5-Day Field Leader Combo Course (Paddling, Overnight, Maps)
Paddling • Overnight • Maps & Mountain Travel
Dates: April 20–24
Location: Bow Valley & surrounding mountain environments
Certification Alignment: Outdoor Council of Canada Field Leader Modules
Course Overview
Join us for an immersive 5-day outdoor leadership training combining multiple OCC Field Leader modules into one progressive learning experience. This course builds essential competencies in paddling leadership, overnight expedition skills, navigation, and mountain travel while emphasizing group management, risk assessment, and decision-making in real field settings.
This course is designed for participants who have completed the OCC Hiking Field Leader course and are looking to expand their leadership scope across additional environments and certification modules.
Participants may register for the full combo course or individual modules where space permits.
Course Schedule & Pricing
April 20–21 — Paddling Module
Develop confidence and leadership in flatwater paddling environments.
Cost: Included in full course tuition
Focus areas
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Boat control and stroke efficiency
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Water safety and rescue awareness
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Trip planning and hazard management
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Communication and group leadership on water
April 22–23 — Overnight Module
Learn to plan and lead overnight backcountry experiences.
Cost: Included in full course tuition
Focus areas
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Expedition planning and logistics
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Campcraft and shelter systems
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Food planning and hygiene
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Leadership and decision making in overnight settings
April 24 — Maps & Mountain Travel Module (Non-Compass)
Build terrain awareness and mountain travel leadership skills.
Cost: Included in full course tuition
Focus areas
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Map interpretation and route planning
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Terrain features and travel efficiency
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Hazard recognition and group movement
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Leadership and adaptive decision making
⭐ Course Tuition
Full 5-Day Combo Course: $1,250 + GST
Tuition includes instruction, assessment, and applicable OCC Field Leader module certifications. A detailed list of inclusions and required personal equipment will be provided upon registration.
Who This Course Is For
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Graduates of the OCC Hiking Field Leader course
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Aspiring outdoor leaders and guides
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Individuals working toward expanded OCC Field Leader certification
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Youth, community, and recreation trip leaders seeking multi-environment leadership skills
Learning Outcomes
Participants will:
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Demonstrate foundational outdoor leadership competencies across environments
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Apply risk management strategies in paddling, overnight, and mountain settings
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Plan and lead multi-day outdoor trips
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Interpret maps and guide travel in mountain terrain
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Receive feedback and assessment aligned with OCC standards
Certification
Successful participants will receive certification in applicable OCC Field Leader modules based on demonstrated competencies and instructor evaluation.
Course Format
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Field-based experiential learning
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Leadership rotations and scenarios
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Skills coaching and peer feedback
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Ongoing assessment and mentoring
Prerequisites
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Completion of the OCC Hiking Field Leader course
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Comfort in outdoor environments and variable weather
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Ability to paddle and hike moderate distances
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Appropriate fitness for consecutive field days
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Current first aid recommended
Equipment
A detailed gear list will be provided. Participants should be prepared with:
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Personal paddling clothing and PFD (if available)
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Overnight camping equipment
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Weather-appropriate mountain clothing
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Notebook, map case, and field essentials
Registration Options
This training is offered as a single 5-day combo course to support continuity of learning and leadership assessment.
Safety & Risk Management
Participant safety is prioritized through:
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Qualified instructors
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Dynamic hazard assessment
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Emergency communication systems
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Instructor-to-participant ratios aligned with OCC standards
Weather & Contingency Planning
Mountain and water environments are dynamic. Locations or schedules may be adjusted to ensure safety and optimal learning conditions.
How to Register
To reserve your spot or request additional information, please contact:
kananaskisoutdoorleadercert@gmail.com
or leave a message at: 1 403-679-1572
