Starting at a new school can be daunting—especially when that school is online. For Bella, joining VSV was a big step after leaving mainstream schooling for medical reasons. The Middle Years Connect Week camp at Golden Valley offered a new opportunity: the chance to meet classmates and teachers face-to-face for the first time, beyond the screen.
Although an illness meant Bella could only attend two days of the camp, those days made an impact.
“I might not have been at the camp as long as everyone else, but no one made me feel any less welcome.”
Among the highlights was finally making a genuine connection with a classmate along the group night walk—proof that meaningful friendships can grow in any environment.
From team activities to quiet conversations, those short days were full of moments that reminded Bella how powerful connection can be.
“Having chronic fatigue means I sometimes struggle with going out, but I plan on going to more (VSV) in-person events despite that.”
If you are in Middle Years, we encourage you attend our upcoming Connect Week to help build your confidence, and a sense of belonging.
