Elementary students have an opportunity to learn more about various careers in multiple fields and identify what jobs may interest them in the future. An interactive career exploration workshop called “Guess My Job” is making its way through elementary schools in the Greater Victoria School District, where grade four and five students can ask professionals in different sectors questions to help develop an understanding of career possibilities and the educational pathways available.
The next “Guess My Job” event is being hosted at Frank Hobbs Elementary on Wednesday, February 15th, from 8:00 – 11:30 a.m. Guest panelists from trades, fine arts, marine research, and health care fields will answer students’ ‘yes’ and ‘no’ questions about their careers while students guess their profession. The exercise aims to introduce students to possibilities in industries without making assumptions or stereotypes before learning about the professionals’ careers of choice. The interactive experience allows students to meet several BC Curriculum competencies, including recognizing basic skills required for jobs in the community. Following the question period, the panelists will share what they do, some revealing their uniforms, and answer one-on-one questions at booths that visually represent their careers.
“We are continuously looking for ways to foster curiosity amongst our students and encouraging them to pursue passions that interest them. This event is a great way for young students to explore, reflect and start thinking about their personal strengths as they look to the future role they may wish to have in the community,” said Superintendent Deb Whitten. “It is important that students are introduced to a diverse group of professionals at an early age to inspire them and help broaden their horizons of what is possible after graduation. We want to empower students at a young age and connect their learning to the real world.”
Community partners have been a key part of Guess My Job’s success, with resources and support provided by the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, Maximus Canada, and Wilson’s Group of Companies.
“It has been truly inspirational to share the optimism and energy of school children in SD61 who are so excited about the many career opportunities available to them in Greater Victoria,” said Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce CEO Bruce Williams. “The Chamber is always looking to the future, through initiatives such as this and the Greater Victoria Chamber 1863 Impact Award, and the future certainly is bright for the next generation of business leaders.”
“Maximus values this opportunity to partner with the Greater Victoria School District and the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce in the Guess My Job event that will help to guide a future skilled workforce in British Columbia,” said Michael Lane, Maximus Canada Community Engagement Manger. “Through our work of delivering employment services, we are committed to moving people forward and helping community members of all ages build their occupational knowledge base.”
The School District’s Pathways & Partnerships team is leading this initiative. It supports K–12 students to make connections and transitions between classroom learning, post-secondary training, and the world of work. The team is gaining international recognition for its efforts in early years education and career programs—and has a group from Education and Employers in the UK attending the event.
To learn more about the work of Pathways & Partnerships, please visit: https://careers.sd61.bc.ca/.