Planning a camp

School Camp Checklist

Download the checklist PDF here (Adobe Reader PDF 16 KB)

1 Year Before Camp

Select the camp location and sign a contract.
Be aware of financial penalties and minimum charges should you have to cancel.
Place the camp dates on the church calendar.

9 Months Before Camp

6 Months Before Camp

Carefully think through the ultimate goal or purpose of your camp.
Make sure you have a clear vision of what success looks like in writing.
Design your camp theme creatively. Brainstorm and then delegate this to an appropriate person or team.
Consider any promotional materials, including the registration brochure. Delegate this.
Consider all the costs and work out a camp budget. Delegate this.
Some churches work on "User pays". Some churches use a "Voluntary donation" system.
Some churches offer financial support for low income families
Consider fund raising activities

3 Months Before Camp

Start promoting the camp to the church. Get brochures out. Mention it often in the newsletter. Encourage families to save for camp fees.
Start to detail out the camp program activities and write down a detailed camp schedule. This can be brainstormed and delegated.
Consider arrangements for children's programmes. Arrange outside help if this is needed.
Touch base with the camp speaker and worship band to communicate the goals and theme as well confirm what their needs will be.
Touch base with the camp to make sure all plans are confirmed. Book instructed camp activities.

1 Month Before Camp

Get aggressive on gathering commitments, registrations, and payment for camp.
Use the weekly newsletter and or emails to increase the "buzz" about camp. Encourage prayer for God's spirit to move at camp.
Finalize the programme, including some contingencies for rain. Forward this to camp staff.

1 Week Before Camp

1 Week After Camp

Have testimonies during a church service or hold an after camp service to consolidate the progress that has been made.
Thank the Lord for His blessings.