Ontario high school students will have the opportunity to spend the majority of their time in Grade 11 and 12 in an apprenticeship program, focusing on skilled trades. This new stream within the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program will allow students to dedicate 80% of their time to co-op courses, providing them with hands-on experience and accelerating their entry into the skilled trades workforce. This initiative is part of the government’s plan to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers in the province. Over the next decade, Ontario anticipates a need for 500,000 more individuals in the skilled trades to support the construction of critical infrastructure. The program will commence in September 2025, ensuring students have the necessary skills and qualifications to contribute to the province’s workforce and economy.