Students make a splash in Skills Ontario Cardboard Boat Races
FROM : SkillsOntario
Cardboard Boat Races draw nearly 1500 competitors in 14 cities from 250 schools in Ontario each year
ONTARIO – You might be surprised to learn that students building a boat out of cardboard, duct tape and glue can change our province. Skills Ontario is working toward building an economically vibrant Ontario, while encouraging the next generation of workers to discover their passion for the skilled trades and technologies. The Cardboard Boat Races is just one of the many initiatives we offer to students across Ontario
The premise is simple: we give a team of four elementary/secondary students two hours and the materials they need to build a cardboard boat that will outperform their peers in speed and weight challenges. The outcome is both entertaining and inspiring. Student participants have a positive and rewarding experience that shows them their potential to succeed in a hands-on career. Teachers and parents are inspired by seeing their students learn problem-solving, teamwork and design skills as they explore their strengths and begin thinking about their career paths.
Winners at each race qualify to compete against youth across Ontario in the Cardboard Boat Race Championships on March 4th for Elementary schools and March 5th for Secondary schools. “The races are one of our most popular events each year,” said Gail Smyth, Executive Director of Skills Ontario “The kids love them and learn so much about themselves… It’s a great event to watch”.
Will this year’s group of students break the all-time provincial records? Can they race their boat the length of the pool in under 12 seconds or build it strong enough to hold 6 new born baby elephants (1400 lbs)?
Skills Ontario is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the skilled trades and technologies as viable first-choice career options for Ontario youth. Throughout the year, we promote the skilled trades and technologies through our in-school presentations, the Ontario Technological Skills Competition (OTSC), Cardboard Boat Race Competitions, Women’s Career Exploration Events and Conferences and our Aboriginal Initiatives.
