Students in Prince Edward Island are exploring the challenges and opportunities available in the workplace thanks to a new course offered in Grade 10, says Education and Early Childhood Development Minister Alan McIsaac.

“The department is committed to establishing and updating curriculum to help prepare students for the challenges along their education and career paths,” said Minister McIsaac. “Career Explorations and Opportunities is a new course that will help students develop skills to become engaged as responsible, well-informed, contributing individuals in society.”

The Career Explorations and Opportunities is an introductory career education course that informs students about the labour market and post-secondary studies as they prepare to transition from high school. Students develop a Life/Work Portfolio which reflects and documents their learning philosophy, goals and accomplishments. Class work helps students become self-directed individuals who set goals, make thoughtful decisions and take responsibility for pursuing their goals throughout life.

The course includes a Financial Literacy unit that focuses on helping students develop the knowledge, skills and confidence to make responsible financial decisions in their personal and professional lives. Important Occupational Health and Safety information is also included in the learning outcomes of the course.

“As an education system, we value the importance of preparing students with the necessary skills, knowledge and opportunities to participate in a global, innovative economy,” said Minister McIsaac.

The Career Explorations and Opportunities course was first piloted in the 2010-2011 school year and implemented in schools across the province in 2011-2012.

The Department of Education and Early Childhood Development has implemented wireless technology and laptops in schools for the 2011-2012 school year to support the teaching and learning needs identified in the curriculum.