Purpose of this Toolkit
This toolkit is a living document, meaning that as we continue to learn about this subject, more will be added to reflect wise, emerging, and best practices. Although there is limited research available on skilled trades students and their mental health and wellbeing, at every opportunity, the information presented has been informed by research.
This toolkit provides Ontario post-secondary campus staff with context, knowledge, resources, and tools to better support skilled trades students and the unique factors they face, affecting their mental health and wellbeing. This document is not meant to serve as a discourse on the trade industry. Instead, it aims to discuss the challenges trades students may face and the changes post-secondary institutions can focus on regarding their safety, health, and wellbeing. This toolkit also reflects R-EDIAA (Reconciliation – Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Anti-Racism, and Accessibility) principles and adopts an anti-oppressive and trauma-informed mindset.
As you move through this document, if you notice that we miss a mental health and wellbeing program from your post-secondary institution that could be featured in one of the spotlights, please contact us at info@campusmentalhealth.ca and we will make the addition, if appropriate.
Statement of Positionality
This toolkit was created in collaboration with individuals from Ontario post-secondary institutions that hold knowledge and expertise in working with trades students. The lead on this project is not someone from the trades industry, nor have they completed schooling in the trades. Throughout this toolkit, certain pieces speak to the experience of an apprentice and the journey of apprenticeships for people of varying backgrounds, cultures, and genders, some of which the creators are not members of and do not claim to represent.
Collaborators
This toolkit was co-created with campus partners across Ontario who hold distinct roles on Ontario’s post-secondary campuses, dedicated to supporting skilled trades students. Their time, effort, and passion helped bring this document to life.
Khalid Abdul-Rahman
Joanne Kedzierski
Ann Andree-Wiebe
Morgan Levy
Ben Bongolan
Nik Carverhill
