SJAS camping season | Summer: time for adventure

First up this summer was the camp at Zweisimmen in the canton of Berne followed a few days later by the first Swiss Trip through the Alpine foothills. The camps normally start by defining some ground rules. The camp community has to decide how everything will be run during the two weeks they will be living together – a key foundation for a good camp. The rules make things more secure, even when they are put to the test by someone trying to find out whether and, if so, how far the leaders will let them bend the rules.

The campers also learn how to handle a Swiss Army knife and they are allowed to use it to make a carving. The international themed event is another staple of the camps. Everyone brings something to eat or drink from their country of residence with placards presenting the specialities and the country they are from. Sampling the different dishes is of course the highlight of the event.

An unforgettable experience

The three camps in Wengen, Rechberg and the second Swiss Trip in western Switzerland also ran successfully. Whether hiking in the mountains, climbing the high ropes or taking a refreshing dip in the lakes and rivers, enjoying outings to Swiss cities or having games evenings together – the camps created lasting memories. The children and young people discovered different regions of Switzerland, learned about new cultures and made cross-border friendships. Sporting activities and camp life provided special moments every day centred around intercultural exchange. At the same time, the participants became more familiar with their home country and discovered various corners of Switzerland; whether by train, on foot or inflatable dinghy.