The Leaders in Training (LIT) program is designed for youth 12-17 years old (must have completed Grade 7) who are looking to develop their leadership skills in a fun and positive environment.Â
The program provides opportunities to meet new friends, plan and implement games, as well as build meaningful relationships with participants and instructors. Through mentorship, training, and earning increased responsibility in a work-like environment; Leaders in Training will gain invaluable experiences, which will allow a head start in pursuing future leadership and employment endeavours.Â
The LIT Program operates during the months of July and August, with mandatory training at the end of June. Participants will have the opportunity to assist in three areas within the department of Recreation, Parks and Culture. These three areas are child/youth, performing arts and visual arts. They will assist in a variety of programs and participate in activities such as sports, active indoor/outdoor games, swimming, drama, arts and crafts.Â
Throughout the program, Leaders in Training have the opportunity to progress through levels 1, 2, 3 and 4. All participants will start the program at level 1. At the end of each summer, the LIT Coordinators will make recommendations on whether the LIT will move to the next level or repeat the same level the following year. Â
We follow this system to ensure that all individuals within the program can enjoy success and are given appropriate responsibility, consistent with their leadership development. We recognize that each participant develops their leadership skills at their own pace and we want to accommodate this in a positive and supportive environment.
Commit to a minimum of two, week-long assigned programs. Â
Plan and lead at least one game and one activity/craft per week with adequate support from an instructor. Â
Assist program instructors and demonstrate the skills, characteristics and abilities required to progress to Level 2.
Commit to a minimum of two week long assigned programs. Â
Plan and lead at least two games and one activity/craft per week with little support from an instructor. Â
Increased responsibility while assisting program instructors plus demonstrated skills, characteristics and abilities required to progress to Level 3.
Commit to a minimum of two week long assigned programs.Â
Plan and lead at least one game per day and two activities/crafts per week.Â
Mentor Levels 1 and 2 LIT participants.Â
Demonstrate the skills, characteristics and abilities required to progress to Level 4.Â
Commit to a minimum of two week long assigned programs.Â
Challenged to plan and lead half of the camp games, crafts and activities throughout the week.Â
Contribute to the instructor team as an equal and collaborate with the instructor team daily.Â
Mentor level 1, 2 and 3 LIT participants.Â
Leaders in Training will work in programs with a wide range of ages from 3.5 years to 12 years of age. LITs are scheduled with different age groups each week to offer a more well-rounded experience.
Summer programs are mostly full-day camps with some half-day options. All run Monday to Friday (with the exception of statutory holidays). LITs commit 80 hours to programs – this may be a blend of full-day and half-day camps. Full-day camps run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and half-day camps run from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Please note your scheduled weeks may not be back to back.
The expectation is that LITs arrive 15 minutes before the start time of the program and stay 15 minutes after so they are prepared to help set up, take down and debrief with the Instructors. This time also allows room to complete LIT evaluations.
Please specify this on your intake form if you are interested in participating for more than the required two-week commitment. The LIT Coordinators try to accommodate the interests of all LITs.
Training will take place in person over 2 days. Topics covered include child behaviour management, game facilitation, emergency procedures, program specific training, and more.
LITs can be involved with a variety of exciting opportunities in our programs. LITs often assist in facilitating sports, water games, active indoor/outdoor games, drama activities, arts and crafts. LITs will coordinate with the instructor to choose what activities they would like to facilitate.
Every LIT that successfully completes their two-week placement will receive a personalized letter of reference from the LIT Coordinators, a recommendation for what level they are to register in next summer, a certificate of completion, as well as a celebration recognizing their accomplishments.
This program is designed to help young people develop valuable leadership skills and confidence in their future endeavours. We encourage LITs to continue volunteering with Strathcona County as Assistant Instructors and to apply when opportunities are presented. Although we cannot guarantee a role with Strathcona County, many LITs complete additional training (NCCP, High Five, post-secondary education) and become successful candidates.
Yes. There are opportunities to assist in Youth registered programs throughout the rest of the year. LITs that volunteer with us in our year-round programs receive an honorarium for their hard work and dedication.
The Assistant Instructor Program
This program was developed to allow youth who have completed at least one summer of the LIT Program the opportunity to continue their leadership development throughout the year in youth registered programs. We offer a variety of activity-based programs that include skating, basketball, badminton, day camps and many more! As an assistant instructor, you would be expected to attend each class of the session and help with the supervision and facilitation of the program. This is a fantastic opportunity for you to gain hands on experience, as well as enhance your leadership skills.
Questions? Phone: 780-416-7271 Email: childyouth.programs@strathcona.ca
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Last updated: Tuesday, November 25, 2025 Page ID: 40935