Camp Australia began in 1987, coaching children tennis after school and in 1991, expanded to offer engaging holiday programs. Rocketeers operates during the school holiday period, giving families the confidence that their children are entertained with some of the best school hoilday experiences.

### Benefits of a Summer Holiday Program

Summer holiday programs are beneficial for children for a whole host of reasons. Providing holiday care for kids gives them a change of scenery from their usual school or Outside School Hours Care program.

Holiday programs allow children to just be themselves and gives them the freedom to have fun. There seems to be no pressure when it comes to being on school holidays – children aren’t restricted by time and the usual worry of everyday routines. We recognise the need for children to relax whilst being entertained when they are on holidays and we offer holiday programs with variety and excitement.

Rocketeers programs are the perfect way for children to meet new friends. The children attending our holiday experiences come from different schools and with a full day program, gives children time over a longer period to get to know each other and have fun together.

By attending a holiday program, the confidence of children is boosted and they continue to build on their socialisation skills.

The variety of Rocketeers experiences offered provides children with something engaging to do, no matter what their interests are. 


### Professional Rocketeers Team

Camp Australia has a dedicated Rocketeers team, who research the best school holiday activities that children will want more of!

Our Rocketeers team looks for the best providers to include in our program and schedule activities so that children can be given an epic summer filled with entertainment and excitement, day after day.

Rocketeers educators are then provided with the resources to deliver children experiences that they will remember!
 

Remember that if you have a child starting primary school soon, Rocketeers is the ideal way to build on their confidence at the beginning of the new school year. To attend a Rocketeers location at a school near you, [visit here](https://www.campaustralia.com.au/families/rocketeers) for more information and to register.

Rocketeers operates during the school holiday period, giving families the confidence that their children are entertained with some of the best school hoilday experiences. 

Holiday Action during the Summer Holidays 

Blog

Rocketeers is Camp Australia’s holiday program for primary school children. For non-stop action, morning to evening during the school holidays, children will go home exhausted at the end of the day.

At Rocketeers, every season is a new mission, every day - a new adventure. Rocketeers is a holiday program that’s filled with thrilling showcase experiences and supported by unique, tailored activities.

Rocketeers is THE fun place for primary school-aged children to be, where they will [experience extraordinary school holiday adventures](https://www.mamamia.com.au/camp-australia-school-holiday-program/). There’s a variety of experiences and dedicated Commander and Crew to guide each mission in the Autumn school holidays.

### Types of experiences
 
1. Operation: X
Explore the wonders of Base Camp. The commander and Crew design a program around a special theme and tailored to your children. School holiday activities include Pirates to The Deep Blue, Jungle Animals to Environmental Warriors, and everything in between.

 Example: Wellness Retreat

It can be easy to get into the habit of doing all the things that are good for our overall wellbeing. Your Commander and Crew will guide you on what can be done to improve wellbeing for ourselves. Children will be able to suggest wellness activities that they would like to , such as yoga and meditation.

2. Incursions
Incursions are split into 2 distinct types:

**Project: X**
Enhance your fun and upgrade your skillset with a special project in the Rocketeers school holiday program. Exclusive to Rocketeers, children could see themselves designing their own guitar, make veggie enchiladas, experiment with exploding toothpaste and heaps more.

Example: Little Coders and National Handball Championships

Learn to code and program in a fun and free screen environment: Children will program a coding robot called Botley by entering a code on the remote and then ask Botley to ‘run the code’. Children will create a foam maze mat and step, hop and turn while learning programming ideas. Older children will get challenged in a hands-on game where they will get to play programmer building “procedures” that guide their robot along a path from start to finish. Last but not the least, each child will receive a set of coding cards and a board game to continue their coding journey at home. There will also be the National Handball Championships on this day.

The National Handball Championships is a handball competition that will be run across all our Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) and holiday (Rocketeers) services. Children will be given the time to practice their handball skills to partake in service competitions. The winner of every OSHC and Rocketeers service receives an invitation to the limited regional events.

Example: Deliciously Italian

Children of all ages can get in on the fun in the kitchen during the school holidays, especially when pizza is involved. Today children will make their own dough and top their pizza with vegetarian toppings (mushrooms, capsicum, cheese and olives) and turn their pizza into funny faces pizzas. Children will not only prepare their lunch but also prepare some vegan zesty orange gummies. They will bring back some at home and will be given the recipe to do it again with their family.

**Experience Takeover**
Join us as Base Camp welcomes special guests as part of our school holiday program. Every takeover is different, with guests storming the ship with creepy crawlies, Silent Disco experiences, massive sporting carnivals and way more. These special guests are experts in their field and are guaranteed to bring an enriching and fulfilling experience to Rocketeers!

 Example: Bubble soccer

Bubble Ball Games is a fun safe innovative program ready to entertain your children while keeping them fit and happy. This program is designed for fun! It involves battle games in partners and teams for all primary school-aged children. children will run laugh roll and bounce all while being in a bubble it’s the ultimate fun. Let’s face it which kid doesn’t want to be in a bubble!!

 3. Excursions

**Adventure: X**

Embark on an expedition outside of Base Camp. Every destination is different, every experience – extraordinary. School holiday activities include Ten Pin Bowling, Trampoline Parks, Science Museums, Inflatable Playgrounds, Animal Sanctuaries, Theme Parks and way more, once we get to our destination, the fun begins.

Example: Rainbow Race (also an Experience Takeover)

Rocketeers will be running a national Rainbow Race (inspired by the Colour Run) event which will celebrate diversity and inclusivity. Children from different services will meet at an approved outdoor Camp Australia service to participate in this event. Children will race and complete various physical challenges around a course (designed by our specialised national provider), wearing a white shirt, a pair of goggles and a neck scarf (which will be provided). They will be sprayed with different coloured powders at each station. A fun day is guaranteed!

Camp Australia operates 225 Rocketeers locations across Australia. Every registered family has access to every one of our Rocketeers locations, whether it’s near work, home or a holiday destination. Join in the fun at Rocketeers these school holidays: [https://www.campaustralia.com.au/families/rocketeers](https://www.campaustralia.com.au/families/rocketeers).

 

Rocketeers is Camp Australia’s holiday program for primary school children. For non-stop action, morning to evening during the school holidays, children will go home exhausted at the end of the day.

Extraordinary Adventures - School Holiday Fun with Rocketeers Vacation Care

While summer is a joyous time for kids, it can be stressful for parents. Many parents struggle to manage their schedules while the kids are out of school, and finding activities to keep them occupied away from screens during the day can seem like an uphill battle.

Luckily, holiday camps for kids can provide an ideal solution, offering an array of benefits that include physical activity for children and skill-building. Keep reading as we explore some of the top benefits of camp for kids. 

## Learning to become a Leader

Many camp activities for kids are designed to develop leadership skills, teaching children how to handle responsibility and model good behaviour for others. Kids have opportunities to lead their peers through a variety of activities, as well as to observe effective leadership skills from their camp crew.

Regardless of your child's age, leadership is a skill that will follow them for years to come. This skill can affect their performance in school and in the years following as they embark upon their career.

## Developing Social Skills

![indoor-play.jpg](https://caprdstdlrs.blob.core.windows.net/public-cms/assets/indoor_play_f25f888303.jpg)

At school holiday camps like [Rocketeers by Camp Australia](https://campaustralia.com.au/rocketeers) - children have the chance to make lasting friendships with peers they might not otherwise meet. As they spend their days taking part in varying activities together, children can develop stronger social skills. This can lead to increased confidence and better relationships with their peers and their family members. 

## Less Screen Time and more Physical Activity for Children

While children are using tablets and smartphones more than ever before, it's important for parents to know that current health guidelines recommend no more than two hours of screen time each day. 

Instead of screen time, regular physical activity is recommended daily. The [Australian Department of Health](https://www.health.gov.au/health-topics/physical-activity-and-exercise/physical-activity-and-exercise-guidelines-for-all-australians/for-children-and-young-people-5-to-17-years) reports that children aged 5 through 17 who engage in physical activity on a regular basis experience a lower risk of disease and unhealthy weight gain, as well as improved social skills and self-esteem.

Camp activities for kids are frequently rife with physical activity, especially with games and activities like swimming and team sports to help reduce the amount of time they spend in front of screens.

## Spending Time Outdoors

As your child spends time with friends and the leadership crew at Rocketeers, they engage in activities that help them understand the world around them. These activities, such as hiking, outdoor sports, and nature walks, can provide an array of emotional benefits, including increased self-esteem, improved self-confidence, and an enhanced ability to understand and assess risks.

## Gaining Team-building Skills

Team building is another skill that can help your child do better in school, as well as in their career after they've grown and graduated. At holiday camp, children work alongside peers towards common goals in a variety of ways. Activities including board games, three-legged races, egg drops, and even debates can help your child learn to trust those around them to achieve their goals.

## Membership in a Strong Peer Community 

Throughout holiday sports camps and other summer camps, children become members of a community that consists of their peers and their crew leaders. They share similar experiences, which can boost their confidence and social skills. On top of that, being a member of a strong peer community can help your child learn to encourage others, which contributes to their ability to act as a team leader, as well as to their overall social skills. 

## Gaining Resilience

While every child is different, those facing daily struggles at school, at home, or during extracurricular activities may find it easier to stand up for themselves or cope with their emotions after attending a school holiday camp. The emotional skills learned at camp can be transferred to their school life, such as facing challenges with confronting other children or making friends at school.

The confidence your young one can gain in a holiday camp for kids can help them overcome adversity and learn to cope with uncomfortable situations more effectively.

## Building Memories that can Last Forever

Looking back on childhood is a pleasant experience for many adults, and for those who feel nostalgic about their younger years, summer is often among the fondest of memories. Registering your children in holiday camps for kids will provide them with the chance to make special memories with new friends they'll cherish for the rest of their life.

Whether you're interested in school holiday camps that take place before and after school, Camp Australia provides tailored options to benefit your child physically, socially, and emotionally.

Children are at the heart of everything we do, and with activities that are specially designed to help develop their confidence and resilience, your child is sure to love the programs offered in [Rocketeers by Camp Australia](https://campaustralia.com.au/rocketeers).














School holiday camps can benefit kids in more ways than one. Learn about the skillset, leadership qualities and team-building skills children can gain!

The Benefits of Holiday Camp for Kids

Updated: 5 December 2022

Service NSW has released an exciting new initiative (The BASC Voucher Program) that gives all families access to a $500 voucher, per child, that will contribute towards the cost of Before School Care, After School Care and Vacation Care.

Starting 28 February 2022, families can claim their voucher via the Services NSW app, or by visiting the [BASC voucher landing page on their website](https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/basc-voucher).

The **good news** is that you are eligible to use this on all Your OSHC and Rocketeers services.
The **great news** is that the voucher only discounts the gap fee, so if you're claiming CCS then the voucher will go even further!
The **best news** is that your child now has the chance to experience even more engaging, tailored activities, and spend even more time hanging out with their friends after school, at no extra cost to you!

Read below for a handy list of Frequently Asked Questions.

**Who is eligible to claim the BASC Vouchers?**

All families with a child enrolled in an OSHC service in New South Wales. If you're not already registered, it's not too late, simply [visit our Parent Portal](https://pp.campaustralia.com.au/), or download the app, and register free with Camp Australia now!

**What services can the BASC Vouchers be used for?**

The vouchers can be used to cover the cost of your parent gap fee for Your OSHC (before and after school care) and Rocketeers (vacation care) sessions.

**How do I claim my voucher/s?**

Claim your eligible voucher/s from Service NSW between 28 February 2022 and 31 January 2023. You can do this via the Service NSW app, or by following the [verification steps on the Service NSW website](https://www.service.nsw.gov.au/basc-voucher).
Once your voucher/s has been claimed, you need to redeem your voucher with Camp Australia (or a participating before and after school care service) by 31 January 2023.

**How do I redeem my BASC voucher/s with Camp Australia?**

Eligible Camp Australia families will be sent instructions on how to claim their $500 vouchers on 28 February 2022. If you register after this date, we will send you an email within 24 hours of the completion of your registration. You can also redeem your voucher through the Parent Portal (via web only) pp.campaustralia.com.au. Go to ‘edit child’ and enter your voucher number.

You must redeem your voucher with Camp Australia by 31 January 2023.

**What happens if I haven’t used all $500 of the voucher at 30 June 2023?**

Any unused value on the BASC vouchers at 30 June 2023 will be repaid to Service NSW on 01 July 2023. 

**How can I see the balance of my voucher/s?**

You can see the balance of your voucher/s on your statements. Alternatively, you can call Customer Care to query your voucher balances.

**Can I claim the voucher with multiple OSHC providers?**

No, you can only claim the voucher with one OSHC provider.

**What time period can the vouchers be used for?**

Vouchers can be used to cover out‐of‐pocket costs between 28 February 2022 and 30 June 2023.

**Can I access the voucher without doing it through the internet?**

You can apply for your voucher at a local Service NSW Centre or Mobile Service Centre. If you are successful in your application, you will be able to print your vouchers there. Once you have your voucher, simply follow the instructions above to redeem it with Camp Australia.

**How does this work between separated parents?**

As per Education NSW website: "Only one voucher can be issued for each child. This means that the first parent to apply for the voucher is the parent who will be issued the voucher for that child, and we encourage parents to come to an agreement in relation to how to use the voucher in their circumstances."

**Where can I go for more information?**

For any questions, reach out to the Department of Education's BASC team at [bascreform@det.nsw.edu.au](mailto:bascreform@det.nsw.edu.au) or on 1300 244 145.

Did you know that all families in NSW can claim a $500 voucher, per child, to contribute toward the cost of Before Care, After Care and our amazing holiday program?!

[NSW] Everything you need to know about Service NSW $500 OSHC Voucher for families

News

With an increase in demand for before and after school care over the last couple of years, the [Out of School Hours Care Hub Program](https://education.nsw.gov.au/public-schools/going-to-a-public-school/primary-schools/before-and-after-school-care/for-parents/out-of-school-hours-care-hubs-) was developed by the NSW Government to meet the needs of families. The custom-designed buildings cater for before and after school care in convenient locations.

Camp Australia is proudly involved in the initiative, which enables many parents to be part of the workforce - our services are designed to take the extra pressure off parents by delivering engaging programs in a safe environment for primary school children before school starts and when the bell goes at the end of the day.

Our Outside School Hours Care service at Jasper Road Public School, and part of the HUB, is managed by dedicated coordinator, Roopa. The team is supported by their Regional Manager and work together to consistently communicate with parents each day; this is part of the reason why the service receives positive feedback. Roopa states, _“Child safety, parent satisfaction and the happiness of our team is our mantra.”_

A tailored approach to programming is adopted, with Roopa explaining, _“We keep children engaged all the time by our planned or spontaneous activities. We focus on activities that are of interest for all children.”_  This includes art and craft, science and space, physical activity and sports, and cooking and baking. There are also various types of recycling activities and a composting bin. Having two dedicated rooms allows for educators to deliver experiences that children love – it gives everyone the freedom to try new activities and move where their interests take them.

Moreover, the service has grown in popularity, which has seen [Rocketeers school holiday programs](https://campaustralia.com.au/rocketeers) added for additional convenience. The school holidays are for fun and children are excited at experiencing even more at Rocketeers.

![IMG_20220713_114901-a.jpg](https://caprdstdlrs.blob.core.windows.net/public-cms-v2/assets/IMG_20220713_114901_a_4c33b49b6f.jpg)
![IMG_20220720_082309-a.jpg](https://caprdstdlrs.blob.core.windows.net/public-cms-v2/assets/IMG_20220720_082309_a_c1b3331d1c.jpg)

Children and educators enjoy group discussions, often spending time doing a quiz (for example, times tables, word meanings, synonyms, planets, animals, sea world, and many more). Roopa explains, _“There are endless ideas in our industry. There is no limit. We have just started”_.
Camp Australia’s before and after school care is designed to support families in achieving their dreams. For more information, visit [www.campaustralia.com.au](www.campaustralia.com.au). 



Camp Australia is proudly involved in the Out of School Hours Care Hub Program in NSW.

OSHC Hub Supports School Community Demand

Looking for the ultimate way to keep the kids entertained over the holidays? Make autumn AWESOME with our top 5 autumn activities that will give you a well-deserved break, and your child, the time of their life! 

**1. Science: Pine Cone Weather Station** 

A fun thing to do in autumn that is not to be missed is pine cone collection. As we enter Australia’s “wet season” kids can use a pine cone to check the weather forecast! This is a fun, multi-day activity that you only have to set up once – and requires no installation, electricity or watering! 

The magic is in the pine cone itself; pine cones open or close depending on the weather. In dry weather, they open up to let the wind take the tiny seeds stores inside, so more pine trees can grow. In wet weather, they close up, so the seeds don’t get waterlogged and become too heavy to travel far enough away on the wind. 

Take the kids out to collect some pine cones (they’re pretty much everywhere!). Then select an outdoor window sill you can see from indoors. Use blue tac to place the pine cones on the window sill so they don’t fall off. Kids will have fun checking the weather forecast every morning and afternoon. Make sure to take part in this fun and educational autumn activity this year.

Tip: Set up a chart to monitor the pine cone forecast against the actual weather so kids can check the accuracy! 

**2. Sensory Play: Fall Slime** 

WHo doesn't love slime?! Keep reading to see our next long weekend activity suggestion that's sure to get the kids excited during the holidays. Discover hours of hands-on fun with the irresistible smell of autumn (spices) in your house, thanks to this Fall Slime! This make-your-own recipe is a great playdate activity if your kids have friends over (or with siblings).  

It has the perfect amount of stretch and plenty of sparkly glitter and rhinestones for a fun sensory experience. Plus, a few drops of your favourite spice fragrance oil will make all the difference for the ultimate autumn play activity! 

[Click here](https://www.messylittlemonster.com/2019/09/fall-slime-recipe.html) to see instructions and ingredients to make your own slime! 

**3. Sports: The Great Outdoors** 

This one is for thrill seekers and fearless warriors looking for an adventurous autumn activity! Mixing sports and strategy to keep kids active and engaged, [Adventure: The Great Rocketeers Challenge](https://campaustralia.com.au/rocketeers) might just be the thing for your youngster. Featuring team building games, a giant obstacle course and Gladiator-style battle challenges, it’s the Rocketeers’ version of Survivor for kids. 

You’ll move through a series of challenges and activities to see which team will be the ultimate survivors, all the while collecting and revealing the hidden Rocketeers Idol when you answer a secret question at your final station. How fun does that sound!? 

It’s sure to be an action-packed day to keep your kiddo active, having fun and making new friends. Please note, all activities are supervised by fully trained professionals. 

**4. Family Fun: Autumn Bingo** 

It’s cold and raining and the whole fam is feeling sluggish. Why not make it a family game night instead? You can’t go wrong with a classic game of Bingo – with an autumn twist! This is a perfect long weekend activity to keep the kids entertained during the autumn holidays.  

Featuring adorable autumn-inspired characters and icons, you can download this [FREE printable Bingo set](https://www.artsyfartsymama.com/2019/10/free-printable-autumn-bingo.html) by Artsy-Fartsy Mama - they even have autumn Word Search and Colouring Pages too! 

Tip: Try making your own version coming up with all the things related to autumn – think leaves, woodland animals, autumn objects, colours, etc. Use pictures or words (depending on how comfortable your child is with either) to play. 

**5. Cooking: Delicious Creations** 

This tasty autumn activity is a chance for your mini chef-in-making to show off their delicious sandwich creations! [Project: Sandwich Master Class](https://campaustralia.com.au/rocketeers) is all about using healthy, in-season ingredients with shaped cutters, where your aspiring Sandwich Master will cook up a storm, whipping up one super-duper sanga they’ll be proud to serve up. The best part? Eating, of course! 

And what’s a chef without a proper hat! Kids will also get to show off their personal ‘taste’ with all the fun, flair and flavours they love on a fabric chef’s hat. It’s a fun and hands-on activity to create their personalised design. 

That’s not all. The kids will make their own eco-friendly sandwich bag to take home. This reusable and washable bag can be used for school, picnics and beyond! They’ll decorate the sandwich bag using their favourite colours and decorations to make it truly unique. 

If your little one loves being hands-on, eating or making food, or being creative, this is an awesome way to keep them engaged over the holidays. 

Top 5 Autumn Activities

Activities

At Camp Australia, we value our educators with the utmost appreciation and respect for the work they do. The National Out of School Hours Care (OSHC) Educators’ Day is on 26 July 2023 and this year’s theme is _“At the Heart of the Community”_. 

##### **_“You have wonderful educators that are patient and kind to my child.” (VIC)_**

##### **_“It’s really the carers who make it successful and enjoyable for the kids.” (ACT)_**

##### _**“The educators are highly motivated and engaged with the children.” (NSW)**_

The OSHC Educators’ Day celebrates and recognises the important role educators play in the lives of our children. Our network of over 4,000 educators and Coordinators is truly “at the heart of the community”, providing enriching experiences that engage our children, as well as connecting with the school community every day by supporting families and children’s education.  

##### **_“Amazing team who are passionate about what they do and always looking for new ideas and ways to help the children.” (WA)_**

##### **_“Amazing support from everyone at the OSHC and can tell the team genuinely care about the children. It has been fantastic.” (SA)_**

##### **_“Always smiling and involved in what each child is doing.  They are extremely hands on.” (QLD)_**

We would like to take this opportunity to say a big THANK YOU to all educators and wish them all the happiness and recognition they deserve. 

![07-26 OOSH Educators Day BLOG 1.jpg](https://caprdstdlrs.blob.core.windows.net/public-cms-v2/assets/07_26_OOSH_Educators_Day_BLOG_1_12c2b60ca5.jpg)

OSHC Educators' Day

Looking for a way to spark your child’s curiosity whilst encouraging their natural ability to explore and discover? Give your child a positive start to life with enjoyable activities that also nurture their brain development, improve hand-eye coordination, and help learn new skills. 

LEGO play is a classic favourite with numerous benefits for growing children. LEGO blocks are enjoyed by children and adults alike, helping to develop fine motor skills and allowing you to be creative and problem-solve with a sense of accomplishment achieved. 

Here are some benefits of playing with LEGO bricks for children: 

#### Brain development

Much of what we do in adult life can be attributed to our childhood. Early childhood sets the habits, ways of thinking and how we express ourselves as adults. 90% of the child’s brain develops by the age of 5, and it’s a scientific fact that the more the brain is used, the better it develops. So, having your child indulge in fun, enjoyable activities such as playing with LEGO bricks will help promote positive brain development whilst enhancing hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, problem solving skills, self-confidence and improved concentration. 

#### Emotional development

Not only is playing with LEGO bricks or other construction toys a therapeutic, stress-relieving activity, but it also encourages children to express their feelings and thoughts through play. When children engage in pretend play (or role play) with their LEGO creations, they ‘act out’ different scenarios and converse in ways that are allowing them to interact with others (enhancing social skills) or learning to understand life and the environment around them. 

#### Early learning skills

Being hands-on with LEGO bricks help children to learn about key early learning concepts, such as colours, shapes, and basic maths. Children learn different colours and shapes by sorting and building the blocks, as well as understanding the concept of maths and measurements, such as recognising ‘one more/one less’, ‘taller/shorter/longer’, ‘too many/not enough’ or ‘how many’. 


### 
### 

**Be part of something BIG with LEGO Play** 

We invite your child to unleash their superpower of play on World Play Day in [Your OSHC](https://campaustralia.com.au/your-oshc) on Thursday, 12 October 2023 by building worlds, making friends and leading epic adventures with the power of LEGO Play! Find out more about World Play Day [here](https://www.campaustralia.com.au/worldplayday)!

We have partnered with the LEGO Group and StarTime for an exclusive day of building fun and filming! Every child in Your OSHC across the country will STOP and PLAY. Plus, there are more awesome LEGO experiences happening throughout Term 4. Don’t miss out and [book your child in today](https://pp.campaustralia.com.au/)! 

Benefits of LEGO® Play for your child

Tailored activities in Your OSHC engage children, allowing them to follow their interests and try new experiences before and after school. Every activity is designed for children to develop their confidence and curiosity

Your OSHC

Escape the ordinary and experience the extraordinary with Rocketeers. Our open and inclusive crew truly understands that the school holidays are for children and are meant to be fun. Every school holiday break is a new Mission for children to embark upon, and every day is a new adventure.

News & Blog

Articles related to Rocketeers