Over the weekend of 24–26 October 2025, 18 learners and two educators from Luhlaza Secondary School in Khayelitsha participated in the Iimbovane Iimbovane’s Life Science Camp at Wortelgat, Stanford. Nestled within a tranquil milkwood forest, the campsite provided the perfect setting for a weekend filled with discovery, learning, and hands-on conservation.

The camp began with a session on safety, followed by a lively round of Get to Know You bingo to break the ice and help learners settle in.

The second day was dedicated to active learning and fieldwork. Learners participated in an engaging game about invasive alien species, which tested their knowledge and teamwork skills. After a few intense tiebreakers, the Pink Group emerged victoriously. The learners then put theory into practice during an alien clearing activity, removing dense stands of Rooikrans (Acacia cyclops) and Port Jackson (Acacia saligna) from an area near the campsite.

Later, the group explored the Fynbos vegetation around Wortelgat, photographing five plant species to identify, and choosing one to sketch during Sunday’s scientific illustration session. In the afternoon, learners headed to the beach for a study of dune vegetation, where they examined the plant growth forms and families found along the coast.

The last day’s focus was on the art of scientific illustration — exploring how drawing can help us understand and communicate science, from palaeontology and medicine to the microscopic and cosmic worlds.

The camp concluded with group presentations and a light-hearted award ceremony. The Pink Group won for their competitive spirit, Endinako was recognised for clearing the most Rooikrans, and Dini took home the ’Best Vibe’ award for his energy and enthusiasm during the invasive plant clearing activity.

The weekend was a wonderful blend of science, teamwork, and outdoor adventure — reminding learners of the importance of protecting biodiversity and the joy of learning in nature.