Participating in hands-on experiences at London Christian High through the Cooperative Education Program can shape student futures. Thanks to local partners and businesses, students can gain valuable insight through their co-op placements. Here are some stories from student who participated in co-op Semester 1 of 2023-2024.

EILY
Placement: St. Joseph’s Health Care London
(Parkwood Institute)

“In my co-op, I was assigned to the stroke unit, where I learned a lot of medical terminology, examination skills…and how to detect abnormalities in bloodwork and ECGs. One of the most inspiring parts of my placement was attending a diabetes conference with my mentor Dr. LaBranche. Being in a room filled with people who have shared passion was both intimidating as well as motivating, especially as I plan to study and practice medicine. I don’t think enough of us follow our dreams, in part because some are hard to access as a high school student. Participating in a co-op can be an avenue to find if you really are passionate about what you think you are—and start taking steps to fulfil your dream.”

JULIA
Placement: Strathroy Middlesex General Hospital

“Ever since grade school, I have wanted to be a nurse. Being at the hospital has taught me so much about different diseases, how everyone heals differently and what prevents proper healing. I have learned that you never truly understand what people might be going through; they each have a different perspective. And seeing nurses and doctors work together helped me see the great need. I really want to be someone who helps as much as I can.”

ALVIN
Placement: MEDIAH (multi-disciplinary artist)
(London)

“During this co-op, I’ve learned more about video editing and rendering, and about Photoshop. The experience has really helped me understand more of the techniques of becoming an artist. Practicing and realizing how I can use my skills has given me more opportunity to adapt and find a career path for the future.”

CANAAN
Placement: IT Department, London Christian High

“Working with Mr. Sumner, I helped fix school computers and set up the 3D printer so that students can use it remotely. I was also involved in setting up things for the Robotics Club. During this co-op, I’ve seen that a lot of random things can happen that I’m not necessarily aiming to learn, but that I learn in the process. This will help me with my goal to study mechatronic systems engineering so I can develop robotics for space travel.

NATHAN
Placement: Promechanical Truck Repairs (Lucan)

“I learned so many new skills like how to properly safety trucks, remove transmissions, and fix and wire lights, as well as how to use the appropriate tools. For students interested in a co-op, my advice is to always be willing to learn new things and treat it like a real job. Doing that will help you after school as the business may consider hiring you or act as a good reference. After doing this co-op as a heavy equipment mechanic, I’ve gained new interests and potential career ideas. I’m now considering starting a repair shop as a side job to working as a farmer.”

CONNOR
Placement: Fleet Division, London Police Services

“I’ve done a lot of different things in my co-op—from fleet vehicle maintenance to stocking police car trunks (first aid kits, safety helmets, bulletproof plates, biohazard kits, flashlights). I’ve learned too how policing works and what goes into being prepared. I plan to become part of the RCMP with a focus on search and rescue. With this co-op, I learned new skills from people who are willing to train me. And it also solidified my decision about what I thought I wanted to do; this career is the right fit for me.”

GRACE
Placement: Urban Roots (London)

“I love being outdoors and working in nature. Doing a co-op term at Urban Roots allowed me to do both. I helped this non-profit organic farm with harvesting and planting vegetables–lettuce, tomatoes, potatoes and four kinds of eggplant (yes, there are four different varieties!). This co-op gave me lots of hands-on experiences, things not found in books. And it prepared me for the Adventure Park and Recreation Program at Sault College, which I plan to start this fall. Someday, I want to design and build hiking trails at national parks, so people can enjoy God’s creation.”