Oshawa, Ont. – Durham College’s (DC) Barrett Centre of Innovation in Sustainable Urban Agriculture and the Durham Catholic District School Board (DCDSB) have partnered on a unique dual credit program that is giving Ajax high school students a taste of life – and work – on the farm.

This semester, 15 Grade 11 students from Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School have participated in the Propagation of Vegetables dual credit program at the Barrett Centre’s Ajax Urban Farm. The course is a modified version of one from DC’s Horticulture – Food and Farming program, giving students an innovative opportunity to simultaneously earn a high school and college credit.

Funded by the School College Work Initiative, the program allows students to explore potential career paths in agriculture while earning tangible academic credentials. They spent the winter months in the classroom learning about agriculture before rolling up their sleeves for hands-on experience at the nearby farm.

“It’s a really valuable program,” said Jennifer Hoban, the Barrett Centre’s Community Engagement Coordinator and the Professor who works with the Notre Dame students. “Whether or not the kids go on to be farmers, understanding what goes into the production of food and seeing the connection between what they’re eating and where it comes from is incredibly valuable.”

Through a blend of classroom discussions and farm activities, the students have come to embrace the joys of getting their hands dirty.

“Through this partnership with Durham College we are excited to provide expanded academic opportunities for students through hands-on, experiential learning,” said Jim Wilson, DCDSB Superintendent of Education. “Secondary students learn valuable life skills while completing a college credit which helps prepare them for multiple post-secondary pathways.”

The program has had transformative power according to Ante Tojcic, a teacher at Notre Dame who also works with the students.

“The dual credit program has allowed students to experience a whole new level of learning, giving them insights into college and beyond,” he said. “They have learned to propagate their own vegetables, and they’re always in awe at the growth of the plants from week to week.”

 

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About Durham College

With campuses in Oshawa and Whitby, Durham College (DC) offers over 13,700 full-time post-secondary and 2,300 apprenticeship students access to more than 145 programs, including six honours bachelor degrees and 11 apprenticeship programs. 

DC enables students to develop career-ready skills for the ever-changing job market by providing an exceptional college education. With a focus on experiential learning, led by expert faculty, through field placements, applied research, co-ops and other hands-on opportunities, DC grads are known for having the skills and knowledge employers need.

About Durham Catholic District School Board

The Durham Catholic District School Board shares a sense of community among families, educators and parishes and is committed to integrating the teachings of the Gospel with quality educational programs that guide students in their journeys to meeting the Catholic Graduate Expectations. The Board currently serves approximately 22,500 students in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, and the townships of Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock.

 

Media Contacts

Jason Chamberlain
Communications Officer, Durham College
jason.chamberlain@durhamcollege.ca

Emily McCall
Communications Officer, Durham Catholic District School Board
emily.mccall@dcdsb.ca