Royal Bay Secondary School in Colwood, British Columbia, is launching a new program for the 2026-2027 school year that gives students a head start on careers in construction and trades. The Trades Awareness Skills and Knowledge program, announced on February 27, 2026, will allow students to spend a full semester learning practical skills in a real-world setting.
Students in the program will explore four main areas: carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and metal trades or welding. This program is a partnership between Royal Bay Secondary School and Camosun College, allowing participants to earn both high school and college credits at the same time.
The Sooke School District covers the tuition for the college portion of the course. Along with classroom work, students must complete a mandatory four-week work placement and will earn safety certifications such as fall protection, workplace hazardous materials training, and first aid.
According to Principal Melissa Horner, the program helps local students find paths to apprenticeships and local jobs. Families interested in the program must fill out a specific application package and provide consent for the off-site work experience components.
