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Governance · Standards

How we develop standards

Credible standards are built deliberately. Our process moves from research through advisory review, piloting, and broad consultation before anything is published — so NBWSR certifications reflect accepted practice and stand up to scrutiny.

  1. 1

    Research

    Survey accepted field practice, existing frameworks, and the evidence base.

  2. 2

    Advisory review

    The Advisory Council reviews scope and approach against real-world conditions.

  3. 3

    Draft standards

    Working groups draft competency-based standards and assessment criteria.

  4. 4

    Pilot programs

    Standards are tested in the field with instructors and learners.

  5. 5

    Industry consultation

    Partners, organizations, and stakeholders provide structured feedback.

  6. 6

    Publication

    Final standards are published, versioned, and maintained over time.

Our standard for standards

Practical expertise is prioritized over public profile. Standards are credible when they are developed with the people who do the work — and tested before they’re published.

Become an Advisor

Help shape national standards for wilderness self-reliance education. We welcome respected practitioners, educators, and researchers from across Canada.

Apply to join the Advisory Council