Earn High School Credits While You Work This Summer 

Working a summer or part-time job can do more than just add money to a savings account. For students in Grade 10 or above, that job might also count toward high school graduation. Through the Work Experience program at Canadian Rockies Public Schools, students can earn credits while earning a paycheque, building real-world skills, and taking a step closer to completing their high school requirements.

For every 25 hours a student works at an approved job site, they can earn one high school credit, up to a maximum of 15. That includes 30-level credits, which are often required for graduation. It’s a flexible way to turn part-time or summer employment into something even more valuable. To be eligible, students need to have completed the HCS 3000 Workplace Safety course. That course is often completed in Grade 9, but if someone isn’t sure whether they’ve done it, they can check with their Off-Campus coordinator to confirm.

The deadline to register for summer work experience is June 27. However, students planning to earn summer credits should reach out before June 20 to allow time for a required site inspection and coordination with their supervisor. That process takes a few days, so the earlier the better. Hours worked before registration cannot be counted, so it’s important to get signed up before starting a shift.

Registration is simple. Students, along with their parents or guardians, will complete CRPS’ “Parent/Guardian & Student Work Experience Registration Form.” Employers will be asked to complete a similar form that will be emailed to them. Once everything is approved, students are added to a Google Classroom to track hours and submit short reflections at the end of each month.

Even if a student hasn’t found a job yet, they’re still encouraged to register early so that paperwork and planning can happen quickly once they’re hired. It’s a great opportunity to earn credit for real-world learning. 

If students have questions or want to get started, they can connect with their Off-Campus coordinator for more information. For those who are already working or planning to work this summer, turning that experience into credit is a smart and rewarding next step.