Crescent HeightsHigh School

Work Experience is an Off-Campus Education Program that allows a student to earn High School credits for the experience and on-the-job training they receive while working at a part-time job during the school year, during the summer months or holidays. If you have any questions about the Work Experience program please have a look at the following list of frequently asked questions. If you require further information please come see Mr. Canadine in the Off-Campus Education Office at CHHS or call 527-6641 extension 8250.

Who may go into Work Experience?

• Any CHHS student in grade 10, 11, or 12 who has a part-time job during the school year or a position during the summer months, or who volunteers, can sign up for Work Experience. Grade 9's can also register in the summer following graduation from Grade 9.

How to Register:

• Complete HCS3000 (contact Mr. Canadine to register for HCS3000) - inform Mr. Canadine when the course is completed.
• Complete the Work Experience Contract and return to Mr. Canadine.
• Complete Learning Plan 15 and return to Mr. Canadine.
• Credits/hours cannot be counted until a completed contract and learning plan are returned to Mr. Canadine.

Once you are Registered:

• Complete a monthly time sheet and return to Mr. Canadine
• Complete an employer evaluation and self evaluation every 125 hours worked.
• Stay in touch with Mr. Canadine about any concerns or changes in your employment.

How do I earn credits?

• Students can earn anywhere from 3 to 10 credits in one work site or on one skill-set. Credits are based on time worked. Each credit requires 25 hours of work. (for example, 5 credits will require 125 hours of work, 6 credits- 150 hours, and so on) the minimum number of credits that can be issued in Work Experience is 3. Evaluations must also be done regularly in order for Work Experience course marks to be calculated.

Can I use the same job for all 30 credits?

• see answer to next question below.

Do I have to quit my job after 10 credits and get a new one to continue earning Work Experience Credits?

• No, you do not necessarily need to, but in order to meet Alberta Education curricular requirements you must have a new learning plan in place for your second 10 credits. The new Learning Plan should include new goals and new skills being developed. This can involve higher level skills within the same job description or a move to a new position within the same organization. If no new skills or positions are possible with the current employer then yes, it may be necessary to move to a new employer/position in order to continue in Work Experience.

Is there a time limit of when the credits must be completed?

• No. Students' work schedules vary from one student to another and therefore students earn WE credits on an individual basis. For example, if a student works 10 hours a week, that student will probably earn 10 credits in about 6 or 7 months. It may take another student less time, or more time.

Can I use more than one job for Work Experience?

• Yes. The more variety in job experiences, the more likely that students can earn the maximum number of Work Experience credits (30) and along with it the Blue Cord Award . Students can also use two jobs at one time. The student just needs two different employer contracts in place at the same time.

What are the advantages of being in Work Experience?

• 15 credits may be used towards earning a high school diploma
• Increased academic average which can help with post secondary applications and scholarships.
• Better chances of reaching the Credit Distinction (Blue Cord) Award
• Knowledge, skills, and attributes gained in the workplace are lifelong
• Students can continue to work without having to alter their timetables
• A good employment experience and positive employer evaluations can build your resume' and portfolio
• WCB insurance provided for all WE students through Alberta Education

Can I use a job in the summer for Work Experience?

• Yes. Students have 3 summers for Work Experience - the summer after grade 9, 10,and 11, and even the summer after grade 12 is possible if the student wishes to complete a set of credits. 

Can I is use more than one job to earn credits?

• Yes, many students have more than one part-time position, or have a completely different job for the summer months. This will ensure no problems with the different skill-set requirements for each 10 credits. Make sure seperate Employer contracts are in place for each of the positions and that proper notice and evaluations are completed before leaving any position.

Can volunteer work be considered Work Experience?

• Yes, the same criteria are used. Students often combine a paying job with volunteer work. There must also be a regular supervisor within the Volunteer organization that will be responsible for doing student evaluations.

Can volunteer hours be combined

• Yes, the volunteer hours can be accumulated over three years.