Cooperative EducationLaura Secord Secondary School

District School Board of Niagara

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Partnership

Between:

The StudentCo-op TeachersEmployersParents

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What is Co-op?

A planned learning experience Combines classroom learning with

experience on the jobEnables students to apply and refine skills

and knowledge from a related courseUsually a two-credit programStudent will usually spend either a morning

or afternoon at the workplace

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What’s in it for students?

Receive on-the-job training Expand upon skills studied at schoolDevelop attitude and skills needed to work

successfullyIdentify capabilities, limitations and

strengthsBecome aware of demands of employers

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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

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How do students get into Co-op?

Check off Co-op on their option sheetFill 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 career goals

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Pre-Placement

At the schoolUsually two weeks at beginning of the

semesterTopics:

Job Readiness and Interview SkillsWorkplace Opportunities and ChallengesGeneral Health and Safety Training, including

an introduction to WHMISResponsibilities and Rights

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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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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

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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

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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 recruitingEconomic Development and Growth

enhanced with well-trained workforce

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O.Y.A.P.

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship ProgramAllows students to begin working toward

an apprenticeship during high schoolMust be tied to a co-op placementSponsorship for OYAP does not mean

sponsorship for the full apprenticeshipFour Sectors: Construction, Industrial,

Motive Power and Service Sectors

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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

partners

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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

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School Contacts

Mr. Balsom Mrs. Wilson Ms. Predovich

FOR INFORMATION ON-LINE:

CO-OP:

OYAP: