Work in Trades

Work in Trades is a program that provides students in Grades 10 to 12 the opportunity to begin working as a youth apprentice in one of BC’s 140 skilled trades while still in high school. Eighty percent of knowledge is learned “on the job”, and 20 percent in college SSAto 12 the opportunity to begin working as an apprentice in one of BC’s 140 skilled trades while still in high school. Eighty percent of knowledge is learned “on the job”, and 20 percent in college.

• By earning wages while learning on the job, secondary school apprentices can enrol in four high school elective courses yielding 16 credits towards graduation:

• Work in Trades 11A,
• Work in Trades 11B,
• Work in Trades 12A,
• Work in Trades 12B

• Each course requires 120 hours of work-based training under a formal agreement with the Industry Training Authority (ITA) and a local employer.
• Many students elect to devote one entire semester in grade twelve to their apprenticeship while others log their time spent working on Fridays and holidays throughout the year.

Steps to become a Secondary School Apprentice:

1. In your own network of contacts, you or your family may know an employer who would be willing to hire and train you as an apprentice.
2. Students can seek out the Careers teacher for more information.
3. Begin a relationship with an employer through unpaid work experience first and then get hired as a Secondary School Apprentice.

The Industry Training Authority (ITA) oversees training in over 100 apprenticeable and red seal trades. To learn more visit the ITA Website