A recent update from the Ministry of Education introduced a new mandatory technological education credit as part of Ontario's graduation requirements. Combined with a growing interest in tech-based courses among students, this change created the perfect opportunity for St Thomas Aquinas High School to reimagine its learning spaces and expand hands-on programming.
What began as a practical need soon sparked a creative solution. School staff explored how to maximize the building's existing footprint, leading to a thoughtful renovation and redesign of current shop areas. A traditional classroom has now been transformed into a dedicated tech space, and the original shop has been carefully partitioned to create three distinct, fully functional shop environments.
Construction is well underway and is expected to be completed by Semester 2, with the new spaces opening for student learning at that time.
This innovative layout supports a wide range of programming, from construction and woodworking, to metal-based technology, to specialized tech opportunities for Grade 7 and 8 students. The new configuration ensures that all students can access relevant, engaging, and industry-aligned learning.
More than just physical spaces, these upgrades strengthen the school's technological education pathway. Students can now experience hands-on learning that connects directly to cooperative education placements, Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programming, and authentic industry-standard environments.
As students graduate from STAHS, they leave with confidence, practical skills, and meaningful experience, well prepared to pursue trades-related careers straight out of high school or continue their journey in post-secondary skilled trades programs.
