It is the rare student who intrinsically knows exactly what they want to do after high school graduation. For most of us, it takes careful planning and consideration to decide what direction to take. High school helps you prepare for the future by allowing you to sample many different subject areas and build a variety of skills.
The question then becomes what will you do with those skills and what educational and career path(s) are you most interested in pursuing after graduation.
Research, research, research (a lot of research) is the best way to begin. Do as much research as you can up front and you will find that the conversations you have with your Guidance Teachers will be much more focused and helpful. You will soon be narrowing down your search and solidifying your plans.
There is a pathway for every student. Public colleges, universities and other institutions are open to students of all intersectional identities and assistance for students within post-secondary institutions continues to grow. Some of the supports you may wish to seek, such as cultural, disability, financial, gender, mental health, or special education are included in the next section (Post-Secondary Transition Support). Student resources can be found on each institution's website with further research. Many post-secondary schools/institutions have equity offices, for example, which can be found on the individual school website.
Below you will find a variety of embedded links to take you directly to the sources of information that you need to make the most informed decisions you can.
As always, if you have questions, reach out to your Guidance Teachers - we're here to help!
To log in to myBlueprint:
1. Visit www.peelschools.org
2. Click Login then BYOD Login
3. Log in with your PDSB username and password
4. Click View All Apps
5. Click myBlueprint
Click on the above link to start your exploration of work during school and post-graduation. Search employment programs for people under 30. Look at the Employment Ontario website for help.
Explore the Skilled Trades in Ontario. You might become interested in an Ontario College program in the skilled trades. Or, you may be interested in starting now - in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), which puts you on the Skilled Trades path in high school.
Click the above link for up-to-date information on all publicly funded Ontario Colleges. Apply year round: see the important dates section of the website for details.
There are a variety of private colleges where you may also choose to study. It is important to know whether or not they are recognized by the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).
Click the above link for up-to-date information on all Ontario Universities and programs. Application timelines can be found here for most students, completing a standard application.
There are a variety of private colleges where you may choose to study. The website above lists a variety of career paths serviced by private colleges. Other private colleges exist.
It is important to know whether or not they are recognized by the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP). Your Guidance Teacher can help you navigate the information.
It is important to note that students who identify as Indigenous are not required to apply to an Indigenous program. Mainstream university/college programs are for all students. Students of various backgrounds/identities may have an interest in applying to Indigenous focused programs, including those below. Please see the links for specific admissions requirements.
The Government of Ontario provides information and links on Indigenous Institutes degree programs, apprenticeship programs, certificate programs and diplomas, etc.
Transitions: Supporting First Nations, Metis & Inuit Students in School and Career Success website provides a wealth of Indigenous Pathways information.
Indigenous Institutes Consortium encompasses six Ontario accredited Indigenous Institutes delivering skills, training and education to Indigenous and non-Indigenous students through an Indigenous lens.
First Nations Technical Institute in conjunction with Ontario college and university partners, offers college credentials, as well as Indigenous post-secondary programs for undergraduate and graduate university students.
Explore accredited college and university level programming offered at Seven Generations Education Institute campuses throughout Treaty Three. All programs are open to everyone.
The Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) offers a unique opportunity for students of Indigenous heritage to experience an academic year at Royal Military College that could lead to a career with the CAF.
There are a wide variety of pathways and careers within the Canadian armed forces. The following links are provided to support you in researching both your end goal and your approach to joining the armed forces if this is a career that appeals to you.
Canadian Armed Forces - National Defence Menu
Military universities, schools and training establishments
All College/University bound students should check out this General Information on Colleges/Universities from the Government of Ontario. It references special information like Indiginous Institutes, Transfer Credits, International Students and Studying Abroad, Studying Online and OSAP.
See the websites below for more support.
Students who have an Individual Education Plan (IEP) / Special Education / medical / disability support may qualify for supports at post-secondary institutions. This TRG site provides detailed information about student rights and responsibilities and links directly to post-secondary institutions (college and university).
This website is a rich resource for students who would benefit from the support of the Abilities Department in their educational pursuits.
If you start your research early, you may find the best fit for your needs. Your Special Education Teacher and Guidance Teacher are available to help you navigate this information.
If you are in need of an updated psychoeducational assessment and have been accepted to a post-secondary institution in Southern Ontario, you may qualify for support through the Mobile Assessment Team.
The Ontario University Application Centre (OUAC) maintains a list of resources meant to reinforce learning and the skills needed for academic success in university. The programs are available to all students attending Ontario universities.
Indigenous students will find resources and supports, including representatives, to help you decide on the course of study and university community that's right for you.
Indigenous students will find the answers to government funding and program questions on this website and its related links. If you think you may be eligible have a look.
The Post-Secondary Support Program provides funding to eligible students attending accredited programs.
The Ontario student loans and bursary program is open to applications at any time. Many students who did not think they would qualify do qualify.
It is worthwhile finding out what financial support is available to you.
Students wishing to begin in College and move to University or curious about what pathways exist between post-secondary institutions may be interested to investigate this exhaustive website.
The site explains the educational options and relationships that exist in Ontario.
There is a brochure that helps students see how this planning might be important for them.
ACCORDING TO POLICY, ADULT STUDENTS:
Adult students 18, 19 and 20 will attend regular secondary school credit programs and may access Night and Summer School programs with home school approval.
Students who turn 21 AFTER DECEMBER 31ST of a school year can register at their local secondary school for credit courses for the full school year, including both first and/or second semester.
Students who turn 21 BEFORE DECEMBER 31ST of a school year must attend one of the two Adult Education Centres. Peel District School Board offers a variety of Adult Education options. Check the website for your options.
The Government of Ontario provides information for adult students on their website. There is support for upgrading literacy and basic skills and for preparing to enter college/apprenticeship by meeting entrance requirements you are missing.
Canadian Adult Education Credential (CAEC) information.
Talk to your Guidance Teacher about your options before you leave PAS, we are happy to help you navigate the choices ahead of you.