OCC Field Leader (Hiking)

The Outdoor Council of Canada (OCC) Field Leader Training is a nationally recognized outdoor leadership certification for people who work or volunteer in outdoor programs.

This course focuses on the roles and responsibilities of an outdoor leader operating in low-risk environments. You’ll learn how to create participant-centred experiences, manage both physical and emotional risk, and make sound decisions that support high-quality programming.

You’ll develop practical tools for planning, communication, collaboration, and supervision — all aimed at delivering safe, meaningful, and inclusive outdoor experiences.

What you’ll learn:

• Core roles and responsibilities of an outdoor field leader

• Principles of high-quality, low-risk outdoor programming

• How to balance physical safety with emotional safety

• Participant-centred leadership and inclusive decision-making

• Planning tools that support quality, safety, and learning

• Reflective practices that improve leadership over time

Who it’s for:

This training is for aspiring or current outdoor leaders, educators, guides, and volunteers working in low-risk terrain who want to strengthen their leadership and group management skills.