Since its inception in 1999, the has been transforming lives by offering Year 11 students the unique opportunity to care for children with disabilities. This remarkable initiative provides a four-day camp experience for children aged between seven and 14 years, filled with thrilling adventures, laughter, and unforgettable memories.
Hosted in the Boarding Houses of Pymble Ladies’ College (PLC) and 91Ö±²¥ (Shore), the camp is a haven for 25 school-aged children with physical, mental, or developmental disabilities. Each camper is paired with two dedicated Year 11 students, who serve as their companions and caregivers throughout the camp. These students, supported by a team of professional teaching and medical staff, as well as parent volunteers, quickly learn the challenges and rewards of caring for children with special needs.
The programme is offered at no cost to parents, providing much-needed respite during the busy lead-up to Christmas. For the children, it’s a chance to enjoy a range of fun-filled activities. For the families, it’s a rare opportunity to rest and recharge, knowing their children are in safe and caring hands.
A Transformative Journey for Students
Participating in Sony Camp is a life-changing experience for the Year 11 students from Pymble and Shore. Through a rigorous application process, students are selected to take on the role of companions. They undergo extensive training to prepare for the demands of caring for a child with special needs, learning essential skills such as dressing, feeding, and brushing teeth.
During the camp, these skills are put into practice as students provide 24-hour care for their campers. The experience is both challenging and deeply rewarding, fostering empathy, resilience, and a sense of service. It’s a journey that leaves a lasting impact, shaping the students into compassionate and capable young adults.
Every Role Matters
The success of Sony Camp is a true team effort, with every role playing a crucial part in creating a memorable experience for the campers. From relief companions to media, operations, and even scrapbooking, each contribution is vital. These roles ensure that every aspect of the camp runs smoothly, from capturing special moments to organising activities and providing support where it’s needed most.
A Week of Joy and Connection
The are more than just a respite programme. They are a celebration of joy, connection, and community. The week is filled with laughter, fun activities, and the creation of lasting friendships and memories for both campers and volunteers.
Last year, the Shore community played a special role in enhancing the camp experience by generously donating hampers for the families of the campers. These thoughtful hampers, filled with goodies and essentials, were warmly received and deeply appreciated by the families.
Further opportunities for fundraising for the 2025 camp include:
- Annual Collection Day: Join us on Old Boys' Union Day at Northbridge on September 16 to contribute to our annual collection drive.
- American Tea Stand: Visit our stand at the American Tea to learn more about the programme and show your support.
- Donations for Raffle and Auction: We are seeking donations for the online raffle and live auction at the cocktail party. Your contributions will help make these events a success and raise vital funds for the camp. Please email jlapter@shore.nsw.edu.au
- Sony Camp Cocktail Party fundraiser: To be held on Friday 24 October, from 6.00pm to 10.00pm on the Old Boys’ Terrace. Tickets will be released soon.
As we look to the future, let’s continue to support this incredible initiative and the students who make it possible. Whether through donations, volunteering, or attending the upcoming fundraiser, every contribution helps to create a brighter, more inclusive world for children with special needs. We thank you for your support!
For prize donations, please email: jlapter@shore.nsw.edu.au
To donate funds, please .