St. Mother Teresa Catholic Academy – Cooperative Education
What is Cooperative Education?
Cooperative Education is a program that integrates classroom theory with practical experience in the workplace. The program is based on a partnership between the school and the local business community. This learning experience assists students to explore career areas and make informed decisions about possible future careers and post-secondary pathways.
How does Cooperation Education work?
Teachers arrange work placements for co-op students, and then monitor the students’ progress and learning at the placement throughout the semester. Students may be at their work placements in the morning and/or afternoon depending on the number of co-op credits students are earning through the program. Students work in placements closely associated with the curriculum of an in-school related subject. There is an in-school component that prepares students for their work experience and provides an opportunity for integration and reflection activities. There is also a work experience component that enables students to incorporate the course objectives of the in-school subject into the work placement.
How does Cooperative Education benefit students?
- Develop essential employability skills
- Get valuable hands-on work experience
- Earn credits towards your high school diploma
- Confirm your post-secondary career choice before you start university or college
- Start your apprenticeship while still in high school
Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program – OYAP
The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is a program that promotes careers in the skilled trade professions. OYAP allows students to earn credits toward a high school diploma while gaining knowledge and experience under the supervision of a skilled professional. In addition, there twelve “Accelerated” centrally coordinated OYAP programs. These programs are offered to students in the second semester of grade 12. The application process, which includes open-house sessions and an interview, takes place in November and December. The “Accelerated” programs include:
- Automotive Service Technician
- Baker
- Child Development Practitioner
- Construction Craft Worker
- Cook
- Drywall, Acoustical and Lathing Applicator
- Hairstylist and Cosmetologist
- Electrician
- Floor Covering Installer
- General Carpenter
- Plumber
- Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Systems Mechanic
Please note that the Automotive Service Technician is a two-year program that begins in grade 11.
Central Coordinated Placements
Students enrolled in Cooperative Education programs are also eligible to apply and be interviewed for the following central coordinated placements:
- Army Reserve
- Hospitals
- Rogers TV
- Toronto Fire Services
- Toronto Police Services
Students are required to complete a specialized application form which is available in the Co-op office. Please note that these placement opportunities have their own specific criteria for eligibility and involve a competitive interview.
How do I apply for Cooperative Education programs?
Applications are distributed at option selection time and are also available from the Guidance and the Co-op offices. Students are interviewed to determine their area of interest and they will have an opportunity to share their goals for career exploration.