The application period for the 2024 Counsellor In Training (CIT) program will open on November 1st, 2023.
Campers born between August 19th, 2006 and June 30th, 2008 will be eligible to participate in the program in 2024.
Two-month leadership program
More than a yellow t-shirt
The Counsellor In Training (CIT) program is for 16-17 year-olds who are passionate about making a difference and role modelling the positive changes that we want to see in Ouareau’s community.
Here’s the first thing you will learn behind the scenes at Ouareau; everything we do is to help you outside of camp. Every session, activity, and interaction is a teaching tool to assist you in navigating your future in education, work, and even, your social life.
Welcome to the CIT program.
Using a tailored educational curriculum, Ouareau sets itself apart from other organizations with its best in class CIT training program, designed to build on your knowledge, as well as to provide challenging and enriching learning experiences. It focuses on engaging, skills-based training sessions, and is reinforced during the summer with specific hands-on learning.
With bi-weekly feedback sessions, and one on one coaching with our trained program coordinators, you’ll gain invaluable expertise in child development, conflict resolution, adaptability, problem-solving, crisis management, and countless other skills that are easily transferable outside of camp.
By joining the CIT program, you will be entrusted with ample leadership responsibilities, such as camper care, program development and teaching activities. This will provide you with unique opportunities to develop yourself as a counsellor, peer, and as an individual.
Program Outline
Every two weeks you will be graduating to a new stage in your leadership training!
Camper care
The first 2 weeks highlights the bigger picture of Ouareau, provides a deeper understanding of the responsibilities of a camp counsellor. It consolidates your new role as a CIT by providing both theoretical and hands-on child development and educational experiences.
Team building & self-reflection
You’ll be working with other CITs to problem-solve, lead your peers, and manage conflict. Stage 2 also includes our six day leadership canoe trip to allow you to put theory into practice.
Activities and programming
Designed to help you learn and apply specific teaching strategies at activities, coaching, and supporting others through their learning, you will get the chance to participate in activity clinics, as well as develop and lead your very own camp programs. This stage also provides the opportunity to shadow a staff member of your choice.
Internship
In your final two weeks, you will take all of the knowledge you’ve acquired throughout the summer and apply it to your internship stage. You will be teaching at activities, supervised by the staff, including swim/language classes, as well as taking more of a leadership position with your campers. There will also be a focus on professional development, including writing CVs and practicing interviews.
CIT Guide
Download the CIT guide here. This guide is a must read to give you the full picture!
