The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) offers students a chance to attend school and train as registered apprentices at the same time. Students are able to complete their credits required for an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and gain apprenticeship training leading to a Certificate of Qualification in a skilled trade at the same time. The program is available to students who are at least 16 years of age and who have completed 16 credits.
Students are selected for apprenticeship opportunities in the following manner:
- OYAP works in consultation with the high school Guidance Department, Cooperative Education teacher and subject teacher in the identification of suitable candidates;
- Once students are identified, they are referred to employers for interviews;
- Students who successfully pass an interview are placed with the employer on a trial basis.
Insurance
Workers’ Safety Insurance Board (WSIB) coverage is paid for by the Ministry of Education during the placement period, as long as the student is not being paid a wage.
Transportation
The student is responsible for transportation to and from the workplace (assistance may be available) at his/her own risk.
Employment Costs
The employer may require the student to provide his/her own safety equipment, tools or other equipment. If students are in need of support they should contact their co-op head.
Termination
The student, Cooperative Education teacher or employer may cancel the workplace agreement, but there must be reasonable grounds for such a cancellation, and all attempts must be made to come to a solution prior to cancellation.