Upon completion of the online training, volunteers are asked to attend the in-class training session.
How long does it take?
The in-class session is usually held on a Friday evening and all day Saturday, and provides the opportunity for volunteers to meet in person after the completion of the online portion of the training.
Who leads it?
Facilitated by an OPT staff member (usually an educator or a nurse), the in-class session helps to summarize and cement the knowledge acquired online. It also gives volunteers the opportunity to practice their skills in peer counselling, to develop strong communication techniques, and for clinic volunteers to learn proper charting.
What does the training involve?
The in-class workshop incorporates role plays, modelling, and other interactive learning tools to support volunteers in developing their skills in educational contraceptive counselling and/or working on the SEX SENSE Line. It also provides volunteers with a more in-depth look at the organization and clarifies individual values and how they impact sexual health education.
Where is it held?
For volunteers residing in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland, this training workshop takes place at a downtown location (e.g., St. Paul's Hospital). For volunteers outside the greater Vancouver area, the in-class training is provided in a condensed form at their respective clinic by the nurse-supervisor.
How often is the training held?
The in-class training is held four times a year, on the last weekend of each online training intake. Tentative dates for upcoming in-class training sessions are available on Volunteer Postings.
