A virtual reality workshop on professions, in a room at CDFAS in Eaubonne… Dozens of children and teens visualize, through large glasses, how the nursing profession works. “So what is the role of the nurse, does he work or not?” Tell me! ‘ exclaims their companion today. An opportunity for these young people between the ages of 11 and 16 to think about the future during their educational colonies.
In June last year, the learning holiday plan was drawn up by the Ministry of Education. The idea: to allow children to reconnect with educational and sports content after the Covid period. It is just under two million euros allocated by the state for this device.
The department includes about forty educational colonies. The Eaubonne Sports Center is responsible for welcoming these young people from Val d’Oise, primarily from working-class neighborhoods or Education Priority Networks (REP), five days a week. But all children can claim this colony if they are between CM1 and 3. They are housed and live in a community. Serge, Joy Le Moutier or even Swayze sous Montmorency: These kids left their city for a few days to rub their shoulders in sportsmanship.
“Exploring sports and learning from another angle”
“Sport is a good way for young people to start learning. With Covid, it is important to help them restore daily sports practice,” explains Minister Nathalie Elimas. Around the sports and educational workshops, the children work together and also expect to return to school. “Are you happy with what you’re doing?” asks the minister. With a general “yes,” the children hiding behind their glasses respond in chorus.
It is the municipalities, associations and local actors that make requests for children who want to go on learning holidays. Arnaud Zomaglia, Director of CDFAS believes, “It is important to give young people the opportunity to take some time off, even if it is not far from home, because they are discovering sports, and learning from another angle.” “Last year some found out about baseball, so that allowed them to join a club later,” he adds with a smile.
Basketball court, tatami mats for martial arts, CDFAS well equipped. Large areas for recreational activities are also available. “This year, we offer a lot of connected activities. The batting process is shown on a big screen. They must find the result of the process by throwing the basketball to the correct number displayed,” enthuses Kevin, the colony manager, who watches his players. “With educational camp, the most important thing is that they find out things they don’t know and they sleep there, it’s great for them.”
Almost half of young girls
A little further into this large sports complex, it is a basketball workshop, which is supervised by a young captain. There are two teams competing, only one of them being a girl. However, about 42% of young girls were welcomed into education camps this summer. “I’m learning to play basketball, I’ve never done that before,” she explains, holding her hand.
Besides sports, young people also develop their creativity. A small team installed in a classroom is making a paper torch with the inscription “Paris 2024” written on it. The sports complex will serve as a training center for the Olympic and Paralympic Games within three years. And the American delegation will reside there through the establishment of its base camp.
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