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What’s happening in Rainbow Schools?

Rainbow Board launches Think Trades Trailer at C.R. Judd Public School

December 12, 2023

Have tools. Will travel. That’s the purpose of a new trailer that is touring Rainbow Schools to introduce the trades to students in Grades 7 and 8.

The program is currently being piloted in Valley area schools with the intent to expand board-wide in the new year.

The trailer houses various tools including backpacks with drills, drivers, palm sanders, hammers, screwdrivers, pliers and measuring tapes which are used in class to further student learning.

Through the program, students are exposed to carpentry, manufacturing, plumbing, and computer-aided design (CAD) – a way to digitally create 2D drawings and 3D models of real-world products before they are manufactured.

Students also learn about the safe use of tools and opportunities through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) and Specialist High Skills Majors (SHSM).

“Skilled trades are vital to the health and growth of our economy,” said Director of Education Bruce Bourget. “The trailer promotes viable career pathways to students and aligns with the Ministry’s focus to build capacity for in-demand careers in the trades.”

The Think Trades Trailer made its very first stop at C.R. Judd Public School on November 28, 2023.

During the visit, students built a multi-trades toolbox under the mentorship of teachers and students in Confederation Secondary School’s Construction SHSM.

Grade 7 student JayLynn Kring of C.R. Judd Public School felt comfortable using hand tools and admits she plans to take a trades course in high school. “I really like hands-on activities,” she said.

Grade 7 students Payton Ramsay, left, JayLynn Kring, Charlie Elvidge-Pepin and Farren Owl unveil the tools in the trades backpacks.

Eric Bacon, Curriculum Co-ordinator with Rainbow District School Board, enjoyed the opportunity to bring the trades to elementary students. “Students were thrilled to learn new skills and had a really fun time in the process,” he said.

C.R. Judd Public School teacher Craig Thomson was equally as enthusiastic. “My students can’t say enough about how much they enjoyed the day,” he said. “Parents raved about how happy they were that their children got a chance to learn about the trades.”

Where will the Think Trades Trailer make its next stop?

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Media Contact:

Nicole Charette, Senior Advisor
Corporate Communications and Strategic Planning
Rainbow District School Board, 705-674-3171

Grade 8 students Riddick Rieder, left, and Ryder McKee prepare to build a multi-trades toolbox.
C.R. Judd Public School student JayLynn Kring, left, uses a drill to secure two pieces of wood with help from Confederation Secondary School construction teacher Mike Berardi.
C.R. Judd Public School student Kyle Young uses a handsaw to cut wood while classmate Raymond Labonte, left, and Confederation Secondary School student Connor Walmsley, right, look on.
Sophie Marshall of C.R. Judd Public School proudly showcases her finished multi-trades toolbox.
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