Counsellor Process

1. Attend a Virtual Intro to ODS Counselling Session

Cheakamus Centre will host a Virtual Introductory Counsellor Presentation for Gr.10-12 students in September 2024 to share an overview of the program and answer any questions. This will happen at each of the NVSD high schools, and you will find out more information from your school in early September on how to join!

2. Fill out an online Application Form

We will begin accepting online applications from Gr.10-12 students in early September 2024, through the registration link at cheakamuscentre.ca/volunteer/counselling. Please ensure that all email addresses are filled in correctly with no spelling errors. If space is available, applications may be accepted throughout the school year.

2. Application Approval

All student applications will be vetted through your school’s counsellors prior to approval. Approval into the program is based on certain criteria such as attendance record, behaviour, and ability to manage academic responsibilities.

As we typically receive far more applications than spaces available for training, we use a lottery system to randomly select students to each training, taking into consideration their top choices (graduating grade 12's will have priority).

Because of this, unfortunately not everyone will be selected for a training. We encourage anyone not selected for whatever reason to re-apply the following school year.

3. Attend a Virtual Counsellor Training Orientation Session

Once registration is confirmed, we will contact you to confirm the dates of your Training Workshop and invite you to a Virtual Counsellor Training Orientation Session. This half-hour online session will happen after school shortly before the training weekend, and is designed to prepare you for a successful time at Cheakamus Centre. We will review packing lists, schedules, expectations, etc. and leave time for a Q & A.

4. Pay the training fee through School Cash Online

This fee helps to offset the cost it takes to train each counsellor (about $200 per student). If you require financial assistance, please contact your School Counsellor.

5. Submit the required forms to Cheakamus Centre admin by their required deadline

These forms will be sent to you upon registration, please scan and return to odsleaders@sd44.ca

6. Attend a Counsellor Training Workshop at Cheakamus Centre

During this training, you will learn invaluable skills on a wide range of subjects including group management, social-emotional wellness, campfire songs, activities, meal service, and overnight supervision. This training weekend is an excellent opportunity to make new friends with your fellow counsellors! Transportation to and from Cheakamus Centre will be provided, along with all meals on Saturday and Sunday, and a snack on Friday evening.

The three Counsellor Training dates for the 2024-2025 school year are as follows:

• Workshop 1: October 18-20, 2024 (Fri-Sun)
• Workshop 2: November 22-24, 2024 (Fri-Sun)
• Workshop 3: January 31-February 2 (Fri-Sun)

7. Select your Counselling Week(s)

After the training, you will receive an email with information about counselling dates and how to register. Please note that space is limited and so we ask that you provide 2-3 options to choose from. We prefer that students counsel no more than 2 times throughout the school year.