We talk a lot about preparing students for life beyond high school—about building a solid foundation for success. This usually includes the exploration of different career paths, skill development around job hunting, and discussions on available financial resources for post-secondary education or entering the trades. Through a plethora of meaningful interactions with industry role models, youth gain insights into what their potential professional journeys could look like.
But, even still, it can be difficult to make life choices based on discussion and workshops alone. That’s why experiential opportunities are crucial in helping youth identify and nurture interests that can flourish into a career. They need real-life experiences to base their choices on and to feel confident when setting stretch goals. Pathways Program locations host many impactful activities to encourage the growth of self-assured, well-rounded young people. Here are just a few examples:
5 Examples of Experiential Learning at Pathways
1. Building Autonomy and Healthy Living
Pathways Drummondville
From cooking, self-defense, first aid, and art therapy to creative writing, dog-walking, and volunteerism, a range of workshops were designed in partnership with many local organizations. Students expanded skills that are not only relevant to personal endeavours, but are also transferable to academics and employment, helping to increase feelings of confidence, competence, and control, and growing their self-determination.
2. Realities of the Cost of Living and Homelessness
Pathways Lawrence Heights
Lessons on financial spending were made more accessible through gamification. Students learned about the cost of living in a big city like Toronto. What are typical consumer spending habits and do they cover basic necessities? Students learned about the city’s economics, the reality of homelessness in Toronto, and how to prepare and budget for independent living.
3. Outdoor Academy
Pathways Kingston
Students planned their own three-day, two-night camping trips fostering essential life skills such as organization, teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving as they coordinated logistics, managed resources, and navigated challenges. These trips promote independence and self-confidence, allowing them to grow in an environment which many do not experience regularly. Camping encourages a deeper connection to nature, boosting well-being, and an appreciation for the outdoors.
4. An Innovation Mindset
Pathways Kitchener
Students were invited to identify an issue within the community that they felt enthusiastic about and impacted youth well-being. They collaborated with mentors within the technology and innovation sector to develop a solution to the problem, create a business case, and deliver a pitch to a group of peers who determined if they would receive funding. Youth learned about budgeting, program development, and public speaking and gained an understanding of higher-level tasks for future career planning. This also encouraged their civic engagement and advocacy skills.
5. Hands-on Learning
Pathways Regent Park
One- to six-week programs where students were able to get real-world experience in different industries, including learning basic coding to get connected to the tech world or being on university campuses learning law or medical sciences. They got to experience technical aspects and the educational paths to these careers.
These activities—and many more—help Pathways students develop a range of skills, build resilience, and improve their ability to think critically. By embracing a variety of experiences, young people not only gain knowledge, but also cultivate empathy and adaptability in an ever-changing world. They prepare youth for future challenges, aid in career choices, and empower them to lead fulfilling lives.
Pathways continues to prioritize diverse learning opportunities for students and those around us. This is building a foundation for future success.