What is Cooperative Education (Co-op) programming?
Co-op is educational programming that integrates classroom theory with practical experience in the workplace. Programming is based on a partnership between the school and a business or community organization. It involves the participation of students, teachers and the workplace (placement supervisors). It is a credit-earning program. Cooperative Education programming is the foundation to the following specialized programs:
- Alternative Learning Experiential Program (ALEP)
- Exploring Opportunity Program (EOP)
- Summer Co-op
- Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)
- Specialist High Skills Major Program (SHSM)
Who is it for?
Cooperative Education programs are accessible in all YRDSB secondary schools. While the program is primarily geared for students in Grade 11 and 12, any student over the age of 14 could qualify. Regardless of the post-secondary destination of choice, all students can benefit from a Co-op program experience.
What are the benefits?
Co-op provides you with an opportunity to:
- develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes through hands-on experience;
- explore a career in order to make informed educational and career decisions;
- develop maturity and self-confidence;
- strengthen employability skills;
- gain valuable work experience;
- develop networking opportunities;
- earn credits towards your OSSD;
- complete the program requirements of the Specialist High Skills Major;
- participate in specialized programs such as OYAP, SHSM, Dual Credits;
- "step-up" for entry into post-secondary institutions.
Centralized Cooperative Education Placements
YRDSB students in Co-op have an opportunity to apply to centralized placements that are coordinated by the Pathways team. Centralized placements include hospitals, placements in the skilled trades, and other unique opportunities with community partners. Information and applications for centralized placements begin in May for Co-op students in semester one for the following school year, and in November for students with Co-op in semester two. There are limited spaces for centralized placements, and students will be selected based on qualifying factors.
For more information on centralized placements, please contact the Cooperative Education department at your school.
Skilled Trades Exploration and Readiness
Students in Grades 11 and 12 have opportunities to explore careers in the skilled trades through a Cooperative Education program. Students will gain hands-on opportunities with community partners to develop technical and transferable skills, and may participate in specialized programs such as OYAP, SHSM, and Dual Credits.
S.T.E.A.R. can be accessed through a student’s home school cooperative education or ALEP program. Students can earn from two to four high school credits as well as industry certifications.
Who do I see in the school for more information about Cooperative Education programs?
See the Cooperative Education or Guidance Departments in your school for more information.
