How to prepare for a camp

Whether you’re leading a group to camp or helping run the programme, this guide is here to help you feel confident, organised, and ready to create an awesome experience for your tamariki and rangatahi.

Before Camp

1. Get Your Paperwork Sorted

• RAMS Form: Fill out a Risk Assessment and Management form for your group. This helps identify potential risks and how you’ll manage them. Your Corps Officer will need to check and approve it.

• Travel Plan Form: Outline your route, stops, and emergency contacts. This should be shared with a Corps Officer or leader who isn’t attending camp.

• Consent & Medical Forms: Make sure every participant has completed these, including allergy and medication info.

2. Check Your Team

• All leaders and volunteers must be Keeping Children Safe (KCS) trained and have current police checks. Check out the compass page or with your Corps Officer.

3. First Aid Prep

• Confirm who your designated first aider is.

• Check your first aid kit—make sure it’s stocked and up to date. Ice packs and plasters are always handy.

Tips

Know Your Ratios

Make sure you have the right number of leaders for your group size and age range. This helps with safety and supervision.

Prep Your Programme

Whether you’re leading devotions, games, or workshops, have a plan—but stay flexible. Things change, and that’s okay.

Stay Connected

Keep your Corps Officer in the loop. Let them know how things are going, especially if plans shift or issues come up.

Be Present

Camp is a big deal for young people. Be available, approachable, and ready to listen. You don’t need to have all the answers—just be there.

Packing Tips for Leaders

Bring your own essentials, plus a few extras:

• Leader folder (with forms, contacts, and emergency info)

• Extra snacks and water

• Spare gear (jackets, torches, etc.)

• A few fun surprises (games, prizes, chocolate stash!)

Need Help?

If you’re unsure about anything—forms, safety checks, ratios, or what to expect—reach out to you’re the next gen team or the camp coordinator. They’re here to support you.