The learning environment at OSHKI has been developed to increase student participation, ensure academic success and the completion of academic studies in a post-secondary setting. OSHKI sees the direct correlation between the level of student personal and academic support and student post-secondary program retention. It is critical that our students are supported in a holistic way by providing opportunities to develop competencies in self-management, relationships with others and processes that build toward academic success.

OSHKI introduces culturally relevant course materials as indicated by program curriculum. Course instructors successfully impart their sense of Aboriginal culture and realities in the classroom. OSHKI also employs staff members who are familiar with First Nations social realities, and this can ensure that students reach their long- and short-term goals by ensuring that the emotional, mental, spiritual, and physical needs of Nishnawbe-Aski Nation people and communities are addressed.

OSHKI faculty and staff are sensitive to student needs, and are therefore integral to student success. Components of building student success include a varied range of support services: workshops, as well as career, personal, and academic counselling are provided. Tutoring services are also offered to our students. Community sharing such as that commonly found through potlucks and feasts are common.

The OSHKI Program & Student Service Coordinator, Student Support Worker, E-Learning Coordinator, Post-Secondary Program Coordinator, and Community Liaison & Student Recruitment Officer are all program staff who are employed to encourage these support services that ensure student success. Several OSHKI administration staff are also employed to provide this culturally friendly learning environment for the students.