Objectives
This program will graduate Indigenous coaches who will work with Indigenous clients, communities, organizations, different levels of government and within the private sector. The program adopts the core competencies of the International Coaching Federation into language and approaches which align with Indigenous teachings.
About the Program
This program starts with a two-day in person gathering where we will build a learning community through a jointly created safe space for storytelling, vulnerability, friendship and support. We will introduce what coaching is in relation to an Indigenous context and how it informs coaching practice.
We will then move to 13 virtual sessions of three hours each, where we will learn and practice the coaching skills.
The final session will be an in person closing circle.
Participants will have access to Elders and Knowledge Keepers as part of the program.
Course content will include required reading and self-reflection time guided by the course content.
This program is delivered in English.
Program Content
This program integrates the following into its structure to ensure the highest quality of training that is specific to an Indigenous context:
- Specific number of hours of in person circle gatherings, webinars, plus specific hours of mentor coaching
- The historical context of working with Indigenous communities/client-partners
- The eight (8) core competencies (enhanced to recognize the Indigenous context) of being a professional coach (per the International Coaching Federation)
Some of the skills/knowledge topics covered include:
- What is coaching and how does it differ from mentoring/counselling?
- How is coaching different from sharing with Elders and Knowledge Keepers?
- Ethical considerations of being a coach
- The art of listening at a deeper level
- How to structure powerful questions
- The power of holding space for your client-partner to accept their inner wisdom
- When to use storytelling as a tool
Participants are responsible for travel and accommodations.
Lunch will be provided for in person events.
Program Requirements
To graduate from this program, participants must complete 88 hours in total – 69 synchronous and 19 asynchronous.
The cost of this program for applicants is $5000 (plus applicable GST).
Visit the
Indigenous Coach Training Program Student Policies to learn more.
Application
This program is accepting a maximum of 12 Indigenous participants who would like to learn to coach professionally.
Note: the ICTP fall cohort 2024 is now closed. The next ICTP cohort launches in September 2025, with the application window opening again in April 2025 to provide applicants time to secure course funding ahead of registration.
To enter this program, participants must submit an application and go through the selection process to get approval from the Indigenous Coach Training Certificate Program Selection Committee. The ability to attend all sessions and complete the practice and asynchronous work is required. Please see the visual with a detailed breakdown of hours.
Dates & Location
- September 17-18, 2024 in-person (location: BCIT - 555 Seymour Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 3H6 Room 685
- Every Tuesday from September 24, 3-6 p.m. to January 14, 2025 from 3-6 p.m. virtual via Zoom
- Wednesday, January 22 in-person Closing Circle (location: BCIT - 555 Seymour Street, Vancouver, BC V6B 3H6 Room TBC)
Funding & Accreditation
For graduates of this program interested in becoming an International Coaching Federation (ICF) credentialed coach, this training is fully accredited by the ICF and exceeds the standards of a Level 1 Training program. This education will prepare you for the Level 1 Path to become an ICF credentialed coach.
