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District School Board Ontario North East
Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)
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The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is an education and training program that allows students to explore a career in the skilled trades through the Cooperative Education Program. The program consists of a hands-on approach through OYAP placements which are available in a wide range of skilled trade sectors.


Students in the OYAP program have the opportunity to become registered apprenticeships in a skilled trade and train with a skilled journey person while earning high school credits towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).  Students in the apprenticeship pathway transition to post-secondary in either apprenticeship training or college programs. 



Benefits of OYAP

There are numerous benefits to participating in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).

  • Explore or start training in the skilled trades while earning high school credits for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).
  • Register as an apprentice in high school and develop trade-related competencies while accumulating hours towards a skilled trade
  • Gain work experience and essential employability skills 
  • Students train directly with employers. to develop industry contacts, references, and potential future employment 


Eligibility 

To be eligible for the OYAP program, students must be:

  • At least 16 years of age and in grade 11 or 12.
  • Good academic standing and a minimum of 16 high school credits.
  • Strong commitment to exploring a chosen career choice.


OYAP Student Enrolment Types

Participant vs Registrant 

OYAP Participant: Students completing a Cooperative Education placement in an apprenticeable trade are OYAP participants. A student can remain as a participant or they can register as an Ontario Youth Apprentice.  

OYAP Registrant: Students who are interested in a career in an apprenticeable trade are able to register as an Ontario Youth Apprentice during their Cooperative Education placement.  A Registered Training Agreement (RTA), an agreement between the student and a sponsor/employer that is registered with the Ministry of Advanced Education and Skills Development (MAESD), would need to be completed. The registered OYAP apprentice would be provided with training during their Cooperative Education placement under the program in a trade and can begin logging hours toward becoming a certified journey-person. 



Resources 

Frequently Asked Questions







Please contact your Guidance Counsellor for further information.