For Families
Resources & Safety
Safety is not a side note in immersion. It is the foundation. Below you will find clear information about how we protect, prepare, and care for every student.
Safety Overview
Every immersion experience is built around a framework of prevention, preparation, and response. Before students arrive, we assess each location, activity, and accommodation against our safety protocols. During the program, trained staff remain with students at all times and maintain open communication with families at home.
Our staff are trained in first aid, emergency response, and risk management specific to the Costa Rican environment. We carry well-stocked medical kits, maintain relationships with local clinics and hospitals, and have evacuation plans in place for every location on the itinerary.
Staff Certifications
Every member of our lead team holds current certifications relevant to the work they do with students in the field. We do not send students into environments that our team is not qualified to lead.
- ✦Wilderness First Responder (WFR)
- ✦CPR / AED certification
- ✦Certified lifeguard for aquatic activities
- ✦Risk management training for youth travel
- ✦Mental health first aid awareness
- ✦Ongoing continuing education in safety and leadership
Medical Protocols
From minor scrapes to urgent situations, we have clear protocols in place so that care is fast, appropriate, and communicated to families.
Pre-program health form
Families complete a confidential health form so our staff can be aware of allergies, medications, conditions, and dietary needs before arrival.
Medical kits on site
Each trip carries a comprehensive medical kit appropriate for the environment, including supplies for common travel illnesses, injuries, and allergic reactions.
Local clinic and hospital access
We identify and maintain contact with trusted medical clinics and hospitals in every region we visit, with transportation plans ready.
Family communication
Parents and guardians are notified promptly in the event of any injury, illness, or incident requiring medical attention or a change in plans.
Background Check Policy
Every adult staff member, volunteer, and contractor who works directly with students must complete a comprehensive background check before participating in any GP Immersion program.
Criminal background check
We require a national criminal background check for all staff and volunteers, renewed on a regular basis.
Reference checks
Each team member provides professional and personal references, which we contact directly before onboarding.
Abuse prevention training
Staff complete training on recognizing, preventing, and reporting suspected abuse or misconduct involving minors.
Two-adult rule
We maintain a two-adult rule in all student interactions, and no staff member is ever alone one-on-one with a student.
Have questions about safety?
We are happy to walk you through our protocols, answer questions about a specific need, or connect you with our safety lead.
Inquire Now