Certification Day gives Algonquin students a leg up on their competition

Photos provided.

From construction to food preparation students at École secondaire catholique Algonquin got a leg up on their competition in the job market by taking part in the 7th annual Certification Day Wednesday.

Over 400 students from grades 10 to 12 took part in 20 different workshops including Cake decorating, Canoeing (Ontario Recreational Canoe Kayak Association), GPS and Basic chainsaw operator training, that provide training and/or industry-recognized certification in their areas of interest that help them prepare for the real world.

Officials say they much thought goes into choosing workshops that would best serve the students through consultations with parents and students and through partnerships with several community partners such as NECO Community Futures and the Business Centre.

And all students at Algonquin will graduate with at least three certifications that will be added to their portfolio.

Industry professionals, from across the community, donated their time and expertise to offer all sessions free of charge to students.

Meanwhile, the grade 9 students took part in the Take Our Kids to Work program.