Student Information
What Is Co-op?
Co-op is a credit-bearing course that allows students to earn secondary school credits through supervised workplace learning while completing regular academic courses. The program is designed for students who are ready to take responsibility for learning and behaviour in an off-site environment.
Readiness & Expectations
Placements are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis once readiness expectations are met. Student readiness is reviewed with guidance staff and may include consideration of attendance, academic progress, behaviour, responsibility, and maturity. Students are expected to demonstrate consistent attendance, satisfactory academic progress, and respectful conduct.
Pre-Placement Readiness & Training
Before starting a Co-op placement, students must complete all required pre-placement preparation assigned by the school This preparation includes workplace safety instruction, employee rights and responsibilities, professional behaviour expectations, confidentiality awareness, and completion of required forms. Placements begin only after all pre-placement requirements are completed and approved.
Student Responsibilities
- Attend placement punctually and regularly.
- Follow workplace rules, safety procedures, and confidentiality expectations.
- Communicate respectfully with supervisors and school staff.
- Complete logs, reflections, and evaluations honestly and on time.
- Travel directly between school and placement.
Important Note
Submitting a Co-op interest form does not guarantee placement. Placement depends on guidance approval, readiness at the time of matching, and availability of suitable workplaces.
Parent Information
Program Overview
The Cooperative Education (Co-op) program supports students in developing workplace readiness, responsibility, and independence while progressing toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Co-op is a guided educational pathway and is not an automatic course selection.
How Placement Decisions Are Made
Placement decisions are guided by the school’s guidance counsellor and consider completion of mandatory courses, academic progress, attendance, behaviour, readiness for off-site learning, and graduation requirements. Students may be advised to complete certain compulsory courses before participating in Co-op.
Pre-Placement Preparation
Before beginning a Co-op placement, students must complete mandatory pre-placement preparation in line with Ontario expectations. Parents may be asked to review and sign consent and acknowledgement forms and support expectations around behaviour, punctuality, and communication.
Parent Role & Support
- Support consistent attendance and punctuality.
- Encourage professional behaviour and responsibility.
- Assist with transportation planning where required.
- Communicate concerns promptly with the school.
Community Support
Parents and community members may support the program by hosting a student or referring a suitable workplace. All placements are reviewed to ensure safety, supervision, and learning value.
Important Note
Placements are limited and coordinated on a first-come, first-served basis once readiness expectations are met. Submission of interest or referral forms does not guarantee placement.
Employer Information
Program Overview
Al Manarat’s Cooperative Education program connects students with structured, supervised workplace learning opportunities that support skill development, professionalism, and personal growth. Students are placed in environments appropriate for secondary school learners.
Placement Suitability & Expectations
Suitable placements provide a safe environment, designated supervision, and structured, age-appropriate tasks. Placements are reviewed for safety, supervision, alignment with learning goals, and student readiness. Availability is limited and coordinated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Student Preparation
All students complete mandatory pre-placement preparation before starting a placement, including workplace safety and conduct training.
Parent Role & Support
- Provide orientation and ongoing supervision.
- Assign appropriate learning-focused tasks.
- Communicate with the school as needed.
- Complete mid-point and final evaluations.
Insurance & Review
All placements require confirmed workplace injury coverage before starting, either through employer WSIB or school-arranged coverage where applicable. Submission of a placement interest form does not guarantee placement approval.