Alberta Foundations Level Program


This program is for folks looking to learn more about the outdoor industry as a career path and begin to build their skill set. Comprised of three Centre-based Learning Modules and an optional 5-day Outdoor Journey, this program will introduce participants to the skills and foundational knowledge needed to begin their journey to become an outdoor leader, instructor, or facilitator.

Access vs. Intensive Format

We know that you have a busy life with many different responsibilities. So, in order to make this program more accessible, we are offering two different formats: Access or Intensive.

The Access format takes place at an urban or outdoor centre over the span of three separate pairs of days. Workshops are offered during the day and participants can return home each evening.

The Intensive format takes place at an outdoor centre where participants will live in shared accommodation for six days. All meals and accommodation will be provided in the Intensive format.

Centre-based Learning Workshops

Some additional workshops that you can look forward to include:

Group facilitation & experiential learning
risk management & decision making
trip planning
group development
interpretive skills
Environmental ethics
CENTRE-BASED LOCATION (ACCESS)

Heritage Hall Classroom, SAIT Campus, Calgary

CENTRE-BASED DATES (ACCESS)

[Closed for Registration]

  • Module 1: April 13-14, 2024
  • Module 2: April 27-28, 2024
  • Module 3: May 11-12, 2024

*Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

CENTRE-BASED LOCATION (INTENSIVE)

UofC Barrier Field Research Station, Kananaskis
*Note: Transportation will be provided from Calgary Airport.

CENTRE-BASED DATE (INTENSIVE)

September 6-11, 2024 [Closed for Registration]
*Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

Optional outdoor journey STARTING location

Outward Bound Canada Rockies Office, Canmore
*Note: Transportation will be provided from Calgary Airport.

Optional outdoor journey dates
  • Option 1: July 29-August 2, 2024 [Closed for Registration]
  • Option 2: August 12-16, 2024 [Closed for Registration]
  • Option 3: September 13-17, 2024 [Closed for Registration]

*Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

Activity

Hiking

Apply Now

Optional Outdoor Journey

Build your comfort in the outdoors with the breathtaking and world-renowned Rocky Mountains as your backdrop. During this outdoor journey, our highly seasoned and skilled professional guides will help you build your understanding of the outdoors and introduce you to new concepts related to terrain management, navigation, and group management.

By the end of this outdoor journey, you will feel comfortable building and embarking on your own introductory-level backcountry journeys, while also understanding what it takes to start bringing smaller groups out on trail with you.

Certifications

Entry-level Outdoor Leadership certifications will be a part of the Foundations level program. Depending on your region, these will include: the Outdoor Council of Canada Field Leader and/or Interpretative Guides Association Interpretive Specialist certificate.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Have a burning question? We probably have the answer for you! Check out our Frequently Asked Questions page to learn more.

See FAQ

Virtual Information Sessions

Join us for our next virtual informational session to learn all about our programs, certifications and ask any questions that you might have!

Coming Soon