The focus of discussions during these advisory sessions is different for students at various levels. For students in level one the focus is predominately on employability skills and personal assessment. The teacher advisors help their students build their employability skills portfolio at all three levels but it is the main focus with students in level one. In level two the emphasis shifts to career choices. In level three the teacher advisors emphasize resum writing.
Parsons believes the counselling aspect is an integral part of the program.
The teachers encourage their students at all levels to think about what they will face when they enter the workforce. It's important that we make students aware of how frequently the work environment changes. The most important skill we can give them is the ability to adapt to new situations and help them realize that the learning process will continue in the workplace and will be a lifelong endeavour. The school's focus on technology has already shown benefits. Don Dove, head of the science department at Elwood, reports that enrolment in science and technology courses is increasing.