ACCREDITATION with the BCCA

THE PURPOSE:

The purpose of the Accreditation process is to provide the operators of camps in British Columbia, and those individuals or agencies planning such services, with materials to aid in developing and improving camp services in British Columbia. The BCCA primarily accredits overnight camps for children and youth, but Accreditation is also applicable to day camps and some camp-like operations, such as outdoor recreation organizations and educational experiences. All BCCA member camps in good standing, having paid their membership fees, can undergo the Accreditation process.

The BCCA depends on volunteers to help carry out the Accreditation Visitation Process. We encourage all member camps to provide at least one volunteer each year to take part in a visit for another camp.

THE BENEFITS:

● External review of safety standards and practices

● Networking with industry peers

● Recognized by the public and camper caregivers

● Industry stamp of excellence

● Opportunity to improve operations

● Access to resources and mentorship

● Benefit for insurance coverage

● Feature on BCCA website

● Use of BCCA logo on camp's website and signage to display at the camp

Download and review the 2023 Accreditation Standards.

The BCCA Accreditation Standards provide guidelines for best practice in all areas of camp based on industry standards. We provide a means for camp professionals to evaluate their operations and to request a formal evaluation and consultation from fellow BCCA Members. The BCCA accreditation standards are not intended as a deterrent to becoming a BCCA Member. Rather, we hope our standards will support camps in their process to achieving the highest quality and safety standards within the camping industry in British Columbia.

NEW for 2022 - Annual Accreditation Declaration Form - To support our member camps in offering safe and quality camping in BC between scheduled accreditation inspection visits the BCCA has created an Annual Accreditation Declaration form. Please review the current year's accreditation standards to ensure you are up to date with additions or revisions (highlighted in yellow) and ensure this form is submitted on or before June 15th. To complete the annual declaration form click here.

HOW TO BECOME A BCCA ACCREDITED CAMP

A camp can apply for membership with the BCCA as an "Aspiring Camp". This means they are committed to pursuing the process of accreditation. An Aspiring member camp must be in operation for at least one (1) year before an Accreditation Visit will be made. All member camps start at the aspiring level and go through a peer-reviewed process to achieve Accreditation. Camps seeking Accreditation are dedicated to providing safe and quality camp experiences and strive to maintain BCCA standards. An aspiring camp must be in operation for at least one year before an Accreditation Visit will be made. The BCCA is available for consultation and support prior to the first official Accreditation Visit.

The maximum term a camp may be accredited is four years to ensure camps are under consistent oversight by the BCCA. Accreditation applies to the operation as seen at the time of the visit. Additional visits may be required if there is significant change in program, staff, management, board, ownership, site and/or facilities.