Ms Modde said the loss of staff who were highly trained in risk management would make it difficult for camps to operate next year.
“We are concerned that we may not have any industry by the time we get back in to be able to cope with demand. There is real risk of some of these closing forever,” she said.
Craig Roberts the chief executive for Anglican Youthworks said government subsidies were tapering off for the school camp industry which had put many jobs at risk.
Staff included chefs and caterers and qualified leaders including outdoor guides and educators who have trained for more than two years.
“I’ve got 125 permanents and 100 casuals who I’ve had to cut loose,” he said.
“The concern is that through summer we will have no school camps which will see the industry with almost no revenue from June 26 through until February 1.”
Mr Roberts said the outdoor education industry generated $7.6 billion in NSW in 2018 and engages 77,000 full-time and contract staff.
A spokesman for the NSW Department of Education said no public school was allowed to have overnight camps or excursions in line with the government’s health advice to minimise the risk of COVID-19 infection.
Outdoor excursions were allowed, but restricted to one day, and could only be held indoors if a school group had sole use of the venue.
Music programs, bands, ensembles, classes and tuition would only be allowed to continue without any woodwind or brass instruments “as these pose a higher transmission risk”.
Loading
“Masks must be worn if playing instruments indoors but not required if playing outdoors and physical distancing must be maintained at all times,” the spokesman said. “Singing, chanting, group repetition and choirs are not permitted.”
The only exception is for HSC preparation and assessment.
“We remain in constant discussions with NSW Health about school settings, and will continue to monitor this situation and ease restrictions further when possible,” the spokesman said.
Minister for Education, Sarah Mitchell said public school settings were in line with health advice.
“Students are still able to access outdoor education through day trips and excursions in a COVID safe way,“she said.
“We continue to review our school settings on a regular basis with NSW Health.”
The Morning Edition newsletter is our guide to the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up here.
