Career Pathways Blog: Posts

Reflecting on the new ECEA dual credit program

Jennifer Kinakin — Wed, 20 May 2026 17:17:55 GMT

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by Jennifer Kinakin, District Careers Coordinator

This year, the North Vancouver School District piloted a new partnership with Langara College to offer students an Early Childhood Education Assistant Certificate dual credit program. Upon successful completion, students earned eight elective credits toward high school graduation, received post-secondary course credit, and gained valuable hands-on experience in early childhood education.

The program was delivered through a hybrid model that combined asynchronous online learning during students' regular timetables with weekly in-person sessions from September through December. This flexible format allowed students to engage in both independent and collaborative learning while balancing their secondary school commitments.

To compliment the theoretical component of the course, students participated in a 90-hour Work Experience placement between February and June in daycare, after school care and Kindergarten settings. These placements provided meaningful opportunities for students to apply their learning and develop practical skills essential to the profession.

A total of 14 students registered in the pilot program. Many students were inspired to continue their studies toward becoming Early Childhood Educators, while others gained valuable knowledge and experience that will support future career pathways such as elementary education, pediatric healthcare, and other child-focused professions. Congratulations to those students who have secured paid summer employment over the summer – a wonderful benefit from the experience!

Programs like these are only successful with community engagement. We appreciate the mentorship provided to the students by numerous Kindergarten teachers, various daycare centers, and afterschool programs across the North Shore.

This pilot highlights the value of dual credit opportunities in helping students explore career interests, gain post-secondary experience, and build confidence for their future educational and professional journeys. We look forward to continuing this program next year with 26 registered students.

Published: 5/20/2026 10:08 AM

Sutherland students explore skilled trades and technology pathways at BCIT

Jennifer Kinakin — Thu, 21 May 2026 21:00:21 GMT

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by Eric Li, Tech Ed Teacher, Sutherland Secondary

81 students from Sutherland Secondary technology education classes recently had the opportunity to step beyond the classroom and into the world of applied learning during a dynamic field trip to the BCIT Burnaby Campus with Mr. Li. The visit offered a hands-on glimpse into a wide range of career pathways across trades, technology, and engineering.

At the School of Transportation, students explored automotive and motorcycle programs, where they observed industry-grade equipment and gained insight into the skills required to diagnose, maintain, and repair both gasoline and EV vehicles. Many were excited to ride the motorcycles and see how technology is shaping the future of transportation.

The tour continued at the School of Construction and the Environment, where students visited programs in sheet metal, plumbing, and joinery. In these workshops, they saw skilled trades in action and learned about the craftsmanship, precision, and problem-solving that define careers in construction. They then had the opportunity to learn more about Red Seal Certifications in Canada.

Students also spent time at the School of Energy, engaging with programs such as Technology Teacher Education (TTED), Robotics, and Mechatronics. These areas highlighted the growing demand for innovative solutions in sustainable energy and automation, sparking curiosity about emerging technologies and future career opportunities for becoming a shop teacher.

This enriching experience was made possible through funding from the North Vancouver School District Career Education Grant, which continues to support meaningful, real-world learning opportunities for students.

The trip not only broadened students’ awareness of post-secondary options but also helped them connect classroom learning to future career possibilities—an inspiring day of discovery and exploration for all involved.

photos by Eric Li (Sutherland Secondary) and Marita Luk (BCIT)

Published: 5/21/2026 1:56 PM

Robotics for All: Inspiring the next generation of innovators

Jennifer Kinakin — Tue, 19 May 2026 22:22:22 GMT

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by Jennifer Kinakin, District Careers Coordinator

On April 22, Handsworth Secondary hosted the 4th Annual North Vancouver School District “Robotics for All" Challenge, bringing together 36 teams of Grade 5 and 6 students from across the district for an evening filled with innovation, teamwork, and excitement.

This highly anticipated event showcased students' growing competencies in computational thinking, problem solving, collaboration, critical thinking and sportsmanship, all within an engaging and high-energy environment. The enthusiasm in the room was truly remarkable, as students demonstrated both their technical skills and their ability to work effectively as a team.

The success of the Robotics for All program reflects a collective effort across the district. Months of preparation and support from dedicated elementary teachers laid the foundation for student success, while high school mentors provided invaluable guidance and encouragement throughout the process and during the event. Special recognition goes to Simon Worley (NVSD Technology Teacher Leader) whose exceptional leadership and program management continue to drive the growth and impact of this initiative.

This year's event was also made possible through the generous support of community partners. In recognition of the district's commitment to inclusive ADST learning, the program received significant funding from both the SFU Cmolik Foundation and the Lance Balcom Foundation. These grants have helped expand access by supporting equipment purchases, event costs, awards, and enabling more schools to participate—ensuring the continued growth of this impactful program.

Additional thanks are extended to Rob Olsen (Carson Secondary) for his vision and ongoing support, John Vatougios (Handsworth Secondary) for helping bring the asynchronous challenge to life at this year's host site, and Chris Miller (Argyle Secondary) for media footage.

The Robotics for All program continues to be a powerful example of how hands-on, inclusive learning experiences can ignite curiosity and confidence in students. We look forward to building on this momentum and expanding opportunities for even more learners in the years ahead.

Celebrating Student Achievement

Congratulations to the following teams for their outstanding performances:

Asynchronous Challenge: The CATastrophic Errors (Carisbrooke Elementary) Lilia K., Sienna R., Louis B., James P.

Spirit Award: Knights( Lynnmour Elementary) Marcus P., Ben R., Max C.

Lance Balcom Process Award: Ze Concords ( Sherwood Park Elementary) James D., Varley B., Leighton S.

Cmolik Robotics Challenge Award: Fusionb#3 (Carisbrooke Elementary) Shawn I.M., Hajun J., Christiaan S.

Pictures by Jeeniece Chand, District Principal

Published: 5/19/2026 3:18 PM