All over New Zealand and beyond, there are people whose lives have been positively influenced and shaped through experiences on camps and relationships formed in schools. We want to see this kind of impact continue for a long time to come, and you can be part of this.
Children and Families Ministry
Our ministry to the Children and Families of New Zealand includes SUPAkidz clubs and camps, the WAY2GO children's ministry conference and WAY2GO Focused regional training.
A SUPAkidz club runs during lunchtime or after school, using a quality Bible-based programme to help children think about life from a Christian perspective. The programme is written based on the values of the New Zealand curriculum to compliment the teaching happening in school.
SUPAkidz camps are for primary aged kids! (Year 4 - 6 at school). They are well run, with trained leaders and great programmes. They include games, art and craft activities, swimming and heaps of fun. Campers and leaders explore the Bible together and learn all about our great God.
WAY2GO training is especially designed for children ministry leaders who want to explore ways of working with pre-school, primary and intermediate children and all ages together.
Find out more about Children and Families ministry
Youth Ministry
Schools
Schools are such an important place - the years spent here shape and impact the young people of our nation. The Youth Department is active in some Intermediate and Secondary Schools with staff supporting students who run Christian groups. There are special initiatives such as Stay Real working with at-risk youth in Christchurch and YOUTHSERVE, an initiative that encourages Christian students to put their faith into action serving a local community in practical ways.
Find out more about Intermediate and High Schools ministry
Camps
A totally unique Adventure! That is what you will find on a Scripture Union Adventure Camp. Our Camping Ministry runs Adventure Camps around New Zealand. Some of these camps are located in the most beautiful and exciting parts of our country, while some involve doing adventure activities like snowboarding, motorbiking and surfing. One thing is for sure - young people get to learn about the God who loves them through the Bible. In addition to running Adventure Camps for youth, our camping ministry seeks to help young people to develop leadership skills. Our training is focused on equipping young people to lead effectively on camp, develop competence in outdoor recreation and encouraging and discipling those they lead.
Find out more about Youth Camps
Bible Engagement
Central to our ministry is teaching others to engage with God's word. This can take the form of teaching children about the Bible at SUPAkidz clubs and camps, opening the word with high school students, and Bible studies and discussion on our Adventure Camps. Scripture Union runs an online store in which Bible reading guides and devotions for all ages are available. Scripture Union also partners with other Christian organisations such as The Bible Society in promoting Bible engagement through initiatives such as the E100 Challenge.
ChildSafe Safety Management System
We use the ChildSafe safety management system throughout our work with children and young people and regard training in safety and care as essential elements for those leading our programmes. One aspect of the system is Safety Management Online, a web based tool which allows leaders across the country access to resources appropriate to their level of responsibility. It enables us to manage appointment of our leaders, track their training, provide resources and a framework for operating our programmes safely, whilst not stifling the sense of adventure and the opportunity for new experiences, which form an essential part of our activities.
Numerous churches, camps and other programmes (including some seeking CYF approval for OSCAR) across New Zealand use ChildSafe. To find out more about ChildSafe and how your church or programme could benefit from using this tool, please click here
