At Keswick High School, our Co-operative Education Department connects classroom learning with real-world experience—helping students explore career pathways, develop essential skills, and build meaningful connections within the community. Through hands-on work placements, students gain valuable insight into the world of work while earning credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma.
Our dedicated Co-op teachers provide personalized guidance and ongoing support, ensuring every placement is purposeful, safe, and aligned with each student’s interests and goals. Students can explore opportunities in a wide range of fields—from business, healthcare, and education to the skilled trades, technology, and public service.
Co-operative Education also opens doors to exciting specialized programs, including:
- OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) – allowing students to begin apprenticeship training and explore careers in the skilled trades while still in high school.
- Dual Credit Programs – giving students the chance to earn both high school and college credits simultaneously through partnerships with local post-secondary institutions.
- Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) – enabling students to focus their studies in a specific career sector while gaining sector-recognized certifications and real-world experience.
At KHS, we believe that community is curriculum—and our Co-operative Education program empowers students to learn by doing, discover their strengths, and confidently take their next steps toward future success.
Teachers |
| R. Heath (DH) |
| K. Clarke |
| D. Christie |
How does Co-op work?
Co-op teachers:
- Provide assistance to students with résumés, interview skills and job search techniques.
- Identify job opportunities for students
- Coordinate details of the work placement between the student and employer
- Provide ongoing monitoring and job maintenance techniques
Students:
- Apply for the positions they are interested in
- Attend the mandatory two week in- school pre-placement sessions at the beginning of the semester and all scheduled in- school reflective sessions
- Attend an interview with the employer
- Attend the placement of their choice for the duration of the semester
Employers:
- Provide an interview with the prospective student
- Make a hiring decision
- Provide essential workplace training and support