CTC

Here are answers to the more frequently asked CTC questions!

What Is the Nanaimo-Ladysmith Career Technical Centre (CTC)?

The CTC is a provincially recognized partnership between School District 68's secondary schools and Vancouver Island University campuses. It enables High School students to work towards both their high school diploma and one of 13 different trade/technical post-secondary programs at the same time. Students must begin their Post-Secondary coursework in Grade 12. Successful applicants benefit from having 100% of their Post-secondary tuition costs covered by the CTC.

What does the CTC offer me?

  • Start and/or complete a college certificate program while completing your high school education
  • Qualify for both secondary and college credits at the same time (credits vary from program to program, contact the CTC for details)
  • Receive both a ?High School Diploma" and a ?Post-Secondary School Certificate? in a chosen trade/technical field (i.e., Auto Service Technician)
  • Gain accelerated access to further training or entry into the workplace requiring applied skills

What programs does the CTC offer?

Currently, students may choose from one of twelve trades and technical programs. In trades, students may pursue Entry Level Trade Training (ELTT) certification in,

  • Auto Service Technology
  • Baking
  • Carpentery
  • Culinary Arts (Cook Training)
  • Electrician
  • Hairdressing
  • Heavy Duty / Commercial Transport Mechanics
  • Horticultural Technician
  • Power Sports & Marine Technology
  • Welding.
In the technical and non-trade areas, students may receive entry level certification in,
  • Applied Business Technology
  • Health Care Assistant
  • Information Technology & Applied Systems Technology.

Note: The CTC programs offered may change on a yearly basis due to supply and demand.

What are the entrance requirements?

You must ...

  • Be currently enrolled in a graduation or high school completion program
  • Be accepted into a program before the end of September in your Grade 12 year; most placements will be made by the end of students Grade 11 years (so apply as soon as possible)
  • Be on track to complete all grad requirement, including either English or Communications
  • Have a genuine interest in the program
  • Have taken (or meet) the high school prefered prerequisites required to register in the specific CTC program (See the additional information located on the programs page, or consult with your counselor or the CTC Coordinator)
  • Successfuly write and meet VIU's Assessment Criteria

Do I have to transfer for my Grade 12 year?

Yes. CTC courses are completed at Vancouver Island University. Successful applicants are enrolled in the CTC for their Grade 12 school year, although all their coursework is completed at VIU. All CTC prerequisite courses may be completed at students' home schools or Learn@Home prior to their Grade 12 school year.

Do I graduate?

Yes. The CTC program requires students meet high school grad requirements before college certificates may be granted. Upon successful completion of both programs, students may participate in the High School Graduation ceremonies of their Grade 11 home school and in the VIU commencement ceremonies of their trade/technical program.

How and when do I apply?

Spaces in programs are very limited. It is advisable to apply as soon as you have successfully completed and/or enrolled in the majority of the preferred prerequisite courses in your Grade 11 year -- the sooner the better. Check with your counselor or the CTC office to verify basic program requirements, and follow the instructions on the Application package .

Where can I get more information?

Contact your school counselor, career counselor, or the CTC (250-740-2032).