(Image Credit: Curtis Goodrum / CFJC Today)

By Curtis Goodrum

RCMP YOUTH ACADEMY

Kamloops RCMP hosts 11 high schoolers in latest instalment of Youth Academy

Mar 13, 2026 | 5:40 PM

KAMLOOPS — High schoolers in Kamloops have been put through their paces this week as they begin the RCMP Youth Academy, a five-day police training program that gives students a glimpse into what it’s like to be an RCMP officer.

This year focuses on virtual reality, and Cpl. Dana Napier of the Kamloops RCMP says this program has helped many students in the Kamloops Thompson School District (SD73) figure out their life plans.

“We have had several students come back through our RCMP volunteer program. Some have gone on to the Thompson Rivers University police and justice studies program,” Napier said. “We have had two people go through the application process and come back as police officers. We have some that have gone into dispatching and some that have also stayed locally as a part of the CSOs.”

High school students who sign up for the program embark on five ten-hour days with the RCMP, learning a variety of topics. Many students hope it can lead to a career.

Week In Review

Week In Review: Week of March 9

1h ago

Seedy Saturday

Kamloops 'Seedy Saturday' supports local gardeners and growers

3h ago

Two & Out

PETERS: Pathways shouldn't be a wedge between people who want the same thing

Mar 13, 2026

“I’m doing this for an experience, but at the same time, I’m like, considering this is like a career path, I’m considering,” said Tashrweeq Taharaat.

“Joining the RCMP has been a thing that I’ve wanted since I was a child, so having this opportunity come up at school was something that immediately caught my attention. I believe that if I follow it by doing something like this, then it would help me in my future,” added Max Hooiveld.

“I’m considering becoming an officer conservation officer. It’s pretty fun, and I feel like this experience is for me,” said Tristan Blighton.

This is one of many courses the district runs throughout the year in order to give high school students opportunities to learn about careers they want.

“The career development department is super excited to offer events such as the RCMP Youth Academy to students because they get hands on real world life experience. From industry members such as Corporal Napier, learning all about law enforcement,” noted Kerry Gairdner, the Vice Principal of Career Programs at SD73.