Welcoming the 2025 Summer Apprentice Program Cohort
At The Island School, we aim to foster the growth and development of young people through experiential, hands-on learning experiences.
Our Summer Apprentice Program was designed to provide young individuals in South Eleuthera with a structured training pathway to gain practical skills and knowledge in specific trades, while earning a wage and potentially securing future employment.
This summer, we are excited to welcome 9 Apprentices from South Eleuthera. Our group includes:
-3 newly-graduated young people who are very excited about their future
-3 Deep Creek Middle School Alumni
-6 current students from Preston H. Albury High School in Rock Sound
Introducing our 2025 Apprentices
Our 2025 cohort of apprentices brings a diverse range of interests and aspirations, each contributing uniquely to the The Island School community:
Bernette N. Leary
Bernette N. Leary is from Rock Sound, Eleuthera, and is studying marketing and accounting at Central State University. She aspires to work as a marketing manager, public relations specialist, or an accountant.
Clintranae Moss
Clintranae is a Deep Creek Middle School alumna and recently graduated from high school. This summer, she is working as an apprentice with our Wellness Center and Purchasing Department. She plans to attend college and continue building her own business.
Deondra Smith
Deondra is a Deep Creek Middle School alumna and current 11th grade student at Preston H. Albury High School in Rock Sound, Eleuthera. She is an apprentice with the Purchasing Department this summer and is eager to apply her new skills to future opportunities. After graduation, Deondra hopes to enter the medical field.
Taneya Pratt
Taneya is a Deep Creek Middle School alumna and a recent graduate of Preston H. Albury High School. This is her first job, and she is eager to learn new skills, build a network, and find her passion.
Widlene Alexis
Widlene was born in Haiti and moved to The Bahamas at a young age. She is currently a 9th grade student at Preston H. Albury High School. This is her first job, and she is grateful for the opportunity to work with the team at the Cape Eleuthera Institute to maintain the aquaponics system.
Amelia Pratt
Amelia was born in Nassau, The Bahamas, and is a current student at Preston H. Albury High School. After graduation, she aspires to become a pediatric doctor. She says that the Apprentice Program has allowed her to broaden her perspective and overcome new challenges.
Nahjee Symonette
Nahjee was born in Jamaica and is a current 11th grade student at Preston H. Albury High School. He is working as an apprentice with the auto mechanics team this summer.
Jayden Bethel
Jayden is a current 11th grade student at Preston H. Albury High School, and wants to become an architectural engineer. He describes himself as very determined when it comes to achieving his goals. In his free time, Jayden enjoys playing softball and baseball, as well as listening to music.
Ethan Strachan
Ethan is from Deep Creek, Eleuthera, and is a current 10th grade student at Preston H. Albury High School. He says that the Apprentice Program has challenged him and given him the opportunity to meet new people and go on new adventures.
Building Career Readiness Skills Through Intentional Programming
The Apprentice Program is designed to provide hands-on experience and mentorship to young Bahamians and prepare them for future roles.
For the next six weeks, these bright young people will work alongside our experienced staff to gain real experience in a number of disciplines. Hands-on learning in the apprenticeship program provides participants with numerous benefits, including practical experience, skill development, and career advancement opportunities. Throughout the program, our apprentices also participate in multi-disciplinary workshops that cover topics such as professional development, computer literacy, creative work, marine research, and more.
Traditionally, apprenticeships significantly boost career advancement. They provide a structured path to gain skills and qualifications while earning a wage, which leads to job security and increased earning potential. Furthermore, apprenticeships foster valuable industry connections and build confidence and competence, contributing to overall career success.
We are excited to see the great work that these young individuals do during the program! To learn more about the Island School Apprentice Program, click here.