Northern College has teamed up with the province to deliver more than $300,000 in projects and support for first-generation learners, the first of a family to attend post-secondary or train to become an apprentice.

The school has received $284,000 for First Generation-related projects, as well as $17,203 for related bursaries, all designed to encourage area youth to attend post-secondary and to support them once there.

Projects to be pursued will include enhanced prior learning assessment and recognition, healing circles and retreats, as well as a first-year experience office.

Other such projects on the books include a mentoring program, the establishment of support groups, and a mobile team that will travel to Aboriginal communities and respond to the needs of prospective First Generation learners.