LearningTogether

September 1, 2009

Learning Together Program:  General Information and Q&A

Introduction to the Learning Together Program
For over 20 years, the Learning Together (LT) program has been providing pregnant and parenting youth living on the North Shore the opportunity and support to complete their high-school education. LT is based at Sutherland Secondary school and includes an on-site childcare. The program offers students an individualized program that offers self-paced learning in addition to the regular course and work experience offerings of Sutherland Secondary.

Purpose
The Learning Together program facilitates high-school completion for pregnant and parenting youth. LT also provides the option of inclusive and nurturing childcare services to young parents enrolled in the program and enhances students’ parenting knowledge and skills in a supportive environment.

Features and benefits of the program

• Dedicated classroom offering a range of subjects
• Practical family management course providing information on nutrition, budgeting and relationships
• Enriched childcare environment led by qualified Early Childhood Educators for all children (up to 36 months of age) —including those with special needs and from the wider North Shore community
• Collaborative program involves community partner participation to provide group and one-on-one counseling, support for housing, employment and legal issues
• Emphasis on health and wellness facilitated by weekly visits from a community health nurse and other community experts to advise on infant development, breast feeding, nutrition, personal growth and other topics important to young parents

Eligibility criteria/referral procedures
Please see the Q&A below.

Contact information
Please contact the North Shore Neighborhood House at 604.987.8138 or the North Vancouver School District, District Counsellor at 604.903.3278 to learn more about the program or referral process.

Q&A

How do I know this program is right for me?
Students in the LT are often referred by a community health nurse, or may learn of the program independently. Students come to the program motivated to complete secondary school while raising a child.

Is it difficult to get into the program? Is there a wait list? Do I have to wait until September to begin?
Students have the opportunity to enter the program in either September, November, January or April.

What is the success rate of LT? Do most students graduate?
LT has operated for over 20 years with most students completing the secondary school program.

Where is the program located?
LT has its own classroom at Sutherland Secondary, 1860 Sutherland Avenue.

What is the schedule of LT? Does it follow regular school hours?
Students make a commitment to either a part-time, or full-time course of study.

Is there a cost for the program? Fees? Childcare costs?
There is no charge to participants under the age of 19 for the program. Students over the age of 19 will be assisted in obtaining funding for child-care costs.

What is the age range of students in the Learning Together program?
Learning Together is designed for students aged 13 to 24 years of age.

Are any other organizations or professionals associated with the Learning Together program?
LT is offered through an established partnership between:
• North Vancouver School District
• North Shore Neighborhood House
• Squamish Nation
• Vancouver Coastal Health
• Ministry for Children and Families

What if I am unable to finish the program? Would I be able to come back at a later time and try again?
Yes, as long as your child is three years or younger as the childcare centre is an infant/ toddler centre. Children over three would have the option of going to another Neighbourhood House daycare at another location.

How old does my baby have to be to attend the daycare?
LT has had babies as young as two weeks old attend.

Are there opportunities for work experience at Sutherland?
Yes, students in the LT program have participated in work experience that went toward their graduating criteria.