FGC Coordinator Training & Mentorship | FAQs

Can anyone take the training?

Applicants are screened against a set of criteria, which is outlined on the training application.  Sometimes, there are more qualified applicants than training opportunities.  If this is the case, eligible applicants will be notified of the next training dates and asked if they want to be put on the list for that training.

Is there a cost to the training?

Yes.  There is a $50 non-refundable processing fee, required at the time the training application is submitted.  If accepted into the training program, there is a tuition fee of $600 for the in-person training program, which covers three days of training, all training materials and lunch on all training days.   There is a tuition fee of $400 for the on-line training program, which cover six modules of on-line training and electronic copies of all training materials.

The tuition fee is refundable if notice is given in writing to the Provincial Resource office at least 48 hours prior to the commencement of the training.  If notification is received in writing at a point in time less than 48 hours, refunds will be only given if space can be filled by another applicant.  Once the training commences, no further refunds will be available.

I have previously attended the FGC Training Program at some time in the past but did not complete a mentorship.  Am I required to apply for and attend the training again?

Please contact the Provincial Resource office to discuss your status.   If you have received the training within the last twenty-four (24) months, you are still eligible to apply for a mentorship.  You do have the option to attend the training again and the tuition fee will be waived.  If you have attended the training in the past but it was not within the last 24 months, you will be required to apply to attend the training and the identified costs will be attached.

Once I complete the training will I be guaranteed a mentorship?

Completing the training is the first step in the process of becoming a Family Group Conferencing Coordinator.  After the training, participants may choose to continue with the next stage.  Interested participants will need to write a Statement of Interest application and submit that to the Provincial Resource office.  If accepted as a potential candidate to move on to the next phase, then potential coordinators-in-training will participate in interviews with FGC mentors.

You will have the opportunity to be interviewed by a mentor.   You also can interview several mentors.  It is important that the mentor-mentee relationship fits for both parties, as you will be working closely together.

Is there a cost to being mentored?

Yes, there is a cost.  Mentors determine their own rates and conditions for providing a mentorship and will discuss the details of their contract with you.

If I get trained and mentored will I be guaranteed future employment or a contract?

No, there is no guarantee of future employment or future contracts.  Most Family Group Conference Coordinators either work for an agency or work independently.  Each region of the province is organized slightly differently.  The FGC Ontario Provincial Resource office is not involved with hiring or making recommendations about potential new hires.

How long will it take before I can practice FGC?

The length of time from training to being placed on the roster varies widely.  It is dependent upon many factors: the availability of suitable referrals; availability in the schedules of mentor, coordinator-in-training and families; geography; skills, abilities and attitude of coordinator-in-training and other factors.  It can take quite a length of time, so be sure that this is work you want to undertake. 

Will I be supported in my FGC practice?

Yes, you will find that the FGC community is very welcoming and supportive to newcomers.  Professional development days are held twice a year and you will get an opportunity to network and learn about relevant matters to the field.  The FGC Provincial Resource office is also available to answer many of your questions and if they don’t know the answer, they will connect you with someone from the community. 

To contact the FGC Provincial Resource office, call us at 416-622-8833 ext 265 or email at ProvincialResource@georgehull.on.ca.