“I want to be clever all the time.” These were the words written by 10 year old Sivenathi Mngxuma in her Reading Camp journal.
“I want to be clever all the time.” These were the words written by 10 year old Sivenathi Mngxuma in her Reading Camp journal.
Sivenathi Mngxuma was one of the 18 local school children who enjoyed a week of a lifetime at the second annual Holy Cross Reading Camp, held at Assegaai Trails from 11-18 July.
The Reading Camp is an initiative that was launched last year by a dedicated team of local educators and volunteers.
Based on the model developed in Lexington, Kentucky, the Reading Camp involves lots of outdoor fun and special activities designed specifically to instil confidence and improve the reading skills of the children.
The children were selected for the camp from 12 local schools. One of the camp organisers and facilitators, Kary McConnachie said: “We select those children who show potential to take back what they learn to their schools and who are most likely to benefit from the experience.”
As such, the organisers identified children that showed both a need and potential.Of the 18 children at this year’s camp, two were chosen to return after attending the first reading camp last year.
Mary-Jane Amick, camp nurse and volunteer from the United States, said that the progress of these children has been particularly encouraging. “They have such confidence in their reading now, they are just flying in the Reading Camp setting,” she said.
Akhona Yilani from Fikizolo said that her favourite activity at the camp was reading. “I wish I could stay here longer,” she said.
When asking the other campers what their favourite activities were, the answers were almost unanimous – reading. Silulami Booi said that a close second to reading was playing games with the camp councillors, “I also like learning about writing” he added.
The week-long camp included a trip to the Kariega Game Reserve, afternoons spent on Basil Mills’ farm and at Kenton-on-Sea, arts and crafts and a daily schedule centred around improving reading skills and fostering a love for reading.
This year’s camp also boasted an impressive collection of children’s books thanks to a generous donation by Exclusive Books. “We have to thank them for their remarkable support.
The children absolutely loved reading the books we had in the reading corner,” said McConnachie. The dedication and fundraising of the Mariya uMama weThemba Monastery makes these camps possible.
Kuyasa Special School, Basil Mills and St Andrew’s College generously assisted with the transport for all the special activities.
“The camp has come together beautifully,” said Amick, praising the local organising committee for their efforts. “Everyone knew exactly what their jobs were and made magic happen in no time,” she said.
Following the success of the second Reading Camp, the initiative is going from strength to strength. “There is hope that another Reading Camp will be starting in Cape Town in the near future,” said McConnachie.
To get involved in this initiative or to find out more information, contact Kary McConnachie via email on macfamk@imaginet.co.za
