Jumpstart Your Career: Earn Certifications and Apprenticeship Training in High School
Jumpstart Your Career: Earn Certifications and Apprenticeship Training in High School
The Elite Skilled Trades Academy (ESTA) is a unique program that enables students to gain sector-recognized certifications and Apprenticeship training while still in high school. Starting this journey in high school will put you years ahead, professionally and financially. Earn your ‘Level 1’ before you are done!
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
The Elite Skilled Trades Academy is for students in grades 11 and 12 who are interested in pursuing a career in the automotive, carpentry, or masonry trades.
When Do Students Attend the Academy?
When Do Students Attend the Academy?
During the school year, students will spend one semester in their home school and one semester at the Academy. Each trade has a learning model specific to that pathway. The required and recommended courses for each trade are listed below:
Carpentry Timetable Sample
Carpentry Timetable Sample |
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|---|---|---|
Grade 11 Carpentry Focus |
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| - | Semester 1: Sept - Jan Home School | Semester 2: Feb - Jun Academy |
| P1 | English 3C/3U | TCC3E Construction Technology Carpentry Dual Credit |
| P2 | Religion | Co-op/Elective |
| P3 | Math MBF3C/U | Co-op |
| P4 | Elective | Co-op |
Grade 12 Carpentry Focus |
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| - | Semester 1: Sept - Jan Academy | Semester 2: Feb - Jun Home Shool |
| P1 | Co-op Level 1 | English |
| P2 | Co-op Level 1 | Religion |
| P3 | Co-op Level 1 | TCJ4C or TDJ4C Construction* |
| P4 | Co-op Level 1 | MAP4C/U Math** |
| * Recommended, if Available. ** Highly Recommended. |
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Masonry Timetable Sample
Masonry Timetable Sample |
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|---|---|---|
Grade 12 Masonry Focus |
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| - | Semester 1: Sept - Jan Home School | Semester 2: Feb - Jun Academy |
| P1 | ENG 4C/4U English | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
| P2 | HRE4O World Religions | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
| P3 | Co-op or Elective | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
| P4 | Co-op or Elective | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
Automotive Timetable Sample
Automotive Timetable Sample |
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|---|---|---|
Grade 12 Automotive Focus |
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| - | Semester 1: Sept - Jan Academy | Semester 2: Feb - Jun Home School |
| P1 | TTJ4C Transportation Technology | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
| P2 | TTA4C Automotive Service | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
| P3 | ENG4C* | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
| P4 | HRE4O World Religions** MAP4C Math*** | Co-op / Dual Credit / Level 1 |
| *Must have ENG complete by end of semester and complete it in Grade 11, if possible. **Students are encouraged to complete this in Grade 11, if possible. *** Highly Recommended. |
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How Does It Work?
Our Elite Skilled Trades Academy offers focused training in Carpentry, Automotive, and Masonry. Students earn certifications and begin Apprenticeships while in high school, preparing them for well-paying jobs after graduation.
ESTA provides students:
- Introductory trade-specific training (math, theory, practical skills).
- A co-op placement with an employer who will sponsor them as an Apprentice.
- Paid summer work as an Apprentice may be offered to gain apprenticeship hours.
- A Free, Guaranteed Seat in Level 1 In-Class Apprenticeship (Algonquin College and OMTC Instructors).
- Students may be eligible to continue working as a paid Apprentice with the same employer.
- After graduation, students may be able to continue their Apprenticeship with the same employer.
What Are the Advantages of the Academy?
In Grade 11 or 12, students can sign a Registered Training Agreement with their employer, officially becoming an OYAP Apprentice.
Apprentices continue to work, learn, earn credits, earn income, and complete apprenticeship hours.
ESTA students receive:
- Free Ontario College of Trades Membership.
- Free Level 1 Apprenticeship In-Class Training.
- Skills and hours worked count towards a formal apprenticeship.
- Faster completion of apprenticeship.
- Allowed to be paid and earn credits.
The incentives to begin an apprenticeship while in high school mean students will be years ahead in their journey, professionally and financially, compared to starting an apprenticeship after graduation.
Completing your Level 1 In-Class Training in a comfortable setting with fellow high school students is a privilege only available to students of the OCSB’s Elite Skilled Trades Academy. This is a “Golden Ticket” that will fast-track your Apprenticeship journey.
Where Is It Located?
The Academy is located at St. Paul High School. Students will be provided an OC Transpo pass to attend ESTA.
How do You Apply for the Academy?
Students from any school who are committed to pursuing the skilled trades are encouraged to apply. For more information, contact your Guidance Counselor.
How do You Apply for the Academy?
Students from any school who are committed to pursuing the skilled trades are encouraged to apply. For more information, contact your Guidance Counselor.
