Raithby
Our Wilderness Therapy model has gained worldwide recognition as a best practice model. It is also accredited by the Department of Social Development. We partner with various schools in and around Stellenbosch to host camps throughout the year and thus journey alongside learners in areas of growth and development.
A group of learners out in nature, preparing for a hike.
One of these schools is Raithby Primary. We were received with great excitement and have experienced an evident and positive difference among the grade 7 learners throughout this 7-month journey.
We have facilitated sessions with the learners over three-day periods at our designated campsite, Simonsberg Christian Centre. With these camps, we support young people to better understand their own potential and what they can achieve in life. This forms part of our life skills and crime prevention programme for Primary and High school learners.
The sessions typically focus on building resilience, defining values, understanding identity, and building self-esteem. The learners will engage with group activities and tasks in nature and have time alone to reflect and think about life more profoundly. It is essential for our facilitators to develop a bond with the learners so that they feel comfortable and trusting, as some sessions deal with sensitive topics. Typically, the learners will come from single-parent homes or are taken care of by relatives. Being vulnerable in some capacity could lead to discipline issues. Dorian Adams , a facilitator, explains, “At first, we struggled with their discipline and them to be focused in sessions, but that changed as time went on and especially on camp. Their participation and engagement were exceptional. That speaks about the impact of the journey with Usiko and the impact of the life skills program.”
There is a pattern of growth the facilitators can witness both collectively and individually.
Dorian adds, “We see the potential and the hunger for growth. That change is happening the more we journey and the more processes they go through with us.” Through these camps, participants gain an awareness of nature, explore personal issues, team building, life skills, and leadership.
