Oscar’s Story: How Fusion Camps Inspire Confidence Through Play
Active Fusion’s Fusion Camps offer far more than holiday fun. They are designed to give children the chance to be active, try new experiences, and grow in confidence, all within a safe and supportive environment. Every school holiday, the camps deliver an exciting blend of sports, creative arts, and team challenges that inspire healthy habits and broaden horizons.
The Summer 2025 Fusion Camp at New Pastures School in Mexborough was led by experienced and caring coaches, alongside partners Scotty’s Heroes. The aim was to ensure that children stayed fit, socially connected, and engaged during the long Summer break, especially those who might otherwise have limited opportunities for structured physical activity.
Meet Oscar
Oscar, aged six, had been to Fusion Camp before and was eager to return. When asked why, he simply said, “I like the camps and we do lots of different activities.” Normally, Oscar does not get much daily exercise, preferring to spend time drawing and taking part in quieter activities. Without camp, he explained, he would probably have spent those Summer days at home drawing with his friends. For him, attending Fusion Camp meant stepping into a world of movement, energy and connection that was very different from his usual routine.
A Summer of New Experiences
Over three days, Oscar embraced the opportunity to try a variety of activities, quickly discovering a passion for gymnastics and dodgeball. Gymnastics, in particular, brought out his creativity, he began inventing his own movements, encouraging others in his group, and showing a willingness to take the lead. The camp environment gave him the confidence to step out of his comfort zone, not only participating but actively helping others to succeed.
From Quietly Confident to Outgoing Leader
When asked how camp made him feel, Oscar’s response was heartfelt and simple: “Good… happy… and worry-free.”
At the start of camp, staff described him as quietly confident, happy to take part but reserved in his interactions. By the second day, he was eagerly chatting with other children, joining in new activities without hesitation, and seeking out the coaches for advice and conversation. By the end of camp, he was openly sharing ideas, laughing with older children, and approaching every challenge with enthusiasm.
The Lasting Impact
Oscar’s transformation over those three days is a clear example of the deep and lasting impact Fusion Camps can have. For children who may otherwise spend their holidays indoors, inactive, and disconnected from their peers, the camps provide the space to grow physically, socially, and emotionally. They encourage active lifestyles, nurture friendships, and build resilience in ways that reach far beyond the camp itself.
Investing in the Future
Reflecting on his experience, Oscar summed it up perfectly: “I like it here because there’s lots of fun things to do.”
With the support of funders, more children like Oscar can access these life-enriching experiences. Investment in Fusion Camps is not simply an investment in holiday activities, it is an investment in children’s health, confidence and future potential, ensuring they have the opportunity to thrive both now and in the years to come. We are grateful to Doncaster Council for making this enriching experience possible through their Holidays Activities and Food programme.
Read more stories like Oscar’s here or discover more about Fusion Camps here.