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 title, program objectives, description and requirements for space and equipment. Once you have an idea, complete the program proposal form, along with your resume and any relevant certificates. 

Our Community Recreation Coordinators will review all proposals. If yours is shortlisted, one of the coordinators will contact you to discuss the next steps. 

What do I need to submit with the form? 

Please submit your resume noting teaching/instructional experience, as well as any certificates/awards relevant to the class you are proposing. 

Please do not include sensitive personal information (e.g. Social Insurance Number, Care Card, Driver's License Number, previously completed Criminal Records Checks, your date of birth, etc.). 

How do I submit my proposal?

Complete the online program proposal form
It will automatically be forwarded to our recreation team. If you have any questions, you can email us at mcdowm@halifax.ca. Hard copies are available at your nearest Parks & Recreation office or centre. 

How are programs selected?

Proposals are reviewed by our Recreation Coordinators.

Selection is based on a number of factors, including the unique qualities of the proposed program and how well the proposed program meets the needs of the community. 

When can I submit a proposal?

We accept proposals for new programs year-round, with the review process taking place on a seasonal (quarterly) basis.  

This process timeline allows recreation staff to: 

1. review proposals
2. notify approved applicants
3. meet with new instructors
   1. finalize program details
   2. input it into the computer
   3. complete the necessary paperwork
4. promote the new program on the Halifax Rec social channels
5. Launch registration for the new program on the online registration platform as part of the regularly scheduled winter, spring, summer or fall 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. 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 have a very specific niche market are not always successful, so we recommend starting with a beginner or introductory level class, that will appeal 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 to teach the course is.
• Years of experience instructing the course, certification(s) required and time to attain the certification(s).
• The program's budget and price charged to each registrant.

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.
  • Recreation employees will not disclose wage information for current programs and/or instructors to those submitting a program proposal.

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? 

Generally, our selection meeting takes place two to three weeks after each submission deadline and if your program is shortlisted, a Recreation Coordinator will reach out directly within four to five weeks of the proposal deadline. 

Note: due to the volume of received proposals, only those with shortlisted programs will be contacted with next steps. Unsuccessful proposals will be kept on file for one year and reviewed during each seasonal review meeting.

My program wasn't selected. What happens next?

If a year has passed since submitting your program proposal — without being selected — we encourage you to submit a new program proposal during a future seasonal submission period. 

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 make an in-person appointment.