Lord Aylmer School students send sparks flying at Career Centre Welding and Auto-mechanic activity

Sophie Demers

Through a collaboration with the Western Quebec Career Centre (WQCC), Lord Aylmer students in grades 5 and 6 have experienced enrichment classes in the welding and auto-mechanics shops.

In total, 40 students, 20 in welding and another 20 in auto-mechanics, took part in these learning sessions designed for elementary students.

The students who participated in the auto-mechanics lesson learned about machines, technology, employment opportunities, and even had the chance to try hands-on work. They did a light and fluids check, learned about battery and electric systems and worked on the interiors of the vehicles.

In the welding shop, the kids learned about types of metals, tools, and equipment. Then they had the chance to operate the hoist and see all the equipment in action. After, the students geared up with safety equipment to weld their own candle holders to take home with them. The activity ended with learning about drafting, technical drawings, and the importance of learning science and math in school.

“The teachers and students at the WQCC prepared an amazing learning experience and were great with our kids,” said Julia Horner, who organized the project and is the school’s vice-principal. The activities were a great success, with some parents reporting having conversations with their kids where they said they wanted to be welders or mechanics after the sessions.

“The project was meant to provide enrichment for the elementary students. It was, in fact, very enriching for the WQCC staff as well,” said Damian Curley, principal of the WQCC.

Photo credit: Courtesy of Lord Aylmer School.

Photo caption: A Lord Aylmer student using welding tools during a lesson.