things I normally wouldn’t do – such as approaching anyone and everyone, helping build some awesome connections I’m sure I’ll hold on to for a long time.” Another companion, Tom Jones agrees “eye-opening” is an apt description of the camp. “I’ve had little experience with kids and almost no real experience with people with disabilities, so I felt like I was throwing myself in the deep end,” he says. “Along with fellow companion William Koko and mentor companion Tom Davidson, we were buddied up with Alex, a primary school boy with autism. “Getting to know him over the weekend was an absolute joy
and we all bonded over loads of activities, such as tram rides, discos, swimming, arts and crafts, and much more. “Because Alex was very introverted it was a big goal for him to try and be more social with the other campers, and it was extremely rewarding to see him come out of his shell during the camp and open up to us as well as the other kids. “It was also great for me to get to know everyone else helping out at the camp a bit better. “All in all, it was an experience that really changed my perspective on people with disabilities, and I would recommend it to any boy who is remotely interested,” says Tom. A highlight for everyone was the appearance of Father Christmas, handing out presents to all the participants and giving the whole event a warm festive glow.
Christ’s College Canterbury
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