Creating opportunities for post-secondary connections

It’s amazing to see so many AESN schools focusing their inquiries this year on the various transitions students face as they journey through their learning and work towards graduation.  As adults, we’ve all experienced the stress and anxiety that can come from moving from one phase of life to another.  We know our students experience this too, and perhaps even more so, without the benefit of experience to guide them through the process.

With so many graduation ceremonies happening across post-secondary campuses in BC over the last few weeks, it seems timely to share how several schools have been supporting their high school students in preparing for their futures. 

Two schools in SD 82 Coast Mountains – Kitimat City High and Caledonia Secondary – focused part of their inquiry this year around building a connection with the post-secondary institute in their region. Students have had the opportunity to visit their local college, learn about the services and programs offered, tour the facilities and even have lunch in the cafeteria.  It was important for students to experience first-hand, but in a supported nature, the possibility of post-secondary options, and what they may expect as a means of easing that transition.

This shared experience made an impact.  Students commented that the visit “gave me a better understanding of how the college works” and “it helped me set my career goals” and “it got me thinking to start making a plan.”  Several students have applied to the college this year, and several more are now thinking about this as they work toward graduation.  

This is really inspiring. It captures the networks so clearly – helping every learner cross the stage with dignity, purpose and options.