Co-operative Education
Co-operative education is a unique learning experience. It is an instructional method that integrates classroom theory and related experiences in the workplace. It includes a classroom component for pre-placement and integration activities, and a work placement component. Co-op is a total educational experience resulting from a three-way partnership among students, employers and teachers.
A student typically earns two co-op credits and may take more than one co-op course with approval. Co-op students may be eligible for registration under the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. An application form and two teacher references are mandatory followed by an interview with a cooperative education teacher. Suitable candidates are then selected. Good attendance and adherence to the school code of conduct are important criteria. Co-op students are considered Saint André Bessette ambassadors.
A student typically earns two co-op credits and may take more than one co-op course with approval. Co-op students may be eligible for registration under the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. An application form and two teacher references are mandatory followed by an interview with a cooperative education teacher. Suitable candidates are then selected. Good attendance and adherence to the school code of conduct are important criteria. Co-op students are considered Saint André Bessette ambassadors.
For general inquiries or if you know of a workplace that is willing to host a co-op placement, please contact Mr. Kimbark at 519-675-4717 or [email protected].
Students are expected to make a commitment for the duration of the program and adhere to the following rules:
- Regular Attendance and Punctuality in the Workplace: Students are treated in a manner similar to fulltime employees. Unexcused absenteeism could result in dismissal and loss of potential credits. In a situation involving legitimate absence, the student must contact the supervisor and the school before work is scheduled to start.
- Attitude: Students are expected to be polite and courteous to supervisors, co-workers and the general public, and to communicate effectively. Should serious concerns arise at the work site, the student contacts the co-op teacher immediately.
- Personal Grooming, Hygiene and Dress: Students are expected to maintain a level of cleanliness, grooming and dress acceptable to the standard of the workplace.
- Safety: Students are expected to perform at all times in a safe and common sense manner. Specific company safety regulations and standards must be observed. All incidents, even minor injuries must be reported to your supervisor and co-op teacher immediately.
- Log Sheets: It is the responsibility of each student to maintain a daily log to record the nature of activities and the total hours worked. This record is to be signed by the supervisor at the end of each week. The purpose of the log is to record daily activities, use words and terms appropriate to the training, focus on personal experiences, and relate work activities to the Personalized Placement Learning Plan (PPLP).