Program Handbook
Pre-Service Firefighter Program—1074
Doon Campus
School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services
Conestoga College
Academic Year 2015/2016
This is a companion document to the current Conestoga Student Guide
This document can be found on the program shell of eConestoga and the program specific page
online.
Revised on – June 15, 2015
Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Table of Contents
Program Handbook .................................................................................................................. i
Program Handbook Guidelines ................................................................................................vi
Welcome ................................................................................................................................ vii
Top Five Expectations of You ................................................................................................. viii
1. Use MyConestoga To Connect To: .................................................................................. viii
2. Know and Plan Around Your Academic Schedule With Your Family .............................. viii
3. Be the Professional You Wish To Become - From Day One .............................................. ix
4. Attend To Enhance Success ............................................................................................... ix
5. Take Responsibility for Your Academic Status .................................................................. ix
Top Five Resources for You .......................................................................................................x
1. Your Teaching Team ........................................................................................................... x
2. Counselling and Services for Personal Needs..................................................................... x
3. Accessibility Services ......................................................................................................... xi
4. Student Study Spaces and General Supports .................................................................... xi
5. Services for Students ........................................................................................................ xii
Letter to Students.................................................................................................................. xiii
1 PROGRAM OVERVIEW ...................................................................................................... 1
Program Description Pre-Service Firefighter ........................................................................ 1
Philosophy ............................................................................................................................. 1
Program Map 2015-2016 ...................................................................................................... 2
Program Design for Your Cohort ........................................................................................... 4
Pathways and Further Post-secondary Education Opportunities ......................................... 4
Employment opportunities ................................................................................................... 4
2
RELATIONSHIPS ................................................................................................................ 5
Full-time Pre-Service Firefighter Faculty and Support Staff .................................................. 5
Program Administrative Assistant ......................................................................................... 5
Administration ....................................................................................................................... 5
Contacting Program Team Members .................................................................................... 5
Student Email ........................................................................................................................ 5
Faculty Availability ................................................................................................................. 6
Student Engagement ............................................................................................................. 6
Student Concerns/Issues ................................................................................................................... 6
Student Representation .................................................................................................................... 6
PAC (Program Advisory Committee) ................................................................................................. 7
WIHSC (Waterloo Inter-professional Health & Community Student Collaborative) ........................ 7
Student Feedback .................................................................................................................. 7
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Key Performance Indicators .............................................................................................................. 7
Student Appraisal of Teaching .......................................................................................................... 8
Class Cancellations ................................................................................................................ 9
Class Cancellation due to Faculty Absence ....................................................................................... 9
Class Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather ................................................................................ 9
Personal notifications of class cancellations ..................................................................................... 9
3 STANDARDS OF CONDUCT AND PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE ............................................. 10
Professional Standards for Professionalism ........................................................................ 10
Uniform Policy ..................................................................................................................... 10
Standard Uniform ............................................................................................................................ 10
Winter Uniform ............................................................................................................................... 11
Personal Hygiene ................................................................................................................. 11
Safety Policy......................................................................................................................... 11
Classroom / Lab / Fireground / Placement Decorum.......................................................... 12
Cell Phones / Pagers ............................................................................................................ 12
Laptops ................................................................................................................................ 12
Participation ........................................................................................................................ 12
Safe Classroom Conduct ...................................................................................................... 12
Tidiness ................................................................................................................................ 12
Impairment .......................................................................................................................... 12
Academic Integrity and Plagiarism ...................................................................................... 13
Copyright – What Students Need to Know ......................................................................... 14
Cumulative Copying ........................................................................................................................ 14
Safe Practice ........................................................................................................................ 15
Student Protection Acknowledgement ............................................................................... 16
Professional Conduct - Use of Social Media and Cell Phones ............................................. 17
Social Media Policy .......................................................................................................................... 17
Cell Phone Policy ............................................................................................................................. 18
Guidelines for Use of Conestoga Emergency Services Station (WREMS Building) ............. 19
4
ATTENDANCE AND STUDENT SUCCESS............................................................................ 21
Attendance and Punctuality ................................................................................................ 21
Successful Recruit Firefighter Candidate Characteristics .................................................... 22
Characteristics of Successful Students ................................................................................ 22
Attendance for Evaluation................................................................................................... 23
Notification procedure .................................................................................................................... 24
Notification for Absence from Evaluations ..................................................................................... 24
Follow-up after Reporting Your Absence from an Evaluation: ....................................................... 24
Religious Holidays ................................................................................................................ 25
Documentation to Substantiate Your Reported Absence ................................................... 25
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Evaluations worth less than 20% .................................................................................................... 25
Evaluations worth 20% or more ...................................................................................................... 25
Test Procedures ................................................................................................................... 26
Importance of Test and Presentation Dates ................................................................................... 26
Assignment Policies ............................................................................................................. 26
Steps to Follow to Submit Assignment Outside of Class Time ........................................................ 27
Working Together on Group Assignments ...................................................................................... 27
Faculty Returning Tests and Assignments....................................................................................... 27
General Guidelines for Quality of Written Work ............................................................................ 27
General Guidelines for submitting written work ............................................................................ 27
Use of Time between Classes .......................................................................................................... 28
5 ACADEMIC PROGRESS THROUGH THE PROGRAM ........................................................... 29
Academic Standing and Promotion ..................................................................................... 29
Achievement ................................................................................................................................... 29
Course Add/Drop............................................................................................................................. 29
Special Timetables/Adding Dropped or Failed Courses .................................................................. 30
Academic Probation ........................................................................................................................ 30
Discontinuance ................................................................................................................................ 30
Withdrawal ...................................................................................................................................... 31
Program Transfer ............................................................................................................................ 31
Appeal.............................................................................................................................................. 31
Clearance of Academic Deficiency .................................................................................................. 31
Readmission to the Program ........................................................................................................... 32
Process for Resolution of Student Concerns ....................................................................... 33
Maintaining Student Files .................................................................................................... 34
6
OFF CAMPUS ACTIVITIES ................................................................................................ 36
Practicum Health Requirements ......................................................................................... 36
Safety in the Workplace Course .......................................................................................... 36
Student Consent Forms ....................................................................................................... 37
WSIB .................................................................................................................................... 37
Concerns regarding Student Safety or the Safety and Care/Service for Clients ................. 37
Fire Service Work Integrated Learning/Off Campus Policies .............................................. 39
Fire Department and Agency Partners ................................................................................ 39
7
STUDENT AWARDS ......................................................................................................... 40
Pre-Service Firefighter Program Awards ............................................................................. 41
Program Revision Log ............................................................................................................ 43
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Handbook Guidelines
The purpose of this handbook is to provide students with program specific details and other
important information. The material in this handbook is accurate at the date of posting, and is
applicable for the current academic year. Students will be informed of handbook changes that
occur, if any, through college email. Program handbooks are updated yearly and students must
check their program handbook for the current edition.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Welcome
To the School of Health & Life Sciences and Community Services
Your Bridge to Practice
What Can This Mean For You?
The opportunity to begin, today, to become the professional you aspire to be.
The opportunity to learn in real-life settings and with real-life scenarios, rehearsing for
the day when you will be in these real-life situations.
A unique inter-professional opportunity, given the number of different disciplines in the
school. You will learn with, about and from your future colleagues.
An opportunity to take advantage of the state-of-the-art facilities, social and study
spaces in our Cowan Health Sciences Center, as well as other unique learning resources
such as the Motz Emergency Service Bays in the WREMS Station and the Child
Development Centre on the Doon Campus
Your goal of being viewed by employers as a “preferred graduate” is up to you; your
professors, technologists, administrative staff and college services look forward to
supporting you as you journey from day one to your graduation.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Expectations of You
1. Use MyConestoga To Connect To:
Your Conestoga Email: (e.g. John Smith, Student Number 1234567, jsmith4567@conestogac.on.ca)
• This is the official communication vehicle regarding your academic requirements. Check it
regularly and respond as requested.
eConestoga: (Desire to Learn)
• This is your resource for all course-based program information and course-based
communication with your faculty.
• Make eConestoga your partner in learning; this is your guide to all course activity.
Student Portal:
• Find your grade information, college tuition invoices, class schedules and absence reporting.
Practicum Health Requirements: (Go to “Services” and find “Practicum Services Link”)
• Keep track of your requirements; know that they are complete to allow you to go on your
practicum.
2. Know and Plan Around Your Academic Schedule With Your
Family
Course Schedule:
• Your schedule has been planned with many people and multiple considerations in mind.
• Classes can be scheduled from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. (note, times for practicums follow work
place schedules).
• Changes may be considered but only for extenuating reasons (Please discuss with your
Program Coordinator).
The Academic Year has critical dates: please plan around these dates to ensure you are here when
you need to be--including the potential need to be present for the two weeks after the semester
ends if you might need to complete supplemental work to allow you to continue to the next
semester. Program start and end dates, holidays and deadlines for course add/drop and withdrawal,
are located in the Student Guide. Course changes (add/dropping) may also be made through the
Student Portal under the “My Courses” tab.
Fall 2015
Dates
Winter 2016
Dates
Fall Orientation Week
Fall Semester Classes
Start
Last Week of Semester
Intersession (no classes)
Aug 31 – Sept 4
September 8
December 14-18
Dec. 21-Jan 1/16
Winter Orientation
Winter Semester Classes
Start
Study Week
Last Week of Semester
Intersession (no classes)
January 4
January 5
February 15-19
April 18-April 22
April 25 – May 6
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Expectations of You
3. Be the Professional You Wish To Become - From Day One
Civility, respect, and professional behaviors will be key to the quality of your learning experience—
and a future employer's first and lasting impression
Professional Dress & Conduct: See section three of the Handbook for professionalism expectations
for your program. The college’s Student Guide sets out Student Code of Conduct for our community
at Conestoga.
Pre-practicum Health Requirements Complete as required; without these, you will not be able to
progress to your practicum and your program completion will be in jeopardy (per your information
in the Student Portal)
Social Media: Use responsibly –don’t blow your future on ill-advised communication with the e-tools
that we use so freely (see section three of the Handbook)
4. Attend To Enhance Success
Please Review Attendance Expectations in See Section four of the Handbook: Attendance for class,
labs and practicum underpins student learning and your experience as a future professional.
Absence from Evaluations: Must be reported in the Student Portal before your absence to be eligible
for a repeated evaluation.
Request for Accommodation for Religious Holidays: Must be requested to your Program
Coordinator in the first three weeks of each semester.
5. Take Responsibility for Your Academic Status
Student Records if you have questions about your student record, academic status and or program
withdrawals, go to the Registrar’s Office and speak to your Program Coordinator.
Fee Payments: Payment is required to attend classes. Check your Student Portal for invoices.
Credit Transfer/Exemptions: Conestoga supports the transferability of academic credits between
programs and educational institutions through recognized transfer pathways, articulation
agreements and course-to-course equivalences. Please refer to the Student Guide for more
information.
Student Forms: To access forms go to the Student Forms page.
Academic Policies & Procedures: May be found under Policies and Procedures
Student Affairs Polices & Procedures: May be found at the Student Affairs page.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
1. Your Teaching Team
Contact Information: Is posted on eConestoga and in your Handbook (Section two in the Handbook)
Appointments: Making appointments (in person, by phone, email) helps to ensure your desired
resource is available.
Email Inquiries: will be answered within two business days.
Urgent Need for Help: Program Assistants are available to help you reach one of the Teaching Team
(contact information in Section two of the Handbook)
2. Counselling and Services for Personal Needs
College Counselling: Professionally-trained counsellors can help you achieve your educational
goals—for such common support as stress management, anxiety, depression, transition issues,
family issues, etc. Counselling is free, voluntary and confidential. Arrange to see a Counsellor quickly
if academic or personal problems stand in the way of your college success. Counselling is free,
voluntary and confidential. To make an appointment, visit or call Doon--Room 1A101, 519-748-5220,
ext. 3360, Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 4:30. Check the counselling services website for more
information.
Good2Talk: Confidential 24-hour phone line for stresses big and small 1-866-925-5454
Conestoga Security: Provides a safe and secure work and learning environment. 519-748-5220 ext.
3357. Refer to the Student Guide for Conestoga’s Safety and Security Services and procedures.
Student Financial Services: Student Financial Services can help you by providing you with options to
finance your post-secondary education.
CSI Food Bank: The CSI Food Bank is an emergency food relief program for current Conestoga
students.
Health Services: Your family doctor on campus. Check out the services that they offer on their
website or call 519-748-5220 ext. 3679. Services available Monday to Friday, 8:30 to 4:30. Some
same day appointments may be available by walk-in. A full-time health nurse is on site.
Facility Information: Refer to the Student Guide for information on after-hours parking, classroom
and computer labs.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
3. Accessibility Services
Students with Documented Disabilities are encouraged to book an appointment with Accessibility
Services to access accommodations –EARLY in your program. Disability-related documentation will
be required to book an appointment. Go to the Accessibility Services webpage for more information.
Adaptive Technology Aids and Special Facilities:
Adaptive Aids are arranged through Accessibility Services; handicapped –accessible washrooms are
located throughout the campus. Contact the Adaptive Technology Lab for more information on
adaptive technology aids.
4. Student Study Spaces and General Supports
Cowan Health Sciences Centre (F-wing)
Student Lounge Space –Enjoy seats on each of the three floors. Plugs for laptops and charging
stations are located throughout these areas.
Student Meeting Room Space—Book through the Customer Service Desk for general access to 1F18
and 1F20 and spaces designated for degree programs.
General Access Computers and printers are located in two areas:
• 1st Floor –in the student lounge area with photocopier
• 2nd Floor—at the Customer Service Desk and kiosk area
Open Access Lab –2nd Floor, 2F18.
This is available on a come and go basis for health & pre-health programs practicing key skills. It is
open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. every day. Book with an Open Access Nurse Technologist.
Lockers—available with your tuition; important to store your extra clothes and books, etc. so that
you can be at your professional best in the lab. To learn how to obtain a locker, please click here.
Information Technology-- New ITS HELP DESK—1st Floor Ewing (provides supports & general
assistance with college-related needs such as email, Network accounts, connectivity & wireless
printing. Go to the Web IT Service Desk for more information.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Top Five Resources for You
5. Services for Students
Library Resource Centre: Located on 2nd Floor B Wing; Go to the Library Resource Centre page for
more information.
International Office: Check out the International Education Office for services available to you.
Learning Commons: Your ONE-STOP resource for academic services and resources, such as Math,
Writing Skills, Peer Tutors and resources for APA. Check out their website or Access through
MyConestoga.
Student Life: Get involved and shape your experience. Visit the Student Life page or Connect to
MyConestoga for your Co-Curricular Record.
Student Financial Services: Your one-stop resource to apply for student awards and bursaries—apply
early to increase your chances.
Bookstore: Your location to buy books (check out their options including used books), clothing for
your program, general supplies. Find it in the A wing, just inside Door 1.
Co-op and Career Advising: Your resource for Co-op Placements (if you are in a degree); your source
of help to look for summer jobs or future careers and gain help preparing your resume. Check out
the Co-op and Career Services site for more information.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Letter to Students
Hello Pre-Service Firefighter Students,
Congratulations, and welcome to the Pre-Service Firefighter Program.
This handbook has been prepared to provide further information about academic standards, guidelines
and processes specific to newly updated the Pre-Service Firefighter Program. Reading, understanding and
following the information in this handbook is an important first step in your success in this program and
your chosen profession. The handbook has been compiled with careful consideration for your personal
and professional growth during your three semesters at the college.
Refer to this handbook as you proceed through the program. Your faculty will refer to the program
expectations often, but the responsibility for knowing these program standards is ultimately yours.
In addition to the Pre-Service Firefighter Education and Training Program Standards and Procedures
Handbook, the Conestoga Student Guide outlines important policies and procedures for you to follow.
We are here to help you have a successful three semesters. Have a safe, enjoyable and rewarding journey
through the Pre-Service Firefighter Program.
Sincerely,
Marlene Raasok, Executive Dean, Health & Life Sciences and Community Services
Janos Botschner, Chair, Community Safety
And your Program Learning Team
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
1. Program Overview
Program Description Pre-Service Firefighter
Our newly updated program provides strong pre-service preparation for individuals seeking a career with
today's and tomorrow's fire services. Our curriculum provides the knowledge, skills, and professional
development for success as a fire services recruit, and the foundation for further career progression
opportunities in this important area of public safety.
With a focus on professionalism, integrated skills acquisition through simulation-based training and interprofessional collaboration, students build towards internationally recognized credentials (National Fire
Protection Association - NFPA) relevant to careers in fire suppression and also prevention through
training in public education. They also develop critical thinking, situational performance skills, and lifelong
wellness practices that enhance their personal and professional development and adaptability, serving as
the foundation for ongoing learning, and adding value and lowering risk to prospective employers.
Philosophy
The program builds on the following beliefs regarding college students:
• He/she are mature adults who are competent, willing to work, and eager to learn.
• He/she are eager to manage, and accept responsibility for, their own learning.
• He/she recognize that their learning experience is directly proportional to the effort that they put
into it.
• He/she recognize that faculty members and instructors do not have the sole responsibility for
student education; rather teachers enable, coach and guide students in a learning journey.
• He/she recognize that learning often happens outside the walls of the classroom.
• He/she value and seek continuous feedback regarding their performance and progress.
“What Our New Program Will Mean for You…”
As a graduate of the Conestoga College Pre-service Firefighting program, you have completed a learning journey,
and the personal and professional development, to become a preferred fire service candidate.
You have gained certification in: NFPA 1001 Firefighter 1 and 2; NFPA 1006 Technical Rescue Core Competencies;
NFPA 472 Hazmat Core Operations; NFPA 1035 Public Educator; Red Cross First Responder; and you are ready to
pass vocational fitness testing. You have achieved excellence in practical training delivered by a skilled
instructional team drawn from fire service personnel from across south-western Ontario. You honed these skills
through active learning emphasizing inter-professional practice and simulation based training, completed at
Conestoga’s onsite fire station environment and Cross Centre for Simulation, as well as at the world class
Waterloo Regional Emergency Service Training and Research Complex.
You also are “preferred candidate” because you are “fit for work and fit for life”, you have been socialized into
fire services, and you can work effectively as a member of inter-professional teams. You have demonstrated
professionalism based on an exemplary standard of attitude and behaviour, and have a co-curricular record
showing evidence of your involvement with diverse communities. You are ready to step into the fire service and
would become a valued member of any team now and into the future.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Map 2015-2016
New provincial training expectations and corresponding international standards for the portability of
credentials have been rolled out across the province. Our updated program map describes an integrated
learning journey over three semesters, built on Conestoga’s tradition of excellence in fire service training.
The program map was designed to help you become a preferred candidate for firefighter positions. The
knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values you will need to become a firefighter are presented in an
intentional sequence and provide you with the opportunity to integrate theory and practice. The first
semester provides the foundation for your career, and each subsequent semester builds toward your
future as a Firefighter to create an integrated learning journey:
•
•
•
Level 1: Acquisition of foundational knowledge and skills
Level 2: Consolidation of abilities for situational performance
Level 3: Extension to professional role and practice
In addition to being organized according to the preceding set of developmental themes, the program map
also includes important areas of emphasis across all three semesters:
•
•
•
•
Technical knowledge and skills
Situational awareness and application
Integration for interprofessional practice
Professional development and resilience
Your courses have been mapped to these themes to help you develop the technical knowledge and
practice skills for the increasingly inter-professional and collaborative work environment of first
responders.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Pre Service Fire Fighter Education & Training Program Map (2015/16)
Program Map describes your learning journey with three important components:
1. All courses focus on you demonstrating development towards the program outcomes and capabilities through your program journey.
2. There are themes for your learning that will inform you on the courses you will take to develop program capabilities.
3. Each semester has a theme that creates milestones for your learning within a semester and your journey from one semester to the next
semester and ultimately to your readiness to graduate.
Focus of Vertical Integration & Learning Trajectory:
Focus of Horizontal
Integration:
Technical Knowledge
and Skills
Level 1
Acquisition of Foundational
Knowledge & Skills
Level 2
Consolidation of Abilities for
Situational Performance
Level 3
Extension to Professional Role &
Practice
FIRE1300
Fire Fighter I Theory
FIRE1320
Hazardous Materials Core
Operations
FIRE1350
Technical Rescuer Core
FIRE 1310 Fire Fighter I Lab
FIRE1380 Public Educator I
FIRE 1330 Fire Fighter II Theory
FIRE1340 Fire Fighter II Skills
Situational Awareness
and Application
FIRE1360 Skills Consolidation
FIRE1370 Fire Fighter First
Responder
Integration for InterProfessional Practice
Career Preparation (Fire Fighter)
Professional
Development and
Resilience
FIT1080 Fit for Work / Fit for
Life (Mandatory Gen Ed)
COMM1085 College Reading &
Writing Skills
FIT1090 Vocational
Performance Standards I
FIT1100 Vocational
Performance Standards II
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Program Design for Your Cohort
Students can find their program design on the student Portal by following the steps below:
1. Log in to Student Portal
2. Click on ‘My Courses’ tab
3. Select ‘View Progress Report’ button
Courses are listed by level/semester. Students can also view courses for the most current program design
for this academic year on the Conestoga College website. To find these courses, students need to scroll
down the page to the ‘Program Courses’.
Pathways and Further Post-secondary Education Opportunities
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a degree
or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga programs or
partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.
There are a number of different opportunities available to students who want to continue studying at
Conestoga. Whether you wish to transfer to another program or apply to a new program after
graduation, Conestoga has established pathways to help you meet your goals. Conestoga Pathways
information is available on Conestoga’s website.
Employment opportunities
Graduates are prepared to become firefighters.
91% of 2012-2013 graduates found employment within 6 months of graduation. Their average starting
salary was $38,971.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the
Government of Canada website.
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2. Relationships
Full-time Pre-Service Firefighter Faculty and Support Staff
Name
Brad Kueneman, Program Coordinator
Doug Richard
Michael (Mac) MacCormack
Darrell Reis
Ann Morrison
Colleen Holmes
Extension
3968
3933
3906
3127
3870
3710
Email Address
bkueneman@conestogac.on.ca
drichard@conestogac.on.ca
mmaccormack@conestogac.on.ca
dreis@conestogac.on.ca
amorrison@conestogac.on.ca
cholmes@conestogac.on.ca
Extension
3765
Email Address
jwilsonneil@conestogac.on.ca
Extension
Email Address
3421
jbotschner@conestogac.on.ca
Program Administrative Assistant
Name
Jaymie Wilson-Neil
Administration
Name
Dr. Janos Botschner
Chair, Community Safety
Contacting Program Team Members
When you require assistance or information with a specific course, your primary contact is the faculty
member assigned to that course. If you have difficulty contacting your faculty member, or if you require
assistance or information related to the program in general, your primary contact is the Program
Coordinator.
Student Email
All students are supplied with a college e-mail address and an eConestoga account. You are expected to
check both your college e-mail and your eConestoga email daily as official communications from faculty
will most often be via these methods. Occasionally, a telephone fan out may be used. The coordinator will
contact the class president. The class president will contact each company leader. Each company leader
will contact each of the members of their company. You are also required to keep your contact
information (address and phone number) up to date on the student portal. This also applies during the
summer break.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Faculty Availability
Faculty offices are located in the main building at 2C20 and students are welcome to see individual faculty
to discuss course work, assignments, or any other issues. During the first several days during the start of
the semester faculty will explain how you can contact them outside of class time. As faculty have diverse
teaching schedules, it is best to make an appointment to ensure that your faculty are available.
Telephones for internal use are located outside the entry to faculty workspaces. Beside this phone will be
a faculty directory with extension numbers only. If you have an appointment with a faculty member,
please call to confirm that you have arrived. Please do not enter until you have confirmation that the
faculty member is available to meet with you. If you do not have an appointment, please call the person
you wish to meet with to confirm that they are present and can see you. If you do not reach them, please
leave a message. In an interest of respecting the work environment for everyone in this area, please do
not wander into faculty workspaces looking for them.
Student Engagement
Student Concerns/Issues
We appreciate that concerns/issues may arise during the learning experience. Our goal is to collaborate –
students with faculty and staff —to resolve situations of concerns quickly and to learn and improve from
these situations.
To achieve this goal, we need an effective problem-solving environment. This means:
a. When a situation of concern arises, it needs to be raised immediately and discussed by the individuals
involved. This is the most important area for effective problem solving.
**Problem-solving closest to the individual associated with the learning is the place to start.
b. Please see the “Student Concerns/Issues” section in the Student Rights and Responsibilities chapter
of the college Student Guide for further details to be followed for the informal and formal procedures
for the resolution of concerns and issues.
c. Please note that issues and concerns related to a placement site, its operation or its employees
should first be brought to the attention of the Conestoga Field Placement Supervisor, subject to the
additional procedures outlined in the following Sections on “Professionalism” and “Concerns
Regarding Safety or Care/Service for Clients during a Practicum/Field Placement”.
Student Representation
CSI and Conestoga agree that a student has the right to invite a member of CSI to a student/faculty
meeting, provided that 24 hours advance notice is given to faculty. This advance notice will ensure that all
parties will have an opportunity to adequately prepare for the meeting.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
PAC (Program Advisory Committee)
Each program at Conestoga has a Program Advisory Committee (PAC), which is made up of industry and
academic representatives, as well as current students. They meet several times a year to discuss the
direction in which that industry is heading and any improvements that can be made to keep the program
current. This helps to ensure that students are learning material that is relevant to their industry.
At the beginning of each year, the coordinator of the program will ask for student volunteers. The
coordinator will decide which students will represent years one and two. The student representatives are
expected to attend the meetings. Students must prepare and submit a report based on guidelines
provided by the Program Chair/Coordinator which will be presented at the meeting. Students are
expected to be professional, dress in business attire and engage in discussions.
WIHSC (Waterloo Inter-professional Health & Community Student Collaborative)
Conestoga College offers many unique and exciting opportunities for personal and professional growth.
One of the things that contribute to the excellence of this college is the host of exciting extra-curricular
opportunities that add to the culture of this fine institution. WIHSC (Waterloo Inter-professional Health &
Community Student Collaborative) is one such club whose members strive to ‘learn with, from, and
about’ each other.
Membership of this active group is comprised of students enrolled in health, community, and social
sciences programs at the Doon campus. Some of the most popular initiatives that this group regularly
engages in are interactive simulation exercises, peer-mentoring, guest speakers, paper case studies and
monthly meetings. To find out more about this exciting opportunity, please visit the WIHSC website. The
website includes information on past events (pictures and videos) as well as how to get involved. Get
involved, have fun, and learn more about the team members you will work with upon graduation. For
more information, please contact your Program Coordinator.
Student Feedback
Student feedback is an essential component of our continuous improvement process. Our opportunities
for student feedback include:
Key Performance Indicators
All college programs in the province are evaluated using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) through the
Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. This survey is conducted each academic year. Strategic
goals to improve the programs are developed from these results. This data and other data specific to the
campus and the program/school are collected so that Conestoga College can continually improve quality.
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Student Appraisal of Teaching
The Student Appraisal of Teaching (SAT) allows direct feedback from students on teaching for a particular
course. Completion of the SAT form gives teachers and academic managers valuable information, to use
for improving teaching at Conestoga.
The SAT process occurs at semester-end. One quarter of the faculty is appraised per term, and each has
two courses selected by their academic managers for appraisal. All teachers have a SAT review at least
once every two years. Students complete either an electronic or paper copy of the SAT. A summary of
results is prepared by Institutional Research.
The report is sent to the Academic Manager who shares the report with the faculty member AFTER all
marks for the semester have been collected. Continuing Education students may have an opportunity to
complete a SAT form at the conclusion of each Continuing Education course.
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Class Cancellations
Class Cancellation due to Faculty Absence
All class cancellations due to faculty absences will be posted in the Student Portal on the left hand side of
first page which a student sees after logging in. These notices in the Student Portal will be the only
general notifications of class cancellations due to faculty absences. Faculty who will be absent will not be
informing students of class cancellations through the eConestoga Learning Management System.
Class Cancellations Due to Inclement Weather
College closure due to inclement weather will be announced on local radio stations (92.9; 88.3; 1460;
96.7, 105.3, and 1240). It is up to Associate Faculty and students to listen for campus closures. If the
college is closed a message will be left on the campus switchboard after office hours. A notice will also be
placed on the college website.
Personal notifications of class cancellations
Students have the option of receiving special emails or SMS text messages notifying them of class
cancellations due to faculty absences. To receive such personal notifications students must subscribe to
this special service.
To subscribe:
- Log in to the Student Portal
- Select Notifications under the Profile tab
- Select the method by which you would like to be notified
- Click Update.
Note: To change the email address to which these notifications will be sent, select My Addresses under
the Profile Tab, and change the default email address.
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3. Standards of Conduct and Professional Practice
Professional Standards for Professionalism
Conestoga College, School of Health and Life Sciences and Community Services has been endorsed by the
Office of the Fire Marshal and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs to prepare entry level firefighters.
These organizations expect the college to graduate students that not only meet knowledge and skills
based standards, but also meet or exceed a specific moral and ethical standard. This standard reflects a
certain expectation of professional conduct.
Most often, the public is involved with the fire service during an unplanned crisis, which creates high
levels of stress and confusion. During a crisis, the community expects from the fire service more than just
the ability to mitigate the emergency. They also require fire service members to operate and perform
their functions with a high standard of values, morals and attitudes. The public expects every firefighter
to have the highly desired characteristics of integrity, compassion, and trustworthiness. Members of the
public are not the only ones that have these high expectations. Fire service management, other
emergency services, other city departments, and other firefighters also expect these personality
characteristics. Firefighting is also very much a team effort. If any member of the team fails to perform,
the entire team fails. Trust, competency and commitment are highly valued character traits in the fire
service culture.
It is the school's responsibility to ensure that all students value these principles and display behaviour
that is characteristic of these high standards of professional practice.
Uniform Policy
The uniform will be worn in its entirety, and can only be purchased from the approved distributor (the
Conestoga Bookstore).
Standard Uniform
The uniform will consist of:
• Navy uniform shirt
• Navy t-shirt
• Navy uniform cargo pant
• Name badge
• Black web belt
• Black leather safety boots
• Black or navy socks
• Black tie (only when specified by the Program Faculty/Staff)
• Ball cap (only when specified by Program Faculty/Staff)
The name badge will be worn just above the right chest pocket, centered and level. The uniform must be
kept neat and clean in appearance.
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Winter Uniform
During cold weather, the uniform will include the following additional items:
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Navy ¼ zip sweatshirt
Navy uniform jacket
Navy toque
The uniform shall be worn in its entirety to, at, and from, every class and practical training session, and
any other time as directed by the program coordinator with the following exceptions:
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•
Shorts: When bunker gear is worn, it is acceptable to wear a pair of dark appropriate length
shorts. It is not acceptable to wear sweat pants under the bunker pants. If shorts are not worn,
then the uniform pant must be worn under the bunker pants.
T-shirts and ball caps: If the instructor grants approval to train in a t-shirt and/or ball cap, then the
uniform shirt may be removed while working in the lab area or on the training ground only. The
uniform shirt must be worn and the ball cap removed when leaving the lab area after class is
finished.
Personal Hygiene
In addition to the uniform policy, the student shall maintain a professional appearance (e.g. clean shaven,
appropriate haircut / style as required by Fire Service standards). A student that is not professional in
appearance will not be allowed in the classroom and shall be responsible for all activities and information
missed during that class.
Safety Policy
Safety is the primary focus of this program. There are a number of policies and procedures associated
with practical training.
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Safe work practices are to be followed during all training; follow the direction of your instructors.
All practical evolutions and skill testing shall be conducted in accordance with the Occupational
Health and Safety Act and its regulations, Section 21 Firefighters’ Guidance Notes, industry
standards and best work practices.
All accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to the Instructor-in-Charge
immediately.
All live fire activities will be conducted in accordance with NFPA 1403 as well as the Occupational
Health and Safety Act and the Section 21 Firefighters’ Guidance Notes.
All students, instructors, support staff, and others will wear personal protective equipment as is
appropriate to the situation. Personal protective equipment may include CSA approved footwear,
safety glasses, helmets, and appropriate protective clothing as dictated by your instructors.
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Classroom / Lab / Fireground / Placement Decorum
Students learn and work better when there is mutual respect for each other. The College is a healthier
and safer place to be when students and faculty can concentrate on the task at hand and not have to
worry about annoying disruptions and harassment. The following rules are applied in support of, and
addition to, those that are outlined in the Conestoga College Student Guide.
Cell Phones / Pagers
The uses of these items are not permitted during class time. A student who may be expecting an
emergency communication must make arrangements with the instructor prior to the start of class.
Laptops
A laptop is allowed to be used for the purpose of note taking during class, but is not allowed to be used
for other purposes during class (e.g. email or social networking)
Participation
All students are responsible for contributing to a positive and respectful learning environment. Since class
time is limited, students are expected to focus on the particular subject and not bring other work or other
issues to that class. Disrespectful actions or comments directed towards faculty or other students will not
be tolerated.
Safe Classroom Conduct
Conduct of any kind that might jeopardize the safety of any individual in class or that might damage
college property is prohibited.
Tidiness
Respect for others will be demonstrated by cleaning up the classroom area in preparation for the group
that will follow.
Impairment
A student will not be allowed to attend class if there is evidence that the student has consumed alcohol or
illicitly used drugs.
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Academic Integrity and Plagiarism
Academic honesty is expected and required of all Conestoga students. In order to maximize your success
as a student, it is critical that you familiarize yourself with the Academic Integrity Policy found in the
Conestoga Student Guide. This guide has been provided to you during orientation and is available on the
college website. The Academic Integrity Policy provides a detailed description of the following:
• Scope of academic integrity,
• What academic integrity means,
• What types of behaviours constitute a breach of academic integrity,
• The penalties associated with breaching academic integrity.
After reading this information, if you do not fully understand what is meant by academic integrity, and
what is required of you to maintain academic integrity, please speak with a faculty member or your
program coordinator. Please note that maintaining academic integrity is very serious, and that it is your
responsibility as a Conestoga student to know the Academic Integrity Policy and to initiate help if you do
not fully understand it.
Below are a few hints to help you avoid breaching academic integrity.
Make sure that you recognize information that requires referencing.
Example
Milk is good for you.
Required Referencing
General information in the public domain.
Does not require referencing.
Direct quote right from a published
source. Requires a reference.
“According to Health Canada milk beverages
provide the nutrients needed for healthy bones
and optimal health”.
Health Canada. (2008). Canada’s food guide:
Milk and alternatives. Retrieved May 17, 2011
from http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/foodguide-aliment/choose-choix/milk-lait/indexeng.php
Consuming milk every day provides the nutrients Information that has been put into your
that you need for healthy bones and optimal
own words, but offers information outside
health.
of public domain related with specialized
Health Canada. (2008). Canada’s food guide:
knowledge. Requires a reference.
Milk and alternatives. Retrieved May 17, 2011
from http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/fn-an/foodguide-aliment/choose-choix/milk-lait/indexeng.php
• Whenever you refer to material from another source, whether book, journal article, video,
newspaper, or electronic publications, you must acknowledge your source using proper citations
and references. The APA style is the format most often used in the health and social sciences.
Please visit the Conestoga Learning Commons for assistance with the APA format, or visit their
website for help.
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•
If you work collaboratively with others on an assignment, including in class assignments that
expect independent submission, make sure that you do not copy words or ideas from others
intentionally or by accident.
•
Make sure that you read the Academic Integrity Policy located in the Conestoga Student Guide,
and that you fully understand it. The policy describes additional behaviours that represent a
breach of academic integrity.
Copyright – What Students Need to Know
Photocopying and scanning at Conestoga are governed by the Copyright Act, an agreement with Access
Copyright, and the Association of Canadian Community Colleges’ Fair Dealing Policy.
Under the terms of our Access Copyright license which gives the broadest permission:
You can photocopy or scan the following:
• Up to 10% of most published works
• One chapter that is greater than 10%, but no more than 20% of the book
• One article, short story, play, poem or essay from a book, magazine or journal issue containing
other works
• One newspaper article or page
• One entry from an encyclopedia, dictionary, annotated bibliography or similar reference work
• One drawing, sculpture, painting, print, architectural work of art or work of artistic craftsmanship
from a larger volume containing other works.
Cumulative Copying
If you copy 10% of a book today, 10% next week, 10% the week after that, and so on, this is called
cumulative copying and it is not allowed. The copy limits apply to an entire academic year, so once you
reach the limit for an item, you can’t copy more until the next academic year.
You cannot copy or scan the following:
• Workbooks or study guides that are intended for one-time use
• Instruction manuals
• Sheet music and original artistic works including photographs or prints
• Advertisements
• Business cases
• Any of the items on the Access Copyright Exclusions list
You can find all of this information and more on the Copyright for Students web page.
If you have any questions about copyright or the limits of copying on campus, contact Tessa Dueck,
Copyright Technician, at tdueck@conestogac.on.ca or 519-748-5220 ext. 3604.
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Safe Practice
Safe practice is part of professional practice. It is an expectation of everyone who is or wants to be a
professional.
There are a number of policies and procedures associated with practical training in your program that
have been developed to ensure your safety and the safety (physical and emotional) of those around you.
These will be reviewed with you during your program.
The following basic procedures are outlined for your attention and follow-through:
1. Your personal safety begins with the use of professional attire and footwear and with your attention
to the health and safety expectations that may be identified throughout the college.
2. Help us have a safe and pleasant environment by wiping up spills, by ensuring lap top cords do not
snake across walking areas and by reporting equipment or facility problems when you see them.
Concerns such as these in the Cowan Health Sciences Centre may be reported to the Customer Service
Desk in the Cowan Health Sciences Centre.
Specific dress codes, personal protective equipment and specific codes of behavioral conduct may apply
to certain programs; failure to follow these may result in your inability to participate in a lab, class or
experiential learning activity.
3. Safe work practices are to be followed during all training; follow the direction of your instructors. If
you have a practicum, your Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty member will ensure that you are
aware of safe practices and safety precautions and procedures. This includes problem-solving by the
Responsible Faculty and Program Coordinator with the College’s Occupational Health & Safety
Department as required. For example, should outside temperatures during the summer become
unusually hot, very high temperatures may occur in some workplaces; this could require that specific
steps be taken to ensure a safe working environment.
4. All safety-related accidents, incidents, and near misses must be reported to the Instructor-in-Charge
immediately. This is an opportunity to problem-solve about how to avoid these areas of concern for
the future.
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Student Protection Acknowledgement
A Student Protection Acknowledge confirmation pop-up will appear once an applicant/student logs into
the Student Portal. A PDF directs students to policies and procedures relevant to their academic
responsibilities. Policies and procedures are searchable on Conestoga’s website. Students are advised to
review and comply with all policies and procedures including the following:
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Academic Dispute and Resolution Policy/Procedure
Academic Integrity Policy
Academic Recognition Policy
Academic Credential Procedure
Clearance of Academic Deficiency Policy/Procedure
Co-operative Education Policy
Discontinuance Policy/Procedure
Eligibility to Participate in Co-op Work Terms Policy/Procedure
Evaluation of Student Learning Policy/Procedure
Grading Procedure
Graduation Requirements and Convocation Procedure
Honours Policy/Procedure
Program/Course (Cohort) Withdrawal Procedure
Student Concerns and Issues/Procedure
Student Fees Policy
Student Feedback Policy
Violation of Academic Integrity Procedure
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Professional Conduct - Use of Social Media and Cell Phones
To ensure a quality and respectful learning environment both in the classroom and in field placement, the
use of cell phones and laptop computers for social networking can only be used during break times,
before/after class and outside of children’s play areas (indoors/outdoors) in field placement.
Laptops and other forms of technology can be used in the classroom when the use pertains to the
content and processes of learning facilitated by the professor. Faculty reserve the right to remove and
hold any technology device that is a disruption to the class until the end of class.
Social Media Policy
• Social media has many advantages for a professional. It can be used to network, to resource
information and keep current
• As a student and future professional, it is essential to maintain professional boundaries in all
communication, including social media.
BE AWARE:
• “Electronic messages are not anonymous. They can be tracked, misdirected, manipulated and live
forever on the internet. Social media sites create and archive copies of every piece of content
posted, even when deleted from online profiles. Once information is digitalized, the author
relinquishes all control.”
“Online identities and actions are visible to the public and can result in serious repercussions or
embarrassment. As the Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Ontario notes, users may intend to
share their online existence solely within their own network, but in theory anyone can access the
user’s musings, photos and information. Further, the words can be altered, forwarded and
misquoted. 1
Ensure that your posts reflect you as the professional you are and wish to become – if a potential
employer were to see your posts.
1. Many types of social media encourage instantaneous, casual dialogue. It is important to
remember that even an innocent comment may be easily misunderstood
2. Assume that information you post or send can be accessed or altered by anyone.
3. Consider whether any posting may reflect poorly on you, your school, or your profession.
4. Avoid online criticism about other students, colleagues, professors or field placements.
5. Avoid impulsive, inappropriate or heated comments.
6. Pictures should not be taken, posted to social media sites or shared without the express
permission of all individuals involved.
7. Remember that online sites you visit are not anonymous.
8. Make sure your online name and email reflect professionalism.
9. Ensure that your postings will not be considered harassment or defamation of a peer, colleague,
faculty or others.
1
Professional Advisory. 2011. Use of Electronic Communication and Social Media. The Council of the Ontario College of Teachers.
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Maintain privacy of all care and service activities when in practical work experiences:
1. Do not take or post any pictures while on placement or involved in lab activities
2. Maintain client-provider relationships and boundaries. The addition of a client to a
‘friendship” status online is unacceptable.
Please respect the fact that your faculty and staff will not invite you to their personal web pages when
you are a current student (Keep faculty and staff as resources to connect with after you have graduated
or after you have left the college)
Cell Phone Policy
Students should respect their professors and other instructors by following program policy and not use
their cell phones for personal use during class time. This is representative of the professional manner in
which you are expected to act as you prepare to enter the workforce.
Students should refrain from bringing their cell phone into a test or examination. Phones should be left in
your locker or left in your bag at the front of the classroom. In the event of an urgent need to keep your
cell phone with you during a test (parents with young children, students experiencing a family emergency,
etc.) please speak to your professor as soon as you enter the examination room. Those who have been
permitted to bring a phone into the classroom will likely be asked to either leave the phone with the
professor, or he/she may be permitted to leave their phone out on their desk where it is visible to the
professor and proctors. In any case, students are not permitted to touch or answer the phone without
raising their hand to ask for the professor/proctor’s permission. If you are found to have a cell phone in
your possession during an examination that has not been declared, you will be asked to leave the
examination room, and will be given a zero on the assessment.
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4
ATTENDANCE AND STUDENT SUCCESS STRATEGIES
Guidelines for Use of Conestoga Emergency Services Station (WREMS
Building)
Conestoga Station #1 is located adjacent to the ATS building and parking lot 10.
This joint facility (also known as WREMS) has a three-bay apparatus floor, and is an operational Waterloo
Region EMS ambulance station. The east bay and living quarters comprise the Regional EMS station and
are off-limits and unavailable to students.
As a Pre-Service Firefighter student, you will have access to the two bays at the west end of the building.
These two bays are shared with Conestoga’s Paramedic Program.
Your practical Fireground training at Doon Campus is organized out of WREMS. The WREMS building must
be treated as an operational firehall – the station must be maintained in a clean, organized, and secure
condition at all times.
Access to the station outside of class time for approved activities can be arranged through the
Firegrounds Technologist. There is a significant amount of program equipment stored in this station,
which makes it the perfect Open-Access Lab for practice and review of your firefighting skills throughout
your time in this program.
Guidelines for Use of Waterloo Region Emergency Services Training and Research Complex (WRESTRC)
WRESTRC is the Regional fire training facility located in Waterloo, available to all Fire Departments and
emergency services (Police and EMS) within the region. There may be as many as ten agencies training at
WRESTRC on the same day, so it is imperative that you respect all other users. Priority is always given to
other in-service agencies as they are the primary users; we are fortunate that they share their facility with
us.
There are a number of policies and procedures associated with the use of WRESTRC. A few important
points that students need to be aware of include:
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Personal protective equipment is to be worn on the training ground at all times (CSA approved
footwear, safety glasses, helmets, and appropriate protective clothing as dictated by your
instructors)
Safe work practices are to be followed during all training (follow the direction of your instructors)
Do not block roadways – emergency vehicles may be required to respond to an emergency from
WRESTRC at any time
Except for the apparatus bay, no bunker gear is allowed in the Administration Building. (You must
remove bunker gear to enter the locker room / washroom).
Generally, you should have no reason to enter the administration offices, kitchen, or meeting
rooms in the main building.
Parking – students are directed to park along the roadway before the administration building.
Leave enough space for fire apparatus to drive in and out of the training grounds. Do not park on
the fireground, driving track, or in the administration building parking lot. Obey the posted speed
limit; regional bylaw enforcement officers may ticket you for speeding.
In keeping with Waterloo Region policies, we encourage students to avoid the use of disposable
plastic water bottles – please use a reusable water bottle
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20
4. Attendance and Student Success
Attendance and Punctuality
The program requires that you are available for class Monday through Friday from 0730 to 1700 hrs.
In view of the learning complexities of the Pre-Service Firefighter Program, you are required to attend
ALL classes, labs and placement opportunities as scheduled. Students who are absent from class or
field placement place themselves in academic jeopardy in meeting the learning outcomes stipulated by
the Office of the Fire Marshal and the Ontario Association of Fire Chiefs (OFM/OAFC). The provincial
standardized curriculum of the OFM/OAFC specifies minimum content and hours for the program.
Students are expected to arrive on time for all classes (theory and practice) and field placements.
Tardiness is not accepted in the Fire Service and it also not allowed in this program. Attendance will be
taken at the start of every class and lab.
Participation is taken into consideration in calculating student grades in core courses as part of the
“professionalism” marks allocation.
Authorized absences include illness requiring a doctor’s care, death of an immediate family member,
extraordinary emergency circumstances and an extraordinary occurrence for which a student has
made advanced arrangements with the coordinator or instructor.
It is the sole responsibility of the student to make up for information not obtained due to an absence.
In case of a health problem or personal emergency that necessitates missing a class or being late for
a class, the student must report their absence on the student portal and advise the faculty assigned
to their class by email or phone prior to commencement of the class in question.
For off-campus activities or placements without a faculty member, the student is required to notify
the placement agency contact, and the Program Coordinator.
Work, sports (other than varsity) and participation or completion of other course requirements are not
considered to be an “authorized absence”. Extended or repeated absence may require a doctor’s note.
Due to the strenuous nature of the Firefighter Fitness course and practical fireground courses a “return
to work” doctor’s note may be requested by the instructor before the student is allowed to resume
classes.
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Successful Recruit Firefighter Candidate Characteristics
Successful students and firefighters:
• Recognize that fire service culture is very conservative, paramilitary, and is steeped in tradition
• Achieve an advanced level of physical fitness
• Demonstrate a strong ability to work safely as a team
• Demonstrate strong mechanical aptitude
• Demonstrate vast and varied theoretical and practical skill sets
• Demonstrate compassion and empathy
• Demonstrate a strong sense of care for, and desire to help, others
• Demonstrate a very high standard of moral and ethical conduct
• Are life-long learners that strive for excellence
• Display a professional appearance and conduct
• Demonstrate respect for others at all times
• Develop teamwork, leadership, and interpersonal skills
• Demonstrate the ability to critically problem solve
Characteristics of Successful Students
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He/she attend class regularly and arrive on time. If He/she must miss a class He/she feel
obligated to contact the instructor regarding their upcoming absence. He/she subsequently
pick up on all information and assignments regarding the class that they missed.
He/she prepare for class by doing advanced reading. He/she come to class ready to participate
and have issues that they may not be sure on, clarified. In the firefighting program, the notes
for the upcoming class are available on eConestoga and the student will read those before
class. The successful student will also take advantage of interactive learning strategies that are
made available, complete the appropriate textbook readings and will complete the appropriate
text and workbook activities.
He/she participate in class even if their attempt at answering a question seemed a bit clumsy or
perhaps was incorrect.
He/she interact with faculty both in and out of class. He/she seek out the appropriate resources
at times when they need assistance.
He/she review their notes on a regular basis and look for opportunities to complete practice
test questions. Studying is ongoing and not restricted to the day or two before an exam.
He/she look professional and take pride in their work.
He/she submit all assignments on time.
He/she manage their time well. Often they may make use of a “day planner” to ensure that
they are aware of upcoming meetings, assignments and other activities.
He/she restrict their participation in a part-time job to the number of hours that are
comfortably manageable for that individual. As a general rule of thumb, most students are not
comfortable with more than 12 – 15 hours of part-time employment per week.
He/she read. He/she make time to access periodicals and other reference information on a
regular basis.
He/she seek feedback from faculty and their peers. When suggestions are made for
improvement, He/she receive the suggestions openly and try to implement them.
He/she offer feedback to faculty regarding possible improvements to the program and make
faculty aware of specific needs that the individual may have in order to optimize learning.
He/she maintain a healthy lifestyle and arrive at class ready to energetically participate.
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Attendance for Evaluation
An evaluation is defined as a test, exam, presentation or any other formal assessment that requires
your presence in a class or lab. Evaluations are critical components of each course and to your success
in the Program.
The school’s approach to requirements for attendance at evaluations reflects the expectation that as
emerging professionals, students must demonstrate a professional attitude and attention to
evaluations. This is the same manner as future work as professional will require attention to workplace
procedures. Consequences for missed evaluations are balanced against reasonable support where it is
warranted.
In order to support student success:
• Evaluation and presentation dates are scheduled and communicated at the beginning of each
semester.
• Unplanned extenuating circumstances involving the college, the program or the faculty that
may require changes to the course schedule will be communicated to students.
In support of the development of professionalism, students are required to take all evaluations at the
scheduled times.
• Students who make personal commitments that conflict with the evaluation dates or
assignment deadlines do so at their own risk.
• There will be no special arrangements made for students with personal conflicts (e.g. work,
family commitments or vacation plans).
• Students who wish to reschedule an evaluation or a presentation due to a religious holiday are
required to discuss the situation with faculty within the first two weeks of the semester.
• Academic accommodations are provided to students with documented disabilities through the
Accessibility Office.
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Notification procedure
Log into the student portal and click on the Absence tab and indicate that you will be absent from class
on a day that has an evaluation. You will receive a confirmation email that you have recorded your
absence for that day.
Note:
• Your professor will be aware of your absence from an evaluation by your lack of attendance
and because you have entered your absence using the online Absence Recording System on the
Student Portal.
•
The Absence Recording System shows you as being absent for the day, starting from the time
that you record your absence. (For example if you record your absence for that day at 11:00 a.m.
the system will show you as being absent for all classes starting after 11:00 a.m. that day.) If you
are then going to be present again for some later class, you will need to bring your presence to
the attention of your professor in that later class.)
•
The earliest that you may record your absence for a particular day is after 8:00 p.m. on the
preceding day.
Notification for Absence from Evaluations
Students are required to notify the program of absence from any evaluation for any reason.
• Notification must be received prior to the start of the evaluation.
• Failure to do so will result in a mark of zero being assigned.
Follow-up after Reporting Your Absence from an Evaluation:
• You must make contact immediately with faculty to explain the reasons for your absence and
to arrange a meeting.
• If there is a concerning pattern of absence you will be asked to meet with the program
coordinator. This may result in the need for you to provide documentation verifying the reason
for your absence, in accordance with the requirements specified in sections below titled
“Evaluations worth 20% or more” and “Evaluations worth less than 20%”
• Faculty will then make alternative evaluation arrangements as appropriate and you will
complete any necessary forms.
• Students are required to complete the alternative evaluation as scheduled.
• If the evaluation is to be conducted in the testing center, you will be asked to show your
student card before you are permitted to write the test.
• Tests will be made up In the College Testing Centre in the following week, or by individual
arrangements with program faculty.
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Religious Holidays
Students are permitted by Conestoga policy to be absent from class to observe a recognized religious
holiday. Any student who is unable to attend classes or participate in an examination, study, or work
requirement on some particular day or days because of religious beliefs will be given the opportunity
to make up the work that was missed or do alternate work/examinations subject to timely notification.
Conestoga recognizes all religious holidays as defined by the College Employer Council.
It is the responsibility of the student to:
a. Plan ahead and be aware of the dates of all examinations and other course obligations;
b. Advise the faculty member that he/she will be seeking accommodation to observe a recognized
religious holiday and make a request in writing to your Program Coordinator within the first
three weeks of the semester and prior to the dare of assessment that falls on the religious
holiday. Exceptions based on extenuating circumstances must be approved by the Chair.
Documentation to Substantiate Your Reported Absence
Evaluations worth less than 20%
Missed evaluations worth less than 20% of the student’s final grade will be rescheduled once per
program semester subject to proper communication described above.
Once per program semester means that only one absence for an evaluation will be accepted across all
courses in a program for a semester. Implications of major illnesses or personal circumstances
impacting several course evaluations at one time will require discussion with the program coordinator
prior to faculty arranging alternative evaluations.
If an evaluation cannot be rescheduled (for example an experiential activity or participation in a group
presentation) reallocation of marks will be determined by faculty. This will be documented on an
interview record and signed off by both faculty and student.
If more than one evaluation that is worth less than 20% is missed, documentation requirements for
evaluations worth 20% or more apply.
Evaluations worth 20% or more
Any student who misses an evaluation worth 20% or more will receive a mark of zero unless the
reason for missing the evaluation and the accompanying documentation verifying the reason for the
absence are deemed acceptable by the program. Examples of reasons deemed acceptable include
incapacitating illness, death of a close family member, and required court appearance.
If an evaluation is missed due to illness, the health care professional attesting to the illness must have
firsthand knowledge of the situation and direct involvement with the treatment / management of the
condition. For example, a note from a clinic provided by a physician seeing the student for the first
time, after the illness has resolved, is unlikely to meet the program standard for documentation.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Test Procedures
•
•
•
•
•
Once a test begins, students may not leave the test room for 30 minutes. If he/she finishes a
test before that time, he/she may review their answers but are expected to sit QUIETLY and not
disturb others. Once students leave the room they may only re-enter when invited back by
faculty.
Any student found cheating during the course of an examination/test will be addressed
according to procedures found in Conestoga Student Guide.
Faculty are responsible to advise as to the material permitted in the testing room. Personal
items and learning materials will be left in an area identified by the faculty.
Faculty will advise as to the seating arrangements of students.
During open book tests, students must bring their own course materials (books, notes, Learning
Packages etc.) for individual use only. Students may not share any of these materials. Electronic
devices, such as, iPod, text messaging, cell phones, translators, will not be permitted.
Importance of Test and Presentation Dates
Test and assignment dates are scheduled at the beginning of each semester. Unplanned extenuating
circumstances involving the college, the program, or the faculty may require changes to the course
schedule. If this occurs, students will be notified.
Students are required to write all tests during the scheduled in-class test times. Students who make
personal commitments that conflict with meeting test and assignment deadlines do so at their own
risk. There will be no special arrangements made for students with personal conflicts (e.g. work, family
commitments or vacation plans). Students who wish to reschedule a test or presentation because of a
religious holiday are required to discuss the situation with faculty at the beginning of the semester.
Academic accommodations are provided to students with documented disabilities through the
Accessibility Services Office.
Assignment Policies
The expectation of Health Professionals is that they complete assigned work competently and in the
allocated time, or that they anticipate difficulty in meeting deadlines and notify the appropriate
person(s).
The following regulations regarding assignments reflect this belief and are designed to ensure that
graduates of the programs meet these expectations.
•
•
•
Students are required to submit all written assignments on or before the date and time specified.
Students should anticipate problems that will necessitate an extension of time.
If an extension of time is required, students will make this request ahead of the assignment due
date to the appropriate Instructor.
NOTE: An extension of time may be given at the discretion of faculty.
• Late assignments will lose 10% of the value of the assignment for each day late. Assignments that
are more than two days late will receive a grade of zero.
• A student will not receive a passing final grade until all assignments have been submitted even
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
if the late penalty reduces the points possible to zero. All late submissions must be turned in by
noon on Friday before the week of final exams.
Steps to Follow to Submit Assignment Outside of Class Time
While assignments should be submitted in class on the day they are due, if circumstances require that
they be submitted outside a scheduled class, the following procedure should be followed:
1.
2.
3.
Provide an electronic copy of your assignment to the faculty as per faculty instructions.
Contact faculty by email to alert them that you have submitted your assignment.
Bring the hard copy of the assignment with an attached copy of the email you sent to the
faculty member to the ECE building and submit into the Assignment Drop Box by the
Administrative Assistant office. Please refrain from submitting late assignments after 5:30 p.m.
as the building may be locked.
Working Together on Group Assignments
Students will often work with their fellow peers on various assignments/projects throughout the
program. Each group member is responsible for ensuring that he/she has an equal role in the group.
All students in the group should review the completed work before it is submitted/ presented. When
issues/concerns arise during the group process, it is the responsibility of group members to contact the
course professor for assistance prior to due date.
Faculty Returning Tests and Assignments
In order to support student success, students will be given continual feedback on their progress
throughout the semester. Individual faculty will inform students in class how/when tests and
assignments and/or marks on them will be returned. Please note that some tests will be returned to
students and some may be retained by faculty. Final exams and supplemental exams are not reviewed
will not be reviewed with the students. Under no circumstances are students to enter the offices of
faculty or look through papers on a desk without a faculty present. Students who have questions about
tests/assignments/grades should follow the process outlined below:
•
•
at least 24 hours after receiving the mark and within seven days, contact faculty, indicating the
area(s) of clarification required
initiate a meeting with the faculty to discuss the matter
Note: Students are encouraged to keep all assignments, texts and course-related resources and
materials throughout the duration of the program.
General Guidelines for Quality of Written Work
In the Primary Care Paramedic program, both in courses and clinical practicum, there are continuous
requirements for written work in a variety of formats (papers, assignments, forms and plans, handouts,
etc.). It is expected that all students will meet the standard of English required within the profession.
Faculty will identify students who are having difficulty in this area and will approach them to discuss
the need for improvement. Students may be referred to the Learning Commons to help them improve
the quality of their written work.
General Guidelines for submitting written work
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
For specific course requirements, refer to the course outlines provided. If you are not clear about
course requirements, discuss this with individual faculty. Students are required to use spell-check and
grammar-check to assist with the editing of written work. The Learning Commons will be an invaluable
resource to students who require assistance in organizing and writing an assignment with correct
spelling and grammar.
Unless otherwise indicated by professors, generally, assignments should be:
• Word processed
• Double spaced and one sided
• Submitted using font size of 12, and proper margins
• Written in a grammatically correct manner
• Handed in securely fastened with a cover page indicating the course name, faculty's name,
student's name, section and date submitted
• Handed in at the beginning of class on the designated due date in class, unless otherwise
indicated by professor
• Handed in using the APA@Conestoga format if references are required
NOTE: Faculty does not assume responsibility for assignments not given directly to them in hard copy
at the beginning of the relevant class. Students should avoid handing in assignments outside the
regularly scheduled class time and should make every effort to hand assignments in to professors in
person.
Use of Time between Classes
Students are encouraged to use breaks between classes for personal needs (food, washroom, phone
calls, emails etc.) but also for group work, studying, connecting with faculty, field placement
supervisors, etc.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
5. Academic Progress through the Program
Academic Standing and Promotion
The Conestoga Student Guide is your first source for information concerning academic regulations,
policies and procedures. The Conestoga Student Guide is available on the college website and by
visiting the “Student Guide” tab in your Student Portal.
In addition to the Academic Regulations found in the Conestoga Student Guide, the following apply to
the Primary Care Paramedic Program:
Achievement
1. Students must attain a minimum 70% passing grade in all Primary Care Paramedic courses and
year end composite exams.
2. The student must have successfully completed all courses of all previous semesters and passed
year-end composite exams (where such exist) in order to be promoted into the next semester.
Failure to do so will result in discontinuance from the program.
3. The student is expected to apply theory and skills to practice in a safe competent manner in
accordance with the current National Occupational Competency Profile (NOCP) guidelines and
current professional practice guidelines within all lab and simulation and clinical practicum
settings.
4. Regular attendance is mandatory to achieve a "pass" in both lab and clinical practicum
experiences.
5. The student is expected to maintain mental and physical health throughout the program,
consistent with PCP practice requirements
6. Students must adhere to Standards of Conduct – Academic, Social and Professional as outlined
in the Conestoga Student Guide and the Primary Care Paramedic Standards of Procedures
Handbook.
Course Add/Drop
You can add, change and drop courses from your portal depending on the dates and which program
you are in:
1. Log in to the Student Portal
2. Click on the “My Courses” tab
3. Scroll over the icons to the right of individual course listings. It is strongly recommended that
students consult their program coordinator/academic advisor prior to dropping a course.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Special Timetables/Adding Dropped or Failed Courses
Please note that when students are not taking the program in the prescribed sequence, they will be on
“special timetables”. Prior to the beginning of the semester, students should attempt to add missed
courses from a previous semester by logging in to the Student Portal and following the instructions to
register for courses. If students are not able to add courses on their own (because of a timetable
conflict or full course section) they must seek assistance from their Program Coordinator during the
“Special Timetable Registration” initiated by the college. Dates, times and locations of Special
Timetable Registration periods are posted in the student portal in advance of the beginning of each
semester. Students must attend this meeting where they will receive further guidance regarding this
academic status from their Program Coordinator.
Students who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are
accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the
program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must
complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.
Academic Probation
Students who have been unsuccessful in their field experience, have failed two or more academic
courses, and/or have required considerable testing/assignment variances may be recommended for
Academic Probation. Academic probation allows students to be promoted to the next level with a
special timetable or with academic conditions. Special timetables and academic conditions are
designed as part of written learning contract that the student and program coordinator create
together. The goal of these measures is to allow students to continue in the program accompanied by
a supportive plan for success.
Discontinuance
Students who have failed to meet all program standards or who have failed to meet the standards set out
in the Conestoga Student Guide and/or the Primary Care Paramedic Program Handbook involving
academic dishonesty, student responsibilities, or unacceptable behaviour, attitude or conduct may be
discontinued from the Primary Care Paramedic Program.
Students can be discontinued according to the following reasons:
•
•
•
•
For failure to meet academic program standards by failing two or more courses in the same
term.
For violating documented ethical standards of practice.
For inappropriate behaviour that jeopardizes the study of other students.
For not adhering to the professional standards of health and ability required for this kind of
work. For example, if the presence of a documented health issue exceeds the reasonable
capacity of the College to provide accommodation and is determined to constitute a barrier to
safe participation in the Program according to the standards of the Program and/or College.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Procedure
1. The professor notifies the promotions committee of the reasons a student is suggested to be
discontinued.
2. The promotions committee reviews the reasons and recommends discontinuance.
3. The program chair and/or coordinator meet with the student to explain the reason(s) for
discontinuance and complete the Discontinuance Form. A copy of the form is forwarded to the
Registrar.
4. The registrar forwards the student a letter outlining the discontinuance and explains the steps
involved in requesting an appeal.
Withdrawal
Students not planning to return to the Primary Care Paramedic Program the following semester are
expected to complete a Withdrawal Form available from the program coordinators, the Registrar’s Office,
or on the college website.
Program Transfer
Prior to transferring to another program, it is recommended that the student meet with the program
coordinator or academic advisor. Students who decide to change programs may do so by completing
and submitting a program application form to the Registrar’s Office. If considering transferring to a
program outside the school in which they are currently enrolled in, students may want to discuss
options with a career advisor. When a student moves from one Conestoga program to another and
where courses numbers/codes are identical or equivalent, automatic credit is given if passing grades
are met.
Appeal
Students have the right to appeal any academic decisions as set out in the Conestoga Student Guide. It is
recommended that students begin this appeal process by first meeting with the faculty and/or program.
Clearance of Academic Deficiency
Please refer to Conestoga Student Guide for the procedure and criteria regarding Clearance of
Academic Deficiency. Please note that following the end of semester, contact with any student eligible
to write a supplemental will be made either by phone or email. A specific date, time and room number
will be given to each student. If a student does not respond to this contact, the student forfeits the
opportunity to write a supplemental test. The maximum number of supplemental opportunities during
the program is two per student.
Procedure
1. Promotions Committee grants or denies permission for supplemental work.
2. Program Coordinator contacts student and sets up a time to meet and fill out the Supplemental
Request Form.
3. Student brings form and pays additional fee for supplemental work at the Registrar’s office.
4. Student receives supplemental work from Program Coordinator.
5. Student completes supplemental work (test or assignment) in accordance with the times and
dates given by the Program Coordinator.
6. Student meets with Program Coordinator to submit assignment.
7. Supplemental work is assessed and the Registrar’s Office is contacted with the result.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Readmission to the Program
Since the Primary Care Paramedic Program is a highly integrated and oversubscribed program, a
student who has withdrawn or been discontinued from the program must apply to be readmitted.
Readmission to the program is not guaranteed. Students who have been discontinued from semester
one must reapply through Ontario Colleges for readmission to semester one. Admission/readmission
to all other semesters is based on seat availability and academic status. If space in the program exists,
students will be readmitted to the current program design, to which current program standards and
procedures will apply. Students will be ranked ordered for readmission using the following criteria:
1. Students in good academic standing who have withdrawn from the Conestoga College PCP
program due to illness or personal circumstances with prior approval from the Program
Coordinator and/or Program Chair.
2. Students who have one discontinuance as a result of course failure(s) and whose academic
status/performance and extra-curricular preparation suggests that they will be successful in the
program if readmitted.
3. Transfer students from other institutions whose Primary Care Paramedic Programs are deemed
to be substantially equivalent in curriculum structure and who are in good academic standing.
If there are more students within any category than space in the program can accommodate, the
following academic factors will also be considered when categorizing students for readmission:
•
•
Overall grade point average (GPA) for students in good academic standing.
Number of courses failed and grade point average if student presents with one
discontinuance.
Students who do not meet the above criteria will not be readmitted to the program.
A student who has been out of the program for more than 12 months may be required to successfully
complete theory and/or skill challenge testing.
Only one opportunity to re-apply or repeat a failed course is permitted.
For additional information, refer to the Academic Administration page for more information on the
readmission procedure
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Promotion is based on academic achievement as well as meeting personal and professional
performance standards. In addition to the Academic Regulations found in the Conestoga Student
Guide, the following apply to the Pre-Service Firefighter Program:
Process for Resolution of Student Concerns
In order to resolve any concerns which may arise during a course, field placement or relating to the
program overall, students are encouraged to resolve issues or concerns informally at the program level
prior to proceeding to a formal appeal.
If attempts have been made, and a successful resolution has not been reached, students are
encouraged to refer to their Conestoga Student Guide, and to follow the procedures outlined under
the “Academic Dispute Resolution and Appeal Procedure” section.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Maintaining Student Files
1. Official records of each student’s education are maintained electronically by the Registrar.
Academic records are also maintained by the college regarding Course Outlines to support the
level of achievement in a particular course.
2. Administrative records related to your experience in the Program are maintained to
demonstrate compliance with external and college requirements. This information is as follows:
Student Information
Pre-Practicum Health
Requirements
 per copies of information
received from students
Acknowledgement of WSIB
Understanding
 signed by each student prior
to the first practicum
placements
File Location and Student Access
In Health Tracker, by individual
student access
**accessed through My Conestoga

Each student has his/her own
information on the Health
Passport for provision to
practicum agencies as required.
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program
 By the Program, by the Program
Assistant responsible for
Placements
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program
 In Program File with Program
Assistant
 For the duration of
a student’s time in
the Program.
Student Consents Signed on
Admission (per Student
Handbook)
 Student Consent for Release
of Information
 Student Understanding of
Professional Standards
 Student Understanding of
Safety Requirements
Retention
3. Academic Files are set up as required for a student to document important matters relevant to a
student’s progress or to document and monitor resolution of concerns.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Student Information
A. Documents related to academic
progress
 Correspondence regarding
course equivalencies
 Correspondence re
supplementary examinations
 Learning Contracts
 Disabilities Information & plans
File Location and Student
Access
 In Student File,
maintained by the
Program Coordinator,
initially, and then filed
for safe-keeping during
the student’s time in
the Program –
maintained by the
Program Assistant
Retention
For one year following
graduation
B. Records of Competency
Attainment
As above
As above
C. Documents related to areas of
Concern
 Interview Records, with
supporting email
documentation as appropriate
 Student Code of Conduct
 Incident Reports
 Letters/emails of significant
concern and replies
 Appeals
As above
As above
4. Students may review the contents of your Academic file by:
•
•
Requesting this in writing to the Program Coordinator
Reviewing the file in the presence of the Coordinator
5. At the end of one year, the contents of your file will be destroyed through the college’s process
for purging confidential documents.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
6. Off Campus Activities
Firefighter training is based on an integrated balance of theory and practice. Your program includes
work integrated learning opportunities that can be expanded and clarified with the theoretical
knowledge gained from classes. These involve brief practical skills development through fire grounds
training at WRESTRC and exposure to fire services/allied services via field trips and other off-campus
activities.
Practicum Health Requirements
Mandatory practicum health and safety requirements must be completed by students prior to offcampus activities. Successful completion of off-campus activities is required for students to progress to
program completion. To qualify for these learning experiences, students must present the following at
the start of the program in accordance with pre-admission information provided by the college:
• Standard First Aid and CPR – HCP level
• An annual Police Check for Vulnerable Sector Screening (VSS). Police Checks must be clear of
any unpardoned criminal offences. An unclear criminal record may result in the inability to
participate in off-campus activities which may jeopardize progress in the program. Acceptance
is at the discretion of the host organization; for example, some agencies may request students
to provide a VSS completed within six months of the start date. Students with criminal records
are advised to meet with the program chair for academic counselling to determine program
suitability.
Safety in the Workplace Course
All students who participate in unpaid work placements during the course of their program will be
required to successfully complete the mandatory Safety in the Workplace course prior to going out on
placement. The course will provide students with an introduction to workplace hazards and general
safety awareness. Students will receive a Record of Completion to provide evidence of this training to
placement sites and will consent to their workplace insurance coverage.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Student Consent Forms
Students are required to complete program specific consent forms. To access the forms, students
should go to the Practicum Services Community on myConestoga and open the Consent Forms
tab. Students can then electronically sign-off all applicable consent forms after reading each
document.
WSIB
Prior to your first exercise at WRESTRC, you must sign a Declaration of Understanding of WSIB
Coverage related to Unpaid Clinical Placements indicating you understand that WSIB coverage will be
provided through the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities while you are on off-campus
training. This Declaration will be placed in your student file. It is your responsibility to ensure that the
Declaration of Understanding for WSIB Coverage is signed and returned or you will not be allowed to
attend your field experience.
Concerns regarding Student Safety or the Safety and Care/Service for
Clients
Off-campus experiences provide the opportunity to demonstrate and enhance your learning in the
practice environment. These visits and activities have been organized by your Program in partnership
with the organization where you have been involved.
The following procedures have been developed to make it easier to identify and address any concerns
or issues regarding your safety or the safety and care of clients that may come up during an offcampus experience to support both a solid learning experience and a constructive partnership with the
host site.
A. Communication of General Concerns Regarding Your Safety or the Safety and Care/Service for
Clients
1. Students will be provided with an Orientation to their off-campus experience site. The
Orientation may include details of the off-campus experience site’s policies and procedures
related to communication about the safety of the work environment and /or the safety and
care of patients/residents/clients.
2. If a student has any concerns about the safety of the work environment and/or the
safe/appropriate care/service for clients:
a. The student must immediately report these concerns to the college individual
associated with the practicum (Clinical Instructor, Faculty responsible for your
practicum, Field Placement Supervisor).
b. The Clinical Instructor /Responsible Faculty/Field Placement Supervisor will discuss this
concern with Site Management.
c. For concerns of a serious nature (e.g. concerns impacting a total student group; a
serious care/service situation), the Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field
Placement Supervisor will discuss the situation with the Program Coordinator and,
potentially, the Department Chair. The Coordinator or Chair will immediately contact
practicum site management to determine next steps.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Should facility policies require that students report safety or care/service concerns immediately to offcampus experience site management, the student should report to the Clinical Instructor/Responsible
Faculty/Field Placement Officer immediately afterward.
B. Reporting of Incidents of Student Injury during a Practicum Experience
1. Should students experience personal injury of any kind, this must be reported immediately to
the Placement Employer and Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field Placement
Supervisor. The Placement Employer will provide first-aid that may be necessary, including
arranging for transportation to emergency medical services if required. The Clinical
Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field Placement Supervisor will notify the Program Coordinator
and Chair and complete an Unpaid Work/Education Placement-Accident Report (UWEP-04) and
will send this to the College’s Occupational Health & Safety Office. Where necessary, the
Occupational Health & Safety Office will complete a WSIB 7 form, a MTCU Letter of
Authorization to Represent Placement Employer and a MTCU Work/Education Placement
Agreement Form.
C. Reporting of Student Involvement in Situations of Possible Injury to Clients during a Practicum
Experience or Student Damage to Facility Property
1. Should students be involved in care/service situations where there the care/service results in a
potential concern/injury to patients/residents/clients of the placement site, this concern must
be immediately reported to the Practicum Site in order that care can be given. This situation
must also be reported immediately to the Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Field
Placement Supervisor. The faculty member will discuss this immediately with the placement
site and ensure that an incident report is completed. The faculty member must also inform the
Program Coordinator and the Department Chair for a discussion of program expectations and
implications. It is the responsibility of the Chair to ensure that all documentation is obtained
regarding the incident and to inform College officials accordingly.
2. Should students be involved in situations where there is alleged damage to resources/physical
property at the Practicum site, this concern must be reported immediately to the Practicum
Site and to the Clinical Instructor/Responsible Faculty/Placement Officer. The faculty member
will inform the Program Coordinator and Department Chair for a discussion of program
expectations and implications. It is the responsibility of the Clinical Instructor/Responsible
Faculty/Placement Officer to complete an incident report with the Chair accountable to ensure
all documentation is obtained and to inform College officials accordingly.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Fire Service Work Integrated Learning/Off Campus Policies
•
•
•
•
Students are expected to complete their activities as assigned,. Locations and length of work
integrated learning experiences can vary.
Students who will be absent from work integrated learning experiences are required to notify
both the agency where they are placed and their faculty at the college prior to the start of their
shift.
Students who require special shift considerations due to extenuating circumstances should
negotiate this with faculty at the beginning of the semester.
Students who fail to meet the required number of hours may not be eligible to graduate.
Fire Department and Agency Partners
We are very pleased to have the support of many local fire departments and agency partners for the
Pre-Service Firefighter Program including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Brantford Fire Department
Cambridge Fire Department
Guelph Fire Department
Kitchener Fire Department
Norfolk County Fire Department
Stratford Fire Department
Waterloo Fire Rescue
Waterloo Region Emergency Services Training and Research Complex
Township of Wellesley Fire Department
Township of Woolwich Fire Department
University of Waterloo (Fire Research)
Guelph-Wellington EMS
Children’s Safety Village
Guelph General Hospital
St. Mary’s General Hospital
Woodstock General Hospital
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
7. Student Awards
Conestoga has more than 400 awards, bursaries, scholarships and academic grants available to
Conestoga students. These funds are made available to our students through the partnerships we have
established with local business and industry leaders. To be considered for an award, complete the
General Application available through your Student Portal. Notifications and instructions to complete
the application are sent to all full-time students’ email accounts in the fall semester (Deadline: First
Friday in October) and winter semester (Deadline: First Friday in February). Visit the Student Financial
Services on Conestoga’s website.
The following awards* are available to the students of Pre-Service Firefighter Program. Students who
have questions about any of these awards should speak with their Program Coordinator. Please watch
your college email for information from the Financial Aid office concerning application deadlines,
processes and eligibility. You may obtain information about other school wide awards and scholarships
from Financial Aid. You can find the General Awards Application by clicking here.
* Note: All awards correct at time of print, but are subject to change.
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Pre-Service Firefighter Program Awards
Award Name
Award Description
Tyler Todd
Memorial
Entrance Award
The Tyler Todd Memorial
Entrance Award is presented
to a student in the Pre-Service
Firefighter Program, with
preference given to one who
has served in the Canadian
military service.
The Firefighter Fitness
Outstanding Achievement
Award is presented to the top
male or female in the
graduating class of the PreService Firefighter Program. It
is granted to the student who
has achieved the highest level
of fitness based on the final
test scores.
The Emergency Patient Care
Outstanding Achievement
Award is presented a student
who has demonstrated
superior performance in
providing emergency patient
care.
The Leadership Award is
presented to a student who
demonstrates traits expected
of fire service leaders,
demonstrates leadership in
motivating and supporting
others throughout the
program, and is viewed by
faculty and students as the
“leader of the class”.
Firefighter
Fitness
Outstanding
Achievement
Emergency
Patient Care
Outstanding
Achievement
Leadership
Donor
Estimated
Amount
$500
Students Eligible
to Apply
Registered
students in the
Pre-Service
Firefighter
Program are
eligible to apply
Applicant submits a brief note
describing why he or she wants to
become a firefighter, and if
applicable, outlines his or her
service experience in the Canadian
military
Aaron
Dolson
$100 and
Plaque
All graduating
students are
considered
Faculty determine the student with
the highest test scores in
Firefighter Fitness
Northside
Trophies and
Awards
$100 and
Plaque
All graduating
students are
considered
With a focus on practical skills, the
recipient will be determined by the
coordinator, in consultation with
faculty
Darch Fire
(Dec. grads)
$250 and
Plaque
All graduating
students are
considered
The recipient will be determined
by the coordinator, considering
nominations from students and
faculty
Family of
Tyler Todd
A.J.Stone
(Apr. grads)
Selection Process
41
Pre-Service Firefighter Program Handbook 2015-2016
Award Name
Award Description
Donor
Outstanding
Achievement in
a Selected
Practice Area
The Outstanding Achievement
Award is presented to a
student who maintains
personal and professional
growth throughout the
program, and demonstrates a
superior ability to apply, in a
proficient manner, firefighter
theory to a selected practice
area.
This award is presented to a
student who exudes a positive
attitude and commitment to
their studies; provides
leadership to other students
in the program, as a team
player, and demonstrates a
commitment to collaboration
within and across year levels
and programs; and has
demonstrated superior
academic performance,
occupation-related skills,
service orientation and
professionalism.
The Academic Excellence
Award is presented to the
student who achieves the
highest academic grade point
average in firefighting
vocational courses over the
three semesters of study, and
satisfactorily completes the
Pregraduate Experience.
Professional
Firefighters
Associations
(Dec. grads)
Securitas
Canada Award
for
Professionalism
in Community
Safety
Academic
Excellence
Estimated
Amount
$500 and
Plaque
Students Eligible
to Apply
All graduating
students are
considered
Selection Process
Securitas
Canada
$500
All registered
full-time
students are
considered
With a focus on professional
practices and skills, the recipient
will be nominated by the
department chair, in consultation
with the program coordinator
ResQTech
$700 and
Plaque
All graduating
students are
considered
Coordinator determines the
student with the highest creditweighted GPA of vocational
courses
Coordinator determines which
student receives the most
nominations from Fireground
Instructors
Modern
Training
Ontario
(Apr. grads)
42
Program Revision Log
Last Revised
June 15, 2015
By Whom
Jillian Grant
43