Northern Lights Public Schools is taking steps to enhance hands-on learning experiences for its students as part of its 2024-2027 Education Plan.
A key focuse of this initiative is expanding apprenticeship opportunities, which aim to better prepare students for careers in skilled trades.
“We have some exciting developments in NLPS when it comes to apprenticeships, dual credit programs, and other career pathways,” said Karen Draycott, NLPS Director of Learning – Grades 7-12 Instructional Support in a statement. She emphasized that through partnerships with community organizations and post-secondary institutions, NLPS is expanding opportunities for students to explore various career options and advance their high school education.
In summer 2024, NLPS launched a dual credit program in partnership with Portage College. This new initiative exposed students to trades and apprenticeships through the “Introduction to the Trades” course. Nine students completed the program, collectively earning 45 high school credits.
“Introduction to the Trades allows students to explore four trades,” explained Draycott. “The course includes eight days of instruction at the Portage College trades lab, and students earn high school and college credits upon completion.” The four trades covered in the course were carpentry, steamfitting/pipefitting, welding, and power engineering. This experience gives students a foundation to make informed decisions about their future in skilled trades.
For those already focused on pursuing a trade, NLPS continues to expand its Registered Apprenticeship Program (RAP), which allows high school students to gain practical experience in their chosen field. RAP enables students to earn apprenticeship hours while attending school, providing a head start in their careers. Draycott noted the growing interest in the program and said the division is actively working with local employers to increase the number of available placements.
“We’re seeing increasing interest in RAP, and we’re excited to work with local employers to create more opportunities for students who are keen to start their apprenticeship journey,” she added.
In addition, NLPS is exploring new opportunities that could allow students to complete their Period 1 trades training while still in high school. This initiative would further accelerate students’ progress in their apprenticeship pathways.
