School Camps:
Training future leaders
This past weekend, Scripture Union hosted a powerful two-day prefect training camp for Dryden Primary School filled with encouragement, learning, and fun. Despite the rain, the atmosphere was warm and energetic as facilitators led learners through games, group activities, and motivational talks focused on building confidence, teamwork, and self-awareness.
A key moment came when an educator reminded the group, “We will not have two camps here, but one united camp.” This message sparked a shift in the group. What began as individual efforts soon transformed into unity, with learners learning to carry one another’s burdens. No learner was left behind.
One child reflected, “Dryden Primary’s Grade 7 Prefect training camp was something I needed in disguise. I learnt what teamwork meant – carrying a teammate’s burden as your own.”
Facilitators praised the learners’ openness and engagement throughout the camp. “The learners were so engaged and open – it was a beautiful experience,” one shared.
The weekend ended with heartfelt reflections, showing how deeply the camp had impacted the learners. More than just a leadership training, it was a journey of growth, unity, and hope. Dryden Primary’s prefects left inspired, connected, and ready to lead as one.
TRAINING YOUTH LEADERS TOGETHER (TYLT) 2025 Updates
After the success of TYLT24, we’re excited to have launched a brand-new cohort – TYLT25!
This year, we’ve had the joy of journeying with a group of 32 incredible young leaders, each with a willing heart to serve the youth in their local communities of Kirstenhof, Claremont, East Ridge and Pniel to name a few. Over the past few months, our sessions have focused on team building, presenting the gospel, contextual ministry, and discovering how to use personal gifts in ministry.
Here’s what two of our TYLT25 attendees had to say about the experience so far:
What motivated you to join this youth leaders training programme?
My motivations to join TYLT were one, the fact that I had finished my matric therefore I wouldn’t qualify to be a camper at our summer camp. Secondly, my minister Andrew Snyders as he introduced the idea of me running our youth this year as well.
My perspective on youth ministry has very much changed. I thought I had to act like a proper minister and be serious. But at this training, I’ve learned that as much as I’m leading the youth on this journey with Christ, I’m also part of the journey. I’m not just leading them.
- Yolanda, Table View United Presbetarian Church.
Looking ahead, how do you hope to grow further as a youth leader, and what support do you think young leaders in Cape Town still need?
- We face many challenges like drug addiction. Kids come to youth high and influence each other negatively. We have teens who come hungry youth or come from traumatic circumstances and we as youth leaders NEED to be trained and supported. We need to be equipped in many ways whether biblical like TYLT and/or physical training like First Aid because we are working on the ground level, sowing into the next generation. We see and do so much and many people don’t take seriously the role of youth leaders. Yes, God will do the work but I really believe we need practical tips like the ones I’m getting at TYLT that will help us and grow us theologically so we can give these teens ministry with substance when they come to youth group.
- Casey Barnes, Petra Life Church
School Christian Group Training Update
Last term we advertised for our School Christian Group Training and we’re here to report back on it! It was a great encouragement to welcome a mix of children’s workers, youth leaders, church volunteers, and teachers who are all wanting to Jesus known in their schools
The day was split between primary and high school groups, with practical, age-specific training on how to start and support Christian Groups in schools. We explored simple ways to lead, disciple, think critically and use helpful resources to share the gospel. It was also a great opportunity for likeminded volunteers to connect.
We’re so encouraged by those stepping out to bring Jesus into their schools and we’re so excited about the journey ahead as we connect with more mission partners.
If you or someone you know would like to be trained for Schools Ministry, we’d love to hear from you! Email wcape@su.org.za for more information
