Co-Op

Co-operative Education Programs

 

Co-op Overview: Slides Presentation

 

Co-operative Education allows students to "try out" a potential career choice by going to a work placement of their choice four afternoons each week, with the fifth day being an in-school day. Each student has a Learning Plan which provides the framework for this learning opportunity. While students spend most of the time at the workplace, they do complete an in-school pre-placement session and are expected to attend in-class sessions twice a month once placement begins. 

 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CO-OP FOR STUDENTS?

  • a new learning environment
  • gain valuable work experience
  • develop self-knowledge, maturity and self-confidence
  • develop and apply knowledge, skills and attitudes 
  • build a network for future employment
  • earn credits towards secondary diploma
  • be better prepared for post-secondary transition
  • enhance acceptance possibilities to post-secondary or training programs
  • the option to participate in special programs linked to the trades and begin your apprenticeship while still in school

SPECIAL Co-op PROGRAMS

Due to student demand, some placements have additional application packages and deadlines that are set well in advance of the start of Co-op. These programs include:

  • STEP to Transportation – Specialized trades program with the TTC 
  • STEP to Construction – Specialized trades program that focus on the construction trades 
  • PACE – Pre-apprenticeship placements in the trades with TDSB 
  • xoTO – Film, television, and media 
  • TDSB Arts Co-op Program – Performance (2 credit, mornings), Film (2 credit,  afternoons), Performance & Film (4 credit, full day program) 
  • BMO – Placements available in the Bank of Montreal offices in the financial district
  • Be Our Guest – Hospitality industry – placements with downtown hotels
  • Toronto Police Services – Positions are of a clerical nature 
  • Armed Forces (second semester ONLY)
  • Hospitals – May include nursing, retail, administrative, lab work, the trades, professional services 
  • Here is the link to the fillable Co-op form. Once it is complete, please email it to ali.meilach@tdsb.on.ca

Co-op Application Form

Summer Co-op Program

Summer Co-op Applications will be available online and in the Co-op office in February or March. Earn two credits and gain some work experience in a field of your choice!

Criteria:

  • 16 years of age and older
  • Willing to travel to placements within the city of Toronto
  • Available to attend the full co-op program 
  • Available to attend the co-op preparation classes (dates to be announced, as they are usually in May or June)

You may also wish to use your full-time summer job as your placement!  You must be working 35 hours a week to take part in this opportunity and have the approval of your employer. 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

An OYAP student is a student who is earning co-operative education credits for work experience, in any of the 150 apprenticeship occupations. OYAP is a school-to-work transition program allowing students to complete high school while developing work skills and building up hours towards the completion of an apprenticeship.

Read about the 150 Trades eligible for Apprenticeship

 

Visit the TDSB OYAP website and learn about the different programs offered!