Preparing Students for Future Success: How Work Study/Work Experience Programs Are Providing Career Training and Skill Building Opportunities for Students

Students enrolled in the Abbotsford School District's Work Study programs are transforming classroom vocational skills learned in the classroom and applying these practical skills in the real world of work. The Work Study/Work Experience path begins in grade nine and continues through grade twelve and beyond. Throughout this journey, students engage in a curriculum designed to help them explore individualized interests and strengths while developing employability skills that employers are seeking in 2025. These skills include communication, problem-solving, teamwork, adaptability and critical thinking, which are essential for personal and professional success.

The Work Study program initiative aligns with our District's strategic plan by co-creating engaging opportunities for student success. At Yale and Rick Hansen Secondary Schools, students run an automobile detailing business, while Yale students also learn business management and customer service through operating a coffee company. At Robert Bateman and Abbotsford Secondary, students apply place-based learning by growing their own potatoes and practicing food safety. W.J. Mouat students are developing numeracy and customer service skills while working in the Hawk Shop Café.  Additionally, Abbotsford Secondary grade ten students recently completed their WHMIS training. Students also gain work experience by shadowing staff such as custodians, Indigenous Support Workers, chefs, office staff and Early Childhood Educators.

But where to next after these practical skills are developed inside the schools and our District? Students then have the option to be matched with a community work experience opportunity in their interest areas such as working with animals, grocery and clothing retail, office reception, automobile shops, horticulture, and the food service industry. Because of our wonderful Abbotsford community partnerships, barriers are removed, and a welcoming environment of inclusive spaces is created which boosts students' confidence and sense of contribution to the community they live in. With support from a Job Coach Education Assistant, students gradually work towards independence, gaining exposure to different working environments, and discovering the best fit for their skills and interests. This ensures their experiences in both school and the community are productive and positive.

As a Work Experience/Work Study Facilitator, it is incredibly rewarding to witness students' growth and success firsthand.  The transformation from a student's first work experience to their third or fourth is truly inspiring. By their third or fourth placement, they learn to ask insightful questions, share their ideas, and advocate for themselves. By graduation, they have not only enriched their resumes with a variety of experiences but have also crafted a transition plan for their future. One student's reflection perfectly captures this journey: "I thought I would never be able to get a job, but now I know I can."

In 2024, six out of 18 of our Grade 12+ Work Study students secured part-time employment before graduation and continue to thrive in those roles. This year, three of our students who participated in work experience have already found jobs, with the remainder of the year still ahead, which is a testament to the value of this program.

Kim Ruddell - Work Experience Facilitator, Learning Support Services