General Info

The Science & Tech co-op program is a specialized 4 block program for grade 12 students interested in pursuing careers in science, mathematics, engineering, IT or computer science.

Half of the students' grade 12 schedule (usually A and B blocks in both semesters) will be with the same teacher (Ms. Stusiak) and in the same group of 30 students, completing the following courses:

• AP Calculus 12

• Physics 12 or AP Physics C Mechanics (if Physics 12 was already completed)

• Computer Science 12 or Computer Programming 12 (depending on interest)

• Technology Leadership 12

• Work Experience 12

The work experience placements are usually scheduled for May / June after AP exams, and can vary depending on interest. Past placements include: Safe Software, XL Aero, Frozen Mountain Software, Conquer Experience, Fortis BC, Surrey Memorial Hospital, School District 36 IT dept., City of White Rock IT dept., etc.

Email Ms. Stusiak at stusiak_b@surreyschools.ca for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions

What courses should I finish by grade 11 if I want to take the co-op in grade 12?

The most important courses to have completed before taking the co-op are Physics 11 and Precalculus 12, since we start learning Calculus and Physics 12 in September. Another course that is strongly recommended is either Computer Programming 11 or Computer Science 11. This prerequisite may be waived if you have enough prior experience in programming, and is evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  

What if I haven't done one of the prerequisite courses yet?

Some students choose to take Physics 11 or Precalculus 12 in summer school to meet the prerequisite requirements. As long as the courses are completed in September you can still qualify. Basic programming skills in Python are more important than having a specific course completed, so an exception can also be made if you didn't take a grade 11 programming course as long as you have some understanding of basic data types, loops, decision statements and functions in Python.

How do I sign up?

When doing your course selection, look for the Science & Tech Co-op 12 program under special programs. Once you select it, this will automatically add Co-op Computer Science 12, Co-op AP Calculus 12, Co-op Physics 12, and Co-op Tech Leadership 12 to your schedule and fill up four of your eight blocks. Then just choose your other four courses. Don't worry if you want to take AP Physics, Computer Programming or if you've already completed Calculus; in September these will be changed according to your specific situation so they show up correctly before you get your first report card. It's just simpler to put everyone into the same courses at the beginning during course selection and then change them later if necessary.

Why should I consider taking the co-op?

We start AP Calculus in September, so it is not as rushed as taking it in a semester 2 class which would start in February. The co-op is also the only way you can take an AP Physics course at Fleetwood. We offer AP Physics C (Mechanics) which is equivalent to the first semester university course for Physics majors and engineering students. It's also the only way that you can take Computer Science 12 and Technology Leadership 12.

How is the work experience placement assigned? Do I get any choice in the type of placement I get?

At the beginning of the program you will fill out a survey stating your preference for what type of placement, and when you would like to do it. We match work experience placements to students as they become available using your top preference whenever possible.

Can I take the co-op in grade 11?

As long as you have the prerequisite courses, you can enroll in the co-op program. You won't see the option on the course selection handout, but it will show up in the system as an option during course selection. However, grade 12 students will get priority if more than 30 people request the program.

Can I take only one or two of the courses and not the whole program?

Because we have the same students and teacher, the co-op gives the flexibility of ignoring the block order in the system. This means that taking the co-op is an all or nothing decision. You could have a spare in one block if you've already completed one of the courses, but you can't sign up for another class during co-op blocks if you want to be in the program.