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Co-Curricular Experiential Learning

There are many ways to turn your interests into impact outside the classroom. Co‑curricular activities at Western are here to enhance your student experience.

Explore Co-Curricular Opportunities Access Your Record

What Is the Western Co‑Curricular Record (WCCR)? Graphic representing Western's Co-Curricular Record

The WCCR formally recognizes your out‑of‑classroom involvement so you can track experiences, articulate skills, and showcase your growth to employers and graduate programs. 

How to access and use your WCCR: 

  • Log in to Western Connect and open Records & Certificates → Co‑Curricular 
  • Search and join activities that match your interests in the WCCR Directory  
  • Participate and reflect: apply your learning and capture short reflections tied to EL outcomes and competencies 
  • Add your position to your record and request validation from the listed Western faculty/staff validator 
  • Customize and download your record for job and graduate applications 


Important dates: Make sure to submit your co-curricular experiences before April 30!


Why Co‑Curricular Experiential Learning?

Your transcript tells only part of your story. Hands‑on roles help you apply theory, develop transferable skills, and clarify goals, while contributing to your Western student experience. These co-curricular opportunities complement academics and support your transition to work and further study.


Experiential Learning Principles 

Co-curricular activities may be considered Experiential Learning (EL) if they meet the following criteria: 

  • Purposeful design that enables application of knowledge in real or simulated workplace settings and emphasizes ethical engagement 
  • Strengthening of transferable skills, career competencies, and citizenship 
  • Clear learning outcomes with active supervision/mentorship 
  • Guided reflection and appropriate evaluation of learning 
  • Formal recognition on the WCCR when criteria are met 


Western's Experiential Learning Typology

Structured experiences to explore careers and build professional skills.

International or intercultural learning (in‑person or virtual) that builds global competence.

Create and test a product/service or venture idea with mentorship and resources.

Paid roles within Western faculties/units that build experience in a professional setting.
Collaborative projects with community or industry partners (incl. Community‑Engaged Learning and Industry Projects).
Supervised experiences carrying out research‑related activities.
Recognized student‑led groups; activities may be EL in nature when designed to meet EL principles.
Elected or appointed roles providing leadership, advocacy, and governance experience.
University‑sanctioned roles that grow leadership while contributing to campus life.
University‑sanctioned, unpaid contributions with community organizations.
Paid, supervised work experiences outside for‑credit programs (e.g., Summer Enhanced Work Study).

Competency Development: Conference Board Employability Skills 

WCCR‑recognized roles develop competencies from the Conference Board of Canada’s Employability Skills. The competencies are selected based on the skills most relevant to your role:

  • Fundamental Skills: Manage Information; Think & Solve Problems; Communicate; Use Numbers; Use Digital Tools 
  • Social & Emotional Skills: Active Listening; Resilience; Working Together; Flexibility 
  • Personal Management Skills: Positive Attitudes & Behaviours; Responsibility; Adaptability; Work Safely; Learn Constantly 
  • Teamwork Skills: Work With Others; Participate in Projects & Tasks

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