A new law came into effect in January for classes with practicum components where students will work with children or vulnerable adults.

As of January 2012, students enrolled or planning to enrol in a course that has such a practicum component need to apply for a Criminal Record Check through Simon Fraser University.

This new requirement comes directly from the BC Ministry of Public Safety and the Solicitor General’s amendment to the Criminal Records Review Act.

Examples of courses with a practicum component may include but are not limited to internships, practica and field practice. For purposes of the Act, practicum components do not include research courses or co-op programs. (A list of current courses which require criminal records checks is online but more may be added.)

You will find more information about the Criminal Records Review Act at http://students.sfu.ca/criminalrecords.html.