March Camp 2025

Written by Cayden Ng, Edited by Dylan Soh

On 15 March 2025, the annual March Camp commenced. The 3D2N camp was not only a test for the newly formed Patrols, but also an invaluable experience for all Scouts.

DAY 1

The camp began with a session on proper waterproofing and backpacking techniques, where the scouts learned to waterproof their equipment in Ziploc bags and pack their rucksacks efficiently, an important skill for any scout to master.

Next was Camp Development, during which Scouts made final adjustments to their patrol pounder tents and gadgets, and constructed their patrol gateways. This was crucial to ensuring patrol spirit was high throughout the camp, such that the scouts could achieve excellence in all that they did.

In the afternoon, Scouts had their first Backwoodsman experience of the year. Under Venture's and Rover's guidance, they mastered essential skills such as pit digging, fire-starting techniques, food preparation, and cooking over an open fire. After hours of effort and hard work, they were rewarded with the satisfaction of tasting the food they had prepared, which was perfectly cooked over the embers.

Day 1 ended with an exciting round of night games. Scouts were challenged on their night safety and awareness as they explored the school compound in search of hidden cards, Ventures, and their patrol flags. It was a memorable and enjoyable bonding experience for the newly formed patrols.

DAY 2

The day kicked off with morning physical training, fostering both fitness and troop spirit as Scouts cheered each other on, pushing themselves to their limits.

After breakfast, they tackled 8 SRIT stations, which put their observational and situational awareness skills to the test. These stations featured First Aid scenarios, memory games, Sour Grapes, and even a simulated robbery! The variety of unique stations allowed scouts to better embody the Scout Motto - Be Prepared, as they learnt to respond to any scenario that came their way.

At noon, Scouts competed against each other in the highly anticipated Inter-Patrol Stove Cooking Competition. Patrols were given a set of ingredients and tasked with cooking and presenting their dishes to the judges, with taste and creativity as the main criteria. Throughout the challenge, Patrol Leaders ensured knife safety and hygiene were strictly adhered to, facilitating the smooth completion of the event.

After enjoying their self-prepared lunch, Scouts embarked on pioneering projects in batches — Sec 1s built a catapult, Sec 2s constructed tripod towers, and Sec 3s assembled a drawbridge. By carefully securing wooden structures with knots and lashings, they successfully completed their respective projects, an achievement made possible through teamwork and coordination.

As night fell, the long-awaited campfire began — a time for Scouts to relax and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere after a day of hard work. Despite the inclement weather beforehand, the campfire was not cancelled, but in fact adapted on the spot in the form of a "campfire light". In addition to singing campfire songs like BP Spirit and Gako the Frog, they performed their patrol skits and played games like Dog and Bone.

The night ended on a heartfelt note with the song 朋友, as Scouts linked arms and swayed in unison, symbolizing their unbreakable bonds of friendship and brotherhood formed during this camp. This campfire was one like no other, truly exemplifying the spirit of the Catholic High Scout Group.

DAY 3

After morning PT and breakfast, Scouts dismantled their campsite, working efficiently to pack up their tents, gadgets, and gateways, returning them to the QM. The scouts worked with incredible speed and coordination, exemplifying the spirit of a true Catholic High Scout.

The final challenge of the camp was a grueling open inspection, where Scouts laid out all their equipment. The intense and meticulous inspection reinforced the importance of maintaining a constant sense of urgency, having a high level of discipline, and most importantly, being well-prepared at all times.

To conclude the camp, a prize presentation was held. Congratulations to Cobra Patrol for being crowned Best Patrol of March Camp!

Below is a reflection from Matthew Lee, Cobra Patrol Leader: 

“March camp was a tough experience as we faced many challenging moments. The sec 2s and 3s had to guide the sec 1s patiently as they were new to the CCA, ensuring that they were able to keep up. An example of this was during the night games, where we worked together, every one of us contributing ideas to complete the task given. 

Two key factors that contributed to Cobra patrols success in this camp were teamwork and resilience. Through effective communication, everyone knew their part to play in each activity and had great teamwork in the process. During IPSCC, I delegated each patrol member a task, such as cutting the vegetables or marinating the chicken. With everyone being focused, it allowed us to work with speed and efficiency when making dishes. Despite various setbacks in other activities, we all pushed ourselves to our limits though we were tired and encouraged each other to never give up.

One memorable experience during this March camp was SRIT. It was a valuable and fun learning opportunity for all of us to improve our core scouting skills, such as First Aid We also learnt to work together better as a patrol by each playing a small part to complete a big task. 

Although this camp was tough and tiring for my patrol, I am proud that each one of them pushed through every step of the way and persevered till the end. I am also thankful for everyone helping and supporting each other through hard times, maintaining strong bonds and always working together. I hope my patrol has learnt a lot from this camp and will keep up the good work throughout their scouting journey.”