Parents FAQs - Active Education

PARENTS

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Welcome Parents & Caregivers

Active Education is proud to work alongside your child’s school to deliver engaging, curriculum-aligned outdoor education experiences. Our camps support students to develop independence, build positive relationships, and gain respect for nature, all within a safe and supportive setting.

Preparing for camp is an exciting time, especially for students who may be experiencing their first trip away from home. This page is designed to help parents and caregivers feel informed and confident about what to expect.

Here you’ll find answers to FAQs about packing, accommodation, safety and more.

If you would like information about our unforgettable holiday programs please click here.

Parent FAQs

How can I support my child to prepare for camp?

Review the packing checklist together, and encourage your child to take responsibility for packing. This builds independence and helps them feel more confident about being away from home.

Should my child pack their own bag?

Yes, with supervision. Children who pack their own bags are more aware of what they’ve brought and can manage their belongings more easily during camp.

When should we start packing?

Begin several days before departure to avoid last-minute issues. This also allows time to label items, locate missing gear and include personal comfort items if needed.

Is it helpful to practice packing?

Yes. Practicing packing and unpacking, particularly sleeping bags, helps your child become familiar with their belongings and how to organize them.

How can I support my child to prepare for camp?

Some anxiety is normal. Talking about what to expect and involving your child in preparation can help. If you’re concerned, please speak with the school prior to camp.

What are the essential items to pack?

A detailed packing list will be provided by the school, but generally includes:

Daily clothing suited to the weather
Warm layers and a waterproof jacket
Enclosed shoes for activities (plus a second pair for water-based use)
Hat and sunscreen
Toiletries and towel(s)
Sleeping bag and pillow
Water bottle and torch
Optional: small soft toy or comfort item

What kind of shoes are required?

Enclosed footwear is mandatory for all camp activities. A second pair that can get wet is also recommended (or required depending on activities). Thongs or sandals are suitable for after-hours use only.

How can we reduce the chance of lost property?

Clearly label all belongings with your child’s full name. This significantly improves the chances of items being returned if misplaced.

What should we do about medication?

All medication must be clearly labelled and handed to the school prior to departure. School staff will manage storage and administration during camp.

What safety measures are in place at camp?

All staff hold current Working with Children Checks and first aid qualifications. Programs are delivered by trained facilitators, and activities are conducted in line with industry standards and risk management procedures.

What type of accommodation is used?

Campsites offer clean, child-safe accommodation with appropriate facilities for sleeping, meals and hygiene. Boys and girls are roomed separately unless otherwise arranged with the school.

What is the educational focus of Active Education programs?

Programs are curriculum-linked and designed to support social development, teamwork and personal growth. Activities are active, age-appropriate and focused on learning through experience.

How does Active Education manage food allergies and intolerances at camp?

We take food allergies and intolerances very seriously. All dietary information provided by parents is recorded and communicated to our catering team and facilitators. Meals are prepared with cross-contamination prevention in mind and special diets are clearly labelled and separated.

Will my child’s allergy or intolerance be catered for?

Yes – we cater for a wide range of allergies and dietary requirements, including anaphylaxis, coeliac, lactose intolerance, vegetarian and vegan diets. You’ll be asked to provide these details through the school’s medical/dietary form before camp.

What should I do if my child has a severe allergy or anaphylaxis?

Make sure the school is aware and that your child’s Health Care Plan and medication (e.g. EpiPen) is up to date. This information must be provided to both the school and Active Education. Our team is trained in emergency response, including anaphylaxis management.

Is there a risk of cross-contamination in meals?

While we take every precaution and prepare special meals separately, our camp kitchens are not completely allergen-free environments. We are happy to discuss options with families if you have concerns.

Can I send special food for my child?

Yes – in some cases it may be best for parents to provide clearly labelled alternative items. These must be discussed with the school and Active Education prior to camp.

How are dietary needs managed during off-site or outdoor activities?

We ensure that students with dietary needs receive appropriate meals and snacks during all activities, including when off-site or away from the main camp kitchen.

Who oversees food safety at camp?

Our catering team is experienced in managing special diets and food safety. All facilitators are also briefed on students’ medical and dietary needs.

Additional Information Sheets

Active Education Photo & Video Footage Consent

Active Education is South Australia’s first accredited outdoor education provider and promotes safe, fun curriculum-based school camp experiences for all ages.

The consent form which you are asked to sign covers your child’s participation in a series of photos and video footage being taken for Active Education and grants consent for their use. The photos and video footage will be provided to the school after the event and may be used by Active Education and its affiliated members in publications, promotion, and marking material and on the World Wide Web in order to promote Active Education and its programs in general.

Please read the conditions carefully before signing the form.

If you have any questions please contact the Active Education Office on (08) 8370 1500.

Granting of consent and conditions

No individuals featured in the photos or video footage will be referred to by name unless specific approval given.
I agree to grant consent to Active Education (and any person authorised by the Company), at its discretion to copy or reproduce such material (whether by photo, film, or other electronic or printed media) as it may determine, for the purposes of training material, promoting the education, outdoor education, recreation, and camp experiences, without acknowledgement of myself and without my entitlement to any remuneration of compensation now or in the future. I agree that I will have no further rights in the photographs or vide footage including moral rights and copyright.
Active Education agrees not to use any image in a manner that may be deemed adverse, or defamatory to the person signing this form.

Our Active Education Promise

At Active Education, your child’s safety, wellbeing and growth are at the heart of everything we do.

We promise to provide a secure and supportive environment where students can build confidence, make memories and discover what they’re capable of.

With over 30 years’ experience and a strong focus on safety, service and inclusion, we partner closely with schools to make sure every camp experience is positive, purposeful and professionally delivered. Our dedicated staff are trained, caring and passionate about creating meaningful adventures that help young people thrive.

Why is Outdoor Education Important?

Outdoor Education isn’t just about being outside; it’s about learning outside the classroom to build life skills that last.

Through hands-on experiences, students learn teamwork, independence, resilience, and respect for themselves and others. Whether it’s conquering a challenge course, sharing campfire stories, or exploring the great outdoors, our programs are designed to help young people grow in confidence, connect with their peers, and discover their strengths.

We believe real learning happens when students are engaged, supported, and inspired by the world around them.