Sarah’s OOO was spent at Kids Camp

While many people were enjoying a week away from work, STY Master Sarah Ball spent her ‘out of office’ at Derby Kids Camp – swapping emails and meetings for 60 children, 44 volunteers and a week packed with activities, laughter and, most importantly, no screens.

The scale of Derby Kids Camp (DKC) is impressive. The 60 children cared for during the week Sarah was there, is just one of five groups that DKC hosts, meaning around 300 children aged between 7 and 10 from Derby and Derbyshire get the chance to enjoy a week they will remember for years to come.

Sarah said: “It was my third year at DKC, so I got to see some returning children, and they were all really pleased to be back.

“It’s exhausting and exhilarating in equal measure. We’re up at 6am most days and the little lovelies are entertained until at least 10pm. There was a new addition this year – a fire pit – but because of the weather, rather than a real fire, we had orange fairy lights. The campfire songs and cocoa were received with exactly the same joy as ever.

“One of my favourite ‘jobs’ is running the talent show, and this year we had comedians, gymnasts, musicians, singers, dancers and even a unique short play taking to the stage on the last night. You can see the children grow in confidence throughout the week, and watching them shine as they are applauded by the audience is pretty special. My jokes were as appalling as ever!

“As volunteers, we all bring something different to the camp. Some bring calmness, others energy, some creativity and others practical skills, including cooking. But together we create a little village that cares for the children during that magical week away.

“This year was extra special for me because my oldest grandson came along as a young volunteer. He took to it like a duck to water, worked incredibly hard and had a huge amount of fun too.

“I’m back in the office this week, but more than a few times I’ve found myself thinking about those kids!”

https://derbykidscamp.co.uk/