SD 60 offers career exploration programs for students

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — School District 60 is offering several programs for students to explore career opportunities in a variety of fields. 

Brian Campbell, district principal for SD 60, gave a presentation during the board’s January 13th meeting and explained the diverse opportunities for students at all levels, from elementary to secondary, to explore and prepare for future careers.

“We have a true K-to-12 career program, which we’re really excited about and proud of here in our district,” says Campbell.

The board’s goal to increase the number of Indigenous students completing career pathway programs was a highlight of the presentation.

“Our goal is increasing the number of Indigenous students completing career pathway programs, and we’re doing that in a variety of different ways,” said Campbell. 

Students involved in dual credit have a seven per cent higher graduation rate and a 16 per cent higher post-secondary transition rate.

“We’re trying to increase our focus for work experience and dual credit to get our Indigenous students into those programs.”

Other highlights of the presentation included the welding, energy, and healthcare programs. 

The district partnered with CWB Welding Foundation for its ‘Mind over Metal’ program, which aims to ignite a passion for the trade with hands-on experience and career exploration. 

Campbell presented a new project, “Creating Energy Careers,” a week-long program for students to explore careers in the oil and gas and energy fields.

The Adventures in Healthcare and Health Road Show programs allow grade 10 and 11 students to discover healthcare careers in a rural setting, in partnership with the Fort St. John Rotary Club, Northern Health, and School District 59.

The program includes a tour of the local Northern Lights College campus, where students can learn about training paths in health sciences. 

This includes students getting safety training like occupational first aid, H2S, and CSO.

The full presentation can be viewed below: