According to the Ministry of Education, approximately 20% of Ontario students choose to go directly to the workforce after high school. Co-operative education is a great way to gain valuable work experience while you are in school.
Learn more about Co-op.
There are many community agencies and programs to help you find employment - either part-time or full-time once you graduate. Click on the links below to learn about agencies and programs supporting youth to gain employment.
- Youth Services Bureau (YSB) Employment Services
- City of Ottawa Youth Employment Services
- Community Employment Resource Centre
- Causeway Work Centre - Causeway supports individuals with barriers to employment
Pinecrest/Queensway Community Health Centre:
- PQCHC Employment Services Future Builders Program - pre-apprenticeship training and work experience in general carpentry
- Jack Track Child Care Program - a training and work experience program for the Child Development Practitioner trade
The YMCA of Ottawa:
- YMCA Employment Access Centre
- Your Job Story - youth employment program
- Pre-Apprenticeship Home Renovation Training Program - hands-on skills training required to find employment in the residential renovation trades
- Pre-Apprenticeship Horticulture Training Program - hands-on technical and pre-employment training to individuals interested in working in the Horticulture trade
- Green Building Program - focuses on pre-employment preparation, hands-on training for technical skills, and Green Building theory
Need help to figure out your next steps? Make an appointment with your Guidance Counsellor.