05/05/2026
WDFD had the privilege of working with the students of Sky-Plus Emerg 20 over the past 7 weeks. Throughout the program, students engaged in both classroom learning and hands-on practical training, building valuable skills and competencies in emergency services.
It was a rewarding experience for our department to be part of their journey. A sincere thank you to all WDFD members who generously gave their time and knowledge to support the future of emergency services.
Please read below for the students journey through Emerg 20.
Ready to Respond: SkyPlus Emergency Services Training.
SkyPlus Learning is designed for students who want flexibility, choice and meaningful learning experiences – and the Emergency Services Response Training 20 course brings that vision to life in powerful, real-world ways. Through a blend of in-class learning and hands-on, place-based experiences, students gain practical skills, confidence and insight into emergency response and preparedness, while earning a high school credit.
The course introduces students to the foundations of emergency response and public safety. It incorporates scenario-based learning and career exploration, making it both academically challenging and highly relevant to everyday life.
While students explore emergency services concepts through online modules, the heart of the course comes alive through hands-on, community learning experiences.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
One of the most impactful elements of the Emergency Services Response Training 20 course is its emphasis on learning in authentic settings. Students take part in site visits and simulations with local emergency service professionals allowing them to learn directly from experts in the field.
This year students have:
Visited the local fire hall to learn about fire safety, personal protective equipment (PPE), ladder safety, hoses and fire extinguishers
Practiced using fire extinguishers and how to identify different types of fires
Participated in emergency simulations, including medical response and accident scenarios (thank you to Saskatchewan Polytechnic and STARS for their partnership this year)
Learned essential skills such as knot tying for rescue situations and scene awareness
Students expressed that these real-world experiences make the learning more memorable and meaningful. One student explained “actually getting to see and use the equipment, rather than just research it or see pictures, helped the information ‘stick’ a lot easier.”
Scenario-Based and Applied Assessment
Assessment in the Emergency Services Response Training 20 course is designed to reflect real-life application rather than traditional testing alone. Students work through emergency scenarios, practice effective communication, and reflect on decision-making under pressure.
SkyPlusKnots
Examples of assessment tasks include:
Scenario analysis focused on emergency response roles and responsibilities
Learning how to communicate clearly and effectively with 911 operators
Creating public service announcements about making emergency calls
Exploring communications tools that support patience who may have language or communication barriers
Investigating emergency services careers and comparing pathways into those professions.
This applied approach helps students understand not just what to do in an emergency, but why it matters. As one student put it, “even if emergency services is not a future career goal, knowing how to respond, who to call and what to say in an emergency can make all the difference.”
Learning With Purpose
Emergency Services Response Training 20 is an excellent example of how SkyPlus Learning connects curriculum to community, theory to practice and learning to real life. For students looking for engaging, practical learning, and for families seeking meaningful educational options, SkyPlus Learning continues to open doors.
