Canmore Collegiate High School played host to local business members to thank them for taking part in the school’s work experience and apprenticeship programs, Wednesday (May 7).
Certificates were received by the businesses for taking part in offering Grade 10, 11 and 12 students a chance to attain credit through practical work experience in trades, volunteerism and the service industry.
“It’s the first time we’ve had an employer appreciation, our off campus program is growing and we just wanted to thank everyone that’s partnered with us and businesses in the community. They’ve been really great at trying to build with the kids and been really positive, so we thought we would try to do something to show we appreciate what they’re doing,” said CCHS off-campus coordinator Deb Sellers.
“We currently have five students and I think because of their age it’s something new for them; they’re really absorbing everything you’re trying to teach them and they’re generally really easy to work with and get a long with and respectful,” said Doug Stassi, Grizzly Paw executive chef.
“We really enjoy having them around and that’s why we’re here, just to see how we can build on it and improve and grow with the future.”
Sellers said comments she received from employers have been positive to say the least. “One said they have a student who has been working for them for about a month now and they are quite pleased with how he is working. When I was thanking the employer for hiring and training the student he thanked me back and said, ‘it was a win-win situation’ for their business and the student/school. I thought that was an interesting comment and I think the employers would agree.”
Some of the largest local employers include Elevation Place, Safeway, Tim Hortons, McDonald’s and Save-on-Foods.
“All of the local golf courses had students in work experience over the summer, along with several of the restaurants in town,” Sellers said. “I’m so pleased with the response of businesses in Canmore and how employers want to invest in the youth in this town – I think it says something of the community aspect of Canmore we all love.”
Businesses who had students or employers representing them at the CCHS event included: JK bakery, Elizabeth Rummel school, Rusticana, Triple NC Auto Ltd., Cornerstone Cribbing, Le Chocolatier, Stoneridge Resort, (employers and students), the Grizzly Paw (employer), McDonalds and Canmore Woodcrafters (students).
Off-campus programs CCHS supports include the Work Experience Program, RAP (Registered Apprenticeship Program) and the Green Certificate.
Local businesses and employers who wish to take part in the program are encouraged to contact CCHS for further information and details.
