Lamont Elementary Grade 1 students donned medical jackets and spent the afternoon being doctors for a day during a recent trip to Lamont Health Care Centre. There, students had the opportunity to learn about health care facilities, the people who work and reside in them, and the different medical equipment and technology they use. "I liked learning about the equipment," says Jack Kliachik, a Grade 1 student from Lamont Elementary. "Especially the electronic ones they use to test and help people. I really liked learning about what doctors do in a day, too."
Lamont Elementary Grade 1 students, wearing doctor jackets, learned about the various facets of health care and had fun while doing so
The field trip is part of a new hands-on learning pilot program organized by the Lamont Health Care Centre and Elk Island Public Schools (EIPS). Lamont Health Care Centre is a medical facility providing acute care, long-term care and assisted-living services to residents in Lamont County. As part of the program, students tour the centre and spend the day learning about the health care sector, its various career pathways, the services available and the community itself.
"The kids did so well! At first they were a little nervous about being in a hospital, but after spending the day here, I don't think any of the kids will be frightened to visit a hospital again," says Linda Mills, a Board Member with the Lamont Health Care Centre and Rural Health Professions Action Plan, who helped spearhead the pilot program with EIPS. "The children asked such interesting questions and had a great experience. I hope this pilot program can grow, and more children from different grades get the opportunity to visit."
Besides exploring the facility and equipment, students also had the chance to meet the centre's staff. They learned about the duties of doctors, nurses and staff working in different parts of the centre, including a pair of paramedics who gave the students an exclusive look at the equipment they use daily. Students also had the opportunity to visit with residents in assisted living and even showcased their vocal talents by performing a selection of songs.
"What a wonderful opportunity this program is for students in our communities," says Colleen Holowaychuk, the Board Chair of EIPS. "Getting students into health care facilities, engaging in their curiosity and having them meet the people who work toward the well-being of all in their community is so important in giving them a strong educational foundation and understanding of the world around them. We hope to bring similar community experiences to other schools throughout the Division."
In total, 37 Grade 1 students took part in this year's pilot program. EIPS hopes to continue the program next year and looks forward to working more with Lamont Health Care Centre. As part of its Four-Year Education Plan, the Division will continue to provide students across the Division with learning opportunities and career pathways experiences at key institutions within EIPS communities.
