Nova Scotia Essentials Level Program


This program is geared towards individuals who already have some outdoor leadership experience or training and are looking to expand their current skill set with the intention of working in the outdoors. Upon the successful completion of this program, participants will also be able to participate in the Training Academy Mentorship Program to support their career goals for one year after the start of their program. Depending on prior experience, Essentials level participants may be eligible to pursue employment as an assistant or intern guide/instructor, including positions at Outward Bound Canada.

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 splits the program up into two sections over the course of some months and the Intensive format is a continuous model. All meals and accommodation will be provided during any overnight programming.

Centre-based Learning Workshops

Some additional workshops that you can look forward to include:

JUSTICE, EQUITY, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
TRAUMA-INFORMED OUTDOOR LEADERSHIP
INDIGENOUS LAND PERSPECTIVES
CRISIS INTERVENTION SCENARIOS
COACHING SKILLS
ENVIRONMENTAL LEADERSHIP
CENTRE-BASED LOCATION (INTENSIVE)

Tatamagouche Centre

CENTRE-BASED DATE (INTENSIVE)

[Closed for Registration]

April 18-29, 2024
*Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

outdoor journey STARTING location

Cape LaHave Adventures

outdoor journey dates
  • Option 1: May 4-18, 2024 [Closed for Registration]
  • Option 2: June 9-23, 2024 [Closed for Registration]

*Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis.

Activity

Sea Kayaking

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Outdoor Journey

This highly immersive and intensive portion of the program will include 4 days of Basecamp (packing, planning, orientation etc.) and 10-12 days of Outdoor Journey in the Canadian wilderness.

Outdoor Journeys at the Essentials level may involve long days of wilderness travel and lots of learning which will also include activities like camp setup; cooking; cleaning; group meetings; lessons and various other activities before retreating to your tent for the night.

Certifications

Through this program, participants will have the opportunity to pursue some of the following certifications, depending on their region:

  • Wilderness First Responder (WFR) (80 hours) or Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) (40 hours) 
  • Sea Kayak Guides Alliance Assistant Overnight Guide certification (AOG)
  • Outdoor Council of Canada Field Leader
  • Wilderness Mental Health First Aid (offered as an online module in the Spring and Fall)

*Please Note: WFR, Assistant Overnight Guide and Paddle Canada Advanced Skills or Instructor Courses are only available on a limited basis upon the completion of the Essentials level program, and are based on the individual’s need and career objectives.

View Certification Options

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