51�Թ�app

51�Թ�app

ETP student Jacob Rosser

Jacob Rosser admits he was initially unsure of what he wanted to do with his life until his mom Jennifer phoned 51�Թ�app and discovered a program for creative, intelligent, neurodivergent students like her son and it seemed like a great fit.

“I was drifting a lot,” says Jacob. “Camosun has given me so many opportunities and knowledge about post-secondary education.”

“Jacob’s confidence level and independence have gone through the roof and he now has the courage to take on new tasks."

Jennifer Hartley, mom to ETP student Jacob Rosser

As he takes courses in the Employment Training and Preparation (ETP) program, Jacob eventually hopes to explore further post-secondary studies.

“Personally, the teachers set you up for success and the learning speed is at the speed the individual learns and goes at,” says Jacob. “I have made two specific friends and had really good learning relationships with teachers and learned a lot. It was a culture shock in a good way as high school and other secondary education wasn’t always a good experience for me.”

Traditional post-secondary education was not a viable option to start with. However, since enrolling in ETP programs, Jacob’s confidence has soared and he now feels he can succeed at anything he puts his mind to.

“Instructors at 51�Թ�app were incredible. They knew how to get along with me, they knew how to adapt to my learning speed,” he adds. “Camosun gave me so much intel on what I want to do in life and set me up to succeed, hopefully, in the industry I want to go in to.”

Mom Jennifer feels that the program is more like family as it cares for the individual as well as their psychological and behavioural learning needs.

“Jacob’s confidence level and independence have gone through the roof and he now has the courage to take on new tasks,” says Jennifer. “Not only are they teaching him how to think but how to behave appropriately in different circumstance. All of these things have built Jacob’s confidence and turned him into this young individual you see today in a way that I would never have been able to do alone as his mother.”

Looking ahead, Jacob now has goals although they tend to shift from week to week as he learns of more possibilities. Jennifer says that Jacob is discovering new areas he wants to learn and the instructors have given him the opportunity, behavioural tools and psychological support to thrive.

“Camosun has provided Jacob with an intellectual and psychological toolbox that allows him to identify the tools he needs to succeed in a specific setting,” adds Jennifer. “It’s like a family at Camosun. There are supports available but also an ethos. When Jacob has a bad day, they are able to work with that and help set up the student for success at life.”

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51�Թ�app ETP programs

Employment Training and Preparation (ETP) programs are designed for adults who identify as facing barriers to education and employment. These strength-based learning programs equip students with the skills needed for entry-level jobs while exploring various work, educational, and community environments. In small cohorts, students develop essential life, learning, and work skills in retail, kitchen, and garden settings, with opportunities for workplace certifications and practical experience. Learn more at camosun.ca/etp.

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Employment Training & Preparation

Break down barriers, prepare for entry-level employment and explore a variety of work.

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