Student Placements

Overview

Skills Society offers work-integrated learning opportunities for students in coursework relevant to the disability service sector, such as disability studies, developmental support worker programs, or child and youth care programs. The primary goal of the practicum experience is to be both a learning and working experience for students. Practicum students complete their work experience at a Skills Society support model that aligns with the practicum requirements, coursework of the program of study, and personal learning objectives of the student.

What You Can Expect

Skills Society is committed to providing students with a meaningful learning experience that aligns with the student’s learning objectives and assists in skills development. Practicum students will be supervised by a Practicum Coordinator and Agency Supervisor, and receive thorough onboarding and training throughout their practicum. Within a safe and engaged learning environment, students will learn from employees and people we serve about the skills and values required for providing person-centered support and empowering people to live their best lives as full citizens. 

Our Services

Skills Society provides customized support for people with developmental disabilities, survivors of acquired brain injury, and families of children with disabilities. Practicum experiences are connected to one of our core service areas, based on a student’s program requirements and learning goals.

Students may explore learning opportunities in areas such as:

Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Community-based supports tailored to individual needs. This might include assistance with daily living, supporting meaningful routines, or helping build and maintain relationships.
Relevant programs: Disability Studies, Community Support Worker

Children’s Respite
Out-of-home respite care for children with disabilities, provided in a safe and welcoming environment. Students may assist with recreation and routine care based on the child’s preferences and needs.
Relevant programs: Child and Youth Care, Early Learning and Child Care

Acquired Brain Injury Support
Flexible supports for adults living with acquired brain injuries, focused on relationship building, life skills, and access to community resources.
Relevant programs: Rehabilitation Therapy Assistant, Social Work

What We’re Looking For

We think differently on how to best serve and support people with developmental disabilities to lead meaningful lives in our communities. This is based in the belief that everyone has the right to be a valued citizen, deserving of respect, dignity, and rights. We’re looking to support practicum placements for students in disability studies, or related, programs who want to contribute to this vision of citizenship alongside us. 

We value the diverse gifts and strengths that all student bring, but above all we value people who are:

• Passionate about social change and excited about exploring new ways to support people with developmental disabilities

• Skilled at building and nurturing relationships

• Collaborative, whether it’s with the people we serve, their families and allies, and/or colleagues.

• Creative in coming up with new ways to solve old problems

• Trustworthy and reliable, always following through on your commitments

Contact Information 

Any questions about Skills Society practicums from students or Institutions can be directed to: students@skillssociety.ca
*Please note any expressions of interest will always be directed to the Interest Form*

Interest Form

Deadlines for applications:

• Fall term (Sept - Dec): Applications due August 1 of that year

• Winter term (Jan - Apr): Applications due December 1 of the previous year

• Spring/Summer term (May - Aug): Applications due April 1

All practicum students are required to submit a Police Check with Vulnerable sector check and an Intervention Record Check. We appreciate all applications. Please note that only students selected for consideration will be contacted.