Our school has provided a camp experience for our Year 5-6 students for many years. We visit MERC Long Bay in even years (Beach focus and day time only) and Carey Park in odd years (Bush focus and overnight). We have MERC booked for the week starting 9th March.

We have been concerned for some time about the rising costs of camp. We now have another challenge in that we need to invoice you as part fee and part donation.

The Ministry of Education has made it clear that schools cannot deem instruction at camp to be a part of the camp fees. Transport and food, on the other hand, is a legitimate camp fee.

We believe that qualified instructors (which are provided by the camp) are worth the money both for managing children's safety and the quality of instruction and learning.

The instruction cost is about 90% of the total cost. If parents are not prepared to pay this donation we will need to seriously rethink what we can offer.

Remember that we do offer an instalment payment plan for those who need it and we do apply for a hardship grant (please email or call Holly Fang if you think you might qualify).

Good camps are usually booked 3-5 years ahead so changing camps is not an option.

We need to know how many parents will pay the instruction costs when called a donation. This survey is to help inform our choices for the 2020 camp. Your response is important.

Any questions please email Bruce  brucew@mairangibay.school.nz. Thanks for your help.