Adventure, Resilience and Fun: New midlands summer camp inspires kids to challenge themselves

A brand-new summer experience is coming to the midlands — and it’s not your average camp. Think teamwork, resilience, outdoor adventure and memory-making fun: The Unit Challenge Junior Summer Camp is designed to give boys and girls aged 8–13 the kind of summer they’ll never forget!

Based at The Unit Gym in Clara, Co Offaly this innovative, military-themed (but child-friendly!) camp combines games, physical challenges, and survival-style adventures in a safe, supportive environment. Children will take part in obstacle courses, learn tactical thinking, and explore the great outdoors — all under the careful supervision of highly trained instructors.

“We created The Unit Challenge to help kids discover just how capable they really are,” says Director Christopher McCormack. “It’s not about competition or pressure — it’s about personal achievement, teamwork and having a brilliant time while doing something different.”

Reconnecting with the Outdoors

With screen time and busy schedules dominating family life, many parents are seeking ways to help their kids switch off — literally — and spend time outside. The Unit Challenge is built around this goal, offering children a chance to connect with nature, get active, and boost confidence in a way that’s hard to replicate indoors.

The camps run over three days with a clear structure and varied activities. Each morning begins with a group warm-up and briefing. From there, campers rotate through sessions like:

• “Scratch”: a team-based games session with relays, puzzles, and physical tasks.
• Obstacle zones: age-appropriate movement challenges (crawling, climbing, and navigating).
• Survival-lite skills: basic navigation, camouflage face painting, and communication exercises.
• Graduation challenge: a celebratory task where each child receives a special completion pack and badge.

The experience builds each day — culminating in a final ceremony where parents are invited to applaud their kids’ progress and achievements.

Designed with Safety in Mind

While the branding might draw inspiration from special forces training, the delivery is warm, safe, and tailored to each age group. No weights, no resistance training — just bodyweight tasks, games, and creative physical play. Activities are designed to suit all age groups, focusing on fun, movement, and teamwork. Younger children engage in playful problem-solving and cooperative games, while older participants take on slightly more advanced tasks like navigation challenges or team-based rescue scenarios. Across all ages, the emphasis is on encouragement, personal growth, and shared achievement — never competition.

Campers are closely supervised throughout and staff are fully trained in child safeguarding, first aid, and youth engagement. The team includes instructors with Defence Forces, adventure sports and outdoor education backgrounds — giving a reassuring mix of energy and experience.

What You Need to Know

• Location: The Unit Gym, Clara, Co. Offaly
• Dates: 8-10th July or 5th – 7th August 2025
• Ages: 8–13
• Daily timings: 10am – 2:30pm
• What to bring: Rain jacket, leggings, runners, packed lunch, towel, sunscreen, and change of clothes

Parents also have access to The Unit Café, making drop-off and pick-up time a little more relaxing.

A Unique Experience for Offaly Families

With many summer camps filling quickly and offering similar options year on year, The Unit Challenge stands out as something truly original. It blends the feel of a TV adventure series with trusted care and great craic — right in the heart of the Midlands.

“It’s not about being the fastest or strongest,” says instructor David Newman. “It’s about working together, trying something new, and leaving proud of what you’ve done.”

Spots are limited, and early interest has been strong. Parents can book online now through www.theunitchallenge.ie/junior-challenge, where they’ll also find a full camp breakdown, kit list and FAQs.

This summer, help your child break out of routine, build resilience, and enjoy the adventure — with The Unit Challenge Junior Summer Camp.

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