Here are two certifications and an award I’ve earned that are relevant to my teaching journey.
First Aid/CPR Instructor
I earned my First Aid/CPR Instructor certification through the Lifesaving Society in 2016. It was a challenging course that not only required me to be an expert in first aid, CPR, and using an automated external defibrillator, but it also had me teaching the processes and theory to adults and youth alike. However, it was an extremely fulfilling and exciting certification to achieve, and I’ve used it to certify countless people across British Columbia in a potentially lifesaving skill. The course taught me how to deliver both practical, hands-on content, as well as more traditional, textbook-driven material, which has been quite transferable to the Bachelor of Education program.
Lifesaving Instructor
I first received the Lifesaving Society’s Lifesaving Instructor certification in 2009, but continued recertifying it for a decade while I was a part of the aquatics industry. This certification allowed me to teach junior lifeguarding courses to youth and adults. These are dynamic courses that prepare people for the National Lifeguard certification — the gold-standard certification needed to be a lifeguard in Canada. Teaching these courses gave me great experience in a classroom-type environment, as students had to learn theory along with practical content. Whether it was standing in front of a class and whiteboard or in the pool demonstrating key rescue techniques, the experience as a Lifesaving Instructor helped prepare me for my current path.
2018 Teaching Recognition Award – Lifesaving Society
In 2019, I received a Teaching Recognition Award from the Lifesaving Society for the year prior. I certified the highest number of first aid candidates in the Thompson/Okanagan area as a new instructor. Earning the reward was a big moment for me — it felt great to receive recognition for my hard work as an educator, especially in a very competitive space. Some of my best memories as an educator have been teaching first aid to lifeguards and City of Kamloops employees, and this award will always remind me of that!