Our Annual Sony Foundation Children’s Camp

This December, St Andrew’s College was delighted to host our annual Sony Foundation Children’s Camp. Over seventy College students volunteered as carers to twenty-eight children of disability, and in the words of Alice Draffin, our Director of Student Life, it was once again a “wonderful experience for the children, and an incredibly moving and transformational experience for our student volunteers.”

Since 2012, St Andrew’s has hosted the four-day respite program which allows families to know that their children are in safe and caring hands. Each camper is assigned a companion and with organised activities including magic shows, petting zoo, water slides, pool day, as well as the music, sensory and games room, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

The organising committee, led by student Laura Ellis (Fr 2023) and Scarlett Pearce (Fr 2023), did an outstanding job of preparing the camp, meeting all risk and compliance aspects and selecting a team of passionate and responsible volunteers.

Laura has served as a volunteer since her fresher year and feels particularly passionate about the camp and its positive impact on campers. “It creates a joyful, inclusive, and transformative experience for the children, families and volunteers,” she said. “It’s an unforgettable week of adventure, fun and connection, while actively breaking down the barriers that children with disabilities often face with inclusion and social support.”

“For volunteers,” Laura continued, “being involved in Sony Camp is a life-changing experience that builds empathy, leadership, and resilience. Working as a team, our committee, companions, helpers, media team and medical team are the key to a successful camp and creating an inclusive and fun environment for all involved!”

It’s also a wider community effort. As Alice explained, “whilst hosted and led by St Andrew’s College, we do welcome volunteers to apply from all University of Sydney Colleges, although over half the volunteers come from St Andrew’s. Sixteen medical staff (including doctors and nurses) volunteer their time across the camp to ensure we have the approved medical team numbers. Often these volunteers come from our St Andrew’s community – this year, including alumni and family members of volunteers.”

Laura and Scarlett arranged fundraising throughout the year for the camp. “It is a whole community effort,” said Alice, “with significant in-kind donation from the College, funds raised throughout the year by students, Alumni and parents donating their time to be on the medical team. And of course, the hours spent planning by the committee and the tireless effort from volunteers on the camp. We all come together to provide an incredible experience for the children, and respite for the families.”

Surprise visits from the Police Force and Firefighters were a highlight of the week, as were new and exciting activities such as a teacup amusement park ride and a visit from an Ice Cream Truck. Santa’s arrival on the final morning brought lots of Christmas joy and was a fantastic way to conclude the camp.

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