On Friday, January 16th, our St. Thomas Aquinas Grade 7 students traded their traditional classrooms for a day of discovery at the Seven Generations Education Institute. This full-day field trip was designed to give students early exposure to the diverse world of post-secondary programming and the exciting career paths available right here in our community.
Hands-On in the Heart of the Action
STAHS was buzzing with energy as our students rotated through several interactive stations. Rather than just hearing about careers, the Saints got to experience them firsthand.
Some of the day’s highlights included:
Health Sciences: Students stepped into the Nursing Lab and even explored a real Ambulance, learning about the vital work of first responders.
Skilled Trades & Tech: The Mobile Trades Lab, Makerspace (featuring cultural crafts and sewing), and the high-tech Driving Simulator were massive hits.
Culinary Arts: Students got a taste of the professional kitchen environment.
Public Safety & Wellness: From the MILO Range (police training simulator) to the Fitness Centre, students saw how physical and mental readiness play a role in local careers.
Why Early Exposure Matters:
Providing these opportunities in Grade 7 is about more than just a day out of the office; it’s about helping students imagine their future. By seeing the high-level facilities available locally, students realize that their journey toward a rewarding career can start and stay right here in the Kenora region.
A Huge Thank You:
This day was made possible through the generous sponsorship of the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP). We are incredibly grateful to OYAP and our gracious hosts at Seven Generations for investing in our students and providing such a welcoming, professional environment for them to learn.
Looking Ahead: Grade 8s are Next!
The excitement isn’t over yet! Our Grade 8 students will be heading out for their turn this coming Friday, January 23rd. We can’t wait to see what they discover!
