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Aim Higher

Through the GOAL program there is an initiative in place in the Western Quebec School Board (WQSB) called Aim Higher. This initiative has been developed by the WQSB and the Career Education Consultant.

Aim Higher works with businesses, the local community and educational organizations to create exciting workplace learning programs for students, and at the same time build a bank of valuable connections. This program has been designed to identify and meet the educational needs of our students by setting up workplace learning programs, field trips, classroom partnerships, career fair contact opportunities and more. Through this unique incentive schools, businesses and the wider community are able to form strong alliances with one another to support students in their transition to post secondary education and/or the work force.

Educators and Aim Higher	Parents and Aim Higher
Students and Aim Higher	Businesses and Aim Higher
Aim Higher Partners	Become a Member

Benefits of Workplace Learning Programs

Workplace Learning Programs (WLP) are meaningful, career related work experiences that allow students to apply the knowledge that they have learned in school to the world of work. These experiences will make students more equipped to make smooth transitions from school to work, to an apprenticeship program or to post secondary education. Not only will students develop useful marketable skills helping them in their future career, but they will also be exposed to up-to-date, relevant information and technology resources. In the 1998-99 Recruitment Trends Survey that was completed by Michigan State University, USA, employers were asked what they wanted to see in newly graduated students. Employers stressed the importance of work related experiences such as internships, summer work and work-placements (CAM Report, 2/99).

Below are some components that Aim Higher could offer and integrate into the schools curriculum.

Types of Work Place Learning Programs

Program	Description
Work Experience	A one or more days of work experience throughout the school year. The student selects an area of interest for work experience. This is usually calculated on an hourly basis. Most of the placement/s will happen during the day but some can be negotiated after school. May involve working on a specific project for the employer. This can be offered at middle or high school
Structured Workplace Learning Program	A Structured Workplace Learning Program provides students with the opportunity to apply knowledge learned in school to the work place. This is usually offered at High School level. Students could earn some High School credits during the Structured Workplace Learning program. This is usually over a long period of time possibly 5 or more full days of experience. Could take place during the summer months.
Stage/Internship	This is a program designed for Vocational Education graduates. A paid experience usually over a long period of time. There is a direct connection to the courses that the student is taking.

The Aim Higher initiative will raise educational standards. It will build on excellence through developing new approaches to teaching and learning supported by the professional development of the workforce. The knowledge and experience gained will be invaluable to a student’s success now and in the future.

For more information on the Aim Higher program and how your school can participate please contact: mydestiny@wqsb.qc.ca