Youth – RYPEN

Teenagers today benefit greatly from opportunities to develop life skills and motivation to help them cope with the challenges of a very competitive future. Students have pressure to perform academically: their results are the benchmark of success. However other skills are needed for the next stage of a student’s growth, be that further education or the workplace.

RYPEN is a fun residential weekend where the participants participate in a range of outdoor activities designed to build their self worth in a way that they can value themselves as “Person of the Year”, make new friendships and connections, perhaps listen to inspirational guest speakers, and use this developed belief in themselves constructively in a team environment. It is an adventure that will change their lives!

   

RYPEN is aimed at that large group of young adults, aged 14 to 16 years (Year 10), who’ve shown qualities of decency, courage, persistence, sincerity, leadership and application in everyday life, and who deserve further development and guidance. The principal aim is to communicate a series of ideas, problems and social experiences which will assist them in forming their own values and to broaden their horizons culturally, socially and academically.

RYPEN aims for the “average” student and not for the outstanding few! It is advised that ‘friends’ are not selected. If the student does not know anyone at the start of the weekend they’ll be certain to leave with 20 to 40 new friends when it concludes.

Important – The focus is on students within the “middle rungs” of the ladder – not at the top or disruptive/at the bottom – but in the middle! It’s strongly suggested that the selection is made by the Year 10 dean of the school who will know of appropriate students for selection.

A range of activities are included to challenge the students, from motivational speakers, to anti drug and crime avoidance, to outdoor high ropes / confidence courses and water activities. They are never bored!

    

Cost – can vary slightly between areas: $160 – $190. Clubs normally contribute around 80% of the cost with the student topping up – gives a degree of commitment

The process – Clubs and schools are notified around four months prior to the weekend – liaise with schools and ensure you, along with the school are involved in the process, meet the students prior to the camp and have them speak to your club after to share their experiences with you.