Edmund Rice Camps – A Life-Changing Week

By Will Hollis, St Anselm’s College

My first encounter with Edmund Rice Camps was at a school assembly, where a leader named Luke said something that stayed with me: you can’t describe how the camp makes the children or parents feel — only how it makes you feel once you experience it yourself. After spending a week at camp this summer, I can say he was absolutely right.

Edmund Rice dedicated his life to helping vulnerable children in Ireland, and through these camps, we continue his legacy. The children have a safe space to relax, have fun, and truly be themselves, free from the pressures of school, home, or social life.

I worried that one week wouldn’t make a difference, but I quickly realised it’s enough to have a huge impact — both on the children and on us as leaders. The days were long, sometimes 13 hours, but the energy of the kids and the support of fellow leaders made every moment worthwhile. Over the week, I built friendships with ordinary people who shared extraordinary commitment, helping each other as much as the children we were supporting.

Evenings were for social events that strengthened our community. Bowling, card-making and a shared Friday night meal allowed us to connect, reflect, and celebrate our week together. Writing and reading messages to each other brought tears, laughter, and a real sense of family — a family formed through dedication, fun, and shared purpose.

Being part of the camp has made me feel deeply connected to the Edmund Rice community. I will definitely return next year. Through this experience, we live out Edmund Rice’s mission and make a real difference in children’s lives — and it’s an experience I will never forget.

Edmund Rice Camps – Learning to Make Room
By Tobi Ariyo, Manchester Camp

I initially didn’t want to do camp this summer. My schedule was full of coursework, work experience, and revision, and I worried that taking a week out would be a dangerous detour from my goals. But one afternoon, I saw the Edmund Rice Prayer on the screen and realised something important: I had not “opened my heart to Christ present in those around me.” I had been too focused on achievements and deadlines, and camp offered a chance to slow down, make space for others, and grow as a person.

Leading Manchester Camp alongside friends made the decision easier. Over the week, long days — sometimes 13 hours — flew by, filled with laughter, games, and moments of pure joy with the children. Evening reflections gave us time to pause, consider our experiences, and appreciate our growth. I even planted a seed to represent the personal development I hoped to nurture, learning that growth takes care, effort, and patience — just like empathy.

Camp taught me that being present matters more than trying to solve every problem. It’s about listening, making space in your heart, and helping each child feel seen and valued. I met a boy with dreams of becoming an astrophysicist, and sharing our stories reminded me that meaningful connections can flourish when we truly pay attention.

By the end of the week, my worries had disappeared. Camp was exhausting, messy, and chaotic — but also exhilarating, transformative, and deeply rewarding. I left with a renewed sense of purpose, a deeper understanding of empathy, and a stronger connection to the Edmund Rice community.

I am so grateful to Maria Butler, the Manchester Camp team, and the entire Edmund Rice family. This experience has been one of the highlights of my summer, and I cannot wait to return.