SD60 to host annual Xplorefest this week

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — School District 60 (SD60) is all set to host its annual full-day hands-on career exploration event this week. 

Xplorefest has been scheduled for May 7th from 9:30 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. at the Pomeroy Sport Center located on 96th Street. 

According to a press release, XploreFest 2026 will welcome Grade 5 students from across the region for a hands-on career exploration day. 

Brian Campbell, district principal of careers and international education for SD60, said: “It’s about exposure to careers, breaking down gender stereotypes around careers and connecting community partners to schools and students.” 

At the events, school groups will have the opportunity to learn about careers, explore hands-on stations, and speak with professionals in the field. 

“There’ll be a really wide range of [people] from careers [like] healthcare to trades and oil field careers as well,” he noted. “ We’re trying to give a really wide range of career possibilities.” 

Since its inception in 2019, Xplorefest has grown.

“We have more employers getting involved each year, so that’s been one of the great ways it’s grown,” Campbell explained. 

Campbell stated the event has received “lots” of positive feedback. 

“Because there’s such a wide range of careers, the kids can do things hands-on and talk to people who work in the career; they’ve really enjoyed it,” he added. 

Although this year’s event will be “quite similar” to previous years, Campbell said more community partners have joined. 

In the press release, Stephen Petrucci, Superintendent of SD60, said: “XploreFest is all about hands-on learning and opening doors for our students.”

“When students can see and experience different career paths at a young age, it builds confidence and helps them start thinking about what their future could look like.” 

The event has been organized only for SD60 students and will not be open to the community.