Experiential learning opportunity

New Brunswick Teen Apprenticeship Program (NBTAP) – School Champion Information

 All of NB

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Areas of interest: Career Connected Learning, Manufacturing, Skilled Trades

School Champion Information

What is NBTAP?

The New Brunswick Teen Apprentice Program (NBTAP) gives Anglophone High School students in New Brunswick the chance to explore the skilled trades through paid summer work experiences. With the ability to apply for High School Graduation Credits. All while accumulating apprenticeship hours and building towards their future careers.

Vision

Pre-apprenticeship, powered by industry partners, bridges high school students into skilled trades careers.

Mission

Collaborate with industry and educators to develop pre-apprenticeship pathways that prepare high school students for skilled trades careers

Program Overview

Students work alongside skilled trade professionals, building hands-on skills, earning apprenticeable hours toward future certification, and gaining valuable insight into what a career in the trades is really like. These experiences help students “test drive” a career, discover their strengths, and make informed choices about their post-secondary and career paths.

For employers, NBTAP is a way to connect early with motivated young talent, provide mentorship, and help strengthen the pipeline of skilled workers in New Brunswick. By bringing students, schools, and industry together, NBTAP is opening doors to meaningful careers and ensuring a strong future for the skilled trades across the province.

NBTAP School Champion Role

School Champions are representatives within New Brunswick high schools who support NBTAP students in a variety of ways.

Some of their key responsibilities include:

Acting as an informed advocate for both pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities.
Serving as a liaison between the school and the NBTAP Pre-Apprenticeship Coordinator.
Assisting students with the application process, including resume writing and interview preparation.
Promoting awareness of the NBTAP Program and sharing ongoing program information.
Attending information sessions to stay informed about the program.
Facilitating communication by providing program and employer information to students.
Supporting students in career decision-making related to skilled trades occupations.

Benefits to becoming a School Champion

There are so many benefits for School Champions, as they participate in the NBTAP Program.

As a School Champion, you can:

Become part of a unique opportunity to assist students determine their career pathways
Develop a sense of accomplishment watching students participate in the workforce
Assist in developing eager, and enthusiastic workers;
Learn more about skilled trades, apprenticeship, and experiential learning opportunities

Student Eligibility Requirements

We welcome motivated students who are ready to gain hands-on experience!

To participate, you must:

Be an Anglophone high school student in New Brunswick.
Have a current cover letter and resume created through myBlueprint.
Have reliable transportation to and from your work placement each day.
Have CSA-approved safety work boots for your protection.

Start your journey today and take the first step toward real-world experience in your chosen field!

Cover Letter & Resume Writing

As part of the application process, students are required to prepare a cover letter and resume using myBlueprint. This program helps students create an effective and competitive resume, enhancing their opportunities for success.

If you need assistance using myBlueprint or have any questions, please refer to the myBlueprint links available in the Resources section.

Open Vs. Closed Competitions

School Champions play a key role in helping students access NBTAP opportunities. Understanding how competitions work ensures you can guide students effectively and strengthen connections with local employers.

NBTAP employers post jobs through either open or closed competitions:

Open Competitions: Open to all eligible NBTAP students across the province. Employers use them to gauge student interest and allow competition for interviews.

Closed Competitions: Typically reserved for name hires or returning students who have already worked with that employer or have been identified as strong candidates.

As a School Champion, you can also help by connecting NBTAP with employers in your community who may have opportunities suited for a closed competition. Your insight into local talent and employer needs is invaluable for linking students to meaningful placements.

NBTAP Student Benefits

The New Brunswick Teen Apprentice Program (NBTAP) is your chance to “test drive” a career in the skilled trades — while you’re still in high school!

As an NBTAP student, you’ll:

Work a paid summer employment in the skilled trades.
Be paired with a Journeyperson who will train and mentor you.
Earn apprenticeship hours that count toward future certification (hour-for-hour).
Apply for high school credits for your work experience after every 200 hours worked.
Explore exciting trades careers before graduation.

This isn’t just a summer job. It’s a head start on your future career!

NBTAP High School Credit Application

After completing an NBTAP Summer placement, Students who have completed 200+ hours in the field are able to apply for a high school graduation credit. This can be done by reaching out to their NBTAP School Champion to complete the required documents.

Students have the opportunity to earn up to 3 Credits through NBTAP. However, it is up to them to apply and secure the credit. For more information, please reach out to your NBTAP School Champion or follow the link in the resources.

Is NBTAP a Recognized Program?

NBTAP is a joint initiative between the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (EECD) and Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour (PETL) New Brunswick.

Safety First

Some employers will require students to complete Safety Training prior to commencement of employment, such as Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems (WHMIS) and Safety Orientation. This will be part of the orientation package for students.

Safety training is required before starting an NBTAP work placement.
NBTAP Employers are required to provide PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) such as hard hats, safety glasses, and vests.
Students must supply their own CSA-approved steel-toe boots.
Site visits from EECD Summer Supervisors

NBTAP Summer Site Visits

During the summer, NBTAP staff conduct site visits to check in with students and employers at their work placements. These visits help ensure that students are supported and that workplaces remain safe, welcoming, and productive.

During a site visit, NBTAP staff will:

Meet with the student and supervisor to discuss progress and answer questions.
Ensure the student is receiving proper training, guidance, and mentorship.
Confirm that NBTAP Materials and PPE has been delivered and fits correctly.
Address any concerns, offer guidance, and answer any questions from students or employers.
Celebrate student achievements and highlight successes on the job.

Mentorship Matters

Mentoring is a vital part of the NBTAP experience. It ensures that students receive the guidance, support, and encouragement they need to succeed in skilled trades. Mentoring bridges the gap between school and the skilled trades workforce. Your support as a champion or teacher ensures students make the most of this opportunity.

Mentoring helps you: