Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment (RYPEN)

Teenagers today benefit greatly from opportunities to develop "life skills" and motivation to help them cope with the challenges of a very competitive future.
 
Pressure is put on students to perform academically and their results are the benchmark of success. However other skills are needed for the next stage of a student's growth, be that further education or the workplace.
 
During an intensive residential weekend, young people aged approximately 14 to 16 years will develop increased motivation, improved life skills, better self-image, pride in themselves and an understanding of setting and achieving goals.  At the same time, participants are interacting with peers from different backgrounds, and different parts of our district, improving their teamwork skills and having fun!!  All this done in an informal atmosphere, where questions and debates are encouraged.
We offer two RYPEN Camps at two different venues.  We now have the best of both worlds – a camp which is normally held at the Narrabeen Sydney Academy of Sport & Recreation in summer, and a camp in the beautiful Blue Mountains at the Katoomba Christian Convention Centre in winter.
 
Today's RYPENarians are our future Rotaractors, Rotarians, LEADERS
Which students?
  • Full time students from Years 9/10, aged 14-16 years old
  • Students who have undeveloped potential
  • Students are welcome from both the public and private sector
  • This program is aimed towards students who need a helping hand to develop leadership, initiative and responsibility skills
  • Contact your local high school Year 9 or 10 Adviser, School Counsellors or Heads of Welfare
  • We aim at equal numbers of male and female students
Students Achieve:
  • Improved leadership skills in a non-threatening and supportive environment
  • Increased motivation and improved life skills
  • Improved self-image and pride
  • Develop an understanding of setting and achieving goals
  • Increased confidence to overcome problems and take control of their future
  • Improved appreciation of diversity
What's in it for Sponsor Rotary Clubs?
RYPEN delivers on Rotary's commitment to youth service, and a great opportunity to build relationships with local schools. 
Clubs are encouraged to commit to TWO students for each camp. After the event, invite your participant(s) back to a club meeting to hear about their experiences. Invite a local dignitary or sponsor to do the presentation, take a photo and send it to your local paper!
 
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SUMMER CAMP
 
4:30pm Fri 13th -  3:30pm Sun 15th
February 2026
 
at Sydney Academy of Sport (SAS)
Wakehurst Parkway, Narrabeen
 
Applications open in November for the next Summer RYPEN 
School advisors are invited to nominate existing Year 9 students that will be entering Year 10 in 2027.
 
The Summer RYPEN Information Pack ⬇️ includes student nomination forms school advisors or Rotary Clubs can send directly to Summer RYPEN Chair Melanie Lewis.
 
More detailed registrations are captured within the SAS portal via a link emailed to students in December.
 
 
Applications for 2027 will open in November 2026
 
Melanie Lewis
Rotary Social Impact Network
Chair – Summer RYPEN
 
WINTER CAMP
 
Fri 12th - Sun 14th
June 2026
 
at Katoomba Christian Convention Centre
Cliff Drive, Katoomba
 
Applications open in March, until mid-May
School advisors are invited to nominate students in year 9 or 10.
 
The Winter RYPEN Information Pack ⬇️ includes student nomination forms school advisors or Rotary Clubs can send directly to Winter RYPEN Chair Amanda Barnes. 
 
For more information & reviews, visit us on Facebook  🔗
 
 
 
Amanda Barnes
Rotary Social Impact Network
Chair – Winter RYPEN