Work Study

Youth Care Worker/Work Experience Facilitator: Kim Ruddell (kim.ruddell@abbyschools.ca)

Work Study/Work Experience is designed for students in grades 9 – 12+ with diverse abilities that require an individual education program focused on life and work skills. Students are referred to this program through the School Based Team in collaboration with district personnel. Students learn the basic skills needed to be successful in life and are given work experience opportunities within the school and community. Students are on a modified program and receive grades based on the learning outcomes and their specific IEP goals. Students enrolled in the Work Study Program are typically working towards an Evergreen Certificate/School Completion Certificate Program (SCCP) rather than a Dogwood Graduation Diploma.

The length of a Work Experience placement depends on the individual student’s abilities and goals. Throughout the 3-4 years of Work Study, students will gain insight into their strengths, enhance present skills and learn new skills. Students are given the opportunity to increase their confidence, build their resume, and network for future job prospects. Students will have a more defined picture of what type of careers are available to them.

To ensure student success, students placed in the Work Study program should have developed the following pre-requisite skills before participating in a Community Work Experience Placement:

· Understand their rights and responsibilities as a young worker regarding workplace safety

· Be able to listen and respond to direction

· Ability to ask for help when necessary

· Ability to follow a schedule

· Show common courtesy to others

· Respect the rules of the workplace

· Good personal hygiene

· Understanding of how to dress appropriately for a job

· A willingness to learn and be open to trying new experiences. For example, taking transit to and from the job site.

Work Study/Work Experience services a variety of Special Education Programs throughout the following secondary schools:

Other District Programs serviced (as needed)

• Hospital Homebound
• New Beginnings