Summer Outreach Training Courses

Summer Outreach Training Course (SOTC) is primarily aimed at those who will teach at CEF 5-Day Clubs and camps, but is equally suitable for those who teach children in any Christian context.

This course will provide you with excellent teaching to help your ministry to children become more effective.

The course is held in two locations and the details for both can be found below.

There is also a Junior SOTC held in both locations. See the bottom of this page for details.

When is it?
2025 dates TBC

Where is it?
Seaview Camp & Conference Centre

How much does it cost?
CEF do not charge for the use of the building, but for those who are able and willing we would ask that you would consider a donation of £105 to cover the cost of course activities/materials and towards the ongoing ministry.

What age do you have to be?
16+, you must have completed year 12.

What’s involved?
The course consists of lectures and practical demonstrations, with prayer, praise and study times. But there’s free time too – which could include the odd game of volleyball or some shopping!

Subjects studied include:

  • Biblical basis for evangelising children
  • Preparing and presenting a Bible Lesson
  • What is the Gospel?
  • Counselling children
  • Quiz and memory work
  • Conducting an open-air meeting for children.

To complete the course you have to do some practicals which include teaching a Bible Lesson and a Memory Verse, and participating in a 5-Day Club. But don’t panic – experienced teachers are there to help you in whatever way they can.

After training and according to your availability, you will be given the opportunity to work in a team taking the Gospel to children in your area.

To be part of the Summer Outreach Course, you must know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour and be seeking to live a life that pleases Him. You must also be in agreement with the CEF Statement of Faith, which you will be required to sign.

Not only is this a week where you will learn a lot about teaching children more effectively, but it is a week of great fellowship, and making new friends. All this adds up to making a week not to be missed! Be sure to book early as spaces are limited!

When is it?
2025 dates TBC

Where is it?
Oceanview Camp Centre, Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal

How much does it cost?
€TBC

What age do you have to be?
16+

Is this course different to the one in Northern Ireland?
The Course is very similar to the SOTC held in Kilkeel. Unlike the NI Course, however, you have the option to focus on a particular aspect of ministry to children (either ‘Camp Ministry,’ or ‘5-Day Club/Holiday Bible Club Ministry’). This is a great way to tailor the course to suit your training needs. You can decide which to focus on when you’re signing up.

To be part of the Summer Outreach Course, you must know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour and be seeking to live a life that pleases Him. You must also be in agreement with the CEF Statement of Faith, which you will be required to sign.

Not only is this a week where you will learn a lot about teaching children more effectively, but it is a week of great fellowship, and making new friends. All this adds up to making a week not to be missed! Be sure to book early as spaces are limited!

Junior Summer Outreach Training Course

The Junior SOTC is for young Christians who are 14 or 15 years old and who want to learn more about reaching children with the Gospel. It is a brilliant time of learning and fellowship. This course is perfect for young people who would like to learn more about reaching children, but aren’t old enough to attend the full SOTC.

As well as classes on the various subjects there are Bible studies, times of recreation and praise times.

Subjects include:

  • What is a 5-Day Club?
  • Why children?
  • The wordless book
  • Can a memory verse be exciting?

When is it?
2025 dates TBC

Where is it?
Kilkeel Presbyterian Church Halls, Northern Ireland

How much does it cost?
£TBC, which includes your accommodation, food and all materials needed for training.

What age do you have to be?
14-15 years old (must have completed year 10)

When is it?
2025 dates TBC

Where is it?
Oceanview Camp Centre, Rossnowlagh, Co. Donegal

How much does it cost?
€TBC, which includes your accommodation, food and all materials needed for training

What age do you have to be?
14-15