Steps for planning and delivering an SPE

Overview

Sector-partnered experiences (SPEs) are learning activities connected to a student's chosen SHSM sector. Sector partners and teachers work together to create and deliver them.

All SPEs focus on 1 of these areas:

• innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship (ICE)
• coding (computer programming)
• math literacy

SPEs help students acquire the following mindsets:

• “I can see the value in understanding how ICE, coding or math literacy is important to my SHSM sector”
• “I am willing to take smart risks and learn from them”

Follow these steps to guide you in providing an SPE for your students.

Step 1: before the activity

• Determine the SHSM sector for the SPE learning activity.
• Note the grade(s), level(s) and pathway(s) of students.
• Decide if your SPE’s focus will be ICE, coding or math literacy.
• Choose a sector partner.
• Collaborate with your sector partner to co-design an SPE relevant to your SHSM sector.
• Identify the SPE delivery method.
• Consider how the learning experiences will be tied to the SHSM sector.
• Establish the learning goals for the students.
• Identify any required communication and permission forms (for example, a field trip or media consent form).

Step 2: collaborate with sector partners

• Begin working with your sector partner as early as possible.
• Set up an initial meeting early in your planning process to:
  • define the SPE activity including its content, agenda and schedule (for example, 6 hours in a single day or spread over multiple days)
  • set timelines and deadlines
  • determine the allocation of tasks
  • identify resources required and consider logistics (for example, travel arrangements, venue, consumables, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE))
  • establish future meeting dates (if required) and/or how you will communicate over the course of the SPE
• Maintain communication with the sector partner during planning.

Step 3: during the activity

• Introduce students to the activity and the SPE mindsets.
• Lead students through the activity with your sector partner.
• Support students through the course of the activity.
• Ensure that all students have opportunities to share their work and interact with your sector partner.
• Take photos or video of the activity, where appropriate and safe to do so.

Step 4: after the activity

• Have students complete a self-assessment activity.
• Thank your sector partner for their participation.
• Confirm that any expenses incurred by the sector partner, school or school board as part of the activity have been repaid.
• Record each student's completion of the SPE (and the focus area) in the student management system.
• Provide documentation such as a certificate or other proof of completion for each student's portfolio and SHSM Record where possible.
• Send a message to parents, if appropriate, about the SPE that their child has completed.
• If you have taken photographs or videos of the activity, consider creating a short presentation for your staff, school board or partner organizations on the intent and results of your SPE.
• Ensure that the appropriate media consent forms have been signed and documented before you proceed.