When asked if they could share their thoughts on what it meant to be a leader and helper at the YNP camp, the students were more than happy to do it.

The following are reflections from students who have partnered with us in making nature awareness fun and a learning journey to groups of children during the December holidays last year.

YNP camp was an enriching experience. As student leaders, we were trained not only in our knowledge of the wildlife at the Reserve, but our threshold for patience was put to the test as well! Some of the children were rather mischievous and learning to work with them enabled us to think creatively. Mutual trust was developed, and not only were we their group leaders, but we became their friends! YNP camp was physically tiring as there was so much to do in one day, but at the end of it, I knew what contentment was. I have done my part in achieving something meaningful in making this an enjoyable learning experience for children…
Cheryl Lim, 16, Hillgrove Secondary School

YNP camp has taught me various aspects of leadership, especially patience and responsibility. I have learned to approach some new situations with confidence. It has increased my knowledge and appreciation of nature. I am further inspired to want to learn more about environmental issues and concerns… I hope to be able to help out in future YNP programmes...
Divya, 15, Hillgrove Secondary School

At the camp, I felt really happy when I saw little children asking questions about nature, the plants and animals. To them, this was all very new, and the children were very enthusiastic about learning and having fun at the camp. Towards the end of the day, the children were asked to write a postcard, relating their experience for the day’s programme. This was most interesting and a highlight for me, as I saw that children as young as six years old already knew how to promote care for nature…
Wu Jiawen, 15, Hillgrove Secondary School

I was a camp helper at the Young Naturalist Passport Camp in Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve. I knew about this through a school programme called Integrated Project Work . The camp was a very rewarding experience with much laughter and joy among fellow camp helpers and the children. Our roles were to look after the kids and make sure they enjoyed the programme. Overall, the whole experience was also a much needed lesson on responsibility…
Rachel,14, Cedar Girls School

Through this camp, I have learned many new things about the mangroves and about the wildlife at the Reserve. I have also improved my leadership skills through this project as it involved interacting with young children. It was challenging in different ways, such as times when we had to make sure the children were safe. As the main leader for my group, there were so many things to account for. The memories of this camp are very close to my heart because through it I have met new people who have guided me throughout the camp. I will never forget the children and the staff at Sungei BulohWetland Reserve whom I met. I will surely volunteer again to be a camp helper if there was another opportunity…
Subashini, 14, Cedar Girls School