Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program

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 journeypersons in a skilled trade while completing their secondary school diplomas.

You can participate in OYAP through either the WRDSB or the WCDSB.

What is an apprenticeship?

Apprenticeship is a post-secondary pathway designed for people to learn a skilled trade through a combination of on-the-job- training and classroom instruction.

• 80-90 % of apprenticeship training is provided in the workplace.
• 10-20 % involves classroom instruction on theory, which is usually given at a local community college, or provided through another approved training organization.
• Length of the apprenticeship varies depending on the trade, but is typically 2-5 years.
• Apprenticeships are available for over 140 skilled trades, in sectors ranging from Motive Power/Transportation, Service, Construction and Industrial/Manufacturing.

Eligibility

An OYAP student:

• is a Co-op student in an apprenticeship occupation
• is 15 years of age or older (grade 10 students can participate in the summer before beginning grade 11 in September)
• has completed at least 14 secondary school credits
• is enrolled full time or part time in secondary school

5th year students are eligible under certain circumstances and adult students over the age of 21 are eligible, if earning credits towards an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

Benefits

For Students

• Earn credits toward an OSSD while exploring a potential career within the skilled trades
• Obtain important health and safety training
• Develop essential and employability skills
• Allows a smooth transition into post-secondary apprenticeship programs

Employers and Community

• Promotes youth engagement and profile of community placement or employer as progressive and supportive
• Develops future talent, skills, and employees

Learn more & get involved

Ontario OYAP

Waterloo Region District School Board OYAP

Waterloo Catholic District School Board OYAP