What is Co-operative Education?
Cooperative Education (Co-op) is a program that bridges classroom learning with real-world experience by offering workplace placements related to students' interests. Students earn credits (2 or 4) toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma while exploring career paths, developing transferable skills, and making informed decisions about their future. Opportunities span a wide range of fields, including health care (hospitals, retirement homes, pharmacies, vet clinics), skilled trades and apprenticeships (carpentry, plumbing, electrical, auto mechanics, hairstyling), business technology (offices, IT support, graphic design, marketing), and more.
Three Components of the Co-operative Education Program:
- Pre-placement:
- Prepares students for the workplace.
- Covers basic health and safety, workers’ rights, and other important information.
- Placement:
- Students engage in their workplace roles.
- Classroom meetings every other week for mandatory Integration Days.
- Integration Days include assignments and student discussions.
- Integration Days:
- A chance to reflect, meet peers, and discuss progress.
Why Take Co-op?
- Make informed educational/career decisions
- Develop knowledge, skills, and attitudes through hands-on experience
- Develop maturity and self-confidence
- Develop and strengthen employability skills
- Gain valuable work experience and networking opportunities
- Earn credits
- Build resume
Types of Cooperative Education Programs at Richmond Green:
- Subject-based Co-op
- Militia Co-op: semester two only
- Ontario Youth Apprenticeship: OYAP
- SHSM: Construction, Health and Wellness, and Business
Learn more about co-op programs.
How Do I Sign Up For Co-op?
- In February: during course selection week
- Indicate Co-op on your course selection sheet and complete the on-line Application during this time
- We interview students in May to review the type of placement you would like for your Co-op