Frequently Asked Questions

Who may go into Work Experience?

Any student in grade 10, 11, or 12 who has a part-time job during the school year or a position during the summer months, or who volunteers, can sign up for Work Experience. Grade 9's can also register in the summer following graduation from Grade 9.

How to Register:

Complete Apprenticeship Safety - HCS3000
Contact your school’s off-campus coordinator.
Credits/hours cannot be counted until a completed contract and site inspection are completed

Once you are Registered:

How do I earn credits?

Students can earn anywhere from 3 to 10 credits in one work site or on one skill-set. Credits are based on time worked. Each credit requires 25 hours of work. (for example, 5 credits will require 125 hours of work, 6 credits- 150 hours) the minimum number of credits that can be issued in Work Experience is 3. Evaluations must also be done regularly in order for Work Experience course marks to be calculated.

Can I use the same job for all Work Experience Credits?

To meet Alberta Education curricular requirements you must have a new learning plan in place for your second 10 credits. The new Learning Plan should include new goals and new skills being developed. This can involve higher level skills within the same job description or a move to a new position within the same organization. If no new skills or positions are possible with the current employer then it may be necessary to move to a new employer/position in order to continue in Work Experience.

Is there a time limit of when the credits must be completed?

No. Students' work schedules vary from one student to another and therefore students earn work experience credits on an individual basis. For example, if a student works 10 hours a week, that student will probably earn 10 credits in about 6 or 7 months. It may take another student less time, or more time.

What are the advantages of being in Work Experience?

Work experience may help with post secondary applications and scholarships
Knowledge, skills, and attributes gained in the workplace are lifelong
Students can continue to work without having to alter their timetables
A good employment experience and positive employer evaluations can build your resume' and portfolio
WCB insurance provided for all work experience students through Alberta Education

Can I use a job in the summer for Work Experience?

Yes. Students have 3 summers for Work Experience - the summer after grade 9, 10,and 11, and even the summer after grade 12 is possible if the student wishes to complete a set of credits.

Can I use more than one job to earn credits?

Yes, many students have more than one part-time position, or have a completely different job for the summer months. This will ensure no problems with the different skill-set requirements for each 10 credits. Make sure separate Employer contracts are in place for each of the positions and that proper notice and evaluations are completed before leaving any position. The more variety in job experiences, the more likely that students can earn the maximum number of Work Experience credits (30).

Can volunteer work be considered Work Experience?

Yes, the same criteria are used. Students often combine a paying job with volunteer work. There must also be a regular supervisor within the Volunteer organization that will be responsible for doing student evaluations.

Can Volunteer hours be combined

Have additional questions?

Contact your school’s off-campus coordinator or WRSD Careers Engagement Facilitator

brenton.baum@wrsd.ca