The Career Counselling component at St. Mary’s Academy focuses on grades 9 to 12. At each grade level, there is a different approach. The program at each of these levels is outlined as follows:
Grade 9
The grade nine classes are offered a Career Counselling course which follows the Manitoba curriculum. This course helps students to explore various careers and to look at the process of career planning. The highlight for the grade 9 class is Take Your Kid to Work Day which will be held this year on November 5, 2008. This day enables the students to accompany a family member or close family friend to their work place and to experience that particular career for the day.
Grade 10
Grade 10 students continue to focus on career planning in their Career Counselling course and to build on skills they have acquired in the grade 9 course. In this year, students are expected to compile a portfolio which includes elements such as a cover letter, a resume, a letter of reference, and a transcript of marks. Students acquire life skills which students can utilize in future years. On March 11/12, 2009, the grade 10 class will have the opportunity to attend the Rotary Career Symposium where they can acquire information and ask questions of professionals regarding numerous careers and fields of employment.
Grade 11
In grade 11, Career Counselling takes on more of a “one on one” approach where students are encouraged to take advantage of the many resources available in our Career Counselling office, and to meet with the Career Counsellor to seek guidance on high school course selection and planning for post secondary education. On February 18/19, 2009, the grade 11 students will attend University of Manitoba Info Days where theycan gather information on the various faculties and on the transition to university from high school. Grade 11 students are also eligible for the Encounters and Forum programs.
Grade 12
As in grade 11, the grade 12 students are encouraged to make use of the university and career resources available to them and to meet with the Career Counsellor. Extensive information sharing takes place with the grade 12 classes. For example, the University of Manitoba, the University of Winnipeg and Red RiverCollege presentations all take place in October at St. Mary’s Academy. The University Of Manitoba Evening Of Excellence will take place on October 20, 2009. In addition, on the evenings of November 5/6, 2008, grade 12students are invited to the University Fair. The fair takes place on November 5 at St. John’s Ravenscourt from 7:00-9:00 p.m. and on November 6 at Balmoral Hall from 7:00-9:00 p.m. The University of Winnipeg Open House takes place on February 18, 2009 on the campus.
