Can I start my apprenticeship while still in high school?

A: YES. OYAP gives students who are at least 16 years old and who have completed 16 credits the opportunity to earn a high school diploma (OSSD) while working toward your apprenticeship. In most cases signings won't happen until grade 12. However if a student has a firm commitment from an employer prior to grade 12 they may also be registered while still in grade 11.

Can a Grade 12 graduate still take OYAP?

A: OYAP is designed to accommodate Grade 12 graduates. If a student has the required technical skills and for whatever reason did not opt for OYAP when he/she was in Grade 11, he/she may still apply for OYAP. A Grade 12 graduate will be accepted into OYAP provided that he/she meets the following criteria: Has made a commitment to complete the one or two semester program.

Q: How long is the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program?

A: Students may start OYAP in Grade 11 or in Grade 12 Many students might like to take as many of their compulsory courses as possible in their Grade 11 year and then begin an OYAP Co-op in the second semester of Grade 12 or return for a fifth year (grade 12+).

Q: How can I prepare for OYAP?

A: If you require additional information contact the Cooperative Education Department at your school. You will be given an information package including OYAP Pathways Planner. This information will help you choose the appropriate academic and technical courses.

Q: May I still play sports?

A: You can still participate in all school extracurricular activities.  If these activities take place during your co-op hours you will need permission from your workplace to be absent. For more information please speak to your Cooperative Education teacher.

Q: Am I responsible for my own transportation to the workplace?

A: YES. You are responsible. But, you will not be denied access to the OYAP program or any other Cooperative Education course because you cannot afford the additional costs. Please see your cooperative education teacher for assistance.

Q: What happens if I decide to leave the apprenticeship program or am asked to leave the program?

A: You may find out that you are not suited to an apprenticeship or you also might be in a situation where your attendance, work ethic, attitude etc., might be considered unsatisfactory by your teacher(s) or the employer. Depending on the timing within the school year, you may normally return to a regular program. If this cannot be accommodated, then you will have to pursue alternative ways of earning credits through correspondence or online courses, credit recovery programs, night school, summer school or return to your home school the following semester.

Q: Am I protected with Workers Safety Insurance coverage?

A: YES. You are covered under WSIB by the Ministry of Education during the co-operative education placement. This coverage is documented in the form of a Work Education Agreement (WEA) which is signed by employer, student, parent and teacher prior to starting at your placement. When an OYAP student is registered as an apprentice and PAID the employer is responsible to provide the WSIB protection.