3. What is Co-op?
A planned learning experience
Combines classroom learning with
experience on the job
Enables students to apply and refine skills
and knowledge from a related course
Usually a two-credit program
Student will usually spend either a morning
or afternoon at the workplace
3
4. What’s in it for students?
Receive on-the-job training
Expand upon skills studied at school
Develop attitude and skills needed to work
successfully
Identify capabilities, limitations and
strengths
Become aware of demands of employers
4
5. What’s in it for students?
Make more informed future career
decisions
Make connections in a field that interests
them in the future – effect on resume
Experience working with tools not
available in the school system
Builds self-confidence while working
among adults
Possible participation in OYAP program 5
6. How do students get into Co-op?
Check off Co-op on their option sheet
Fill out a Cooperative Education
Application and submit to the Co-op
Department
Interviewed by Co-op Teacher to
determine whether a suitable placement
can be found
Co-op Teacher attempts to match the
placement with student’s academic and
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career goals
7. Pre-Placement
At the school
Usually two weeks at beginning of the
semester
Topics:
Job Readiness and Interview Skills
Workplace Opportunities and Challenges
General Health and Safety Training, including
an introduction to WHMIS
Responsibilities and Rights 7
8. Student Responsibilities
Ensure all assignments and necessary paperwork is
completed prior to starting at the placement
Complete Orientation and Site-Specific Safety Training
Make transportation arrangements
Attend the placement regularly and punctually and report
any absences
Submit Weekly Reports outlining hours worked at the
placement
Write a Weekly Journal entry reflecting on your
experiences
Dress appropriately for the workplace
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9. Student Responsibilities
Attend in-school integration sessions as outlined by the
co-op teacher
Complete at least 220 hours combined work and school
time for 2 co-op credits
Work safely and diligently at all times
Report any injuries immediately
Exhibit excellent work ethic at all times
Represent the school in a positive manner in the
community
9
10. What’s in it for Employers?
Increases the numbers of better-trained,
better-prepared workers
Provides skilled workers needed for
today’s competitive market
Attracts youth to industry sectors facing
skill shortages
Brings fresh, new ideas and perspectives
into the workplace
10
11. What’s in it for Employers?
Builds the leadership skills of your existing
team
Closer partnerships between schools and
the community
Cost-efficient, effective means of training
future workforce
Low-risk method of recruiting
Economic Development and Growth
enhanced with well-trained workforce 11
12. O.Y.A.P.
Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program
Allows students to begin working toward
an apprenticeship during high school
Must be tied to a co-op placement
Sponsorship for OYAP does not mean
sponsorship for the full apprenticeship
Four Sectors: Construction, Industrial,
Motive Power and Service Sectors
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13. S.H.S.M.
Specialist High Skills Major
Enables students to gain sector-specific skills and
knowledge
Includes at least one co-op placement in a related
workplace
Also sector-recognized certification and training
DSBN currently runs 19 SHSM programs
Laura Secord SHSM in Arts & Culture
Construction, Communications, Hospitality, and
Manufacturing
A chance for employers to become important 13
partners
14. Recent Partners
Norwood Stairs and Railings
Allati Photo Studio
Marlin Travel
Big Brothers – Big Sisters
Hairquarters
Carstar Collision
Bicknell Racing Products
Ideal Plumbing
Pine Street Dental
Firestone Tire Centre
Days Inn 14