Welcome to Camp!
All is ready for the Year 6 Green Camp Experience departure to Bali, Indonesia, on Sunday, 14th June 2026. This Handbook contains important information about the camp and requirements before our departure.
The children are travelling a long way – at great expense financially and environmentally. Will it be worth it? It will be if our children travel with an open heart and mind, learn from each other, experience crossing any language barriers with the power of a smile, gain an understanding of our global community, feel empowered to make a difference and above all, leave a positive legacy that enriches the lives of those they meet.
We look forward to experiencing the Green Camp with our Year 6 students, and I wish everyone a wonderful time!
Rod Davies Head of Minimbah Campus, Deputy Principal
– Director of Primary and Early Years
Camps at Woodleigh
At Woodleigh, camps are an integral part of the curriculum and an important component of Outdoor Education.
Why We Camp
Research and experience indicate that camps lead to significant positive outcomes for children; and in a structured and supportive environment, creates the opportunity for children to expand their perspective and bring about positive changes in attitudes, skills, and social behaviour.
Camps provide an environment where it is safe for children to be, both psychologically and physically. Unlike many other situations, it is an environment where it is safe to try and to fail, and to learn from that, whilst maintaining self-esteem. School camps encourage children to push themselves beyond their own perceived limitations, ranging from the challenge of the activities provided, through to the experience of being in an unfamiliar environment away from home and school. Camps provide children with the opportunity to experience new things with the support of their peers and the adults accompanying them. Many
children at camp are prepared to try new activities and foods, interact with different people and for some, it is their first stay away from home but in the company of their friends.
Woodleigh School firmly believes that camps are extremely important, as they provide a powerful medium to address the need in children to live and learn in peace and harmony with the environment. School camps provide opportunities that are very different from school, home and even their own community. Camps show children alternative ways of living and support them in their own personal change and growth. Camps demonstrate the notion of community on a human scale, teaching children about human values and human will. They encourage children to take initiative for themselves and others, as ell as broadening their horizons. This is all achieved in a safe and supportive environment.
How We Camp
Camps are planned to enhance curriculum understandings and social relationships.
Depending on the requirements of a camp, our preference for student/adult ratios may alter i.e., provision of qualified outdoor education instructors. All supervising adults must be fully informed about the students in their care and provided with relevant information concerning the personal medical needs of students and overall expectations, prior to the camp.
All students are encouraged to be involved in our camps program. Meetings are convened prior to a camp to inform staff of all camp procedures, expectations, and requirements. Parents are informed about all elements of a school camp including the purpose and program of the camp.
The supervision of students attending camps is paramount. All procedures are to be followed in accordance with our safety and risk assessments.
Away with the Group
As part of this growth experience, one of the most valuable gifts we can offer young people is the space to navigate camp as a student group, together, with their peers and teachers. When students travel and participate as a cohesive group, without the familiar presence of family alongside them, they are better able to step into their independence, form deeper connections and fully immerse themselves in the shared adventure. This sense of being “away with the group” is a key element of the developmental experience that camp is designed to provide.
Green Camp Bali Camp Information
When
Sunday 14th to Saturday 20th June, 2025
Where
Green Camp Bali
Banjar Saren, Jl. Raya, Sibang Kaja, Kec. Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80352, Indonesia
Camp Staff
Rod Davies rdavies@woodleigh.vic.edu.au
Jonno Crouch jcrouch@woodleigh.vic.edu.au
Two additional staff to be confirmed.
Key Contacts
• In the event of an emergency, or if you need to contact your child urgently, please do not ring the camp directly but instead contact the school during office hours on (03) 9788 6488
• After hours, please contact Rod Davies – a contact number will be provided prior to departure.
Transport
Getting there
• We will met at Minimbah at 6am (an early start) and be bussed to Melbourne Tullamarine Airport at 6.30am.
• Students will depart Melbourne Tullamarine Airport on Sunday 14th June 2026 at 10.20am on Virgin flight VA0091
Coming home
• Students will depart Bali on Friday 19th June at 10.05pm on Garuda Airlines Flight GA0718 and arrive in Melbourne at 5.30am on Saturday 20th June
• Students must be collected from Melbourne Tullamarine Airport Terminal 2 after arrival and clearing customs.
Accomodation
Green Camp is located next door to Green School, 30 minutes southwest of Bali’s cultural capital, Ubud. Surrounded by lush jungle, the campus blends traditional building materials and techniques with cutting-edge bamboo design and construction.
The children will experience living in nature at the Green Camp’s eco-rustic site. They will be housed in bamboo yurts in the camp’s bamboo village. Each bamboo house is built with thatched roofs and weather-resistant canvas. Comfy bamboo bed frames with all linen, blankets and towels provided. Yurts are cooled with ceiling fans. Mosquito nets will be provided. The children will sleep in rooms in groups of two to four with teachers in adjoining rooms. The camp village is surrounded by productive and educational organic gardens. There are indoor and outdoor private enclosed showers and composting toilet facilities.
Expected Weather
The dry season runs from May to September, which is considered the best time to travel to Bali. The weather will likely be hot and sunny during the day (around 25 – 30 degrees Celsius) but cooler at night (20 - 22 degrees Celsius) and in the early mornings. In the forest, the humidity is very high, so it may feel even hotter. Rain is possible in the forest at any time of year, and it usually is heavy and very refreshing!
The Green Camp Experience
We believe it is essential to acknowledge that some activities will have inherent risks and, therefore, the potential for injury due to their adventure-based nature. However, we also believe they are worthwhile activities as they allow students to experience a sense of achievement through participation in various challenging situations.
Luggage
Carry-on luggage
Items to include in your carry-on luggage
• Passport and required entry documentation
• Camera
• Personal Medicine – original packaging (if required whilst travelling)
Any carry-on medications (prescribed in your name) must be packed in sealed bags and in original packaging. Medication must be accompanied by a letter/certificate from the prescribing doctor and marked ‘for personal use’. A spare prescription should also be provided. Medication may need to be declared as part of customs requirements. Liquids, such as lip balm, must not be more than 100ml and must be sealed in a clear plastic bag.
20mm
Full/partially full water bottles cannot be taken through customs – we can fill our water bottles after clearing customs. Any sharp objects must be packed in the main bag. If in doubt, check in with staff, or leave them at home.
Checked-in luggage
We strongly recommend packing as lightly as possible, particularly given the strict weight limitations. Please be aware that students must be able to carry their bags. Virgin and Garuda checked-in luggage allowance is 20kg. Green Camp recommends a bag, not a wheeled suitcase, as the terrain is rough (see what to pack). A full packing list can be found on page 7.
20mm
Storage of documents
All students must carry their passports and customs/visa documentation in their carry-on bags. We will support the coordination of this with the children.
We will have a copy of all passport front pages stored – please scan and email these to minimbahoffice@woodleigh.vic.edu.au
Children will need to have the following with them (not packed in their checked-in luggage):
• A copy of their passport
• A copy of the Visa to enter Indonesia
• A copy of the customs entry (QR code)
• A copy of the tourist levy proof of payment
Challenges
Remember, the camp is designed as an educational experience, not a tourist experience! We hope to challenge and even take the students beyond their
comfort zone. They should be ready to try new activities, eat new foods, meet different people, and discover there is more in them than they think.
Medication
It is essential that clear and up-to-date guidelines are followed for any medication that needs to be administered to children during camp. All medication must be clearly labelled, in its original packaging, with dosage and timing instructions clearly visible. It should be supplied in a named ziplock bag and handed to Jonno before or on Thursday, 11 June. Please note that some medications legal in Australia are illegal in Indonesia. Any such medications must be declared, and a doctor’s letter must be provided to ensure compliance with local regulations.
Money
All the expenses for this trip have already been paid, though there may be an opportunity to purchase Green Camp
Dealing with homesickness
What an exciting adventure your child is about to embark on; however, there might be some hiccups along the way, homesickness being a significant issue, particularly for young people who have never been away from home, let alone in the jungle! Homesickness is very normal.
Your child may miss your family, their friends or pets while they are away, and it is very likely family, friends, and pets will miss them too.
Familiar surroundings and life routines provide us with safety and comfort, and homesick feelings may occur when in a new country with different surroundings. Below are some recommendations about how the children and your family can manage these feelings.
Preparation!
Parents and children need to discuss any possible events that may happen while they are away and what may need to occur. Sick pets, elderly relatives or anything else
that may be causing your child anxiety about being away needs to be discussed. Of course, life doesn’t always go to plan, so pre-discussing relevant issues before your child goes away can minimise anxiety and reassure them.
As parents, reassuring your child and encouraging them to talk to the teachers and people they are with is important. If the children feel homesick, it is important to acknowledge these feelings and do something about it if it becomes too overwhelming. Remember, being homesick is normal, but if it impacts their ability to enjoy their experience, here are some suggestions:
Journal it out! (For the children)
Writing about your feelings and experiences of the day can be helpful. Tell your family about your day and how much you miss them. Writing messages to family and friends can also be a good way for children to share their experiences with them even though they are not there and
memorabilia or other items made by students of the Green School. No other shopping or purchasing will be required. Bring Indonesian Rupiah only, up to approx AU$50.00.
Insurance
The School’s international insurance policy covers students and staff travelling with the school. The School also has a subscription to International SOS. They can provide advice and support should it be required whilst on the trip for medical or security issues.
Insurance details are available upon request.
remembering that it won’t be that long and they will be on the plane home.
Talk to a friend!
Sometimes when we are away, we see things that can be upsetting and confronting. Talking about these things with a travelling buddy or staff member is important. Don’t let concerns bottle up. If things don’t get better, someone will always be there to support the children.
Do something you enjoy!
Remember, this trip is a beautiful opportunity to experience another way of life. The children can take time to appreciate this and do some photography, drawing, or writing. Planning enjoyable things helps make the most of the trip and can take their mind off their concerns.
Contacting home!
We will always allow home contact if required.
Camp at a Glance
Days start at 6.30am, with breakfast soon after. Lunch is around noon. Students have time for a break in the afternoon before dinner at 6-6.30pm, with lights out between 9 and 10pm.
Day 1 (Sunday)
Welcome to Green Camp!
2.45pm Arrive at Ngurah Rai Airport and drive to Green Camp
5.30pm Arrive at Green Camp, with mindfulness meditation, welcome drinks, team introduction and camp orientation
6.30pm Welcome dinner and dance performance
7.15pm Introduction to Balinese culture with canang and gebogan making
Day 4 (Wednesday)
The Hidden Canyon
6am Depart to Gitgit
8.30am Canyon exploration
2pm Depart to Green Camp
4.30pm Mud wrestling
7pm Night safari (on-site)
8pm Next day download
Day 2 (Monday) Life Below Water
9.30am Depart to Sanur Port and boat ride to Nusa Lembongan
11am Coral reefs orientation and introduction to snorkelling and equipment followed by kayaking through the mangrove
3.30pm Mangrove planting
5pm Back to Homestay
7.30pm Beach bonfire
Day 5 (Thursday) From Seeds to Table
7am Laughing yoga and wild fitness
9am Permaculture gardening & regenerative farming, and morning snack
12pm Lunch and downtime
1.30pm Traditional Market Challenge
3pm Green Master Chefs
7pm Gratitude Circle and farewell dance party
Day 3 (Tuesday) Seaweed Farming
8am Seaweed farming
1pm Trash Walk
2pm Back to the hotel to pack
3.30pm Depart to Bali
6.30pm Pizza making
7pm Campfire and games, followed by daily debrief and reflection
Day 6 (Friday) Super Plants
7am Laughing Yoga
9am Natural Dyes
10.45am Coconut Climbing and Creation 12.15pm Megibung
1pm Packing
2pm Organic chocolate-making
4pm Kecas–Kecos Drumming Circle
6.15pm Closing Ceremony and Gratitude Circle
7pm Depart to the Airport
10.05pm Flight departs Bali
Day 7 (Sunday)
5.30am Flight arrives in Melbourne
Packing List
Remember, whatever you bring will get a lot of wear and tear, so don’t bring anything you are worried about damaging.
Please ensure all items brought on camp are clearly named, and remember we are going for six days, not six weeks! Please pack accordingly.
Clothing
The days may be hot, humid, wet and long, so pack according to your comfort level. Please include the following:
T-shirts (cotton or dry-fit, about 10) – must be sun-smart and culturally appropriate (no singlet tops)
Shorts (4 or more)
Underwear (6 or more)
Socks – you can never have too many!
Long pants or a long skirt
Long-sleeved shirt or a lightweight jumper (to keep the bugs away at night)
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
Hoodie (with long sleeves) – layer it up to keep out the wind
Bathers
Sturdy walking shoes or sneakers (you must wear closed-toe shoes for most activities) – no Crocs!
Waterproof sandals (Tevas or similar, with heel straps)
Thongs (optional)
Toiletries
Pack these in a zip-loc bag:
Shampoo
Shower gel
Toothbrush and toothpaste
Essential Equipment
Quick-dry towel for swimming (everyday towels are supplied)
Notebook or journal, to write daily reflections
Backpack or duffel bag (big enough to hold everything listed)
Daypack – small and light-weight with shoulder straps, able to hold a water bottle, camera, snacks, journal and a change of clothes
Water bottle (this will be provided)
Sun hat
Sunscreen
Insect repellant
Personal medication (see notes on page 5)
Camera (optional) – don’t forget your memory card, and an Indonesian adapter for your charger
Sunglasses (optional)
Do not bring
• Suitcases with wheels – the paths are very rough
• Laptops, phones, tablets or other gadgets – Green Camp is a great opportunity to ‘unplug’ and leave the outside world where it belongs
• Food – Green Camp has great food and lots of it.
• Lollies
• Lunch boxes
Indonesian Entry Requirements
There are a few things that must be completed before your child is allowed into Indonesia. They should be done in the following order:
1 2 3 4
Check your child’s Passport
Your child’s passport must be valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay in Bali, with at least two blank pages.
Please bring a copy of your child’s Passport (photo page only) to the office on Friday 13 June, and email a copy to minimbahoffice@woodleigh. vic.edu.au.
Apply for an Indonesian Visa
Apply for an e-Visa at https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id
The cost is approx $50.
• Country/Region: Australia
• Purpose: General, Family or Social
• Sub-purpose: Tourism, Family Visit and Transit
• Visa type: B1 – Tourist (Visa on Arrival)
• Staying for: 30 days
Please bring two printed copies of your child’s completed visa to the office on Friday 13 June.
Apply for an Arrival Card
All travellers entering Indonesia, including Bali, must apply for an Arrival Card at https://allindonesia. imigrasi.go.id within 72 hours of arrival, preferably on Friday 12 June.
You’ll receive a QR code after completing the form.
Please print and provide a copy of the QR code to the office on Friday 13 June.
Pay the ‘I Love Bali’ Tourist Levy
All travellers entering Bali, must complete and pay the ‘I Love Bali’ tourist levy at https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id
The cost is approx $14, and you’ll receive receipt after payment.
Please print this and bring a copy of the receipt to the office on Friday 13 June.
Policies & Guidelines
Health and Safety from Green Camp
At Green Camp, participants’ health, safety and wellbeing are our priority.
All activities are assessed for safety and appropriateness for the age and ability of participants. Our assessments include choosing a safe environment and challenging yet suitable activities for participants. As part of our Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for our camps, we have the following measure in place to safeguard our camper’s safety:
• 24-hour supervision by security and facilitators.
• Green Camp also acknowledges and implements the duty of care to safeguard and promote the welfare of children and is committed to ensuring that our safeguarding practice reflects professional responsibilities and accepted industry standards.
• Medical staff on-site and/or on-call. We can provide a nurse on duty upon request.
• Green Camp is located 10 minutes from the Green School clinic.
• Green Camp has several hospitals within 20 minutes, and the International SOS clinic is a 45-minute drive.
• Emergency vehicles on site 24 hours.
• Participant arrival and departure are reported to the local authorities (Banjar & police) as local governance requires.
• Green Camp facilitator safety qualifications: First-Aid Level I & II certified by International SOS, Wilderness First Responder, Green Educator Certified by Green School.
• All facilitators have fully charged communication devices (walkietalkies and/or handphones).
• We adhere to strict employee professional standards and Codes of Conduct.
• All third-party providers and drivers are appropriately licensed and insured.
• Healthy meals & homemade snacks plus free-flow spring water.
• We actively participate in mindfulness and gratitude to reduce stress and encourage interpersonal and intrapersonal connections for a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.
Sunsmart Policy
In keeping with the School’s ‘SunSmart’ approach to outdoor activities, students are required to bring sunscreen, a protective hat (with a wide brim), and to wear tops that adequately cover the skin of the shoulders and back. In the event of swimming activities, students will need “rashies” or t-shirts. Sunscreen is an additional protection – it does not take the place of clothing or shade.
Respond to Operoo Form
To enable staff to fulfil their duty of care to students, we need accurate and up-to-date information about medical and personal issues for all students. Please respond to the Operoo eForm and ensure that your son/daughter’s medical information is current. Any last-minute changes should be communicated directly to the camp staff and updated on Operoo. We rely on this information, and parents have a duty of disclosure to ensure all relevant information is known.
Student Responsibility
As a student at Woodleigh School participating in a camps program, there is a high level of responsibility and expectation with respect to behaviour. All regular school policies apply, in particular:
• A preparedness to participate wherever appropriate.
• Safety of all participants is paramount. Infringement of these policies may result in the student being sent home at your own expense.
Information Collection Policy
Confidential medical and other sensitive information collected and used to run these camps will be handled in line with the School’s Privacy Policy.
Withdrawal from Camp
At this stage, students who do not participate for whatever reason will be charged the non-refundable cost of the camp. This will involve fixed costs such as transport and accommodation, and in most cases, this will be the total cost of the camp. Where items and materials can be cancelled, this will be done to reduce the cost to those who cannot attend. It would be unfair to transfer the costs associated with a student who withdraws for whatever reason to other students on that camp who do attend.
Flying Policy
Due to security regulations, flights can only be booked with the names of individual travellers and may not be transferable to another person. Flights have now been fully booked.
Nut Policy
The school cannot guarantee that the camp environment will be 100% allergen free, hence students with allergies need to remain vigilant in their decisions around any food that they ingest.
Risk
Woodleigh School and Green Camp share a duty of care to ensure the safety and well-being of students during the camp by conducting thorough risk assessments. This involves identifying potential hazards, assessing risks, and implementing appropriate control measures to minimise harm. While many activities carry inherent risks, these are carefully weighed against the benefits of experiential learning, personal growth, and skill development. Woodleigh collaborates with Green Camp to review safety protocols, staff qualifications, emergency procedures, and environmental risks. Clear communication, proper supervision, and adherence to best practices are essential to creating a safe and enriching experience for students while meeting legal and duty-of-care obligations.
Code of Conduct
Our child understands the expectations with respect to behaviour, specifically:
• The need to pay attention to their safety and health at all times
• The need to liaise regularly with the supervising teacher and to always accept appropriate supervision; there will be occasions when students are under the supervision of Green Camp staff
• A respectful attitude to the Green Camp staff and local people
• A preparedness to participate wherever appropriate and to represent Woodleigh School well
• We understand that all standard school policies –especially those specified above, are designed to maximise the safety of all participants. Infringement of these policies could result in a participant being sent home. We understand that any extra costs associated would be at our expense.
Final Checks
Print a copy of your child’s Passport (photo page only) and email a copy to minimbahoffice@ woodleigh.vic.edu.au
Print two copies of your child’s Visa
Apply for an Arrival Card and print a copy of the QR code
Pay the Tourism Levy at I Love Bali and print out proof of payment
See page 8 for links to the services above