Take a hike course
Hike Nova Scotia offering workshops in Sydney
Hike Nova Scotia will offer workshops in Sydney on reconnecting with nature and how to be a hike leader.
“We want more people out there hiking,” Janet Barlow, Hike Nova Scotia executive director, said in a news release. “These courses and workshops give you the skills you need to have — and help others have — a safe and enjoyable experience.”
There will be a one-day, handson workshop in Sydney on June 2 held mostly outdoors. The aim of the reconnecting with nature workshop is to increase and strengthen the number adult leaders in Nova Scotia who can help children and youth to spend more time appreciating, understanding and acting for the natural world while being physically active in the outdoors.
The workshop audience is diverse and includes youth group leaders, recreation and camp staff, teachers, early childhood educators, parents and concerned citizens. The cost is $50 ($40 for members of Hike Nova Scotia). A reduced fee of $30 is available for parents not associated with an organization and for volunteer leaders working with youth and students. Registration includes a workshop manual and a one-year individual membership with Hike Nova Scotia (or $10 off other types of memberships).
A two-day course with a systematic approach to planning and managing a one-day hiking activity will take place June 3-4 in Sydney. This nationally recognized course will provide participants with Outdoor Council of Canada training in field leader hiking as well as the skills to organize and lead others in a one-day, educational or activitybased experience in a natural environment. The program is suitable for hiking club leaders, trail group volunteers, recreation department staff, teachers, 4H leaders, Scout and Guide leaders, parents or individuals interested in leading hikes. The course will be delivered by an certified instructor.
To be hiking leaders, participants should have some hiking experience and be able to participate in a low risk natural environment hike on a designated trail while carrying what they will need for the day outside. Participants are required to read a manual beforehand. Participants who successfully meet the course outcomes will earn Outdoor Council of Canada field leader hiking certification. The cost is $125 ($115 for members of Hike Nova Scotia). A reduced fee of $100 is available for Duke of Edinburgh leaders.
All participants must sign a waiver. Participants are responsible for their own accommodation, meals and transportation. Learn more and view the schedules and register at www.hikenovascotia.ca.