Projects and Artifacts

Practicum

West Hill Collegiate Institute

In October of 2025 I walked in the doors of West Hill Collegiate Institute for the first time and met my Associate Teacher Ms. Pedroso.  I was immediately impressed by the large and well-equipped hair salon and aesthetics area, and put at ease by my welcoming AT. 

Over the past several months I have had the privilege of working alongside Ms. Pedroso in four different Hairstyling and Aesthetics classes as well as two classes of Technology and the Skilled Trades.  I have met countless wonderful students, dedicated teachers, support staff, office personnel and administrators that have contributed to my learning journey at West Hill C.I.  

As I near the end of my practicum, I am grateful for all the kindness, patience and encouragement I have received during my time at the school.  Thank you to everyone at West Hill that have made my time so memorable!

Service Learning Project

For My Service Learning Project I was pleased to work with Aero 82nd Unit of Girl Guides and Pathfinders.  

Through this SLP the primary goal was to ensure that my offerings as a make-up artist and hairstylist would align with the interests of the unit.  The group’s focus for the fall/winter sessions reflected the badge categories “Be Well” and “Explore Identities”.  

My first  Presentation supported the themes “My Physical Self” which promotes self-care, and “Being You” which encourages individuality and self expression.  During the session girls learned how to care for their hair, practiced French and Dutch braids on mannequin heads , made hair masks and created hair bands.

During the second presentation we explored the themes of “Build Skills” and “How To”. Trade specific tools and materials were introduced, and the unit worked on nail art design, arm painting and new braiding techniques through the creation of friendship bracelets.

 

Co-op at West Hill C.I.

The dedicated Co-op Department took their time to explain the many opportunities available to students.  One and two credit Co-op placements, Steps to Construction, Steps to Transportation, PACE, Army Co-op, Scarborough Health Network, SHSM and OYAP. 

Existing community partners include elementary schools, pharmacies, bakeries, car dealerships, cosmetic retailers and mechanic shops.

During my time working with the department, I assisted with an OYAP presentation held in the school library, helped organise prefects for Grade 8 night and directed students and parents to Co-op teachers to discuss the various Co-op opportunities available through the school.  I also helped with filing documents and providing interview support to students as they prepared for employer interviews.

 

STEM

This two day workshop was presented by First Robotics and hosted at Woburn Collegiate Institute. 

On the first day we examined previously made student assignments, discussed applications of  3D printing in the classroom and what printers were best suited for different requirements. We were then introduced to the computer program used to create designs with the 3D printer, and followed instructions to build our own key chains.

On the second day we examined STEM learning activities for the TAS10 and TAS20 classes. We discussed how to bring these problem-based activities to the standard classroom, and were then guided through two activities.

First we created pin cushions using recycled materials and scrap fabrics, then we made soft ice cream using cream, sugar, vanilla and rock salt.  Both activities demonstrated how to work creatively and engage students in learning activities.