Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

OYAP is a ministry-approved specialized program that enables students to earn credits towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) by taking a cooperative education course for which the community component is in an apprenticeship trade.

Students who participate in OYAP, gain access to employers who are looking for the opportunity to train the skilled workers in specific job sectors. This program addresses the problem of the impending shortage of skilled tradespeople across Ontario, and specifically encourages young people to consider joining the trades. The OYAP provides students with a head start in a skilled trade career!

Who is OYAP for?

OYAP is for students who are interested in learning about and practicing skills that are related to the trades. There are four main skilled trade sectors: Motive Power, Service, Construction and Industrial. Some students who pursue OYAP will eventually become apprentices.

Any student who demonstrates a desire to problem solve and enjoys working with their hands will benefit from exploring potential career options by participating in OYAP.

Why register for OYAP?

OYAP students get to:

Explore the skilled trades or even become a registered apprentice;
Earn credits toward a high school diploma, record hours and develop trade competencies; Earn credits toward a high school diploma, record hours and develop trade competencies;
Increase safety awareness, build workplace understanding, develop skills for employment;
Build a network for future employment.

How does it work?

Students enroll as an OYAP participant with help from their cooperative education teacher.

As an OYAP participant, a student may have the opportunity to become an apprentice, with a Registered Training Agreement (RTA), while attending secondary school. As an apprentice, a student may also have the opportunity to complete Level 1 apprenticeship training offered by a Training Delivery Agent (TDA) approved by the ministry.

See the FAQ & Important Definition Sections for more detailed information about this process.

Explore some of the trades offered by OYAP.