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TRA Training Program

Program Overview

BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA) is seeking to train Therapeutic Recreation Assistants (TRAs) in B.C. by way of an industry recognized curriculum for TRAs, delivered in partnership with Stenberg College. 1,2

The program will be delivered over the course of 47 weeks, including 40 weeks for theory, and 7 weeks for practice education. The theory component is delivered entirely online. In total, the entire program consists of 1336 hours of training.

1The TRA Training Program opportunity is subject to funding availability. 

2As a rural/remote focused project, preference will be given to those applicants residing outside of the Lower Mainland. All applicants are welcome to apply and encouraged to submit an expression of interest by completing the intake form. Applicants are also encouraged to contact Stenberg College directly.

Subject to funding, BCCPA will cover the entire cost of tuition for participants, as well as provide additional training supports.

About Therapeutic Recreation Assistants

Eligibility Criteria

Participants must:

    • be Canadian citizens, permanent residents or protected persons entitled to work in Canada and living in B.C.;
    • be in possession of a valid Social Insurance Number (SIN);
  • be currently unemployed, precariously employed*, or employed** but requiring upskilling or training to prepare for changing job requirements or new opportunities;
  • have not participated in any other funded training projects in the last 12 months or be currently enrolled in any other federally or provincially funded training programs at the start of this project; and
  • be ready and capable of participating in the project.

*Refers to those who are currently employed (includes full-time, part-time, seasonal or casual employees) but at risk of losing their job and in need of training for a new job.

**Refers to those who are currently employed (includes full-time, part-time, seasonal or casual employees) but require upskilling or training to prepare for changing job requirements or new opportunities.

***As a rural/remote focused project, preference will be given to those applicants residing and seeking employment outside of the Lower Mainland.

Stenberg College Admissions Prerequisites

The above are the minimum eligibility requirements potential participants must meet before moving forward with the application process.

Additional admission requirements are set by Stenberg College in line with their standard admission prerequisites, including:

  • Grade 12 graduation or mature student status (19+)
  • Meet English language competency requirements:
    • Proof of completion of Grade 12 English or equivalent for native speakers
    • Proof of standardized English language assessment test for non-native speakers
  • Completion of a Criminal Record Consent Form under the Criminal Record Review Act

How to Apply1,2

If you meet the minimum eligibility & Stenberg College admissions requirements, please complete BCCPA’s intake request form and we will contact you if future opportunities become available.

1The TRA Training Program opportunity is subject to funding availability.

2As a rural/remote focused project, preference will be given to those applicants residing outside of the Lower Mainland. All applicants are welcome to apply and encouraged to submit an expression of interest by completing the intake form. Applicants are also encouraged to contact Stenberg College directly.

Learn More

Learn more about Stenberg College’s TRA Program here.

FAQs

BCCPA has obtained funding to train TRAs in regions across the province through the TRA Diploma Program at Stenberg College.

The funding allows BCCPA to subsidize cost of tuition for participants, as well as provide additional financial supports during training.

Students enrolled in the program will receive skills training by way of an industry recognized curriculum for TRAs.
TRAs develop, facilitate and measure programming for older adults. Through their role, TRAs promote health, increase self-esteem, increase enjoyment and life satisfaction and develop personal independence through leisure education, client interventions, community development, partnership, physical activity and fall prevention.

By using a person-centred approach, TRAs assist each individual in pursuing past recreational and leisure activities while also learning new ones. TRAs enhance older adults' quality of life while maintaining their independence and wellbeing. This is a career for well-trained, passionate and caring individuals who want to make a difference in older adults’ lives.

Becoming a TRA can be a great career choice for internationally educated health care professionals, or care aides who want something more creative or less physical.

Learn more about Stenberg College’s TRA Program here.
We understand these are challenging times for everyone. BCCPA and Stenberg College are working hard to ensure that students are set up for success during COVID-19.

The theory component is delivered entirely online. The practical component of the program will be conducted in-person at participating care homes that remain outbreak free.

Students are expected at all times to comply with Provincial Health Orders related to COVID-19, and to follow all infection prevention and control procedures while in care settings (such as wearing PPE, staying home while sick, etc.).
Due to current orders mandated by B.C. health officials, all students entering the TRA Training Program will be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19, except where a permitted medical reason exists**. As clinical will take place in long-term care and assisted living settings, this mandate protects students, staff, families, and vulnerable residents in care.

*If you are not yet fully vaccinated but intend to meet this requirement, please consult Stenberg College for deadlines on meeting this pre-requisite.
**Medical exemptions are determined by B.C. Health Officials and BCCPA cannot guarantee any exemptions will be made. Learn more about scope of medical exemptions here.

Last updated: November 15, 2021
The TRA Training Program is 25 hours/week (plus homework assignments), and will be delivered over the course of 47 weeks, including 40 weeks for theory, and 7 weeks for practice education. The theory component is delivered entirely online.

In total, the entire program consists of 1336 hours of training.
Through the onset and completion of the program and finding employment in the field, grant recipients will share their participant success story, which will be published to highlight how the program has benefitted them. Further, students will be expected to complete a mid-term program evaluation and final student outcomes survey.

Depending on the funding source, a Return of Service Agreement may be required by the supporting practicum host employer.
As a grant recipient, you will receive financial support for skills training and other eligible financial supports, to help eliminate any barriers and support your success in the program.

In addition to full tuition coverage, up to $5,000 in funds will be granted to each participant towards other financial supports for costs incurred from participation in the program, such as such as childcare, transportation and other training-related expenses.
Older adults are the fastest-growing age group in Canada, resulting in an urgent and growing need for professionals who can support and promote optimal health for this generation.

As a TRA, you’ll find opportunities for employment in:
- Long-term care
- Assisted living
- Community & senior centres
- Adult day centres
- Rehabilitation centres