Alternative Learning Experiential Program (ALEP)

How does it work?

Students will participate in a paid or unpaid work experience opportunity for either a full or half day.  Your PAE teacher is your monitoring teacher and will work with the placement supervisor to develop a Co-operative Education Learning Plan (CELP) that is designed to complement your strengths, interests, and needs, thus enhancing your preparation for the future.

Your placement supervisor will guide your learning through appropriate training and supervision. The supervisor meets with your teacher to assist with the development of the Co-operative Education Learning Plan (CELP) and to provide formative evaluation of your work performance.

Is it safe?

Health and Safety instruction is mandatory for anyone participating in an ALEP program. Safety is a shared responsibility of your teacher, the placement supervisor and more importantly YOU.

Is there Insurance Coverage?

Most students participating in an ALEP program are covered under the Workplace Safety and Insurance Act, 1997. To ensure coverage, a Ministry of Education Work Education Agreement form must be completed and signed by all parties prior to student placement. This insurance coverage, arranged through the Ministry of Education, applies only to the hours stated on the Work Education Agreement. If an amendment to the hours stated on the Work Education Agreement is required, a note (signed by all parties) must be appended to the Work Education Agreement Form in order to ensure insurance coverage for the student. It is the student's responsibility to obtain this approval. If unpaid students stay at their placement beyond the hours stated on their Work Education Agreement and become part-time or full-time employees of the placement and are paid, Workplace Safety and Insurance coverage becomes the responsibility of the employer. The student should ensure that this coverage is in place, as these hours are outside of the credit-earning program.

Students, who receive an hourly wage or salary, must be covered by the employer for Workplace Safety and Insurance Act coverage.

Liability Insurance

Students and training organizations are insured against a lawsuit arising out of the negligence of the student while performing the duties of the ALEP placement. The Board does not cover personal injuries to the student.

Student Accident Insurance

Student Accident Insurance is made available to all York Region District School Board students. This insurance is optional and is paid for by students and parents. All ALEP students are strongly encouraged to purchase a policy.

What are the costs associated with the program?

Participation in some placements may involve additional costs to you or your parents. Please check with the Personalized Alternative Education department in your school to find out what options are available to provide assistance to those students whose financial circumstances make it difficult for them to participate.

    Who do I see in the school for more information about ALEP Programs?

    See the Alternative Education or Guidance Departments in your school.

      In addition, the Placement Supervisor's Guide (PDF) helps give an overview of the responsibilities of the teacher and employer