Q: Are students provided with Workers Safety Insurance coverage?

A: Yes, the Ministry of Education covers the student under WSIB during the hours in the work placement as outlined on the Work Education Agreement(WEA).  When the student is registered as an apprentice and PAID, the employer provides the WSIB protection. The student can be given a gratuity and still be covered by the Ministry of Education as outlined in the WEA. This coverage is documented in the form of a Work Education Agreement (WEA), which is signed, by the employer, student, parent and teacher prior to the student commencing work.

Q: Are students paid for their apprenticeship training?

A: OYAP students are on a "trial" basis for their co-operative education placement. It is not expected that they receive payment for assigned placement time. Students may progress from unpaid co-op to part time employees to full time apprentices. Funding may be available to assist with the cost of Training if the student graduates and is taken on full time.

Q: What do I do when I am ready to sign the student for his apprenticeship?

A: The Cooperative Education teachers work very closely with the OYAP Coordinator and the Training Consultants for the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities (MTCU). They will facilitate the apprentice registration process with the OYAP Office for you, the employer.

Q: As an employer, how do I choose the employee to train the student?

A: Selection is dependent upon your knowledge of your employees, and who would best suit the trainer role. The Cooperative Education teacher could assist you with this decision.

Q: Should students be performing actual job functions at my place of employment?

A: Yes, the students are to learn all of the skill competencies necessary to meet the skills and requirements of the Ministry of Training, Colleges & Universities for that particular apprenticeship. As the student becomes more proficient, it is expected that the level of responsibility will also increase. The student's participation will be limited only by legal regulations, safety precautions, and judgement calls made by the employer.

Q: Am I obligated to accept the student(s) after the interview process?

A: The final choice is ultimately up to the employer. The student must fit the employer's criterion as a potential employee. The employer is under no obligation to accept the student after the interview.

Q: How are conflicts handled?

A: If a poor attitude or negative behaviour is evident, please inform the Cooperative Education teacher as early as possible. All attempts to correct the situation will be made. If this is unsuccessful, the placement may have to be terminated. If there is an inability to learn or perform the tasks required, please contact the Cooperative Education teacher. The career choice of the student will be re-evaluated, and if the situation does not improve, the placement will end for the student. If there is a personality conflict that cannot be mended, then the placement will be terminated.

Q: How do I get more information about becoming involved as an employer?

A: For more Information on HOW TO BECOME INVOLVED as an employer for the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program contact the This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .