Program Overview
BC Care Providers Association is offering a Community Workforce Response Grant fully funded training opportunity, Therapeutic Recreation Assistant (TRA) – Gerontology Specialization Training, to 15 new TRAs in B.C.’s Cariboo, Thompson Okanagan, and Vancouver Island regions. Funding for this program is provided [in part] by the Government of Canada through the Canada–British Columbia Workforce Tariff Response. Students enrolled in the program will receive skills training by way of an industry recognized curriculum for TRAs, delivered in partnership with Stenberg College.
The program fully covers tuition costs and provides funding for additional training supports.
BCCPA has gained strong support for this initiative from several employers in each region. All participating employers have part-time or full-time positions available in their organizations. Following the completion of the skills training program, BCCPA will facilitate job connections between participating employers and program graduates.
The program will be delivered over the course of 38 weeks, including 32 weeks for theory, and 6 weeks for practice education. The theory component is delivered entirely online. In total, the entire program consists of 1094 hours of training.
CWRG Eligibility Criteria
Participants must:
- Must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or protected persons (as designated under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act) entitled to work in Canada.
- Residing in B.C.
- Have a Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Unemployed, or employed, including Full-time, Part-time, Seasonally, Casually, or Precariously
*Part-time is defined as those employed less than 30 hours per week.
**Precariously is defined as those who are employed but at risk of losing a job and in need of training for a new job.
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 proficiency requirements and provide proof of completion of Grade 11 English or higher
- Adequate computer proficiency skills
- Completion of a Criminal Record Consent Form under the Criminal Record Review Act
Key Dates
Pre-screening/interviews: Actively accepting applications.
Skills training dates:
- October 19, 2026 – July 19, 2027
How to Apply
We are currently accepting applications for applicants residing in the following regional communities:
- Cariboo: Prince George, Williams Lake
- Thompson Okanagan: Kamloops, Kelowna, Penticton, Salmon Arm, Vernon
- Vancouver Island: Qualicum Beach, Courtenay, Victoria
If you meet the minimum Eligibility Criteria & College Admissions Prerequisites, please register to attend one of the following info sessions to begin the application process:
- September 9, 2026 – 10:00 a.m. – REGISTER HERE
- September 10, 2026 – 4:00 p.m. – REGISTER HERE
General Enquiries
For general enquiries or assistance, please contact BCCPA Programs department:
Email: programs [at] bccare.ca
About Therapeutic Recreation Assistants
Learn More
Learn more about Stenberg College’s TRA Program here.
FAQs
Therapeutic Recreation addresses the whole person, focusing on their social, physical, emotional, cognitive and spiritual domains. The programs and leisure activities that Therapeutic Recreation Assistants design are evidence-based and outcome-focused. Most importantly, they are person-centred.
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.
The funding allows BCCPA to fully fund the Diploma tuition cost for participants, as well as provide an up to $3,000 in additional financial supports during training.
Students enrolled in the program will receive skills training by way of an industry recognized curriculum for TRAs.
In total, the entire program consists of 1094 hours of training.
As a TRA, you’ll find opportunities for employment in settings such as long-term care and assisted living.
While COVID-19 specific mandates have been lifted, students are still expected to comply with provincial Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) procedures at all times while in care settings. These measures are essential for maintaining a safe and healthy environment for everyone.
