Recognizing the importance of preparing students for future careers, Battle River School Division (BRSD) has enhanced student success through diverse credit opportunities and partnerships with trade industries and local businesses. By integrating dual credit courses, Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP), work experience, and Green Certificate programs, BRSD prepares students for meaningful careers while fostering resilience and adaptability in a dynamic workforce.
In the rapidly evolving educational landscape, ensuring student success extends beyond traditional classroom instruction and experience is critical. Recognizing the importance of preparing students for future careers, Battle River School Division (BRSD) has established strong partnerships with local trade industries and businesses. These collaborations not only enhance student engagement and offer essential support, but also bridge the skills gap, providing practical and relevant career pathways.
Strategic Collaborations for Student Success
BRSD's partnerships with trade industries and businesses are multifaceted, involving dual credit programs, Registered Apprenticeship Programs (RAP), work experience opportunities, and Green Certificate programs. These opportunities allow students to gain comprehensive experience and earn credits toward both high school graduation and post-secondary education.
Dual Credit Program
A cornerstone of BRSD's strategy is the dual credit program, supported by a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Olds College. Along with four other school divisions, BRSD has joined the newly formed Alberta Central East Collaborative (ACE-C), and next year, we will expand dual credit opportunities to Lakeland College.
Currently, seven students are enrolled in the program, with four completing the Veterinary Technical Assistant Certificate in June. A dual credit course is an opportunity for our students to get high school credits while simultaneously obtaining post-secondary credits. BRSD was grateful to receive additional grant funding from Alberta Education to be able to offer these dual credit courses to our students.
Apprenticeships and Work Experience
BRSD's commitment to experiential learning is evident in its robust RAPs and work experience programs. With 186 students enrolled in work experience across the division, BRSD highlights the importance of these programs being designed to provide students with real-world exposure and hands-on learning opportunities.
Through partnerships with local businesses and industries, students can engage in apprenticeships that allow them to work alongside skilled professionals. This mentorship model helps students develop technical skills while instilling a strong work ethic and professional demeanor.
Similarly, RAPs allow students to spend a portion of their time in school while working in industry as registered apprentices in one of the trades.
Over the past few years, BRSD had RAP carpentry and plumbing trade students involved with construction of the newly built Chester Ronning School in Camrose. Last year, two female BRSD students apprenticed: one in Welding and the other as a Heavy Equipment Technician. Battle River has seen the fields of Agriculture Equipment Technician, Auto Body Technician, Heavy Equipment Technician, and Electrician become sought after programs amongst our students. BRSD currently has 42 RAP students.
Green Certificate Program
The Green Certificate Program is another opportunity which provides students with access to the first level of agricultural apprenticeship; BRSD has 15 students registered in this program. Upon completion, students receive 16 credits in high school and a certificate from Alberta Agriculture. In 2024, three BRSD students received their Alberta Agriculture Technician Green Certificate.
During the 2023-24 school year, 300 BRSD students participated in off-campus programming. We are proud that BRSD students are finding great success with their achievements through these innovative programs, and wish to extend a huge thank you to all businesses that support BRSD students.
Fostering Resilience and Adaptability
Through students’ engagement in dual credit programs, apprenticeships, work experience, and Green Certificate programs, students learn to navigate challenges, solve problems creatively, and adapt to changing environments, strengthening skills that are invaluable in any career. The dynamic nature of trades requires individuals to continuously learn and adapt to new technologies and methodologies.
BRSD’s innovative approach to education through partnerships with trade industries sets a benchmark for preparing students for the future. By integrating dual credit programs, RAPs, work experience opportunities, and Green Certificate programs, BRSD not only enhances student engagement and success but also addresses the skills gap in the local economy. These initiatives exemplify how educational institutions can collaborate with industry partners to create meaningful career pathways; thus, fostering an adaptable workforce and dynamic world where each student will achieve resiliency and thrive throughout their journey toward success.
Story submitted by Rhae-Ann Holoien (superintendent). Stephen Hoyland (assistant superintendent) & Anna Radchenko (communications officer), Battle River School Division
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