Grade six and seven classes at Similkameen Elementary Secondary School participated in Trades Exploration Week on January 27.
Trades people, including Chef J.C. Richter from Seventh Street Diner, Valu Plus Foods butcher Randy Watson and Valu Plus Foods Baker Theo Walta were on hand to provide their expertise during a day long session at SESS. The initiative was a joint effort between School District 53, the Industry Training Authority, local trades people, and local business.
Known as YES 2 IT Trades Exploration Day, the purpose of the program is to allow students to experience trades, said SESS Tech Ed instructor Boyd Turnbull.
Last year, members of the local construction trade came to the school to give students a sampling of construction trades.
Turnbull said the trade selections are based on survey results from students and from an assessment of “what we have going on here, the tourist industry,” said Turnbull.
“These high school programs are designed to provide a jump start to students looking for a career in trades,” Turnbull added.
Students were busy learning roast tying, food plate arranging and pastry glazing during the SESS event.
Schools in Oliver and Osoyoos will also experience Trades Day this week.