Career Programs offers a variety of district programs for students who are keen to explore potential career options or receive trade specific training while in high school.

Below are answers to questions we frequently get asked.

Q. Who can apply?

A. If you are a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident and a Vancouver School Board student in Grades 10 or 11, you can apply! If you are in Grade 12 and want to apply, you need to check that you will be able to finish your desired program before you finish Grade 12.

To do this, get in touch with your counsellor, or email us at careerprograms@vsb.bc.ca

*Note* Killarney CISCO/IT Networking also allows students in grade 9 to apply.

Q. Where do I start?

A. Look through the individual Program Offerings and see what sparks your interest. 

 Q. What are some of the benefits?

• Free tuition for post-secondary programs
• Earn dual credits - high school and post-secondary concurrently
• Hands-on learning
• Build skills to transition to work in a chosen field
• Earn a $1000 Youth WORK in Trades award (subject to eligibility requirements)
• Get a head start on your career!

Q. How do I apply?

A.  Applications are found on each program page. Download an application package and complete it with the assistance of your Parents/Guardians and your school counsellor. See our brochure How Do I Apply?

Q. Where do I send my application?

A. Instructions are found on the back page of the application package, please read and carefully follow the instructions.

Q. What will the program cost?

A. The school board pays the cost of tuition for Dual Credit and Youth TRAIN in Trades programs.  Students are responsible to purchase their own learning resources and supplies and pay any post-secondary institution fees.

Q. Where do these programs take place?

A. Many of the programs take place at a variety of post-secondary institutions, and several programs are offered at Vancouver schools.  See the individual programs for the school location.

Q. Who is an ideal candidate?

A. Someone who has the aptitude, motivation and academic ability to start a program while completing high school.

Q. Who can I contact?

A. Each program has a contact person listed.

Q. I am interested in a trade but don't see it listed. Is there someone I can talk to?

A. Contact a Career Programs Resource Teacher to discuss your options (book an appointment through your school counsellor).

Q. Can I get high school credits if I am currently working part-time in a trade?

A. Yes, this is possible and you might be a Hidden Apprentice! Contact a Career Programs Resource Teacher for details.

Q. How do I sign up for the Work Experience course?

A. Contact your school Work Experience Teacher or counsellor to find out specifics.

Q. What is Job Training?

A.  A work experience program designed specifically for students with diverse abilities.  Contact your case manager or Special Education program teacher for more information.