Youth workshops at Willowbank

Over the past couple of weeks, Willowbank was pleased to welcome Indigenous students enrolled in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), along with students pursuing a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Construction from the Niagara Catholic District School Board.

As part of their visit, @spiritfire_rising Marie-Louise Bowering – Indigenous Community Connections Facilitator – offered opening words of gratitude, guided the students on a tour that included the teardrop-shaped cairn commemorating Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Children, and led them through the Love Garden. Students were also given a guided tour of the Willowbank campus and an overview of its history and approach to heritage conservation.

The visit also included a hands-on workshop led by Willowbank faculty member Doug Vickers, with support from current Willowbank students. The session introduced students to fundamental heritage carpentry techniques through the creation of handcrafted charcuterie boards.

Following the workshop, students enjoyed lunch on-site and had the opportunity to further explore the grounds. This initiative provided a valuable opportunity for young learners to engage with traditional building skills and consider future pathways in the skilled trades and heritage conservation sectors.

Willowbank is proud to support experiential learning opportunities and to contribute to the development of the next generation of skilled trades professionals.