Words Heidi Hackman, District Career Coordinators, SD 63
Photo Sarah Hartley Photography
Kayden Teale is a prime example of how students thrive when they are engaged in subjects they are passionate about and experience success in. For Kayden, that passion is auto mechanics.
“I’ve always liked figuring out how things work and was interested in cars, motorcycles, quads and dirt bikes for as long as I can remember,” Kayden shared. “I think I really knew I wanted to be an auto mechanic when I realized I enjoyed not just driving or looking at cars, but actually working on them – fixing things, taking stuff apart, and putting it back together.”
Kayden was cross enrolled between Claremont and the Individual Learning Centre (ILC). When asked about the experience of attending two schools simultaneously, he said: “The cross-enrollment between ILC and Claremont really helped me because I got the best of both schools. At ILC, the teachers gave me more one-on-one support and helped me stay on track when I needed it, and at Claremont I could still take the classes I needed and be part of the high school environment.” In his final year, being a student at ILC also allowed Kayden to work more hours as a youth apprentice at Canadian Tire.
Students pursuing their Level 1 certification in auto mechanic have two options: a foundation program or a Level 1 program. The foundation program runs for seven months and blends theory with hands-on experience – ideal for students with limited practical skills. The Level 1 program, on the other hand, is seven weeks of intensive theory. At the end of either program, students must pass a Certificate of Qualification exam with a minimum score of 70%.
Kayden was determined to take the Level 1 program. Initially, his ILC teachers were a bit concerned, knowing he was a hands-on learner and would be spending seven weeks in a classroom setting. But Kayden entered the program with 2,000 hours already logged as an apprentice – all while completing his high school courses. He worked hard to balance both commitments and we are so pleased to share that he completed the Camosun program with a score of 82%. All of that practical experience paid off.
His mom, Kathan, reflected on the impact of this career program: “These programs can help build confidence, practical skills, and give students a clear sense of direction for their future. It really does take a village, and I’m so thankful for the teachers, counselors and liaisons who supported Kayden along the way. Their encouragement and guidance made a huge difference in his confidence and success. Programs like this not only give students valuable skills, but they also connect them with people who believe in their potential. That combination has been invaluable for Kayden.”
