by Jo Barnes –
“Management is doing things right; leadership is doing the right things” 1
Employers often look for staff with strong leadership skills – but how do you get leadership skills if you don’t have job experience?
The leadership training programs at Panorama Recreation provide youth with skills that will help them towards future education and job possibilities. “Many young people in our community are looking to develop skills which will benefit them as they move into adulthood or search for jobs,” says Jason Gray, Community Recreation Coordinator (Youth Programs).
The Youth & Teen Leadership Development Programs enable young people to be more independent and also care for others. Home Alone, for ages nine to 13, teaches the skills necessary to be safe and responsible when home alone. The course looks at problem prevention and handling real life situations. Babysitters Training for age 11 to 15 covers care for young children, safety skills, basic first aid and handling emergencies. Future Leaders for those ages 13 to 16 is a week-long course focusing on what is involved in being a camp leader.
“For the youth who participate and complete these programs, it adds depth and experience to their resumés,” says Gray.
The area of aquatics also provides excellent training. Many young people discover an affinity for swimming and water activity and are inspired to share this positive experience with others. Panorama offers courses that culminate in lifeguard and swim instructor designations. The program begins with Bronze Medallion and Bronze Cross (age 13+), followed by Standard First Aid (age 14+), National Lifeguard (age 16+) , and Water Safety Instructor (age 15+). Courses are programmed to allow individuals to complete everything in a summer or over a school year. As well as learning water safety, first aid, CPR-C and teaching techniques, participants build social and team skills and make close friends.
“The training enables high school and university students to be certified for what is considered a great part-time job that pays very well,” says Aquatic Coordinator Miko Heddle. “For those taking the instructor courses, all the skills can be applied to other activities and sports coaching.”
Panorama also offers the BCRPA fitness courses starting with the BCRPA Fitness Theory and Exercise Physiology course for age 15 or older. A Group Fitness Instructor designation involves completing the group fitness module and instructor competency evaluation. Those wanting to become a Personal Trainer need to complete a nine- to 12-month program including a weight training module, personal training module and instructor competency evaluations for both.
Real life experiences, valuable information and excellent guidance – the Panorama Leadership Training Programs help youth to build confidence, acquire the kind of skills employers seek, and become leaders in their community.
1http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/management.html.
