Options and opportunities

What is the O2 Program? The Options and Opportunities (O2) program is designed to help students bridge the gap between high school and their future careers. The goal is simple: help students develop a career plan, transition smoothly to post-secondary education (college, university, or apprenticeship), and find satisfying work within Nova Scotia.

Who Can Join?

• Admission: Interested students must go through an application process at the end of their grade 9 year to enter the program in grade 10.

• Capacity: The program is limited to 20 students per year.

What to Expect

In Grade 10:

• Cohort Learning: Students take three of their eight courses together as a group, building a strong peer support network.

• Core Courses: The focus is on Career Development 10 and Community-Based Learning 11.

• Community Engagement: Students participate in out-of-school learning opportunities and are expected to volunteer within the school and the wider community.

In Grades 11 & 12:

• Co-op Focus: Students earn three credits in the Cooperative Education Program.

• Work Placements: Based on their specific career interests, students are placed in real-world, 80-hour work placements to gain hands-on experience.

Why Choose O2?

Students who graduate from the O2 program earn their standard High School Diploma plus the Options and Opportunities Certificate.

Graduates leave high school with:

• A comprehensive Career Portfolio and plan.

• A deeper understanding of their own skills, knowledge, and strengths.

• A minimum of three Co-operative Education credits.

• Clear insight into various post-secondary options.

• Priority Access to NSCC: One of the biggest benefits of the O2 program is the partnership with the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC). O2 graduates who complete the certificate and meet deadlines are eligible for priority access (guaranteed seating) to most NSCC programs. Note: Priority seating may not apply to programs requiring portfolios or auditions/interviews for admission.

If you have questions about the O2 program please see the Citadel Options and Opportunities website.