Participation in work experience and career learning increases over the summer in Chinook’s Edge

Chinook’s Edge had its best year to date for the number of students participating in work experience programs during the summer, earning credits, valuable career related experiences, and also - in many cases - a paycheque. 

A total of 307 students from 12 Chinook’s Edge schools engaged with the opportunity. All of the division’s high schools and K to 12 schools had students enrolled.

The number of students participating has grown from 209 students in 2023, to 236 students in 2024, and to 307 this year - representing a 47 per cent increase in participation since 2023.

During that time period, there has been a transition from: 

• schools providing oversight to the division providing support
• paper applications to digital applications

Also, the division has worked collaboratively to develop new program expectations. 

“The Career Connections teams within our schools have done an amazing job of engaging with students about opportunities they have for career exploration,” says Brianne Fletcher, Director of the Community Learning Campus. “These important conversations are opening doors to meaningful opportunities such as work experience.” 

“These experiences provide students with valuable exposure to life beyond the walls of their high schools,” says Fletcher. “Not only do students explore potential career paths, but they also gain essential life skills that build clarity, confidence and direction as they plan for life after graduation.”

The work experience program is designed to help students: 

• Apply real-world skills in professional environments
• Set and reflect on personal and career goals
• Develop essential employability skills such as communication, responsibility, and teamwork
• Earn high school credits while gaining hands-on experience

Mateya S. is a student who participated in the work experience program over the summer. Mateya worked at the Olds golf course as a prep cook, dishwasher and general helper in the kitchen. 

“It was great,” says Mateya. “I met a lot of people and had a great time. I learned a lot about food handling, and how hosting tournaments work. I learned how to stay calm in a busy situation.” 

The École Olds High School student said that she found having a teacher supervisor to be helpful as she moved through the employment experience. “I was able to ask her questions and it was super helpful.” Also, Mateya says knowing she would be graded on her work was motivating. “It helped me want to put in my best effort.”

Chinook’s Edge partners with CAREERS in the work of generating job opportunities for students, and is reliant on community organizations and businesses who agree to mentor and support students in the work experience program. “Thank you to CAREERS for successfully partnering with us to help students find and succeed in their placements,” says Fletcher.

“Also, a sincere thank you to every employer who came forward to provide an opportunity for a student. We could not do this without your support,” says Fletcher. “Your mentorship and feedback to our students increases their skills and confidence. You are making a huge difference in the lives and future success of our youth,” says Fletcher. 

If you are an employer, or know an employer, who would be willing to help one of our great students build some valuable job experience, please contact CAREERS at www.careersnextgen.ca or 1-888-757-7172.  

Community excited about student success in work experience

You may have noticed that Chinook’s Edge featured a number of work experience students on its Facebook page over the summer.  Your comments and likes on the 25 posts showed us just how much you are interested in the success of students as they build career related skills and confidence. Thank you! 

Here are some of our top posts, in case you haven’t seen them yet, and want to check them out: 

A number of students from Hugh Sutherland School worked with the Town of Carstairs and summer camp programs

Dylan G. from Penhold Crossing Secondary School worked at PCL Construction

Spencer C. from École Olds High School enjoyed serving at the CLC Fitness Centre in Olds

Kaitlyn J. from Innisfail High School was successful in a customer service role at Jackson’s Pharmasave 

Kallie B. from École Olds High School was relied on as a skilled welder at Spearhead Manufacturing and Supplies