Education & Training
Boston Bar First Nation supports lifelong learning and skills development through education programs and partnerships with SASET, providing opportunities from early childhood to employment.
Education Programs
Education is a cornerstone of Boston Bar First Nation’s mission to empower its members. Programs are designed to support learning opportunities for all ages, from early childhood to post-secondary education, fostering community health and lifelong success.
Early Years Program (Ages 0-6)
- Play-based learning environments.
- Guidance for infants and children during critical developmental years.
- Resources like "Baby’s Best Chance" to support caregivers.
The program aims to provide appropriate opportunities to further developmentally support and assist infants, children and families during the crucial early years. We offer and provide a play-based learning environment, which aims to enhance all areas of an infant and child’s well-being and potential.
We look forward to working with you in a variety of ways to help with care and learning needs, during the early years. We also provide resources, babies best chance information and would be happy to meet with you to discuss what works best for you the caregiver.
Middle Years Program (Ages 6-12)
- Focus on social, cultural, and emotional development.
- Activities-based programming to strengthen identity and life skills.
Our vision is to provide healthy activities for children to continue to grow and build upon a healthy foundation of identity. In conjunction with caregivers in family- we strive to create an activities-based program, with cultural connections and a variety of social/emotional/life skills built in.
We look forward to building a solid program for our youth.
Elementary & Secondary Support
- Annual Nominal Roll ensures funding and support for band-operated schools and local students.
- Services include tutoring, education advocacy, and coordination with Indigenous support workers.
The Elementary/Secondary program is Nominal Roll driven and is done annually by October 15th. Nominal Roll is done on all Band operated schools and students who attend school in Boston Bar. Please note a signed form is required for our Education Coordinator to become involved in advocacy and extra -education support for children and families. Please email a.hendrickson@bbfn or stop by the health clinic for further information. We look forward to working with families in the important journey of lifelong learning.
Duties include but are not limited to:
- Ensuring the Local Education Agreement is maintained.
- Working with teachers and/or parents/guardians to provide tutoring for students.
- Working with parents (by request) to improve education outcomes for students.
- Attends planning meetings with parents and students.
- Liaise with SD 78 Indigenous Support Workers/Staff/Admin in support of BBFN students.
Post-Secondary Support
Eligible funding for:
- Diploma and certificate programs.
- Undergraduate and advanced degrees.
Funding covers tuition, books, travel, and living allowances. Applications are managed in collaboration with the Education Department to ensure compliance with local and federal guidelines.
The program is administered by a member of the Education Department, the funding and selection criteria is in accordance with national guidelines and our own local operating policy. ISC provides funding for this program as part of core funding agreements with Indigenous governments and organizations.
Employment
Programs
Boston Bar First Nation partners with Sto:lo Aboriginal Skills & Employment Training (SASET) to provide employment services for Indigenous individuals who are underemployed or unemployed. SASET, funded by Service Canada’s Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) program, serves Indigenous people regardless of status or origin. Their extensive network supports 31 First Nations communities in the region, including Boston Bar, Katzie/Langley, and the three communities of Samahquam, Skatin, and Xa’xtsa.
How SASET Can Help
Certified SASET employment counselors offer personalized support, including:
Career Planning
Developing individualized work plans to build essential skills for training and employment.
Exploring career options and assisting with decision-making.
Overcoming Employment Barriers
Identifying challenges to employment and creating actionable plans to overcome them.
Supporting transitions from income assistance to sustainable employment.
Job Search Support
Assistance with resumes, cover letters, and interview preparation.
One-on-one or group employability workshops tailored to individual needs.
Training and Skill Development
Applying for short- and long-term training funding.
Accessing transition-to-work supports for successful employment outcomes.
Get Started Today
To learn more or access these services, visit the Sto:lo Aboriginal Skills & Employment Training (SASET) website or contact the Boston Bar office during service hours. Let us help you take the next step toward your career goals.
Boston Bar First Nation Office
Location: 45971 Hicks Rd, Boston Bar, BC
Hours: Mon - Fri, 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM
