About
Discover the educational opportunities that can give you an advantage. Students can earn secondary school credits while exploring the world of a skilled trade profession through the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP).

Are you interested in an apprenticeship?
Apprenticeship is an education and training program for people who enjoy learning by doing and who want to work in a skilled profession. Once education and training are complete, you'll receive a Certificate of Qualification, which identifies you as a skilled professional. This can lead to a career in a trade sector such as construction, industrial, motive power and service.
What is OYAP?
As
an OYAP student, you will earn co-operative education credits for work
experience in an apprenticeship occupation while completing the requirements of
your Ontario Secondary School Diploma. You may be formally registered as an
apprentice while attending secondary school.
For more information, check out the Benefits of OYAP.
How to enrol for OYAP
To be eligible for OYAP students must:
- Be enrolled in secondary school as a full-time student
- Be working toward an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD)
- Be enrolled in a co-operative education program with a placement in an apprenticeship trade
- Have successfully completed 16 credits
- Be at least 16 years old
To enroll, speak with your secondary school Guidance Counselor. Be sure to also ask about Specialist High Skills Major, Co-op and Dual Credit, three additional programs that feature OYAP.
OYAP FAST: A New Pathway to the Skilled Trades
Through an expanded program, students can take up to 80% of their Grade 11 and 12 courses as co-op credits.
- More apprenticeship learning. Students gain practical, on-the-job training in their chosen trade while still in secondary school.
- Faster entry into workforce. With the majority of coursework dedicated to co-op, students can quickly build experience.
- Recognized achievement. A special diploma seal highlights students' commitment to the trades, offering a competitive advantage to employers and training programs.
- Support for the future. OYAP FAST connects students with employers and potential sponsors, ensuring a smooth pathway to full apprenticeship registration.
Ready to go OYAP FAST? Speak with your guidance counsellor to get started!