Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

Skilled Trades and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program

With over 140 Skilled Trades to choose from and a shortage of skilled tradespeople, why not try one on and see how it fits?

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is a program funded by the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development (MLTSD) and administered by Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board (KPRDSB). The purpose of the program is to provide secondary students over the age of 15 with a minimum of 14 credits, the opportunity to explore career opportunities in the Skilled Trades and earn hours towards an apprenticeship while still in high school.

Any student that is enrolled in Co-operative Education and has a placement in one of the Skilled Trades is an OYAP student. OYAP students can also be registered with the Ontario College of Trades as an apprentice while still in school.

Students who are committed to a Skilled Trades pathway may apply for a spot in one of KPR’s accelerated programs where they earn their Level One Trade Certification at the same time as earning Co-operative Education credits and on-the-job hours towards their trade. Students interested in the accelerated OYAP program opportunity can apply in the second semester of grade 11 and complete their Level One training in their final semester of grade 12.

To take advantage of these opportunities, students are encouraged to speak with someone in their Co-operative Education department or make an appointment with a Guidance counsellor to create their pathway plan.

Use these websites to start imagining yourself on an apprenticeship pathway!