The Sunshine Coast School District (SD46) was one of seven districts in the province to receive the Industry Training Authority (ITA) Youth Work in Trades Performance Award for having the highest number of student apprentices enrolled in trades training.
ITA funds training, issues credentials, supports apprenticeships and sets program standards in partnership with B.C.’s skilled trades system.
“Congratulations to SD46 for partnering with the ITA in order to deliver the highest standard of trades training to students in the region,” said Melanie Mark, Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, in a release. “I am so proud of all the young people who are pushing the envelope and finding their passion in the trades. As minister, I sincerely believe that a Red Seal certification is just as valuable as a degree.”
The award includes $5,000 in additional funding to assist the district to further develop their Youth Work in Trades program, which SD46’s career coordinator Cathy Gordon said was a “wonderful opportunity.”
One of SD46’s students, Lily Nason, apprentices at Entre Deux Mers Bistro. “I get hands-on training and experience with a certified Red Seal chef every time I go to work. I learn how to work in a team and stay calm during stressful situations. I get to experiment with creative ways of making delicious food. I still have a lot to learn, but I am enjoying every minute of it.”
ITA chief executive officer Shelley Gray congratulated the district and said SD46 staff are giving students “crucial hands-on experience.”
Businesses that are interested in hiring a youth apprentice can contact Cathy Gordon at [email protected].
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