Co-op Education Now!
YourConnection to Future Success

Co-op Education is a program which can be taken by grade 11 or grade 12 students. This course is unique in that it allows students to gain two or four credits while gaining valuable hands-on experience in a career of their choice in the workplace. This course is relevant to all students regardless of their post-secondary destination. The growing importance of work experience is reflected in a number of Board initiatives such as:

• Take Your Kids to Work/Job Shadowing in Grade 9
• Grade 10 Career Studies
• A two or four credit Co-operative Education package in Grade 11 and/or Grade 12
• The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program

Many universities and colleges are also basing entrance requirements on previous field experience.

Benefits of Co-op

• promotes understanding the link between what is learned in the classroom and how it is applied at work
• students are able to earn valuable credits in the workplace
• allows for valuable training and networking with experts in the field
• provides first-hand exposure to a range of career options
• promotes understanding of career possibilities and skill requirements
• promotes transferable employability skills
• develops confidence and a positive attitude
• develops interpersonal and communication skills

Examples of Various Placements

• Telelatino Television Network
• KPMG (Accounting)
• Royal Group Technologies
• Darlington, Woodbridge and Market Lane Vet Hospitals
• Sheraton Parkway Hotel
• Bianchi Presta and Piersanti and Co. Law firms.
• York University Faculty of Arts (computers)
• Markham-Stouffville Hospital
• Woodbridge Public School, Blue Willow and Pinegrove
• Holy Family Day Care
• Cad-Tek Technologies (tool and die)
• The Doctor's Office
• Body Med Physiotherapy
• ... and many more!

Paramount Canada's Wonderland Co-op Program

The Co-op Department is once again offering an amazing opportunity at Paramount Canada's Wonderland. Earn one credit through summer school and another two credits when you return to Woodbridge College in the Fall. Learn valuable job skills while you get paid! You must apply on-line at www.canadaswonderland.com and see Ms. Bruno in room 101G in the Guidance Office for more details.

Remember, the first step in reaching your career goals is to have a good plan. The second is not to delay - there is no time like the present. A good way to begin is to identify your goals and your Career Exploration activities for the coming years. The Annual Education Plan has been developed to record your achievements and to set goals for the future. It also helps you to focus on your strengths, interests and needs.

Career Exploration activities enable you to connect what you are doing in school with the outside world and to understand how classroom learning can be applied and expanded in the workplace.

A final thought... if you absolutely feel you cannot fit a Co-operative Education work experience program into your schedule, it would be possible to come back for a fifth year and participate in a full day of Co-op for one semester.

If you have any questions, please contact Ms. Bruno, Head of Community Based Education in room 101G in the Guidance Office.