Post-Secondary Pathways

Limestone Learning Foundation

Secondary students in the Limestone District School Board have the opportunity to choose a variety of post-secondary pathways. Students and parents/guardians can make an appointment with their Student Services Department (school guidance counsellor) to discuss the range of post-secondary opportunities that are available:

  • Apprenticeship
  • Careers
  • College
  • University

There are a number of online resources that are also available to students for researching post-secondary and career opportunities. It is recommended that all students and parents/guardians take advantage of myBlueprint – an education planner that allows students to plan and select high school courses, explore occupations and post-secondary options, and record important information and reflections related to their career and education planning.


Apprenticeship

Apprenticeship provides on-the-job training for people who enjoy learning by doing. Training provides students with the opportunity for experiential, or hands-on, learning with the ability to earn while you learn.

The training provides access to well-paying jobs that demand a high level of skills, judgment and creativity. Apprentices are paid while gaining work experience, and their wages increase with your level of skill. On-the-job training takes place under a licensed individual referred to as a journeyperson. About 90 per cent of apprenticeship training is provided in the workplace by employers or sponsors who provide training to standards of skill and safety set by industry.

Sometimes, classroom training takes place at certain points throughout the apprenticeship period. The Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities can arrange the classroom training through a certified community college. In most cases, there is no tuition cost to the apprentice for the classroom training, however, the apprentice is responsible for living expenses and the cost of books during the course.

To become an apprentice, students must find an employer who is willing to provide a position for you with assistance from their school’s Student Services Department. Such jobs are rarely advertised, and, instead, employers often rely on word-of-mouth to attract applicants. People who want to become apprentices usually apply directly to an employer, union, or local apprenticing committee.

After being hired, many apprentices will be asked to train new apprentices, or will find opportunities to manage operations, start their own businesses, or use their experience as a base for technological or engineering studies at a college or university.

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) is a school-to-work program that opens the door for students to explore and work in apprenticeship occupations starting in Grade 11 or 12 through the Co-operative Education program. Students should speak to their school’s Student Services Department for further details.

Careers

Some students transition directly from high school to the workplace/community involvement. High schools offer programs to prepare students for the world of work. Specific courses provide students with an opportunity to learn the essential skills necessary for success in the workplace. Students can seek assistance in developing resumes and cover letters by visiting their school’s Student Services Department.

Useful links

College

Students wishing to attend a college program require an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the majority of courses at the college level. Students seeking specific program requirements should contact the college directly, or visit the Ontario Colleges website.

Student Services Departments also schedule college and university workshops at the school as well as information programs and open houses for some schools.

University

The minimum requirements for entrance to university include six 4U or 4M courses. Students seeking specific program requirements should contact the university directly, or visit the following websites for more information:

Student Services Departments also schedule college and university workshops at the school as well as information programs and open houses for some schools.

Scholarships/Funding Education

In Canada, paying for post-secondary education is the responsibility of the student and/or their parents/guardians. Many Canadians are not fully informed about types of financial aid (including scholarships and loans) available. There are, however, several scholarships/bursaries that are available to students which could help supplement college/apprenticeships and university expenses.

Below are some online resources that might provide some assistance. The list below is not complete. Students might also consider checking with parents’/guardians' employers, their own employers, and websites for the schools to which you are applying. Students should be sure to research the awards well before the indicated deadline and ensure they are planning well in advance.

Students should also contact their school’s Student Services Department for more information and/or assistance.

CanLearn: CanLearn contains a vast store of information on the costs of attending a Canadian college or university and the wide variety of ways of financing your education.

OSAP: The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a financial aid program that can make it easier for students and families to go to college or university. The program offers funding for school through grants (money you don’t have to pay back) and loans which students need to repay. Funding is available for both full and part-time post-secondary students, and is based on a number of factors, including your family income.

The Limestone District School Board is situated on traditional territories of the Anishinaabe & Haudenosaunee.