THERAPEUTIC RECREATION ASSISTANT DIPLOMA (GERONTOLOGY)
PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Empowering Futures, Enriching Lives.
With our aging population, there is a rising call for compassionate professionals committed to enriching the lives of our seniors. The Therapeutic Recreation Assistant (TRA) Program recognizes the importance of promoting a vibrant life for seniors and offers you the opportunity to pursue a rewarding career.
Our TRA Diploma program meets the unique needs of our aging population. We aim to create professionals who support person-centred leisure pursuits and build meaningful connections that enhance the daily lives of our seniors.
What Sets Our Program Apart?
Join like-minded individuals who are passionate about making a difference. Our supportive learning environment ensures your success. We believe in nurturing professionals who will redefine the aging experience.
This TRA program is:
· Gerontology based, specializing in working with seniors, providing knowledge and skills designed to meet their unique needs. Today there are many jobs that demand this specialized training.
· Only offered in-person and provides the benefit of hands on experiential learning through practicums that prepare you for working in this field.
The course fee includes handouts/books ($175 value) and First Aid Certification. Extra costs include $28 for a Criminal Record Check.
PREREQUISITES
Students should meet all the following prerequisites before registering:
- Minimum English language proficiency equivalent to Grade 12 English in BC
- Minimum Education Level equal to Grade 12 in BC
- Proof of seasonal flu shot and TB test is required before practicum
GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
To graduate, students must meet all the following requirements:
- Minimum of 70% in each segment of the program
- Completion of all assignments, presentations and tests
- Successful completion of the practicum
FUTURE EMPLOYMENT
Graduates of the program will be able to find employment in long term care facilities, assisted living facilities, adult care centres, retirement homes and group homes.
PROGRAM CURRICULUM
- Interpersonal Communication
- Person Centred Care
- Introduction to Practice
- Introduction to Aging
- Dementia Theory
- Practical Approach to Dementia
- Lifestyle and Leisure Education
- Basic Program Facilitation / How to Lead an Activity
The program also includes:
- CareFit Theory (a physical activity program to improve mobility, strength and reduce risk of falls)
- Foodsafe Level 1
- First Aid & CPR-C certification
- Cracking the Dementia Code™ certification
- Books
The program includes 2 practicums. Practicum 1 takes place once per week and gives you an introduction to the TRA field and environment. The second practicum is 5 weeks of full time practicum. This gives you the opportunity to consolidate knowledge, skills and abilities so that you are confident and ready for work when you graduate.
STUDENT FEEDBACK
Why did you take the Therapeutic Recreation Aide (TRA) program?
After being a hairstylist for 20 years I was looking for a new career. As a hairstylist I had the pleasure of serving many seniors, some I saw every week. I loved the personal connection with them. I knew I wanted to work with the older adult population and I knew Therapeutic Recreation was the direction go. I learned that the course was offered through Burnaby Continuing Education and after researching all the available options in the lower mainland, I decided this program was going to be the best for me.
What doors opened for you after graduating from the TRA program?
While on my practicum placement, I was offered a position as a casual Recreation Assistant at an
Independent Retirement Residence in Burnaby called Sienna Senior Living’s Rideau Retirement Residence.
While working in that position, I also was hired by another organization in a permanent part time position in Long Term Care. My next desire was that I would one day be promoted into a managerial position. By working hard and taking some extra training, that dream also came true. I was recently promoted to Lifestyle Consultant, Recreation Manger for Rideau Retirement Residence. The organization was impressed with the knowledge I had obtained in my education and supported my goals of moving up within the organization. I think this was the best program for someone like me who was looking for an option that didn’t involve a 4 year degree and the financial and time commitment that comes with it. I was able to be trained and find employment in 6 months. I secured a permanent full time position with benefits and the job security to work until the end of my working career in a vocation that I find so much value in; both personally and professionally.
What did you like the most about the TRA program?
The instructors went above and beyond in helping us learn more about the day to day life of a Recreation Assistant, what to expect from employers dduring interviews, and how to tap into everything we had learned to provide the best possible quality of life for our Residents.