More than 360 Grade 5 students from elementary schools in Greater Victoria will be visiting the Interurban campus at Camosun College over several days this spring to take part in hands-on learning activities designed to spark curiosity about post-secondary pathways.
Students from Quadra, Craigflower, Tillicum and George Jay elementary schools will participate in interactive sessions led by instructors from across a range of subject areas including pipe trades, computer science, civil engineering technology, health sciences and business. The visits are intended to help future Camosun students explore future possibilities, while building confidence and familiarity with a college environment.
"These visits are hands-on and give elementary school learners a chance to see themselves on campus," says Larry Chung, a retired School of Business instructor who helps coordinate the annual visit. "When learners can try things with their hands, ask questions and explore learning spaces campus, it makes post-secondary education feel real and very achievable."
This is the third year of the campus tours for local elementary schools after a ten-year hiatus.
Camosun College president Dr. Lane Trotter says welcoming students to campus is an important part of building connections across the education system.
"We want elementary school students to know that there is a place for them at Camosun," says Trotter. "Experiences like this help spark imagination early and show young people the many pathways open to them."
Local educators say the visits help students connect classroom learning with future opportunities.
"Last year, we had the privilege of taking our Grade 5 students on a full-day field trip to Camosun College. The college graciously organized engaging, hands-on experiences where our students had the opportunity to explore real-life trade skills. It was an incredibly valuable day, offering our young learners a glimpse into potential future pathways and inspiring them to start thinking about the possibilities ahead," says Jocelyn Cathcart and Tracey Crystal, Tillicum Elementary Grade 5 Teachers.
Visit details
All visits are taking place at Camosun College's Interurban campus, from approximately 9:30am to 1pm.
- April 22 - Quadra Elementary (approximately 70 students)
- April 27 - Craigflower Elementary (approximately 50 students)
- April 28 - Tillicum Elementary (approximately 85 students)
- April 29 - George Jay Elementary (approximately 85 students)
- May 1 - Quadra Elementary (approximately 70 students)
