SNACS (St. Nic's Adventure Camps)
St Nicholas Adventure Camps (SNACS) is a voluntary organisation that offers challenge and excitement for children and teenagers through outdoor activities.
2008 Programme
Event A: Kayaking on the Wear
Date: 26th April
Camp B: Derwentwater
Dates: 23rd to 26th May
Camp C: Coniston
Dates: 27th to 29th June
Camp D: Watersports Weekend
Dates: 29th to 31st August
Event E: Kayaking on the Wear
Date: 27th September
Cost: £5.00
Age Group: 8 - adult
Bookings open: Places available
For further information please see below or contact the church office.
Frequently Asked Questions:
How did SNACS start?
SNACS started in 1976 at St Nicholas Church, Durham with occasional sailing events on the Northumbrian coast. This rapidly developed into a summer programme of camps at Ullswater, and then many other events throughout the Lake District and Northern England.
What's the point?
Many of our core organisational team members are part of the St Nic's congregation. As Christians, we believe that we have a duty to use all of our skills and abilities for the benefit of others, irrespective of their particular backgrounds. For nearly thirty years we have found that young people thrive when given the opportunity to gain new experiences, to make and renew friendships, to face and overcome realistic challenges, and to enjoy adventure in a controlled and safe environment. Some youngsters come once, others again and again, to take part in kayaking, sailing, rock climbing, walking, cycling, games, expeditions and many other activities and events.
Sometimes children and young people mature and develop over one weekend. But we also see many youngsters develop their self esteem, confidence and abilities over several years with a very visible impact on their lifetime choices. One of the most rewarding aspects of SNACS is when children become leaders, keen to use their developing skills and enthusiasms for the benefit of others in turn, whether within SNACS or other communities.
Who can come?
SNACS is a membership association open to all. There is no charge involved in becoming a member.
We also positively encourage non members to come, although for legal reasons we can only offer non members a maximum of three days outdoor pursuits in any 365 day period.
We take children aged 8 and upwards. Children aged less than 8 may only come with a parent or guardian, who would undertake all activities with their child.
What about Health and Safety?
Under the terms of the Young Persons' Safety Act 1995, SNACS is a Voluntary Association, and therefore not legally required to hold an Outdoor pursuits Licence. However, we recognise that we have a duty of care equivalent to that of a professional organisation, and therefore operate to standards laid down in our own safety code. All activities are led by individuals who are competent to lead the activity, but who may not have a formal qualification in the given activity.
Does that mean there is any risk involved?
SNACS takes all reasonable steps to provide children with the level of care and safety appropriate to the activities undertaken. However, parents, guardians and children should be aware that there is a degree of real risk involved in adventure activities of the kind we undertake. This residual risk is inherent in these activities, and cannot be eliminated without destroying the activity, or the reason for doing it.
What does it cost?
SNACS camps make no profit, and we aim to provide optimum value for money. The costs therefore vary depending on the type of camp and its activities. We actively aim to subsidise costs for those who cannot otherwise afford to come.
Do you need people to help?
As a voluntary organisation SNACS depends upon enthusiastic leadership and help in many ways. Not only qualified, experienced or keen outdoor pursuits people, but also those who would like to help by looking after groups of children, or by helping with administration, catering, driving, etc.
Please note that we require volunteers to complete a Child Protection vetting procedure.
How can I find out more?
Details of our camp programme will be published here as they become available. They will also be sent in paper copy to all members, and are also available from St Nicholas Church.
For any further information please contact the church office.
