Esquimalt Youth Leadership Programs

Have you ever wanted to work at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre? The Youth Leadership Training Program is the first step in your leadership journey and a fantastic way to gain skills for future jobs and volunteer opportunities. During this week-long course, youth will develop key skills in:

• Customer service and professional communication
• Public speaking and confidence-building
• Behavior management and conflict resolution
• Extensive game and craft training to engage and inspire children and youth

Upon completing the Step 1 training week, graduates are required to complete an additional 40 volunteer hours throughout the summer. These hours can be completed across various program areas such as camps and special events, giving youth the opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn directly from our incredible team of staff mentors. 

Calling all Graduates of the Step 1 Esquimalt Youth Training Program! Come and undertake this second stage of our training program with your new arsenal of skills developed from step one. In Step 2 of the Youth Training Program, we will focus more on what it takes to acquire a job and succeed in this day and age’s workforce. 

Youth participants will:

• Learn how to craft effective resumes with personalized feedback from Youth Services Supervisor

• Practice STAR method interview and professional communication techniques

• Become Certified in Standard First Aid and CPR-C (16-hour course) 

• Gain access to exclusive volunteer opportunities at Esquimalt Recreation Centre

Completing Step 1 of the Esquimalt Youth Training Program is a prerequisite to attend this program. Please note that 100% attendance is required for this program.

Are you interested in spending your summer working with kids and making a difference in your Esquimalt community? Do you want to build leadership skills that will benefit you for years to come? The Esquimalt Youth Leadership Training Programs will support you on your journey of growth, helping you develop the skills and experience needed for future employment.

Join us for a meaningful, mentored volunteer placements where youth will gain hands-on experience in the exciting world of recreation. Throughout the summer, you’ll learn to lead and play engaging games, build confidence program planning and running activities for camps, and develop the essential skills needed to work in a supportive team setting. You’ll work closely with our Youth Leadership Supervisor and Summer Camp Leaders, who will support you every step of the way.

The Youth Leadership Training Program helps youth develop employability skills and experience for future careers in recreation, education, healthcare, social services, and so much more!

Participants may be placed at various Esquimalt summer camps, including outdoor playground camps, specialty camps, and recreation centre day camps. Flexibility is key—youth leadership training participants must be prepared to support programs at different locations based on community needs. Take the first step toward building your future while having fun, giving back, and making lifelong memories this summer with the Esquimalt Youth Leadership Training Program!

Those who have already completed the Youth Leadership Training Program must apply by May 31^st, 2026, and will be invited to meeting in early June with the Youth Services Supervisor. This process ensures fair opportunities due to the high demand for youth leadership placements last year.