Co-operative Education opportunities within our schools

Traditional Co-op

What is Co-operative Education for High School Students?

The Cooperative education, or Co-op, program provides Grade 11 and 12 students with the opportunity to earn High School credits through the completion of a semester-long unpaid work placement.

Co-op programs are designed to meet your individual needs, strengths, interests, and learning styles, preparing you with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to be successful in the future.

The Co-op Education Program Includes:

• A work placement
• A Co-op teacher supervisor
• A related High School course

Who Can Participate in a Co-op?

• The Cooperative Education program is available to all Grade 11 and 12 students.

 Do Co-op Placements have Fees?

• Participating in a Co-op program is free. However, you will not be paid for the work you complete. You will receive academic credit for the placement. Depending on the location of you Co-op, you may have to budget for travel costs.

 Interested in Co-op at Your High School?

• All Ontario school boards offer the Cooperative Education program. Any Grade 11 and 12 student interested in a Co-op can contact their high school’s principal, guidance counsellor or Co-op department. You can also contact the Student Success Leader in your school board.

Workplace Co-op

Who would benefit from workplace Co-op?

• Students who plan to move directly into the “world of work” after high school.  
• Grade 11 or 12 students can make industry connections and develop required employability skills.
• Try out an employment opportunity before committing to an occupation.
• Students interested in a skilled trade and have a sponsor company can enter the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program and complete hours toward their trade.

Interested in Co-op at your High School?

• All Ontario school boards offer the Cooperative Education program. Any Grade 11 and 12 student interested in a Co-op can contact their high school’s principal, guidance counsellor or Co-op department. You can also contact the Student Success Leader in your school board.

Benefits of Co-operative Education

Students participating in co-operative education programs benefit from: 

• A well-rounded education, enriched by practical application of classroom learning
• Opportunities to gain relevant employment skills and realistic expectations of the workforce before graduation
• Extending your high school experience to include a practical component before choosing your post-secondary destination
• Confirming career decisions before starting post-secondary education, including apprenticeships
• Opportunities to test and gain broader understanding of career options, often in a variety of employment settings
• Documented practical experience, a resumé, job search skills and a network of contacts upon graduation
• Building an evidence-based career portfolio to support the application process for work, college or university
• Establishing contacts in the workplace for networking opportunities and gain references for future employment
• Maturity and self-esteem as productive members of the workforce as well as confidence and skills developed through working with others