British Columbia 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 become an outdoor leader, teacher, 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 in an urban setting 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 4-6 participants will live in shared cabin-style dorms for six days. All meals and accommodation will be provided in the Intensive format.

Centre-based Learning Workshops

In addition to the modules previously mentioned, 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
ACCESS FORMAT LOCATION

TBC

ACCESS FORMAT DATES
  • Part 1: March 9-10, 2024
  • Part 2: March 23-24, 2024
  • Part 3: April 6-7, 2024

Application status will be confirmed the week of:
December 3, 2023

INTENSIVE FORMAT LOCATION

TBC

Intensive format date

September 9-14, 2024
Application status will be confirmed the week of:
May 3, 2024

Optional outdoor journey location

Camp Gilwell, Courtenay

Optional outdoor journey dates
  • Option 1: June 24-28, 2024
    Application status will be confirmed the week of:
    January 29, 2024
  • Option 2: September 16-20, 2024
    Application status will be confirmed the week of:
    May 3, 2024
Activity

Sea Kayaking

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Optional Outdoor Journey

The Training Academy’s optional Outdoor Journeys will provide participants with direct, hands-on experience in wilderness travel and are intended for those interested in pursuing a career in Trip Leadership or Guiding.

Shorter than the Essentials level Journey, participants can expect to spend some days travelling between backcountry campsites, while on other days taking day trips. Activity focus will depend on the region.

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!

Join us December 13, 2023