Secondary Transitions (Grades 9-12+)

A pathway is a plan that helps students think about their future after high school. It’s about exploring interests, strengths and goals, and choosing courses and programs that help move in that direction.

Every student’s pathway is unique and can change over time. For example, some students may take courses that lead to college or university, while others may focus on apprenticeships, community programs or starting a career. Families, educators and students work together to keep the plan flexible and supportive as learning continues.

To learn more about pathway options, visit Pathways Planning Ontario Secondary School Diploma.

*Learn more about the Secondary School Programs that are offered. Explore your interests, and build your skills and experiences. 

In secondary school, students have different ways to show their learning and progress. Each pathway is meaningful and reflects the many ways students grow and take part in their school community.

Some students work toward the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) 

Some students earn other types of certificates that reflect their learning journey:

• The Ontario Secondary School Certificate (OSSC) is for students who complete a specific number of compulsory credits before leaving school.

• The Certificate of Accomplishment is available for students who have engaged in learning experiences that support their next steps, even if the OSSD or OSSC is not part of their pathway.

For more details, visit the Graduation Requirements page.

All of these options reflect the diversity of student experiences and provide meaningful ways to move forward, each with opportunities for continued learning, growth and contribution.

Secondary schools offer a range of community class placements to support student learning. Families work together with the school team (administrator, Special Education Resource Teacher) to explore whether a community class might be a supportive option for their child.

The Student Services Coordinator, a Special Education Principal, will support your family through reviewing the referral process and exploring options together. These conversations typically begin in December of your child’s Grade 8 year.

For non-credit-bearing classes, our Work Experience Transition Coordinator (WETC) will support transitions and work experiences beginning the year they turn 16. 

For more information, see Special Education and Class Placements.

For more information about the different types of courses offered in Secondary, please visit Secondary School Course Types and Pathways. 

• Alternative (K Code Courses)

• Alternative courses specifically designed for students with disabilities, providing modified or alternative expectations 

• Taken in preparation for credit courses or in place of a credit course

• These courses do not grant credits but instead focus on developing essential knowledge and skills tailored to individual student needs

Locally Developed Course (L)

• Focuses on essential skills

• Provides additional opportunities to upgrade your knowledge and skills through practical activities to develop literacy, numeracy and problem-solving skills

• Example: MAT1L1

Open Course (O)

• Open to all students and all grades

• Designed to prepare you for further study in certain subjects

• Physical Education/Health, Arts, Business, Technology

Example: AVI1O1

De-Streamed - Academic (W/D)

• Grade 9

• Students will take de-streamed English, Geography, Math and Science

• Students will take Academic French (students who have not completed 600 hours of French instruction will take Open French)

• Example: MTH1W1

The Learning Strategies course supports students in developing the skills and habits that contribute to success in high school and beyond. Students strengthen their literacy, numeracy, personal management, and teamwork skills while learning how to set goals, monitor their progress, and reflect on their growth.

Course Details:

• Offered in Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12

• Credit-bearing course

• Class size of up to 16 students
   

In Grades 9 and 10, students explore strategies that build confidence and success in high school, such as time management, organization, and self-advocacy.

In Grades 11 and 12, the focus shifts to strategies that support success in postsecondary pathways, including pathway planning, interview preparation, and application processes.

Example Course Code: GLE1O/GLS10