English for Resort Hospitality Co-op Program

     Whistler is famous for outdoor activities and wintersports and is no doubt a leader in the areas of tourism and hospitality. Throughout the years, locals and visitors alike have gained work experience and invaluable training for the future that only a world-class resort can offer.

                                                              Skiers in Powder Snow                                                                  

     For students who would to make the most out of their experience studying in Whistler, Advantage E/J School has developed a new co-op program which allows students to study in-class and practice using English on-the-job. The English for Resort Hospitality program allows students to apply knowledge from the classroom to a real life setting while gaining practical experience and expertise in a specialized area of employment.

     In order for every student to reach his or her goals, practical skills will be taught in-class and support will be thoroughly provided. Those without working holiday visas can obtain a co-op visa and can participate in this program regardless of age, experience, or nationality.  The program does not require a working-holiday visa and welcomes all forward-looking individuals that enjoy facing new and unique challenges.

     Of course, language acquisition and work experience are only a small portion of your Whistler Life and much of your time will be spent on the mountain in the winter with even more options available in the summer.

What is Co-op?

     Co-op is a program which allows students to receive paid work experience in a specialized field as they pursue their studies. The ERH C0-op Program combines academic studies with work experience at a local organization. Working on the job is 50% or less of the whole program and is a mandatory part of the curriculum.

Why choose ERH Co-op?

     Through this unique program, students are employed in paid positions directly related to their educational and career goals. Students will gain hands on technical expertise which will enhance their marketability for career options in the future.

How to Apply:

     In order to participate in this program students will need to obtain both a school attendance permit and a work permit. Refer to the Canadian Embassy homepage for more information regarding the permit. Please click here and fill out the application form.

Questions or concerns?

Please contact us if you require additional information.

Courses

Retail and Hospitality

This job involves working in a shop in Whistler Village. There is a wide range of shops available, depending whether you prefer something quiet or busy. (For example: a souvenir shop). NO experience is required, and full training will be given. You MUST however have a passion for interacting with customers, communicating and meeting new people from all over the world. Students develop and improve their English skills and enrich their experience in Canada through co-op work opportunities.

Food and Service      

This job would be at one of Whistler’s many restaurants, café’s or bars. NO experience is required and full training will be given. You MUST however be familiar with good customer service, and an enthusiasm to interact and greet customers from all over the world. Students develop and improve their English skills and enrich their experience in Canada through co-op work opportunities. You will ALSO be able to complete a Food & Safety Certificate through this course.  

                                                                                                    

Ski, Snowboard Pro Shop

You will providing customers with Rental equipment, tuning equipment, maintaining inventory, servicing customer’s needs in a retail environment. but you MUST have knowledge of skiing/snowboarding and a passion to learn more and meet people from all over the world. Students develop and improve their English skills and enrich their experience in Canada through co-op work opportunities.

Hotel, B&B

Housekeeping, cooking, telephone reservation, laundry, NO experience is required, and full training will be given. Students develop and improve their English skills and enrich their experience in Canada through co-op work opportunities.       

                                                                                                                                                         

Curriculum

General Outline of the English for Resort Hospitality Program:

  • Introduction to the Program
  • Learning about Whistler
  • Career Planning
  • Cover Letter and Resume Writing
  • Interview Skills
  • Conducting an effective Job search
  • Getting ready for the workforce
  • Handling difficult situations in the workplace
  • Preparing for Evaluations
  • Final Reports and Presentations
  • Co-op (Working)

Retail, Food & Service, Professional Ski and Snowboard Shop, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast other courses are available.

What we provide for our students:

  • Assistance with applying for social insurance (SIN) number
  • Resume and coverletter assistance
  • Assistance with job search and application process
  • Arranging the interview with the employer
  • Human Relations/Customer Service, Communication skills (correspondence and telephone)
  • Training and workshops (example: Volunteering at local events and seminars, Pro-ski and snowboard shop tune-ups, Restaurant, Hotel, B&B, Café and Retail Shop)
  • Food Safety completion book and “Serving it Right” certificate (for serving alcohol)
  • The costs of TOEIC examinations are included in the program (2 exam fees for 12 months program students.) *Any additional TOEIC exams will be optional and at the cost of the student.
  • Student performance evaluation
  • Each student will be required to complete a written report the end of the program. Teachers will assist with this.

Our friendly teachers and staff will help you every step of the way.

Admission Requirements and Policies

  • The applicant must be 16 or older and a High School Graduate
  • The applicant must have conversational level English skills. This will be determined by the student completing a placement test will be held at school prior to enrollment.
  • Attendance must be above 90%
  • Absence from school due to work schedule conflicts will not be tolerated.
  • Once accepted the student can only work at a business in partnership with the Advantage E/J Program
  • Through the duration of the course, interruption in attendance is prohibited. Failure to complete the course work will result in non-completion of the program and a withdrawal from the course with no refund. The only exception would be a serious health concern or compassionate matter and would require proof in the form of a letter from a BC physician or other qualified professional. In certain cases, student may be eligible to apply for a refund.

Work Experience Policy

  • Our school provides work experience placements only for students who have completed the on-site portion of a program of study.
  • We ensure that the employer provides ample opportunity for our students to enhance their skills throughout the duration of their employment.
  • We only work with employers who are committed to helping our students with their career goals.
  • We work closely with the employer to evaluate the student’s performance during a work experience placement.

Sample Schedule for the ERH Program

The schedule for English study and work experience adds up to around 60% education and 40% work.

*12 month courses include Christmas and Summer Holidays.