Recreation Program Proposal Process

Frequently asked questions

What is the process for developing a program? 

Start by developing a clear vision for your program, including: 

• a program title
• program objectives
• a description of your program
• requirements for space
• equipment needed to participate

Once you have an idea, fill out and submit the program proposal form.

Our Community Recreation Coordinators will review all proposals. If your proposal is selected, one of the coordinators in your community will contact you to discuss the next steps. 

What do I need to submit with the form? 

Please submit your resume noting any relevant teaching and/or instructional experience. Please include any relevant certifications or awards as well. 

Do not include sensitive personal information in your application, including:  your date of birth, SIN card, NS Driver's Licence, NS Health Card, any criminal records check results, etc. 

How do I submit my proposal?

Complete the online program proposal form
It will automatically be forwarded to our Rec team. If you have any questions, you can email the program lead at mcdowm@halifax.ca. 

Hard copy forms are available at your local Parks & Recreation office or centre. 

How are programs selected?

Proposals are reviewed by local Recreation Coordinators. Selection is based on a number of factors but our coordinators prioritize unique programs that meet a need in their respective communities. 

When can I submit a proposal?

We accept proposals for new programs year-round, with the review process taking place on a rolling basis, in advance of each seasonal recreation registration period. This process timeline allows our Rec team to:

1. review local proposals
2. notify approved applicants
3. meet with new instructors to finalize program details and complete the necessary paperwork
4. promote the new program on the Halifax Recreation social channels
5. launch registration for the new program during a regularly scheduled registration period 

Is there anything I can do to improve the chance of my program being selected? 

We strongly recommend you look through our recent program offerings prior to submitting your proposal to get a sense of what is already offered in your community. 

We strive to maintain a robust list of unique programs across the Halifax region, adding additional offerings that fill a gap in our current roster of programming. 

Note: programs that only attract a niche participant pool are not always successful. We recommend starting with a beginner or introductory level class that appeals to many residents, while filling a gap in current community programming.

How much do you pay instructors? 

Wages vary depending on a number of factors, including: 

• How specialized the knowledge and experience of the instructor is in order to teach the course.
• Years of experience instructing the course, certification(s) required and the time to attain them.
• The program's budget and price charged to each registrant.

Please note: 

• The cost of the program and the instructor's wage are not finalized until after a program has been selected and a program budget is determined.
• If you aren't sure on proposed wages, please provide your estimation of fair compensation for the proposed program.
• Our Rec team members will not disclose wage information for current programs and/or instructors to those submitting a program proposal.

Can I propose a revenue sharing agreement instead of an hourly wage? 

Revenue sharing agreements are most typically reserved for our contracts with businesses. While this is possible, please note that you may require: 

1. a business licence
2. general liability insurance — with Halifax Regional Municipality as the coinsured party
3. any applicable tax and WorkSafe numbers

Are program instructors employees of the Halifax Regional Municipality? 

Instructors are non-union employees of the Halifax Regional Municipality, subject to the terms of their individual, specific work agreement. 

Do I get to choose where my program is held? 

When completing the program proposal forms, applicants can select their preferred community (aligned with our seasonal program catalogues, published on halifax.ca/myrec).  

Our team will make facility location recommendations within your selected community, depending on the space requirements you have submitted and the suitable space we have available to us.   

When will someone contact me if my program is shortlisted? 

Proposals are circulated to Recreation Coordinators serving the communities in your preferred program location(s). 

If your program is of interest to our team, a local Recreation Coordinator will reach out to you to set up a meeting.  

I submitted my program proposal weeks ago. Why haven't I heard anything? 

If you haven't heard back from our Rec team within four or five weeks, your proposal was not selected at this time. Due to the volume of proposals we receive, only those whose programs have been selected will be contacted by our team.  

My program wasn't selected. What happens next?

Proposals will be kept on file for one year from the date received. If a year has passed and you are still interested, we encourage you to submit a new application. 

My program has been selected. What happens next?

Congratulations, your program has been selected and a Recreation Coordinator has reached out to notify you and to set up a meeting. During the meeting, you will discuss: 

• program details
• your teaching experience
• possible program dates/times
• a program budget
• required supplies to run the program
• your wages
• any required form(s) and/or security checks
• outline the contract process

After the meeting your coordinator will: 

• Input your program details digitally, before preparing your instructor contract for signing.
• Walk you through any additional processes and/or required paperwork.

What if I still have outstanding program-related questions?

Please reach out to Mickie McDow, Program Administrator by email with any outstanding questions or to schedule an in-person appointment.