Program Features:

• Courses are offered at both the pre-secondary level, as well as secondary upgrading at Levels 1 through 5. Pre-secondary courses focus on basic reading, writing and math skills. Upgrading courses offer English, French, mathematics, optional credits at all secondary levels, and in job preparation, computing, clerical, mechanical and other technical and professional subjects.

• Courses were offered over 25 hours a week, five days a week, for 15 to 16 weeks. This year, courses ran from September to the end of February.

• Approximately 60% of the learners are female and 40% are male.

• This year, there was one full-time teacher and one part-time assistant, both provided by the local school board, as well as the services of an Employment Counsellor, provided by the ANPSS. The local Director of Education is also active in assessing and motivating adult learners.

• All students are of Aboriginal descent, with a wide age-range of 17 to 40 years old.

Some Final Observations & Concerns:

The most important factor motivating students to enrol and remain in the program is the success of others who have passed through it to find employment. Even students who drop out, often return to the program because they recognize that they will not get the jobs available if they do not possess the required skills and certification. They like the fact that they are able to acquire these within their home community, and also in the English language, which is a first language for many learners.

One of the main points emphasized by program staff is the importance of identifying and working towards the students’ own career objectives. Active steps are taken to help encourage and motivate students, and to tailor the program to their individual, work-related goals. The local Director of Education plays an active role in bringing students to meet successful community members who have passed through the same steps as adult learners. As many learners are not focused on academic goals, rather they may require job experience, the program gives them skills in C.V. writing and interviewing and provides job placements, both within and outside the community.

The main challenge facing the program is that of funding. This year, for example, funds available through both Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal (school board) sources were inadequate to finish the academic year. Students who are on the verge of finishing their Secondary 5 requirements find themselves having to wait from February until September to meet these requirements.