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 work place, 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 – various placements available in the BMO offices in the financial district
- Be Our Guest – hospitality industry – various placements with several downtown hotels
- Toronto Police Services – positions are of a clerical nature
- Armed Forces (second semester ONLY)
- Hospitals – may include retail, administrative, lab work, the trades, professional services