WHAT IS OYAP? 

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is a School to Work program that opens the door for students to explore and work in apprenticeship occupations starting in Grade 11 or Grade 12 through the Cooperative Education program.

Students have an opportunity to become registered apprentices and work towards becoming certified journey persons in a skilled trade while completing their secondary school diplomas.

OYAP Website

THE GOALS OF OYAP ARE:

• To provide students with the opportunity to start training in a skilled trade while completing the requirements for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma;

• To enable students to make the school to work transition by direct entry into apprenticeship training;

• To provide employers with the opportunity to train the skilled workers they require;

• To provide a viable solution to address the problem of skilled tradespeople shortages in general, and specifically the lack of young people joining the trades.

WHO SHOULD APPLY?

Pursuing a skilled trade takes interest, specific aptitude, skills and pride in your work if you are expecting a good career with a great future. Consider the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program if you are a person who:

• Learns best by doing; 

• Enjoys working with your hands; 

• Shows a strong work ethic; 

• Demonstrates a courteous, positive and responsible attitude;

• Would like to explore career options while you are attending high school and make the transition from school to work more easily.

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