Experiential Learning
Cooperative Education
August 27, 2020
Co-operative Education is a learning partnership that provides high school students with valuable work experience while they are earning credits towards their graduation diploma.
Cooperative Education
What does it look like?
Cooperative Education is a learning partnership that provides high school students with valuable work experience while they are earning credits towards their graduation diploma. Cooperative Education involves both a classroom component and a work placement component.
This program is offered at both the WRDSB and the WCDSB.
What are the benefits?
Students
Experience the practical aspects of a job and the expectations of employers in a real work environment
Work in placements which best match your educational needs and interests
Integrate classroom theory and earn credits towards your diploma
To learn more, see: How high school co-op can kickstart your career
Employers
Develop your future workforce
Promote yourself as an employer of choice
Enhance the personal and career development of young people in our community
Who can participate?
All high school students are eligible to participate in Cooperative Education. Generally, you must be 16 years of age or older (the Ministry of Labour requires students to be a minimum age, depending on the occupation).
Employers are invited to participate from all industries.
Learn more
Ontario Ministry of Education
Curriculum - Grades 11 and 12 (PDF)
Local school boards
Waterloo Catholic DSB Cooperative Education
Waterloo Region DSB Cooperative Education
Get involved
Each school or school board can answer questions related to its particular program. Businesses can also use the contact form below to be put in touch.
WRDSB Co-op Placement Information and Contact Form
WCDSB Co-op Contacts by School