Co-Operative Education is a form of experiential learning for which credits are earned that combines classroom theory and learning experiences at a placement (i.e. workplace). Students may enroll in co-op more than once. Students can use up to two Co-op credits to meet compulsory credit requirements for their OSSD (i.e., from group 1, 2, or 3).
Experiential learning will provide students the opportunity to develop Christian values and practise proper ethics in the world of work.
What is Co-operative Education?
The York Catholic District School Board’s Co-operative Education programs combine classroom learning with on-the-job training to enhance the educational experiences of participants.
The program assists high school students bound for university, college, apprenticeship or the workplace in making career decisions and developing essential skills, knowledge and attitudes.
Cooperative Education is a planned learning experience for which students earn credits towards an OSSD. The program integrates classroom theory with learning experiences in the community. Students are able to apply, expand, and refine knowledge and skills acquired through a related curriculum course. Cooperative Education is offered to Grade Eleven and Grade Twelve students in all subject areas.
Courses completed successfully or taken in the same semester as Coop can be linked to Cooperative Education experiences. The knowledge and skills of an in-school course are applied in a practical work environment. These experiences assist students to explore and prepare for future careers and make a successful transition to post-secondary education, apprenticeship, or the work place.
In addition to school-arranged experiences tied to the curriculum, the Co-operative Education program includes:
- The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)
- School-to-work transition programs that combine in-school and work-based education and training for students who plan to enter the workforce directly from high school
| Experiential Mode | Duration | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Job Shadowing | ½ – 1 day | One-on-one observation of an employee at an organization |
| Job Twinning | ½ – 1 day | One-on-one observation of a Co-op student at a placement |
| Work Experience | 1 – 4 weeks | A planned learning opportunity (within a credit course) that integrates classroom theory and learning experiences at a workplace |
What are the benefits of Co-operative Education?
To whom is Cooperative Education available?
How are participants selected?
How are students evaluated?
What is the Application Process?
What does a Cooperative Education experience include?
Co-operative Education Links
The Learning Partnership
We collaborate to promote, support and advance publicly funded education in Canada.
Employer Registry
Ontario’s free online community connecting employers and tomorrow’s workforce.
Ontario Skills Passport
The Ontario Skills Passport (OSP) provides clear descriptions of Essential Skills and work habits important for success in work, learning and life.
Human Resources and Skills Development Canada
Through extensive research, the Government of Canada, along with other national and international agencies, has identified and validated key literacy and essential skills. These skills are used in nearly every job and throughout daily life in different ways and at varying levels of complexity.
Resources
For further information on Pathways programs please contact your guidance department.
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