About
SIHS PARTNERSHIPSAt St. Ignatius High School, our mission extends beyond traditional educational boundaries.
We are committed to transforming education through meaningful collaborations that not only enrich our academic environment but also bolster our community’s development.
Our partnerships provide both our students and local community members with unique opportunities for growth, skills development, and transformative experiences.
Explore how our collaborative efforts are setting the stage for promising futures.
Unveiling Pathways to Innovation and Skills
Pioneering Futures with Stem U Foundation
Through our partnership with Mr. Jarrus Mitchell of the NDE Institute, USA, St. Ignatius High School is at the forefront of technological and industrial education in Belize. Our programs in Welding and Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), launched in 2023, and the introduction of Welding Level 1 for our Adult Education division in 2024, are gateways to high-demand careers that empower students and adults alike to build sustainable futures. This initiative reflects our commitment to providing cutting-edge skills that are crucial in today’s job market, preparing participants not just to enter the workforce, but to excel in it.
Program Highlights
St. Ignatius High School, in collaboration with the NDE Institute through the STEM U Foundation, has officially launch its premier Welding & NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) vocational program in Belize on September 14, 2023. General studies students enrolled in the program will receive basic to intermediate training from August 21, 2023 to June 14, 2024. This program will provide a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills, ensuring adherence to the best practice standards. This incudes:
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Comprehensive training in welding techniques provides hands-on experience coupled with theoretical knowledge.
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Opportunities for international field experiences and local apprenticeships enhance career readiness.
Empowering Aspirations
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For Day Students: Acquire in-demand industrial skills that open doors to dynamic careers in technology and manufacturing.
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For Adult Education Division: Night classes in Welding Level 1 enable adults to upskill, enhancing job security and community economic health.
Programs
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Welding and NDT Testing (2023) for SIHS students.
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Welding Level 1 (2024) for SIHS Adult Education division.
Benefits
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Prepares participants for advanced roles in growing industries.
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Bolsters local job prospects and supports economic development through skill enhancement.
Donate at STEM U Foundation
Together, we can build brighter futures. Support the STEM U Foundation and help provide more students and adult learners access to world-class Welding and NDT training at St. Ignatius High School. Your donation makes skills training, equipment, and life-changing opportunities possible.
Visit STEM U Foundation at https://stemufoundation.org to donate and be part of this incredible journey of empowerment.
Mr. Jarrus Mitchell, Executive Director of the NDE Institute in the USA, is a visionary leader and dedicated partner in advancing technical education in Belize.
His passion for empowering youth with industry-ready skills through Welding and NDT programs has opened doors for St. Ignatius High School students and adult learners to access world-class training and life-changing opportunities.
Unveiling Pathways to Innovation and Skills
Cultivating Expertise with
Cayo CET
At St. Ignatius High School Adult Education
Our partnership with Cayo CET specifically serves the Adult Education division, offering Vocational Technical (VoTech) courses that merge academic rigor with practical training. These courses are tailored to equip students with skills in high-demand areas such as culinary arts, bartending, and beauty services, fostering both personal and professional growth.
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Program Highlights:
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Dual certification courses enhance career credentials.
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Practical skills training applicable directly to the hospitality and service industries.
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Empowering Aspirations:
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For Adult Education Students: Master vocational skills crucial for immediate application in various sectors.
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For Community Members: Accessible training supports career transitions and professional development.
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Programs Offered:
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A range of courses including Fundamentals in Cooking, Intermediate Bartending, Tiuna Massage and Makeup Artistry.
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Benefits:
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Opens new professional avenues with practical, marketable skills.
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Strengthens the local economy by upskilling participants and filling skills gaps in critical sectors.
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Empowering through legal literacy
Street Law Belize
In collaboration with Dr. Christopher Malcolm, Founder of Street Law Caribbean, our initiative extends beyond the traditional curriculum to incorporate essential legal literacy. This program empowers our students to understand and navigate the legal system, enhancing their ability to advocate for themselves and their communities. It’s about building a foundation of knowledge that transforms students into informed citizens, ready to lead and inspire.
Dr. Christopher Malcolm, Founder and Executive Director of Street Law Caribbean, passionately advocates for legal literacy and youth empowerment.
His partnership with St. Ignatius High School brings knowledge of rights, justice, and civic responsibility into our classrooms — equipping students to become informed, confident citizens and future leaders in their communities.
Fostering sustainability and heritage
Sustaining the Past and Future with the Forest Garden Program
with Dr. Anabel Ford, Director, MesoAmerican Research Center
The presentation of our University of California’s highest honor, the Chancellor’s Medal, to Master Forest Gardener Narciso Torres was held on the 13th January 2023 at the University of California Santa Barbara, California, USA.
This is to honor his support of the research on ancient Maya settlement patterns of El Pilar over the past 40 years, two Katun.
In partnership with notable experts like Dr. Anabel Ford, Ms. Cynthia Topsey, and Master Gardener Narciso Torres, the El Pilar and Forest Garden Interdisciplinary Program connects students with ancient Mayan agricultural practices.
This unique educational experience highlights the importance of sustainability and cultural heritage, providing students with the knowledge to advocate for environmental stewardship and food sovereignty.
Bridging the gender gap in technology
Innovating with the Software Engineering Scholarship
with the Polytechnic University of Bacalar, Mexico
Our collaboration with the Polytechnic University of Bacalar is a beacon of progress in gender equity in STEM. By focusing on providing scholarships for female students, this partnership not only supports their educational advancement but also breaks barriers in the tech industry, fostering a community of innovators who will drive future technological breakthroughs.
Inspiring Future Innovators through Engineering
Introduction to Engineering in Partnership
In August 2024, St. Ignatius High School proudly launched its Introduction to Engineering course under the STEM Studies Program — a visionary addition made possible through the partnership and expertise of Mrs. Ramy Chia, a Professional Engineer (P. Eng.). This groundbreaking course provides students with early exposure to the exciting world of engineering, design thinking, and innovation, laying the foundation for future careers in STEM.
The program was thoughtfully developed to reflect the needs of our students and the Belizean context while aligning with global educational standards. Mrs. Chia’s guidance and technical knowledge have been instrumental in ensuring the curriculum is academically rigorous and practically relevant.
Program Highlights:
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First-of-its-kind Introduction to Engineering course at the high school level in Belize.
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Curriculum includes engineering principles, design processes, hands-on activities, and real-world problem-solving.
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Focus on critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and ethical responsibility in engineering.
Empowering Aspirations
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For Students: Provides early exposure to the field of engineering, allowing them to explore different engineering disciplines and consider future studies or careers in STEM.
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For Community Members: Inspires a new generation of innovators and problem-solvers who will contribute to Belize’s development in infrastructure, technology, and sustainable solutions.
Program Offered
- Introduction to Engineering — as part of the STEM Studies Program for third and fourth-form students.
Benefits
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Equips students with 21st-century skills such as creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication.
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Develops a mindset of innovation and resilience in tackling real-world challenges.
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Strengthens the school’s commitment to STEM education and positions SIHS as a leader in preparing students for emerging careers in engineering and technology.
Designing a New Generation of Creators
Introduction to Architecture Program partnership with Mrs. Marlene Flores, Chair of the Association of Professional Architects of Belize (APAB)
In a bold step towards expanding STEM education in Belize, St. Ignatius High School proudly launched its Introduction to Architecture course in 2024, under the STEM Studies Program. This visionary initiative was made possible through a meaningful partnership with Mrs. Marlene Flores, Chair of the Association of Professional Architects of Belize (APAB), and her dedicated team of professionals.
As one of the first programs of its kind at the secondary level in Belize, the Introduction to Architecture course introduces students to the art, science, and discipline of architectural design. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to nurturing talent, inspiring creativity, and equipping students with skills relevant to Belize’s growing infrastructure and development needs.
The involvement of APAB ensures that the program goes beyond textbooks — offering students real-world exposure, industry-standard software, expert guidance, and mentorship opportunities that connect learning with professional practice.
Program Highlights
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First-ever Introduction to Architecture program at the high school level in Belize.
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Students explore design principles, architectural history, drawing techniques, model building, sustainability, and the practical use of software like AutoCAD and SketchUp.
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Industry professionals provide guest lectures, mentorship, and real-life insights into the world of architecture and design.
Empowering Aspirations
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For Students: Provides early exposure to architecture as a creative career, fostering skills in design thinking, innovation, visual communication, and spatial awareness.
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For Community Members: Inspires the next generation of architects, designers, and builders who will shape the physical landscape and sustainable development of Belize.
Programs Offered
- Introduction to Architecture — offered under the STEM Studies Program for third and fourth form students at SIHS.
Benefits
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Equips students with critical thinking, design, and technical skills applicable in architecture and other creative industries.
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Provides access to professional mentorship, software training, and industry networks through the partnership with APAB.
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Positions St. Ignatius High School as a leader in STEM innovation, pioneering architectural education at the secondary level in Belize.
SIHS Students
AE Students
Faculty
Established
Get In Touch
Location: #22A George Price Avenue, Santa Elena Town, Cayo District, Belize C.A.
Telephone: (501) 610-6927 or (501) 610-6972
Email: secretary@sihs.edu.bz or aesecretary@sihs.edu.bz
School Hours:
Day Division: M-F: 8am – 3pm
Evening Division: M-F: 3 pm -9 pm
Non-Discrimination Policy
St. Ignatius High School is committed to fostering an inclusive and respectful environment for all students, staff, and community members. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law in any of our educational programs, activities, admissions policies, or employment practices.
