Why Langara

Mentorship program

Dylan Myers, Acting Emergency Support Services Chief Deputy, City of New Westminster

I graduated from the BRM in 2020. I have always been passionate about recreation and had wanted to change my career path, as I currently work in Engineering Services for the City of New Westminster. I am fortunate to have a great mentor in Steve Kellock who was a graduate of the Bachelor of Recreation Management and empowered me to take the program in 2017. The online format allowed me to complete my degree while working full-time and still be able to fulfill my volunteer commitments.

My fondest memory of Langara was the faculty and how they treated me and my classmates. Since I joined the program in 2017, I had lost my grandmother and had both my parents diagnosed with cancer. The Recreation Studies Department at Langara was extremely empathetic and supported me through one of the most difficult times of my life. I could not have achieved my professional and academic goals, without their leadership throughout my time at Langara.

I am currently the Acting Superintendent of Street Use Enforcement, Parking & Animal Services for the City of New Westminster. I am also actively involved in my community, as I volunteer for St John Ambulance, Honour House Society and Emergency Support Services.

I am currently completing a Diploma in Local Government Management and I am exploring Master programs in leadership and/or public administration disciplines. I strongly feel Langara has given me the skills to succeed in the next level of my academic endeavors.

Professionally, I have always loved the dynamics of the public sector and with my education and experience, I hope to one day be a Director of Parks & Recreation. I feel this would give me a platform to empower leaders in the parks and recreation sector, as well as provide high-quality service to the community.

I have a strong passion for mentorship and have recently started a non-profit called Evolve You that focuses on personal development in health and wellness. I hope to use my experience and education from Langara to empower the next generation of leaders, as well as provide support and education for a variety of demographics.

Contact: dmyers@newwestcity.ca

Heather Nivison, Program Manager, Vancouver Lawn Tennis and Badminton Club

I am 2014 BRM graduate! Prior to deciding to further my career in recreation, I worked for 8 years in the fitness industry as a fitness coordinator, instructor, and personal trainer.

I found the BRM program extremely flexible, and well rounded. I highly recommend the BRM to those seeking supervisory and management positions in the recreation field.

After completing the BRM I accepted the position as the Programs Manager at the Vancouver Lawn Tennis & Badminton Club- one of Vancouver’s oldest and most prestigious private racquets/social clubs.  This job includes managing the fitness and aquatics programs, acting as a liaison between the tennis, squash, and badminton professionals, overseeing the sport shop operations, and managing all tournaments and special events.

Please feel free to contact me if you would like insight or support from a BRM graduate.

Contact: hnivison@vanlawn.com

Jeremy Quan, Recreation Programmer, Douglas Park Community Centre and Hillcrest Centre

I graduated from Langara’s Bachelor of Recreation Management in 2012 and Recreation Leadership in 2010 – taking these programs was the best decision for my career in the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation. Like many young and eager recreation workers in the Vancouver Parks Board, I started off as a Youth Leader; coincidently, it was the same week I entered the Recreation Leadership program.  It was an amazing opportunity to apply school learnings to the workplace, and take applicable examples from the workplace to school; as the teaching modules got more complex, my ability to take on more tasks and roles quickly followed.  With my graduation into the Recreation Management program, because of its online design, I was able to spend more time at the community centre, honing the skills and experiences that are essential to excel in the organization. In addition, I enjoyed the online discussions with other like-minded students which allowed me to open my mind to new ideas and best practices. At the same time, though, I enjoyed a classroom setting and was able to have the option of taking some of my courses on campus.  I appreciated the flexibility of the program, and easily graduated within two years while maintaining a healthy and balanced work life, social life and sports schedule.

Currently, I am one of the Recreation Programmer IIs at the Roundhouse Community Arts and Recreation Centre, and I could not have done it without my education at Langara.  Recreation professionals trust and seek those from the program – I have had the pleasure of working not only at the Roundhouse Community Centre, but also Douglas Park, Hillcrest, Coal Harbour, Kitsilano, Champlain Heights, Strathcona and Trout Lake Community Centres.    

On my spare time, I embody recreation and leisure.  I am an avid outdoorsman (hunting and fishing), I play ultimate, ride my bicycle, dabble in photography, play the cello, and most importantly, I’m slowly trying to travel to every continent.  I believe that being a well-rounded individual, when it comes to investing in myself, transfers positive energy to my working life.

If you have any questions, please feel free to shoot me an email. I am always open to chat, and want nothing but success for those who take on the challenge of Recreation Management at Langara!

Contact: Jeremy.Quan@vancouver.ca

Jaimie Brown, Facility and Program Supervisor, Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre

I graduated from the Bachelor of Recreation Management program at Langara in 2012 and was the recipient of the Graduate Excellence Award.

Since 1998, I have had the pleasure of working for the North Vancouver Recreation and Culture Commission (NVRC) where I get to make a difference in the community I live in, every day. Having worked in a wide variety of roles and facilities for NVRC I enjoy working closely with community members of all ages and backgrounds to develop and implement programs and services that reflect the diverse needs and interests of the community.

I currently work as the Facility and Program Supervisor at Harry Jerome Community Recreation Centre in North Vancouver, where I recently hosted an Internship student from the Recreation Leadership Diploma program.

I am a passionate supporter of the recreation field and look forward to connecting with, and continuing to learn from current and future students in the BRM.

If you have any questions about the BRM or working in the Recreation field, please feel free to contact me!

Contact: BrownJ@nvrc.ca

Matt Bains, Youth Leader and Recreation Leader Attendant, New West Youth Centre and Queensborough Community Centre

Thinking back to when I graduated high school and asked myself the age-old question, “so, what now”? I remember feeling a great deal of uncertainty about which career path to embark on. I had next to no idea of what I wanted to study, so obtaining a degree seemed far out of reach for me; however, thanks to a mentor of mine at the time, I discovered Langara’s Recreation programs and never looked back! Over the years, I worked my way through the Recreation Leadership Diploma Program, and after graduating this, jumped straight into the Bachelor of Recreation Management Program. By no means was this an easy journey (those visitations and DQ’s though), but thanks to the support of some truly amazing Instructors, great classroom communities (both online and offline), and having a strong passion for recreation, I was able to graduate the BRM this past June... Huzzah! Looking back on these years, a few things I am most proud of are receiving a scholarship for excellence in youth work, being filmed as “one of the faces" for our department's promotional videos, and all of the wonderful relationships I formed with classmates and instructors along the way!

Professionally, I currently "wear a number of hats”. My main gigs are with the City of New Westminster as a Youth Worker and Recreation Leader, and on the side, I am a rink rat for the City of Richmond where I work in their arenas as an Ice Leader and Skate Shop Attendant. I have planned special events, coordinated volunteers, led exciting programs, and skated around in a Snoopy costume just to name a few things. Some recent highlights include helping run a satellite youth centre as part of Rogers Hometown Hockey New West, sitting on a committee that is helping bring a new skate park to New West, and being a positive role model for the youths I work with. Although I may not have a full-time position (yet), I enjoy the work I do and the flexibility that comes with working auxiliary positions. It is this flexibility that will allow me to travel and see the world, which is what I currently have my sights set on doing before I settle down into a full-time career.

Personally, when I am not cycling all over Metro Vancouver, I spare for a few hockey teams and practice power yoga once in a while. I also dragon boat in the spring and summer months and enjoy cooking and watching Top Gear (the original one) in my spare time. Since finishing school (for now), I have been looking for new ways to challenge myself so I do not get too comfortable with life. Something I did recently was complete the GranFondo Whistler, a 122km (mostly uphill) bike ride from Stanley Park to Whistler. Next up is a one-month trip to Costa Rica to volunteer as a P.E. teacher as part of a sports education project.

After my awesome experience with Langara’s Rec programs, I find myself in a position where I want to give back to a department that has been so good to me. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns about balancing work and school, time management, what to expect with some courses, etc. - I will do my best to help you out!

Contact: matthewbains92@gmail.com

Tara Nazemi, Community Engagement Specialist, City of Vancouver

I want to live in a world where recreation is synonymous with arts and culture, emails are face to face, chocolate is free, and dogs at work is the norm.

As a recreation diploma and BRM graduate I feel fortunate to have learned from such dedicated and passionate instructors at Langara, in addition to meeting some great Recie friends along the way. I currently work for the City of Vancouver as a Community Engagement Specialist at Vancouver Civic Theatres. My education and career path have not always been straight forward and clear, which is why I’m eager to act as a mentor and share my experiences in hopes of helping others through their education and career paths.

When I’m not dancing, watching movies, reading, or hiking with my dog, I keep busy with diverse work projects. Everything from city wide events and initiatives, centre based programs, to the Grey Cup half time show or the FIFA Women's World Cup closing ceremonies. My background in theatre, dance, film, and non-profit organizations has proved to be an asset in my recreation career thus far.

I encourage people to think about all the moments in their life where they felt lost in time, gaining skills, feeling especially human and joyous, and tell them that is recreation. Finding ways in which to foster those moments and improve quality of life, that’s what our job is all about.

I’m happy to answer any of your questions, including top 10 best hikes, movies, and food places in town….oh and of course questions about the program and career paths.

Contact: taranazemi@hotmail.com

Internship

In their final semester, students choose their own internship placement with an agency, either from a list of placements available, or they negotiate their own.

Internship is a valuable exercise that allows students to put theoretical knowledge and classroom learning into practical experience. The placements are 14 weeks in length, and take place in a variety of agencies and settings.

Examples of organizations who have hosted interns in the past include:

  • Provincial Sports Organizations (Sport BC, Pacific Sport)
  • Municipal Recreation (Surrey Sport & Leisure, Trout Lake Community Centre)
  • Entrepreneurial Businesses (LifeWorks, RecGroup.ca)
  • Not-for-Profit Organizations (Heart & Stroke Foundation, BC Disability Sports)
  • Rehabilitation Centres (GF Strong, Sunny Hill Centre)
  • Private Clubs (Arbutus Club, Shaughnessy Golf & Country Club)
  • Public / Private Partnership Organizations (Planet Ice, Canlan Ice Sports)
  • School Districts (Bayview Community School, Windermere Secondary)
  • Language Schools (Bodwell College)
  • Neighbourhood Houses (Augustine House, South Vancouver Neighbourhood House)

Internship postings

Internship postings 2024: Thank you to all the agencies that have applied for a Recreation Leadership Internship Student in August 2024. Our next intake will be August 2025.

Squash BC

4867 Ontario Street, Vancouver, BC  V5V 3H4

Main contact: Joshua Heuving
Phone: 604-737-3084 | 226-973-8210
Email: josh@squashbc.com
Website: squashbc.com

Description

Squash BC is the non-profit Provincial Governing Body for the sport of squash in British Columbia. We provide the leadership and direction for the growth and development of the sport. We do this through the oversight and delivery of programs and events (including tournaments, grassroots initiatives, coaching/officiating, and more), the provision of services, and advocacy for our sport. We also oversee more than 30 member facilities and over 2000 individual members.

Position

As part of a small but passionate Squash BC team, our Sport Development Intern will get to be involved in almost all aspects of our organization. They will work directly with our Sport Development Manager to complete all required organizational learnings and internship projects. They will also get to work with our Executive Director and Member Service Coordinator on specific activities. Our office offers flexibility on an intern's project work, so interested candidates are welcome to propose areas of interest to focus on. However, this year we intend to have the Sport Development Intern focus on our Post-Secondary Program and Post-Secondary Championships as their Program Development and Special Event projects, respectively. We aim to provide the best possible experience for our Sport Development Intern, so if our selected candidate has preferred areas of interest for development, we can focus more on those throughout the semester.

BC Rugby Union

2015 Main St, Vancouver, BC  V5T 0J8

Main contact: Noah Pryce-Baff
Phone: 604-737-3065 | 604-882-3039
Email: npryce-baff@bcrugby.com
Website: bcrugby.com

Description

BC Rugby is the governing body for the sport of rugby in BC. We are a Not-For-Profit organisation with over 8,000 registered members and 64 clubs throughout BC. Our purpose is to grow, develop and manage the sport of rugby throughout BC ensuring our sport is inclusive and welcoming for all. We run numerous events, competitions and programs throughout the year which support the growth and development of our sport.

Position

As part of a small team, our intern will get to be involved in almost all aspects of our organization. They will work directly with our Director of Community Rugby to complete all required organizational learnings and internship projects. They will also get to work with other team members to execute specific projects and activities related to our High Performance program, Competitions and Events. Our office offers flexibility on an intern's project work, but the intern will focus on the HSBC Canada Sevens and supporting the various activities around this, as well as our Rugby in Schools and Senior Clubs Final Championships. As a member of our small and committed team, there will be lots of opportunities to experience different aspects of the organisation. We aim to provide the best possible experience for our intern, so if our selected candidate has preferred areas of interest, we can focus more on those throughout the semester.

UBC Aquatic Centre

6080 Student Union Blvd, Vancouver, BC  V6T 1Z1

Main contact: Adrian Greszata
Phone: 604-822-2033
Email: adrian.greszata@ubc.ca
Website: recreation.ubc.ca/aquatics

Description

The UBC Aquatic Centre is a state-of-the-art facility that serves athletic training, competition, and neighbourhood leisure needs. The facility services campus, community, and competition. The UBC Aquatic Centre is home to the UBC Thunderbirds and High Performance Centre of Vancouver. It services community needs through swim lessons for children to adults, daycamps, aquafitness, certification courses, community and recreational swims. The UBC Aquatic Centre is part of UBC Athletics & Recreation. Athletics & Recreation (A&R) is a department within the VP Students portfolio, with a strong focus on creating an exceptional UBC student experience. The A&R Department has a team of approximately 100 employees, and is led by a strong cross-unit management team. It services over 20,000 students through recreational programming, 24 varsity teams, 17 competitive club teams, along with thousands of members of the UBC community.

Position
  • Support the Program Manager in designing, implementing and marketing swim lessons, aquafitness and certification courses.
  • Support Spring Break Day Camp Programs and support in leading a team of staff.
  • Develop customer service and public relations skills including front desk operations.
  • Learn about facility programming/scheduling, staff scheduling, and facility maintenance.
  • Develop event management skills through assisting in community events, promotions, time trials and larger swim competitions.
  • Provide support to the administrative team, including: responding to email inquiries, providing registration support, checking in guests for programs and utilizing a new registration software.
  • Liaising with other departmental colleagues and learning to network through UBC Recreation.
  • Develop budgeting, forecasting and planning skills.
BCRPA - BC Recreation and Parks Association

200 - 475 W Georgia St, Vancouver, BC  V6B 4M9

Main contact: Paula Becerra
Phone: 604-629-0965, ext: 227
Email: pbecerra@bcrpa.bc.ca
Website: bcrpa.bc.ca

Description

British Columbia Recreation and Parks Association (BCRPA) is a not-for-profit organization that plays a central role in leading the enrichment and improvement of the quality of life of British Columbians and their communities. We do this by championing the power of recreation and parks. Ours is a story of creating community connectedness and individual well-being based on the knowledge and recognition that recreation and active living, as well as access to parks and the natural environment, have significant impacts on our physical and mental health. Since 1958, we have provided leadership, training and support, fostering the principles of accessibility and inclusiveness, to help our members meet provincial and local health and physical activity priorities.

Position

The Education & Events Internship position will provide administrative support to all departments of the organization to ensure efficient operations. The role will be primarily responsible for assisting in the administration and delivery of two of our annual provincial conferences: Parks Professional Pathways, and BCRPA’s Symposium. The student will also be responsible for providing administrative and event planning support to our BCRPA’s professional development courses and initiatives in the areas of aquatics, parks, childhood education, playgrounds, inclusion, and risk management. This position offers a hybrid working with the expectation of 2-3 days per week in office including Wednesdays.

Position responsibilities include:
  1. Education and Initiatives Events (80%)
    • Support the logistics in preparation for BCRPA’s Annual Symposium and Parks Professional Pathways Conference.
    • Support the administration and logistics of volunteer recruitment for both conferences.
    • Support the administration of updating Parks Professional Pathways Conference with live registration data.
    • Assist with the administrative needs of BCRPA tradeshows across both events.
    • Assist with the administrative logistics and onsite production for both days of the Parks Professional Pathways Conference, Feb 26 – 27, 2025 in Langley. Education and initiatives department support.
    • Support the administration of training courses such as HIGH FIVE®, PoolSafeBC and Pool Operator Course, including data entry and ensuring course materials are sent and received in time.
    • Provide administrative and resource assistance to workshop hosts and course facilities.
  2. Office Administration (10%)
    • Respond to general inquiries in-person and by phone and email.
    • Assist with coordinating staff activities (social events, internal meetings).
  3. System Coordination (10%)
    • Generate basic statistical and analytical reports related to membership and event registration.
    • Other related duties as assigned.
Required skills and knowledge:
  • Proven high-level administrative skills with impeccable attention to detail.
  • Ability to handle multiple priorities in a busy office environment during periods of high work volume.
  • High degree of resourcefulness, ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Proven ability to administer, implement, promote and evaluate a variety of training programs.
  • Excellent interpersonal, organizational, and communication skills.
  • Proven ability to develop and maintain effective cooperative relationships.
  • Strong computer skills (Microsoft Office).
  • Professional, friendly, and highly motivated team player with a positive attitude.
  • Conference planning experience an asset.
South Granville Seniors Centre

1420 W 12th Ave, Vancouver, BC  V6H 1M8

Main contact: Danna Garcia Wigueras
Phone: 604-732-0812
Email: dannag@southgranvilleseniors.ca
Website: southgranvilleseniors.ca, facebook.com/SouthGranvilleSeniorsCentre

Description

In the heart of the South Granville community, located in the basement of the Trinity Anglican Church, lies the South Granville Seniors Centre (SGSC), a “home away from home” for many seniors in the neighbourhood. Founded in 1979, (Incorporated in 1983 as the South Granville Seniors Friendship Centre Society) the SGSC is an independent, non-profit/charity, and drop-in community centre aimed at improving the wellbeing and quality of life for seniors—many of whom are low income and socially isolated—in the Fairview district. This includes the South Granville neighbourhood, and several of the surrounding communities. Serving over 1500 seniors, including our 450 members, the SGSC is well-known as a welcoming, inclusive, and vibrant space for seniors (ages 55+) of all backgrounds, and is committed to the principles of multiculturalism and strives to stay responsive to the interests of our diverse membership. Offering programs and services that promote health, well-being, and independent lifestyles for seniors in the Fairview district, the SGSC has become integral to the lives of seniors in South Granville

Position
  • Program - Digital Literacy. In this program, one-on-one digital literacy support is provided to seniors who are learning how to use laptops, tablets, smartphones, e-readers, and more. Their inquiries are usually quite simple, for example, how to attach a photo to an email. Sessions are 45 minutes in length.
  • Program - 12th Avenue Cafe. The 12th Avenue Cafe provides members with an opportunity to socialize with each other, volunteers, and staff. Coffee, tea, and cookies are provided.
  • Program - Communications, Creation of digital material to promote our social networks. Create digital material using different platforms (Canva & Publisher) to promote our events in different social networks.
Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities

1088 208th Street, Langley, BC, V2Z 1T4

Main contact: Michelle Ingall
Phone: 604-530-8717, ext. 103
Email: mingall@prda.ca
Website: prda.ca

Description

Pacific Riding for Developing Abilities (PRDA) is Canada's largest recreational therapeutic horseback riding and equestrian centre for children and adults with a wide range of diversities. Through equestrian therapies, PRDA strives to enhance the lives of individuals using horses as our partners in recreation to provide countless benefits, including physical, cognitive and psychological. Our clients include those with autism, Down syndrome, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, visual and/or hearing impairment, neurological conditions and mental health challenges.

Position

Interns will get the opportunity to experience all facets of therapeutic recreation and its benefits. Working directly with people of all abilities, interns will gain valuable knowledge in recreation therapy and how it contributes to our clients' physical, cognitive and psychological well-being. No previous horse experience is necessary, as we will train interns in the safe handling of horses and they will not be asked to do anything they are uncomfortable with. Additionally, no previous experience with people with diversities is required; just an open mind and a positive attitude.

SD35 - Langley

26850 29th Ave, Aldergrove, BC  V4W 3C1

Main contact: Stephanie Eby
Phone: 604-862-5943
Email: seby@sd35.bc.ca
Website: sd35.bc.ca

Description

Community Schools are a unique intersection of community recreation and education. They allow schools to meet children where they are at and help eliminate family/student barriers to achieving educational and life success. Aldergrove is one of the two community school models in Langley. Servicing 4 schools within a family of schools to provide out of school programs, resource navigator, enhanced student support, foods programs.

Position

Primarily your role will be helping with the organization and/or implementation of out of school programs. Tasks could include: planning a program/camp, facilitating friendship groups afterschool, donation collection/distribution, system creation, data collection. All roles can be assigned based on interest and skill set. Hours are flexible but ideally would include after school hours.

BNH - Burnaby Neighbourhood House

4460 Beresford Street (and/or 2055 Rosser Avenue), Burnaby, BC  V5H 0B8

Main contact: Janice Ho
Phone: 604-431-0400 | 604-838-2231
Email: janiceh@burnabynh.ca
Website: burnabynh.ca

Description

BNH enables people to enhance their lives and strengthen their community. We work with our communities to develop innovative programs and services that meet the changing needs of a diverse population.

Position

Work with the Community Engagement team in a variety of programs, services, and events at our main locations. Work with a variety of people from 0-99 years old, and a range of different backgrounds and languages. Gain experience in community development and program/event support.

JCC - Jewish Community Centre of Vancouver

950 W 41st Ave, Vancouver, BC  V5Z 2N7

Main contact: Kyle Berger
Phone: 604-638-7286 | 604-780-1435
Email: kyle@jccgv.bc.ca
Website: jccgv.com

Description

Full-service, member-based community and recreation centre with vast programming, fitness, atheltics, sports leagues, and high-end special events. We share Jewish culture with anyone interested.

Position

Working with the fitness and recreation department on daily operations, special events, community celebrations and more.

Marpole-Oakridge Community Centre

990 West 59th Ave, Vancouver, BC  V6P 1X9

Main contact: Kari Ward
Phone: 604-257-8175
Email: kari.ward@vancouver.ca
Website: marpoleoakridge.org

Description

Community centre jointly operated by the Vancouver Park Board and Marpole Community Centre Association. Offer a variety of programs and services for all ages.

Position

We can be flexible: focus on youth, childrens, adults or seniors services. Lots of opportunities depending on interests and strength of student. Hosting a family day event Feb 15, 2025, Spring Break Daycamps. Pre-teen club.

Trout Lake Community Centre

3360 Victoria Drive, Vancouver, BC  V5N 4M4

Main contact: Margo Dunnet
Phone: 604-257-6960
Email: margo.dunnet@vancouver.ca
Website: troutlakecc.com

Description 

The Trout Lake Community Centre (TLCC) is a vibrant hub where community gathers to enjoy a creative and responsive range of recreational activities in a spectacular location. TLCC is collaboratively operated by the Vancouver Board of Parks and Recreation and the Trout Lake Community Centre Association.

Position

The Intern will support the centre's operations while learning about all facets of working in the centre: Program services, financial management, marketing, volunteering, and community development.

City of New Westminster

511 Royal Ave, New Westminster, BC  V3L 1H9

Main contact: Ryan Weber
Phone: 604-777-5101
Email: rweber@newwestcity.ca
Website: newwestcity.ca/parks-and-recreation

Description

The City of New Westminster Parks and Recreation department strives to provide unique and worthwhile recreation and leisure opportunities to those in our immediate and regional communities. Through both the indoor and outdoor amenities our beautiful city provides, focusing our efforts on equitable and welcoming environments, programs, and services.

Position

Our Parks and Recreation department has the ability to provide a dynamic and diverse opportunity for any potential student. Providing an array of experiences that include – but not limited to – special projects, programming management, facility operation, special event execution, customer service response, team management, aquatic and arena services, as well as Senior and/or Youth specific services. In consultation with a prospective internship student, we would work to tailor the most positive and mutually beneficial experience for any individual seeking to complete their post-secondary education pursuits with our amazing team.

City of Burnaby

2301 - 3713 Kensington Ave, Burnaby, BC  V5B 0A7

Main contact: Teri Keller
Phone: 604-294-7044 | 778-837-9741
Email: teri.keller@burnaby.ca
Website: burnaby.ca

Description
  • Municipal Government - Parks, Recreation & Culture Dept
  • PRC mission: Make Life Better
  • PRC slogan: We Take Fun Seriously
  • Our values : Community, Integrity, Respect, Innovation, Passion
Position

We can tailor your experience to your areas of interest. You will work alongside a Program Coordinator in your area of interest: arenas, aquatics, youth, seniors, fitness, etc. You will work on various projects and events and assist with day-to-day tasks in one or more of our recreation facilities. You will network with other Depts within the City and learn how we work together.

City of Surrey

Various locations

Main contact: Jennifer Farrell
Phone: 604-502-6229
Email: jafarrell@surrey.ca
Website: surrey.ca/parks-recreation

Description

The City of Surrey is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in BC with over a half-million residents currently residing in Surrey. The Community and Recreation Services (CRS) Division is responsible for the operation of a variety of community and recreation facilities, as well as the delivery of programs and services to support lifelong health, well-being and engagement.

Position(s)
  • Fleetwood Recreation Centre – 0-18 years and Events
    The intern will assist in planning, organizing, and facilitating activities for children, youth and families. Responsibilities include supporting daily programs, engaging with participants to ensure a positive and inclusive experience, and helping to coordinate special events within the community. The intern will also gain experience supporting a busy facility operation and customer service experiences.
  • Grandview Heights Aquatic Centre – Aquatics
    The intern will be involved in assisting with daily operations, including supervising pool activities, managing swim classes, and ensuring the safety of all participants. They will also take a leading role in organizing and executing swim programs, providing hands-on support for aquatic events, and contribute to the planning and delivery of special programming designed to enhance community engagement.
  • Chuck Bailey Recreation Centre – Gyms, Arena, Fitness, Business Operations
    The intern will assist recreation staff with planning, organizing, implementing, and delivering recreation activities in the gyms and fitness & wellness functional areas. They will also assist with promoting, evaluating, and providing feedback on programs and services in these areas and the research and development of new program ideas. Additionally, they will be involved in the daily business operations of a community recreation facility, supporting a customer-serving front desk team by providing information to the public on recreation programs, services, and amenities, and assisting with client registration and facility bookings.
  • Newton Recreation Centre – Youth Engagement, Middle and Early Years
    The intern will assist in coordinating and executing youth-focused activities, including recreational programs, leadership workshops, and events, while mentoring young participants and fostering community engagement. • Additionally, they will support both Middle Years programs, focusing on arts, sports, and personal development, and Early Years programs, assisting with daily operations and engaging with preschoolers (3- to 5-year-olds) to promote healthy growth and development.
  • Cloverdale Recreation Centre – Children Services
    The intern will help coordinate a variety of children-focused activities, from recreational programs to leadership workshops. They will assist in the planning and execution of events, working closely with schools to foster a sense of community and belonging. Additionally, the intern will play a key role in mentoring young participants, supporting staff in program delivery, and helping to develop innovative strategies to boost engagement and participation.
  • Guildford Recreation Centre/Fraser Heights Recreation Centre – Children & Youth Services
    The intern will assist in coordinating and executing preteen and youth-focused partnerships and activities. Including school visits, creating drop-in activities, programs, and events, while mentoring young participants and fostering community engagement.

Internship application form

Is your organization interested in hosting a Recreation Leadership student for a 14-week unpaid internship during the Spring semester from January to April?

If so, please indicate your interest on the "Expression of Interest" form in the link below, and we will reach out to you before the beginning of the next Internship Application cycle in late-July to remind you to apply. Thank you!

Internship documents

Internship manuals:

Internship placement

Spring 2025 student internship placement

StudentAgencySupervisor
Matthew AdamsThompson Community CentreScott Schroeder
Ezekiel Zralytəməsew̓txʷ Community CentreRyan Weber
Serena Chantəməsew̓txʷ Community CentreRyan Weber
Aly SalayoFleetwood Community CentreRajdeep Dhami
Rashidat AnjorinCloverdale Community CentreMelissa Collins
Tim LyBCRPAPaula Becerra
Andrew HessionPort Moody Recreation ComplexVal Tepes
Eunice Figueroa PasquierBurnaby Neighbourhood HouseJanice Ho
Marina HoBurnaby Neighbourhood HouseJanice Ho
Gary DongChristine Sinclair Community CentreTeri Keller
William LiuConfederation Seniors CentreMikaela Graham-Radford
Linden RedekopSouth Central Youth CentreKristine Lewis
Andrea BayotMaillardville Community CentreChris Cordova
Sarah BatinKitsilano Community CentreRandy Chan
Arnold AcostaSquash BCJosh Heuving
Simona VolpovJewish Community CentreKyle Berger
Jaiden BakerPacific Riding for Developing AbilitiesMaggie Vilvang
Jessica TeagerPacific Riding for Developing AbilitiesMaggie Vilvang
Carys JensenSouth Granville Seniors CentreDanna Garcia Wigueras
Quintin TangUBC Aquatics CentreAdrian Greszata
Sonia YouMarpole-Oakridge Community CentreKari Ward