Graduation and Post-Secondary Planning

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program

Apprenticeship is a proven hands-on training program for people who enjoy “learning by doing” and who want to work in a skilled trade. About 90% of apprenticeship training is provided in the workplace by employers. The remainder involves theoretical classroom instruction, which is usually given at a local community college, or provided through another approved training organization. Apprentices receive training while they earn a wage. The length of time that is required to complete an apprenticeship varies from trade to trade. 

Accelerated OYAP Students can earn high school credits, register as an apprentice, complete part or all of the “Level One” apprenticeship schooling in a specific trade, and earn hours toward their apprenticeship training. YRDSB currently offers Level 1 Apprenticeship programs for: Auto Service Technician, Refrigeration and Air Conditions Systems Mechanics, Cook, Electrician, Plumber, Child Development, Baker, General Carpenter and Drywall. 

Upon graduation, individuals are to find an employer willing to sign them on as an apprentice. Having prior experience through a co-op placement or summer employment, could assist in securing an apprenticeship. 

 

Workplace

YRDSB school-to-work transition offerings are specialized programs that prepare students for employment or self-employment. These programs include both in-school and work- based experiences, including job shadowing/ job twinning, work experience, co-operative education, and in-depth skills training, and require the involvement of employers in their development and delivery. These programs may provide advanced standing or additional certification for students in apprenticeship and skills certification programs.

 

Co-Op

For all of the pathways, consider the co-op program to help get you there. Actual experience in a profession or industry can be extremely beneficial whether applying to college, university, an apprenticeship or heading straight to the workplace. Consider the many reasons for participating in a co-op program: 

  • Gives students a competitive edge
  • Confirms career choices
  • Builds a network of career related references
  • Helps develop career focused essential skills
  • Could lead to a part-time or full-time job For further information on all four pathways opportunities gained through co-op, please speak with a member of the Community Based Education (Cooperative Education) department

 

Course Selection Tips

  • Strong math skills are required for some of the skilled trades (e.g. electrical, automotive service technician). Check carefully, you may require MCT4C.
  • If there is a skilled trade you are interested in, you should investigate co-op opportunities (e.g. construction sector may require you to consider a 4 credit co-op in Grade 11, in order to participate in the accelerated OYAP program in second semester Grade 12).

The most commonly required courses for admission to college diploma programs are Grade 12 English (ENG4C), Grade 12 Math (MAP4C) and Grade 11 or 12 Sciences (SBI3C, SCH4C). 

  • Most college diploma programs require college (C) preparation courses to meet specific course admission requirements. Carefully check Math requirements! Some college programs require/prefer Grade 12 Mathematics for College Technology (MCT4C) for which the prerequisite is MCF3M (not MBF3C).
  • Many students take the college diploma pathway as a stepping stone for transfer to the university or college degree pathway. www.ontransfer.ca.
  • College admission requirements can vary a great deal from college to college, even when the program titles are the same.
  • Repeat your research for every college program you are considering to be certain you will meet their specific admission requirements. www.ontariocolleges.ca

Course Selection Tips

  • Students entering Grade 11 must select 8 courses.
  • Students entering Grade 12 should sign up for a full timetable (8 courses).
  • If your college program (e.g. social work) requires documented experience, take co-operative education courses and/or volunteer if possible.
  • Take college program prerequisite courses at the college (C) level whenever possible (e.g. ENG4C rather than ENG4U), unless your college program factors in a grade differential weighting when making admission decisions (note: the majority of colleges do not do this). Or, if you are confident you can achieve an equal or better mark in the U or M course.
  • Take courses for which you have the prerequisite credit as well as the academic preparation.

  • University admission requires a minimum of six grade 12 U or M courses (the number of accepted M courses depends on the university program).
  • Check specific program requirements for each university.
  • Science program requirements vary greatly depending on the university.
  • If you wish to apply to a Bachelor’s Degree program at college, you must meet university admission requirements.
  • If you wish to apply to a joint College/University program (e.g. nursing) you must meet university admission requirements.
  • When researching university programs consider the following: admission averages cut-off marks and program enrollment numbers, additional admission criteria.

Course Selection Tips

  • Students entering Grade 11 must select 8 courses.
  • Students entering Grade 12 are recommended to sign up for 8 courses and at least 7 Grade 12 U or M courses.
  • 12 U English (ENG4U) is a requirement for most University Degree and College Degree programs.
  • Select Social Science courses in addition to Math and Science in case you change your choice.
  • Take courses for which you have the prerequisite credits as well as the academic preparation.
  • Consider attending spring open houses at the universities and colleges which are often held over March Break.

 

Scholarships, Bursaries and Awards

If you are planning to attend College or University next year, you may be eligible to apply to numerous Graduation Awards and Bursaries, many of which carry a significant monetary value. Each of the awards listed below require an application. Please be aware that award criteria and deadlines are strictly adhered to. 

All applications must have a completed application summary form and resume attached. Applications are to be emailed to Guidance by due date. 

  • Ainsley Award: Funds for these awards are provided through the bequest of the late Walston Ainsley, a graduate of Newmarket High School, to provide financial assistance to graduates who made significant contributions to the extracurricular program at Newmarket High School, and are pursuing post-secondary education. Successful candidates shall have exhibited the qualities of co-operation, initiative, leadership and industry during their careers at Newmarket High School. The general financial situation of the candidate shall be taken into consideration.
  • Frances and Willian Walker Award: Donated in 2003 by the Walker Family in memory of their parents, Frances (Stickwood) and William Walker. Presented annually to a student who has a strong work ethic and has demonstrated an appreciation for local history, the natural environment, and/or literacy skills. The general financial situation of a candidate shall be taken into consideration.
  • Newmarket Mayor's Golf Classic: Awarded to a student with demonstrated financial need in order to participate in post-secondary education. Must be a resident of Newmarket.
  • Newmarket High School, 110th Reunion College and University Bursary: Awarded to students with a minimum average of 66% who will be registered full time at a Canadian University. College bursaries are awarded to students with a minimum average of 60%. The general financial situation of a candidate shall be taken into consideration.
  • Wasim Jarrah Business Excellence Award: Awarded to a graduating student who has demonstrated excellence and innovation in business, and an appreciation for entrepreneurship.
  • Nena Marsden Memorial Bursary: Each year, the Georgina Historical Society sponsors an essay competition for the Nena Marsden Memorial Bursary in the amount of $500.00. All graduating students who reside in the Town of Georgina and who will be attending a post-secondary institution in the fall of 2023 are eligible.
  • **Milton Wesley Branch 426 - Royal Canadian Legion Award: Awarded annually to the sons, daughters, grandsons, or granddaughters of a veteran of the allied forces.
  • James William Bowman Award: Awarded to students who have a minimum average of 66% and are planning post-secondary education in any area of Fine Arts. 
  • **CFUW Aurora/Newmarket Secondary Awards: Awarded annually to a female student who has demonstrated a positive attitude and work ethic, and who has made a notable contribution to school and/or community.
  • Mary Pegg Education Awards: Awarded by the family and friends of Mary Pegg to a female student pursuing post-secondary education and who has shown positive involvement in both their school and community.
  • Newmarket High School, 110th Reunion College and University Scholarship – Type A: Awarded to a student with a minimum average of 75% who is registered full time at a Canadian University or College and who is the son, daughter, grandson, or granddaughter of a former Newmarket High School student, or former/present employee of Newmarket High School. (applicant with highest average)
  • Newmarket High School, 110th Reunion College and University Scholarship – Type B: Awarded to a student with a minimum average of 75% and who is registered full time at a Canadian University. (applicant with highest average) **Awards selected by community organizations.

The following awards do not require an application, however if you are only applying for one of these awards, please be sure to attach a copy of your resume. 

  • Lieutenant Governor's Community Volunteer Award: Awarded in recognition of exemplary student involvement in the community.
  • Newmarket-Tay Power Community Service Award: Awarded to a student who resides in the Newmarket Hydro service territory, who has enhanced the Newmarket community, and is going into some type of post-secondary education.
  • Newmarket-Tay Power Distribution Science Award: Awarded to a student who resides in the Newmarket Hydro service territory, who is pursuing a post-secondary program in Science, Engineering or Technology studies and has achieved exemplary marks in Math and Science.
  • Town of Newmarket High School Graduate Proficiency Award: Awarded to a student who resides in Newmarket and has had significant volunteer and community engagement commitment. 

General Information​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​