News release

More Learning Opportunities for Eastern Shore Students

Education (July 1999 - March 2013)

Students at Eastern Shore District High School will now have more learning opportunities through skilled trades education to help prepare them for good jobs.

Eastern Shore MLA Sid Prest, on behalf of Education Minister Ramona Jennex, today, Feb. 29, officially opened the school's skilled trades centre as part of the Kids and Learning First education plan.

"With the support of the province, the board and school recognized the need to bring skilled trades programming to more students to enhance their quality learning opportunities," said Mr. Prest.

"The skilled trades courses link classroom learning to real-life jobs and this new centre is an example of our education partners working together for kids and learning."

More than $80,000 has been invested in tools and supplies for the new centre. Students are also provided appropriate equipment such as hard hats, safety glasses and safety shoes. The province and the Halifax Regional School Board are sharing renovation costs.

"As a school, we are excited to welcome skilled trades courses to Eastern Shore District High School because of the resources it brings and the opportunities it gives our students to explore the trades as a career option," said principal Pat Savage.

Eastern Shore District High School is the ninth school in the province to have a state-of-the-art skilled trades centre.

The number of schools offering skilled trades will double over the next four years to 18 and a new manufacturing course, linked to shipbuilding, will be introduced in September 2013.

"The skilled trades courses allow students to take a hands-on, minds-on approach and that is what good learning is all about," said Mr. Prest.

Kids and Learning First includes a $6.7-million investment in areas dealing with putting students first, effective teaching, preparation for good jobs and citizenship, and links between the school and community.

For more information on Kids and Learning First, visit novascotia.ca/kidsandlearning .