What is Cooperative Education (Co-op)?
What is Cooperative Education (Co-op)?
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The Co-operative Education programs combine classroom learning with on-the-job training to enhance the educational experiences of participants.
assists high school students bound for university, college, apprenticeship or the workplace in making career decisions and developing essential skills, knowledge, and attitudes.
planned learning experience for which students earn credits towards an OSSD.
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.
offered to Grade 11 and Grade 12 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 workplace.
is a requirement for SHSM programs. SHSM students are to fulfill a minimum of a 2 credit Co-op which is available during the school year and offered by the YCDSB's Continuing Education Department during summer school (for SHSM students only).
In addition to school-arranged experiences tied to the curriculum, the Co-operative Education program includes:
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
Other forms of experiential learning that may contribute to students’ career decision making and subject knowledge as part of in-school courses.
What are the benefits of Cooperative Education?
What are the benefits of Cooperative Education?
Through the programs, students have the opportunity to:
Explore interests and aptitudes
Develop realistic personal appraisals and goals
Consider appropriate career goals
Increase maturity and self-awareness
Develop appropriate expectations and attitudes towards work
Prepare for entry into the workplace
Develop marketable job skills
Earn diploma credits
To whom is Cooperative Education available?
To whom is Cooperative Education available?
Most credits are offered at the senior level, however, in special situations, it is possible for grade 9 and 10 students to earn credits this way, after consultation with the school’s administration, the parents, the teachers and the community employer.
How are participants selected?
Students are selected through a counseling and interviewing process conducted by their school’s Co-operative Education teacher(s). Prior to their placement in the workplace, they attend structured orientation and pre-placement sessions.
How are students evaluated?
How are students evaluated?
The Co-operative Education teacher monitors and evaluates the student’s out-of-school activities. As well, students share and analyze their work experiences with their teachers and peers in structured classroom integration activities.
What is the application process?
What is the application process?
There is a required process for all students to follow when applying to participate in a Cooperative Education experience. This process provides information to students and parents/guardians as they plan educational pathways and goals. Applications are available in the Co-operative Education or Guidance offices. Interviews are mandatory. Course Selection Instructions: Please contact your Guidance Office.
What does a Cooperative education experience include?
What does a Cooperative education experience include?
A Cooperative Education experience includes:
A personalized placement learning plan (SCELP) based on the related course curriculum expectations
Credit delivery (1, 2, 3, or 4 credits in a semester)
Pre-placement instruction and orientation (including health and safety preparation)
Provision for Workplace Safety Insurance Board coverage (where applicable)
Regular monitoring at the Co-op placement by the Cooperative Education teacher
Integration of classroom and workplace learning
Reflective/integrative learning classes
Student assessment and evaluation
A sample pathway that may assist students to reach university/college/apprenticeship/work destinations with Cooperative Education and other forms of experiential learning included.
Cooperative Education Links:
Ministry of Education Cooperative Education (2018) Curriculum Document:
https://www.dcp.edu.gov.on.ca/en/curriculum/cooperative-education
National Occupational Classification:
Ministry of Labour Career Explorer
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