Youth Trades Sampler 2026-27

Please see links below for more information on next year's Youth in Trades Sampler Program:

YETS Program Guide

Youth in Trades Sampler Application

To MSS Students and Families,

Please see the information below regarding the Youth Explore Trades Sampler Program for 2026-2027. Additional information and an application package are attached with this message. Applications can also be picked up from the main office. 

WHAT IS A YOUTH EXPLORE TRADES SAMPLER?

• This is a chance for students in grades 10 to 12 to dive deep into a variety of trades as they find their preferred career path.
• Youth Explore Trades Sampler program allows students to explore trades further before committing to a dedicated trade program.

PROGRAM DETAILS

• School District 58 and the Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (training partner) work together to deliver the Youth Explore Trades Program.
• Open to students in Grades 10-12.
• Approximately 300 hours of technical training, work skills, certifications, and on-site experiences with employers.
• Students earn 12 High School credits as well as “dual credit” at NVIT.
• Different than typical high school automotive, woodwork, foods, etc. The focus is career and employment centered.
• The Youth Explore Trades Sampler comes at no additional charge to families except for the purchase of CSA Grade 1 Safety Boots (green triangle).
• Trades offered will include Electrical, Carpentry, Welding, and Culinary Arts.
• 50 hours of technical training for each trade will focus on specific skills (250 hours total) and will include a site visit to an employer for each trade.
• Employment Certifications including Foodsafe Level 1, Standard First-Aid, Site Ready, WHIMIS etc.  

DELIVERY MODEL

• Students will be attending their Youth Explore Trades class one block a day for the entire school year.
• Classes will take place at NVIT with students bussing to and from the campus.
• Some of the site visits and employment certification courses will take place for an entire day. Advance notice will be provided for these dates. 

APPLICATION PROCESS

• The Youth Explore Trades Sampler can accommodate up to 12 total students.
• The selection process is competitive should there be more than 12 applicants.
• In addition to the information provided on the student registration. Program coordinators will also consider the following when selecting students:
  • Attendance (particularly unexcused absences)
  • Course Work Habits (calculated based on the most recent 8 completed courses)
  • Course Grades (calculated based on the most recent 8 completed courses)
  • Grade 8/ 9 / 10 / 11 ADST course or trades related experience.
• Students and families are required to complete and return the Youth Explore Trades registration forms by June 15^th 2026.
• Successful applicants will also need to complete additional registration with NVIT before beginning the program.

Kʷukʷscemxʷ - Limlәmt - Thank you

Dave Andersen

Principal

Merritt Secondary School