At St. Matthew High School, learning doesn’t just happen in the classroom—it happens in the real world. Through the Co-op Carousel Experience, students step beyond textbooks and into workplaces, gaining hands-on experience that connects their studies to future careers. This dynamic program isn’t just about earning credits; it’s about building confidence, mastering new skills, and discovering passions that will shape life after high school. Whether students explore trades, healthcare, business, or technology, the Co-op program gives them a head start on their future while making learning meaningful and practical.
Co-op Carousel: Showcasing Student Achievements
St. Matthew recently hosted its annual Co-op Carousel, an event that celebrates the hard work and achievements of students participating in the Co-op program. For the past two years, the Co-op Carousel has allowed students to showcase their work placements and share their experiences with peers considering co-op.
The event allows current Co-op students to present their work in various creative ways. Some students create informative Bristol board displays; others design pamphlets or bring interactive demos to engage student attendees. The event aims to allow students to ask questions, gain insights into the Co-op experience, and better understand how the program can benefit them.
As part of the festivities, a draw was held, with one lucky participant winning a gift card to a local business—an extra incentive to get involved and learn more about the opportunities Co-op provides. The event is also growing every year, and there are plans to invite work placement supervisors in the future to share their perspectives on the program.
Why Co-op is a Game Changer for Students
The Co-op program is more than just a way to earn credit—it’s an incredible learning experience that allows students to apply their classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Co-op students complete work placements closely tied to their current studies, ensuring their duties are meaningful and directly relevant to their courses.
This program offers students the chance to gain hands-on experience while developing essential skills that will benefit them in their careers and education. Here’s why Co-op is such a valuable opportunity:
- Real-World Application: Students can see firsthand how classroom learning translates into workplace skills, helping them better understand the relevance of their studies.
- Career Clarity: Co-op helps students explore different careers, clarify their career goals, and determine what path they may want to pursue after high school.
- Self-Confidence and Growth: By working in a professional environment, students build self-awareness, interpersonal skills, and confidence to serve them in the future.
- Mentorship and Networking: Students can develop workplace-specific knowledge and skills under the guidance of mentors while also building references and connections for the future.
- Pathway to Postsecondary: Co-op helps students determine the education and skill requirements for their chosen careers. This gives them a head start in preparing for postsecondary education or direct entry into the workforce.
Looking Ahead: Building a Strong Future
At St. Matthew High School, the Co-op program is more than just a stepping stone toward graduation—it’s an opportunity to prepare for success in the world beyond high school. Students who participate in Co-op don’t just learn—they gain practical experience that empowers them to make informed decisions about their futures, whether they plan to continue their education or begin their careers.
The Co-op Carousel is just one example of how the school celebrates the success of its Co-op students and promotes the program to those who may be interested in participating in the future. With each passing year, the event grows, demonstrating the value of Co-op in shaping the next generation of professionals.
