What is Co-Op?

Cooperative Education is a course that integrates classroom learning with practical experience in a workplace setting. Spend either the morning or afternoon in some classes all day, at a workplace exploring a career while earning high school credits. Teachers will assist you in preparing, applying, keeping and growing as part of the real job experience you will have.

What are the benefits of Co-Op?

The Co-op program is an essential component of Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program and Specialist High Skills Major.

You can explore potential careers and ‘try-out’ and occupation

• You can develop employability skills necessary for the 21^st century workplace
• You can enrich your high school experience and earn compulsory credits outside of the classroom
• You can learn how to complete application forms, write effective cover letters, powerful resumes and handle a real job interview
• You will gain confidence, independence and know how to get and keep the job you want
• You will develop the work ethic you need to successfully transition from high school to post-secondary school or the workplace
• You will earn hours that are applied to your apprenticeship obligations
• You will participate in dual credit programs

What are the placement opportunities? 

• Each placement is a partnership between the school and the community
• Co-Op teachers work with you to find a placement and arrange an interview
• The workplace supervisor will interview you and decide if you are a suitable applicant for their workplace
• There are many placement opportunities to suit all career destinations
• Work experiences related to subjects you are most interested in are most successful placements (ie. arts, languages, physical education, technology, science, mathematics, etc.)

Do I have to be a full-time student to earn Co-op credits?

No. You can earn Co-op credits through Day School, Night School*, Summer School, and Virtual Learning (*available based on enrolment)