Not every young person finds their place in a traditional school setting. For some, the standard classroom can feel overwhelming, disconnected, or just not quite right. But that’s okay—because sometimes, the right environment looks a little different.
Meet TREES — the Teen Recreation and Educational School program, a unique space run by the Pacific Community Resources Society (PCRS) in partnership with the Surrey School District and the Ministry of Children and Family Development. TREES is designed especially for youth aged 13 to 19 who face behavioural or mental health challenges that make mainstream school tough.
It’s not just a school; it’s a community where young people can reconnect with learning in ways that truly work for them. Every student at TREES follows a personalized education plan crafted around their own strengths, goals, and learning style. Whether working toward a Dogwood Diploma or an Adult Dogwood Diploma, students at TREES are given the chance to open doors to further education and meaningful careers.
But the journey doesn’t stop with academics. TREES is dedicated to helping youth build life skills, emotional resilience, and readiness for the workforce — skills that will serve them long after their time at school.
A heartwarming part of the program is its deep respect for Indigenous culture. Students dive into hands-on workshops filled with drumming, singing, beading, traditional crafts, storytelling, and teachings led by Indigenous Elders and Knowledge Keepers. These experiences do more than teach — they help students connect with their roots, find pride in their heritage, and feel a strong sense of belonging.
TREES doesn’t walk this path alone. It partners with community programs like UBC’s ICORD STEM initiative, Douglas College’s Reboot Program, and creative arts workshops like Bard on the Beach and Ballet BC. These partnerships give students real-world experiences, mentorship, and opportunities to grow their confidence and skills.
Because TREES serves youth with complex needs, it’s a gated program — meaning young people enter through referrals from trusted professionals like social workers, probation officers, or mental health clinicians. A caring intake team reviews every referral to ensure each student is welcomed into a safe and supportive environment designed for success.
Take the story of JC, for example. When JC joined TREES, she was shy, anxious, and struggled with selective mutism. School was daunting, and she rarely spoke or participated. Fast forward two years, and JC’s transformation is inspiring. She attends regularly, engages with classmates and teachers, and has embraced opportunities like a Yukon camping trip and a work program with ACCESS. Now, she’s planning for part-time work and moving steadily toward graduation — a true testament to the power of the right support and community.
At its core, TREES helps youth rediscover their potential. Through personalized learning, cultural connection, and compassionate care, students don’t just grow—they thrive. Because when young people are given the right environment, anything is possible.
