Upper Thames elementary school students secure silver at Skills Ontario competition

Four Mitchell students secured a silver medal in the Grade 4-6 character animation division at the Skills Ontario Competition.

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It was the second straight medal for Upper Thames elementary school’s Edwin Emmerson, Evelyn Ward, Porter Harbinson and Malea Walkom, who won gold in the same competition that brings together students, educators and industry professionals to celebrate and encourage excellence in skilled trades and technologies.

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“Their consistent excellence exemplifies the dedication, skill and hard work of both the students and educators,” Avon Maitland District School Board officials said.

The school board had 37 students from eight elementary and high schools participate in the event at the Toronto Congress Centre, which showcased the exceptional talents and skills of students across the province and provided a platform for them to demonstrate their expertise in various trades and technologies.

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Students competed in a variety of events from LEGO mechanical engineering, technology, character animation, VEX robotics, green energy, workplace safety and carpentry.

“We are very proud of our students for their hard work and dedication in preparing for and competing in this event,” school board student success coach Tim Bickell said. “Their achievements are a testament to the education and training provided by our schools, and we are delighted to see them represent our district on such a grand stage.”

Students demonstrated remarkable proficiency, creativity and dedication, and their participation emphasizes the board’s commitment to fostering practical skills and providing students with opportunities to excel beyond the classroom.

“This type of competition does not happen without the dedication and guidance of the educators in the schools who are not only preparing these students for the competition, but also spending many hours outside of the classroom teaching the students concepts and strategies that may be utilized during the competition itself,” Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program recruiter Jodi Froud said.

“The Skills Ontario competition is a prime example of how teaching students problem solving, communication and collaboration skills can be fundamental to success.”

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