When children are young, they are often asked by their teachers to draw or write about their parents’ occupations.  

The interpretations can be cute and comical with some creative exaggerations.

As years pass, children become more familiar with their parents’ occupations and develop an interest in learning about others. By high school, many are focused on choosing classes that will lead to a desired post-secondary program and future career.  

On Wednesday, Nov. 2, Brock University will join organizations across Ontario participating in Take Our Kids to Work Day, an annual career exploration event where Grade 9 students spend the day in the life of a working professional.  

Brock’s Health, Safety and Wellness (HSW) department within Human Resources is planning an interactive morning of specialized programming followed by job shadowing with a Brock employee parent or sponsor in the afternoon.  

As part of the morning programming, Grade 9 students will hear from a variety of Brock professionals on topics such as health and safety considerations for a first job, summer development programs, and education and career planning. A recruitment officer will also lead students on a tour of campus.  

“We hope the experience will assist students in understanding the importance of staying in school, help them gain an appreciation for earning a living and demonstrate the link between education and their future,” said Daniel Pozzobon, Occupational Health and Safety Specialist.  

“Brock’s involvement in the program is a meaningful way to highlight the diversity of roles and positions available at the University and is a great way to develop connections with prospective Brock students,” he said. 

Grade 9 students participating in Brock’s Take Our Kids to Work programming can be a Brock employee’s child, relative or friend. 

Employees must obtain their supervisor’s permission to participate in the program, and all Grade 9 students, Brock employee parents/sponsors and their supervisors are required to print and sign a permission form and email it back to besafe@brocku.ca by Friday, Oct. 28. There is also recommended training, health and safety precautions, and restricted workspaces and tasks to consider. 

Register on ExperienceBU. More information can be found on the Health, Safety and Wellness SharePoint site.  

Questions can be directed to besafe@brocku.ca