30 Credits My Way: Experiential Learning Options

Welcome to a world of experiential learning opportunities tailored to ignite your potential and steer your academic journey towards success. At the heart of our approach lies a commitment to personalized education, where students are empowered to explore career paths aligned with their unique skills and passions. Here, student success isn't just a goal—it's a personalized experience designed to meet individual learning needs and aspirations.

Our experiential learning programs provide a customized and enhanced learning option, offering a dynamic blend of hands-on experiences and academic rigor. Whether you're aspiring to pursue an apprenticeship, attend college or university, or dive straight into the workforce, our diverse range of opportunities caters to your ambitions. From Dual Credits and Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs to Co-op opportunities, both paid and unpaid, and initiatives like RELC, OYAP, OYAP Accelerated, Science Centre School, and F.A.S.T, we ensure that every student has the tools and resources needed to thrive.

With experiential learning at the forefront, dive into a journey where discovery, growth, and success go hand in hand.

Dual Credit

Dual credit programs, approved by the Ministry of Education, enable high school students to take college or apprenticeship courses that count toward both their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and a postsecondary certificate or degree. Durham DSB partners with Durham College and Fleming College for these programs, offering various options for students. Availability may vary, so it's essential to consult your school's Guidance Department for accurate information on program offerings.

Cooperative Education Programs (paid or unpaid)

The Cooperative Education program enables students to earn high school credits while gaining work experience, preparing them for future careers or education. Through various school programs like regular classes, specialist high skills major, or apprenticeship programs, students can develop workplace skills alongside classroom learning, all contributing towards their high school diploma. Co-op opportunities can be paid or unpaid, please speak to a coop teacher about both options.

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) offers high school students a chance to start a career in skilled trades through hands-on learning. Students can participate in a Co-op in skilled trades or join the Level 1 program in their final semester of Grade 12.

Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)

The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program helps students focus on their interests and develop skills for future careers while earning credits toward their Red Seal Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) only given to SHSM Graduates. Available in grades 11 and 12, but you need to sign up in grade 10, the program offers 18 sectors like Agriculture, Business, and Health and Wellness. You'll gain specialized knowledge, experience through work placements, and certifications like First Aid, preparing you for college, university, or the workforce. Choose a job sector or apprenticeship that interests you and then tailor your courses accordingly.

OYAP Accelerated

The OYAP Dual Credit Accelerated Program allows high school students to combine classroom learning at a partner college with hands-on job training in a trade, all while still in high school. Students interested in exploring these opportunities should speak with a Guidance Counselor or Co-operative Education Teacher to learn about the programs available for the current school year. Additionally, the program offers three options - OYAP Participant, OYAP RTA, and Accelerated OYAP - each with its own benefits and application process, catering to different learning styles and career goals.

OYAP - Focused Apprenticeship

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) - Focused Apprenticeship program is an accelerated stream within OYAP that will allow students in Grades 11 and 12 to participate in more apprenticeship learning through additional Co-operative Education (Co-op) credits while completing their OSSD.

To complete this program, you will be required to earn 8-11 Co-op credits with your Co-op placement in the skilled trades, register as an OYAP apprentice by the time you complete your eighth Co-op credit, and meet all other OSSD requirements, to be awarded the OYAP-Focused Apprenticeship Blue seal on your OSSD diploma.

Durham Hairstylist Academy

Durham Hairstylist Academy offers a program for Grade 12 students and adults in Durham Region to become hairstylist apprentices. You'll learn in a salon with licensed hairstylists, covering haircuts, coloring, and safety. To join, you need to be at least 16 years old, have a high school diploma, and be registered with the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training, and Skills Development.

Durham District School Board
400 Taunton Road East, Whitby, ON
L1R 2K6 Canada

Email Us

Phone: 905-666-5500
Fax: 905-666-6474
Toll Free: 1-800-265-3968