Begin an Apprenticeship
An apprenticeship is a program for people wanting to work in the skilled trades. Apprentices learn by doing. Most of the training is done on the job, with several short in-school components. Apprentices work towards becoming qualified tradespersons, or what are referred to as journeypersons. Students can start in an apprenticeship program while attending high school by participating in the school’s Co-op Program and registering with OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) if they have a co-op placement in the trades. Their co-op teacher can assist them with the process of registering with OYAP.
Students can also look at college websites (www.myblueprint.ca, www.ontariocolleges.ca) to learn which colleges offer apprenticeship programs.
The Ontario Government also provides information regarding pursuing an apprenticeship at http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/employmentontario/training/.
As well, visit http://www.tcu.gov.on.ca/eng/employmentontario/training/financial.html to find out about government loans that are available to purchase tools needed for certain trades.
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