themselves to get to that next level, that next run, or go on the chair lift. The team bonding was lovely, and they loved playing board games, exploring in the snow on the first afternoon, sledding, creating snowmen, laughing, and sharing a joke. 

My takeaways from last year:

- Make it clear that I have the final say on where the children can go on the field.

- Have more faith in my decisions.

- Have activities for when the field is closed.

- More interactive, engaging evening activities - board games were suitable, but the environment was too noisy.

- Go through the RAMS with a BOT member, open school docs, and use school docs alongside. 

- Send out the ski camp booklet earlier so parents can get the necessary things.