Rockwell College summer camp teaches students about their environment and offers a variety of activities.
A combination of work and play is the key to success of the summer camp at Rockwell College in Cashel, County Tipperary. In 1970 Father Des Reid established the summer course at Rockwell College specialising in geographical and environmental studies along with outdoor pursuits.
This summer 2,500 children from Europe, Canada, America and Ireland are attending Camp Rockwell. Students from Europe also learn English, while American and Canadian students pursue Anglo-Irish studies.
Father Des Reid explains that the purpose of the summer camp is twofold. Firstly, it ensures the college buildings and facilities are kept in use over the summer months. The second purpose is academic. The camp helps fill gaps in social and geographical knowledge in a way that cannot be done easily during the academic year
Academic projects undertaken by camp participants involve a trip to the Galtee and the Knockmealdown mountains as well as an urban survey of towns such as Cahir and Cashel. Sporting activities include horseriding, boating, swimming, canoeing and, when weather permits, ballooning.
Camp Rockwell is a combination of work and play.
Students are encouraged to mix and socialise together. The teachers enjoy activities such as swimming and campfires as much as the students. The camaraderie built between students and teachers creates an atmosphere that boosts learning. The camp also teaches young people how to use their leisure time.
Above all, the camp teaches cooperation.
The young people learn to live together and to support and encourage each other. For maximum benefit for all attendees, full participation from everyone is required.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 15 August 1975. The reporters are Dermot Mullane and Tom MacSweeney.
