Nikki Lam, Lucy Bell and James Roberts are taking part in the Sony Foundation Holiday Camp, giving local children with special needs the chance to enjoy a three-day holiday camp at the school.

It’s the twelfth year that Launceston Grammar has been part of the Sony Foundation programme, and they are the only school in Tasmania to offer it.

“We have 16 children between the ages of six and 16 [attending], and they have a range of disabilities and special needs,” organiser Elizabeth Poland said.

“Our children are trained up to be their 24/7 carers … a lot of them have been camp helpers [in year 10 and 11].

“It’s very emotional for our students … we care for these [special needs] children for three days and we just get a small taste of what it must be to live with a special needs child, and to go above and beyond for them.

“They’re very loved children … the goal of the camp is it’s safe, but it’s fun.”

A dedicated team of school staff will be joined by full-time nursing staff to support the Grammar graduates in their work during the camp.

Children will be given the chance to participate in a nativity play, go on excursions and play a range of games with the help of their carers.

Nikki Lam has been a camp helper for the past three years, but this will be her first time as full-time carer.

“It’s really good, it’s something to look forward to,” she said.

“The rewards at the end of it are all the happy faces.”