REEF
Our REEF program – Recreation, Education, Environment, Friendship – follows children through the transition from primary to secondary school.
Cottage by the Sea’s REEF program is an experiential learning program beginning in Grade 6.
The 2-year program follows a group of participants through their final year of primary school and their first year of secondary school. The young people attend programs at Cottage by the Sea or offsite in a range of outdoor environments. While participating in outdoor adventure and group activities, participants are encouraged to have fun while taking calculated risks. Program activities are designed to help young people develop skills that will open up opportunities now and in the future.
Cottage by the Sea approaches schools within an identified area who then recommend participants who will benefit from Cottage’s REEF program.
Program length
3-5 days
Students attend 10 programs over 2 years
Child's age
11-13 years
(Grade 6–Year 7)
Objectives
- To have confidence to try new things and learn from experience
- To develop problem-solving skills and ways to resolve conflict
- To learn how to be a good friend and show consideration for others
- To be able to identify support people
- To develop self-awareness
- To stay connected with school, home and the community
- To demonstrate self-motivation and initiative
Outcomes
- Improved attitude and behaviour
- Improved levels of self-confidence
- Increased social and interpersonal skills
- Increased self-reliance and motivation
- Stronger collaborative approach to goal setting
- Enhanced personal growth and leadership skills
- Greater involvement at school, home and the community
Feedback
My favourite activity was camping because I was with my friends and I got to do a lot of different things.
– Program participant
Children enjoying the REEF program
Your donation will help more children experience inspiration, fun and opportunity.
Children attending Cottage by the Sea will experience some of the best memories of their lives. To offer this opportunity to more children, we need your support. Through this combined effort, we will help more children and young people.