Cooperative Education courses are offered in Grade 11 and 12 for all career destinations. Co-op/OYAP combines a subject studied in school with a related job placement out of school. Cooperative Education may be taken as a two credit (morning or afternoon) or four credit (all day) package. This program allows the student the opportunity to explore a career of interest, network with individuals in a particular career, develop job skills, obtain career-related practical experience, gather references for a résumé and develop attitudes necessary for success in the workplace. Your co-op experience may give you an extra edge when applying to college, university, an apprenticeship or the job market.  As well, those students working in a recognized trade may be eligible to be signed on as an OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) student with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU). Please note- Cooperative Education credits cannot be used for university admission, although practical experience is essential for many college and university programs. For more information regarding Cooperative Education, OYAP, Accelerated OYAP, and International Cooperative Education please contact the Cooperative Education Department at extension 405 or the Co-op Office -Room 1029.  

*Students should consult the Co-op Department for placement preferences.  Application packages and information for Competitive Placements (such as Police, EMS, Hospitals..) and Specialized Co-op programs can be picked up in the Co-op Office - Room 1029.

Department Members:

Rob Heath (robert.heath@yrdsb.ca)(Dept. Head)

David Christie (david.christie@yrdsb.ca)

Erin Brimble (erin.brimble@yrdsb.ca​)

How does co-op work?

Co-op teachers:

·         Provide assistance to students with résumés, interview skills and job search techniques.

·         Identify job opportunities for students

·         Coordinate details of the work placement between the student and employer

·         Provide ongoing monitoring and job maintenance techniques

Students:

·         Apply for the positions they are interested in

·         Attend the mandatory two week in- school pre-placement sessions at the beginning of the semester and all scheduled in- school reflective sessions

·         Attend an interview with the employer

·         Attend the placement of their choice for the duration of the semester

Employers:

·         Provide an interview with the prospective student

·         Make a hiring decision

·         Provide essential workplace training and support​