Adventure matters: new Deakin research highlights its life-changing impact for children 

The paper, which uses the Cottage by the Sea’s programs as a case study, highlights what we’ve long believed: adventure – particularly in the outdoors – has the potential to foster personal growth, especially for children and young people experiencing vulnerability.

At its core, the paper explores the role of adventure education in shaping the present wellbeing and future aspirations of children navigating complex life challenges.

What it confirms is what is already known from years of practice: when children are given meaningful opportunities to challenge themselves through adventure-based experiences, they are better able to build resilience, strengthen relationships and develop the confidence to imagine different futures for themselves.

Three powerful themes: trust, risk-taking and hope

In studying the impact of our programs, three pivotal themes emerged:

• Trust
• Risk-taking
• Hope

These themes reflect what we see every day in our programs. The report found that trust emerges as a foundation; as children develop confidence in their peers, program leaders and most importantly – themselves – through supportive and challenging experiences. With this sense of security, they become more willing to take risks, stepping beyond their comfort zones, navigating uncertainty, and embracing challenges in a safe and supported environment. In turn, these moments of courage and achievement foster hope, as children begin to envision new possibilities for their future, inspired by their successes and personal growth. 

One participant captured this shift simply, but powerfully:

“I learnt that I got more in me than I thought… so I can do more things than I thought about.”

For many, these experiences are transformative. As one Cottage alumni reflected:

“What happened there [CBTS]…as a child you just want happiness and hope to actually do and be and say what you want…it’s just nice that there are certain places [CBTS]…that can provide the tools to dream.”

At a time when camps and adventure providers are navigating rising costs and broader sector pressures, the findings reinforce just how important these experiences remain for young people. While these challenges are significant, the findings in Deakin’s report reinforce why access to adventure-based experiences remains so important.

As highlighted in the research, “adventurous experiences function as potential turning points by fostering resilience, strengthening social connections and equipping children with the confidence and aspirations needed to reimagine their futures.”

A timely reminder of why adventure matters

At a time when camps and adventure providers are navigating rising costs and broader sector pressures, the findings reinforce just how important these experiences remain for young people. While these challenges are significant, the findings in Deakin’s report reinforce why access to adventure-based experiences remains so important.

As highlighted in the research, “adventurous experiences function as potential turning points by fostering resilience, strengthening social connections and equipping children with the confidence and aspirations needed to reimagine their futures.”

Looking ahead

This report is a strong validation of the work being done across Cottage by the Sea programs every day. It also serves as a reminder that for children experiencing vulnerability, opportunities for adventure are not “optional”– they are essential.

“Our sector does an amazing job of offering adventure experiences to children from a broad range of backgrounds. What we don’t do as well is advocate for the real, life-changing importance of our work.

After reading this paper, please go outside and experience nature and adventure. Take your kids out, talk to your member of parliament, enjoy life… every single child has the right to opportunities to grow through adventure, in the outdoors, and to thrive in life.” says Adam Wake, CEO, Cottage by the Sea

This is why we remain more committed than ever to enriching the lives of children and young people experiencing vulnerability by providing experiences that embrace fun and create opportunities for growth in environments that inspire.