Learning Support Services

St. Patrick Regional Secondary’s Learning Support Services (LSS) operates to support learners of all abilities so they may have equitable access to BC’s Curriculum and utilize their full potential, while best preparing them for a successful life after high school. We respect and acknowledge neurodiversity in each learner, and provide an inclusive and collaborative teaching approach. We provide targeted support for learners with an Individual Education Plan (IEP) primarily within the classroom, where teachers implement specific accommodations and universal designs for learning. Outside of the classroom, we engage families and community resources as partners in the education process to support the holistic development of learners. Learning Support Services follows the Ministry of Education criteria regarding special needs, while also adhering to specific guidelines defined by the CISVA.

Our Learning Support Services Department is made up of 2 programs: the Adapted Program and the Life Skills Program.

Adapted Program

Students in the Adapted Program are students who have a categorical designation with an IEP. They receive some support from an Educational Assistant in subject classes, as well as some adaptations within the subject curriculum from their subject teacher. In addition, our educational assistants offer extra support for students by coordinating and overseeing after school Homework Club, which runs four days a week.

Life Skills

The Life Skills Program at St. Pat’s caters to students with mild to severe intellectual difficulties, autism, and delayed adaptive behaviour skills. Each student benefits from an Individual Education Plan (IEP), ensuring personalized support and a modified curriculum tailored to their unique learning needs and pace. Our commitment is to create an inclusive environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential. 

Work Experience

A message from Our Work Experience coordinator: Jim Au

“St. Patrick Regional Secondary School offers two unique programs focused on providing skills in the workplace and employability traits. These programs are our Work Experience program and our Trades Apprenticeship program. Both programs are offered at the Grade 11 and 12 level. 

Work Experience program is a 4 credit program that enables students to learn valuable transferable work skills. They are able to practice these skills in a 90-hour work placement. We work towards making sure that the student placements are closely aligned with their career interests.  In the past, we have had students participate in work experience at dental offices, car dealerships, supermarkets, small and large businesses, photography studios, beauty/hair salons, and non-profit organizations in the local community.  

Trades Apprenticeship program is a 16 credit program that enables students to gain work-based technical training in trades while still in high school. As part of the ITA (Industry Training Authority) Youth Work in Trades, students get hands-on learning in a trade which they are interested in. They log 480 training hours and may even qualify for a $1000 award at the completion of their apprenticeship.”