Ontario 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 takes place over the span of several groups of days while the Intensive format takes place over a series of consecutive days. All meals and accommodation will be provided during any overnight programming.
Centre-based Learning Workshops
In addition to the modules previously mentioned, some additional workshops that you can look forward to include:
ACCESS FORMAT LOCATION
Kinark Outdoor Centre, Minden
ACCESS FORMAT DATES
- Part 1: October 28-November 1, 2024
- Part 2: November 25-29, 2024
Application status will be confirmed the week of:
May 3, 2024
INTENSIVE FORMAT LOCATION
TBC
Intensive format date
April 30-May 30, 2024 (*includes Outdoor Journey)
Application status will be confirmed the week of:
January 29, 2024
outdoor journey location
TBC
outdoor journey dates
-
Option 1: February 10-15, 2024
Activity: Winter Camping
Application status will be confirmed the week of:
December 3, 2023 -
Option 2: May 7-23, 2024
Activity: TBC
Application status will be confirmed the week of:
January 29, 2024 -
Option 3: June 13-29, 2024
Activity: TBC
Application status will be confirmed the week of:
January 29, 2024
Activity
Whitewater Canoeing or Flatwater Canoeing

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 (80 hours) or Wilderness Advanced First Aid (40 hours)
- Paddle Canada or ORCKA Moving Water Skills
- Paddle Canada or ORCKA Lake Water Skills
- 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.
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 FAQVirtual 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