Career Path Program

The Career Path Program in the Dufferin-Peel Catholic District School Board is a 4-year program for students with specific learning needs in literacy and mathematical literacy with a focus on school-to-work transitions and workplace preparation.

School-Work Transition Options:

1.  Entry Level Job Opportunities in:   

• Business Support Services
• Communications Industry
• Construction Industry
• Horticulture and Landscaping Industry                                                     
• Hospitality
• Personal Care Services
• Retail Sales Support
• Tourism
• Transportation Industry

2.  Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

3.  College Vocational Program

• Centennial College
• Durham College
• George Brown College
• Humber College
• Seneca College
• Sheridan College

The curriculum offered is based on the Locally Developed Compulsory Credit courses, Open level courses and workplace preparation. 

Our goal for the Career Path Program consists of 3 important components:

Ø Students will be provided with opportunities for academic success.  Students are encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities and/or volunteer for Christ-centered activities.

Ø Students will be working towards the Ontario Secondary School Certificate upon completion of the 4-year program. 

Ø Students will develop specific skills that will lead to a relevant and successful work experience.  Upon completion of this 4-year program, it is our hope that all students will have gained the knowledge, skills, and experience for employment.

Definition of a Credit

A credit is granted in recognition of the successful completion of the curriculum expectations for a course.  Refer to the Course Summary Chart on the last page for the allocation of credits.

Students shall receive an Ontario Secondary School Certificate upon completion of a minimum of 14 credits distributed as follows: 

2 credits in English

1 credit in Mathematics

1 credit in Science

1 credit in Canadian Geography or History

1 credit in Physical and Health Education

1 credit in Arts or Technological Education

7 elective credits

Substitutions for Compulsory Courses

To meet individual student needs, the principal may replace up to 3 compulsory courses with courses from the remainder of those that meet the compulsory credit requirements.  Students will still be required to complete 14 credits in total.  If a parent/guardian requests a substitution, the principal will determine whether or not a substitution should be made.  Each substitution will be noted on the Ontario Student Transcript.

Locally Developed Compulsory Credit Courses (LW/LZ):  These courses are designed to meet the educational needs not met by the provincial curriculum.  These courses also reflect the developmental progression of learning expectations across the grades, provide for concept continuity for students who may have gaps in their learning, and make interconnections between subject-area learning and skills in literacy and mathematical literacy.  The learner is central to the LDCC Courses.  These courses build in literacy and mathematical literacy, the Essential Skills, and recognize the importance of concept continuity – meeting the learners where they are and moving them forward. Also central to the development is the pathway to Workplace Preparation courses and beyond. 

Open Courses (O):  These courses are designed to prepare students for further study in certain subjects and to enrich their education generallly.  Open courses comprise a set of expectations that are appropriate for all students.

Workplace Courses (E):  Workplace preparation courses are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need for direct entry into the workplace or for admission to apprenticeship programs and other training programs offered in the community. The range and content of the courses offered will allow students to prepare for a variety of jobs, training programs, and careers. Teaching and learning will emphasize workplace applications of the course content, but will also explore the theoretical material that underlies these practical applications.  Workplace preparation courses will be based on rigorous provincial curriculum expectations and will emphasize the development of generic employment skills, as well as independent research and learning skills.

THE ARTS

Drama, Grade 10, Open                                                                                    ADA20W

This course requires students to actively explore dramatic forms and techniques, using their own ideas and concerns as well as sources selected from a wide range of authors, genres, and cultures. Students learning will include identifying and using the principles of space, time, voice, and movement in creating, sustaining, and communication authentic roles within drama. Students will assume responsibility for decisions made in the creation and presentation of the drama, and will analyse and reflect on the experience. This course is modified to address individual leaning needs.

Prerequisite: None

Visual Arts, Grade 10, Open                                                                               AVI2OW

This course offers an overview of visual arts as a foundation for further study. Students will become familiar with the elements and principles of design and the expressive qualities of various materials through working with a range of materials, processes, techniques, and styles. They will learn and use methods of analysis and criticism and will study the characteristics of particular historical art periods and a selection of Canadian art and the art of other cultures.

Prerequisite: None

BUSINESS STUDIES

Information and Communication Technology in Business, Grade 9, Open          BTT1OW

This course introduces students to the use of information technology in a business environment. Students will learn how to use information technology in a work environment, perform electronic research, communicate electronically, and use common business software. They will also explore possible future occupations in information technology.

ENGLISH 

English, Locally Developed Compulsory Credit Course, Grade 9 and 10           ENG1LW/LZ

This course provides foundational literacy and communication skills to prepare students for success in school, their daily lives, and in the workplace.  This course is a modified course of study delivered over 220 hours.  In grade 9, students work through units 1-5, 110 hours, and in grade 10, they continue with units 6-10, 110 hours.  Students may earn a ½ credit in English each year.  The course is organized by strands that develop listening, talking, reading, viewing, and writing skills. In all strands, the focus is on developing foundational literacy skills and on using language clearly and accurately in a variety of authentic contexts.  Students develop strategies and put into practice the processes involved in talking, listening, reading, viewing, writing, and thinking, and reflect regularly upon their growth in these areas.

English, Locally Developed Compulsory Credit Course, Grade 11 and 12          ENG2LW/LZ

This course allows students to continue to focus on extending their literacy and communication skills to prepare for success in school, their daily lives, and in the workplace.  This course is a modified course of study delivered over 220 hours.  In grade 11, students work through 110 hours and in grade 12, they continue with the remaining 110 hours.  Students may earn a ½ credit in English each year.  This course emphasizes the process-based development of skills in talking, listening, reading, viewing, and writing, helping students to extend their abilities as effective communicators who can articulate Catholic beliefs. Considerable importance is also placed on the continued development of students’ skills in thinking reflectively, critically, and creatively. In this component of the course, a focal point is helping students comprehend and interpret media messages in light of gospel values. Through the interaction, dialogue, and activities in this course, students are called upon to live their faith through caring service to others, thus bearing witness to their membership in a Christ-centred community.

GUIDANCE AND CAREER EDUCATION

Learning Strategies: Skills for Success in Secondary School, Grade 9, Open

               GLE1OW

This course explores learning strategies and helps students become better, more independent learners while increasing their personal management skills, both in school and in other contexts. Students will learn how to develop and apply a range of strategies to improve their learning and achievement, particularly their literacy, numeracy, communication, and planning skills. This course will increase students’ confidence, motivation, and ability to learn.

Discovering the Workplace, Grade 10, Open                                                       GLD2OW

This course provides students with opportunities to discover and develop the workplace Essential Skills and work habits required to be successfully employed. Students will develop an understanding of work through practical hands-on experiences in the school and in the community, using real workplace materials. They investigate occupations of interest through experiential opportunities (e.g., worksite visits, hearing guest speakers, job shadowing, work experience, simulations, and entrepreneurial projects). This course helps students make plans for continued learning and work.

Cooperative Education, Grade 11 and 12, Open                                    GWL3OW/GLN4OW

Cooperative education courses include a classroom component, comprising pre-placement and integration activities, and a placement component.  Students earn 2 or 4 cooperative education credits by integrating classroom theory with planned learning experiences in the community to achieve learning based on the curriculum expectations of the related course.  Placements should provide students with challenging opportunities to apply and extend their knowledge, and to practise and refine the skills acquired in the related course.  In addition, students will be able to demonstrate their achievement of placement expectations that reflect current workplace practices and standards. 

Cooperative Education courses consist of 3 components:  pre-placement orientation, placement, and integration.  Pre-placement Orientation consists of the following topics:  school and workplace expectations; workplace health and safety; confidentiality, right to privacy; work ethics; use of information technology; Employment Standards Act; Human Rights Act; labour unions; methods of dealing and reporting placement concerns.  Integration topics include reflection and analysis of placement experiences, the ability to access career-related information; an understanding of labour and market trends, nature of workplace in the future, changing role of men and women at work, human rights, discrimination, harassment, and disability; and the ability to produce an effective exit résumé.  The placement provides students with sufficient time and opportunity in any given work place for satisfactory skill development, career exploration, and personal growth.

All students will participate in the application process for this program which includes the completion and submission of an application form as well as an interview.

Leadership and Peer Support, Grade 11, Open                                     GPP3OW

This course prepares students to act in leadership and peer support roles. They will design and implement a plan for contributing to their school and/or community; develop skills in communication, interpersonal relations, teamwork, and conflict management; and apply those skills in leadership and/ or peer support roles- for example, as a student council member or a peer tutor. Students will examine group dynamics and learn the value of diversity within groups and communities.

Prerequisite: None

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 9, Open                                              PPL1OF/M

This course emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Students will learn movement skills and principles, ways to improve personal fitness and physical competence, and safety and injury prevention. They will investigate issues related to healthy sexuality and the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs, and will participate in activities designed to develop goal-setting, communication, and social skills.

Healthy Active Living Education, Grade 10, Open                                             PPL2OF/M

This course emphasizes regular participation in a variety of enjoyable physical activities that promote lifelong healthy active living. Through the achievement of the Ministry and the Ontario Catholic School Graduate expectations the student will apply movement principles to refine skills; participate in a variety of activities that enhance personal competence, fitness, and health; examine issues related to healthy sexuality, healthy eating, substance use and abuse; and apply informed decision-making, conflict resolution, and social skills in making personal choices.

MATHEMATICS

Mathematics, Locally Developed Compulsory Credit Course, Grade 9 and 10   MAT1LW/LZ

This course emphasizes further development of mathematical knowledge and skills to prepare students for success in their everyday lives.  This course is a modified course of study delivered over 220 hours.  In grade 9, students work through 110 hours and in grade 10, they continue with the remaining 110 hours.  Students may earn a ½ credit in math each year.  The course is organized by three strands related to money sense, measurement, and proportional reasoning.  In all strands, the focus is on developing and consolidating key foundational mathematical concepts and skills by solving authentic, everyday problems.  Students have opportunities to further develop their mathematical literacy and problem-solving skills and to continue developing their skills in reading, writing, and oral language through relevant and practical math activities.

Mathematics, Locally Developed Compulsory Credit Course, Grade 11 and 12  MAT2LW/LZ

This course emphasizes the extension of mathematical knowledge and skills to prepare students for success in school, their everyday lives, and the workplace.  This course is a modified course of study delivered over 220 hours.  In grade 11, students work through 110 hours and in grade 12, they continue with the remaining 110 hours.  The course is organized by three major strands related to money sense, measurement, and proportional reasoning. In all strands, the focus is on strengthening and extending key foundational mathematical concepts and skills by solving authentic, everyday problems.  Students continue to develop their mathematical literacy and problem-solving skills as well as their skills in reading, writing, and oral language through relevant and practical math activities.

RELIGIOUS EDUCATION

Be With Me, Grade 9, Open                                                                              HRE1OW

The grade 9 Theology program examines what it means to be a follower of Christ and to live out the faith that the Catholic community professes in the creed.  Using the Beatitudes as a foundation, it explores the actions that characterize a Christian life.  Students are encouraged to understand and nurture within themselves the virtues that will enable them to deepen their relationship with God, in and through Christ in the context of spirit filled community.

Christ and Culture, Grade 10, Open                                                                  HRE2OW

This course examines the relationship between the person and message of Christ and the dominant attitudes of contemporary culture. Central to this course is the sacramental nature of Jesus and through His incarnation, the sacramentality of the Catholic Church, persons, and all of creation. Beginning with students’ own life experiences, seen in light of the Gospel narratives, students acquire a deeper and more systematic knowledge of Christ, his message, and his Church. Connections between the Church and contemporary culture are explored in terms of what it means to be a responsible adolescent developing as a member of a Catholic, Christian community while living within the context of a secular society.

Faith and Culture, Grade 11, Open                                                                      HRE3OW

This course introduces students to the range and diversity of world religions, and examines how systems of belief affect individual lives and social relationships. Students learn about a variety of religious beliefs, teachings, traditions, and practices. Through this discovery students develop their awareness of the place of religion in the lives of their neighbours as well as a more authentic understanding and a deeper commitment to their own faith tradition. This course helps break down misconceptions and prejudices regarding the other religious traditions. Students develop skills used in researching and investigating topics related to world religions.

Church and Culture, Grade 12, Open                                                                    HRE4OW

This course assists students in their development of the skills and knowledge necessary to live lives of full maturity. Within the Catholic faith tradition it is believed that this growth towards human maturity is best served when students are able to define themselves authentically in relation to their God, to other people and to their world. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the prophetic tradition in Scripture, become familiar with the social teachings of the Catholic Church, explore contemporary notions of spirituality and prayer, and recognize the importance, power and potential of the human person in relation to morality and personal choices concerning future life paths.

SCIENCE

Science, Locally Developed Compulsory Credit Course, Grade 9 and 10          SNC1LW/LZ

This course emphasizes reinforcing and strengthening science-related knowledge and skills, including scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and the relationship between science, society, and the environment, to prepare students for success in school, everyday life, and in the workplace.  This course is a modified course of study delivered over 220 hours.  In grade 9, students work through 110 hours and in grade 10, they continue with the remaining 110 hours.  Students explore a range of topics, including science in daily life, properties of common materials, life-sustaining processes in simple and complex organisms, and electrical circuits.  Students also have the opportunity to extend mathematical and scientific process skills and to continue developing their skills in reading, writing, and oral language through relevant and practical science activities.

SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES

Parenting, Grade 11, Open                                                                               HPC3OW

This course focuses on the skills and knowledge needed to promote the positive and healthy nurturing of children, with particular emphasis on the critical importance of the early years to human development. Students will learn how to meet the developmental needs of young children, communicate and discipline effectively, and guide early behaviour. They will have practical experiences with infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, and will learn skills in researching and investigating questions relating to parenting. This course is modified to address individual learning needs.

Prerequisite: None

TECHNOLOGICAL EDUCATION

Exploring Technologies, Grade 9, Open                          TIJ1OW, TCJ1OW, THJ1OW, TXJ1OW, TFJ1OW

In grade 9 students will rotate through 4 technological studies areas chosen from the following courses:  Exploring Technologies, Construction Technology, Green Industries, Hairstyling and Aesthetics, and Hospitality and Tourism.  These courses will provide students with an introduction to the technology program.  The emphasis will be on health and safety, knowledge about specialized tools and equipment, navigating the specialized setting for these courses, and engaging the students in the field of technology.

Communications Technology

Communications Technology, Grade 10, Open                                                    TGJ2OW

This course requires students to complete a range of communications technology projects. These may include graphic design activities, short audio-video productions, computer-generated animations, graphical information displays, and image production. Students learn to transfer information using electronic, live, and graphic communications methods. The knowledge and skills they develop provide a basis for careers in areas such as publishing, advertising, print production, animation, audio-video production, photography, and journalism.

Communications Technology, Grade 11, Open                                                   TGJ3OW

This course examines communications systems and design and production processes in the areas of electronic, live, recorded, and graphic communications. Students are given the opportunity to develop and apply practical skills to design and produce media products in a project driven environment. Students also study industry standards and regulations, health and safety issues,  careers, the importance of lifelong learning, and the impact of communications technology on society and the environment.

Communications Technology, Grade 12, Open                                                TGJ4OW

This course examines the key elements in the areas of electronic, live, recorded, or graphic communications systems. Students will develop safe workplace habits and business management skills and use a variety of materials, tools, and equipment to design and produce communication systems such as digital imaging, animation, and web design. Students will expand their awareness of environmental and societal issues related to communication technology.

Construction Technology                                           

Construction Technology, Grade 10, Open                                                       TCJ2OW

This course requires students to design, build, and evaluate projects using design instruments and machine and hand tools.  Students will solve technological problems through a variety of media; identify and describe building materials and other resources needed to construct, maintain, and service buildings; identify support systems and components; apply safety rules related to materials, processes, and equipment; identify common architectural styles; and identify careers related to construction technology.  Emphasis will be on the construction industry and sub-trades such as: electrical, plumbing, drywall and carpentry.

Construction Technology, Grade 11, Workplace Preparation                           TCJ3EW

This course focuses on residential and light construction systems related to commercial, industrial, and/or recreational construction, the development of generic employment skills, and preparation for apprenticeship and training programs. Students learn about and gain practical experience with various types of materials, processes, labour,

tools, and equipment used in the construction industry; technical drawings, and auxiliary systems. They study industry standards and building codes, consider health and safety issues, explore careers, the importance of lifelong learning, and the impact of construction technology on society.

Construction Technology, Grade 12, Workplace Preparation                                    TCJ4EW

This course focuses on advanced residential and more complex construction systems, as well as the introduction of heavy construction, related to commercial, industrial, and/or residential construction; advanced practical workplace applications; and the development of generic employment skills and independent learning skills. Students will examine the materials, processes, labour, tools, and equipment used in the construction industry; technical drawings; auxiliary systems and landscaping. They will also study industry standards and building codes; consider health and safety issues; and explore careers; lifelong learning opportunities and the impact of construction technology on society and the environment.

Green Industries

Green Industries, Grade 10, Open                                                                  THJ2OW

This course introduces students to landscaping techniques used to design, construct and maintain interior/exterior landscapes. Hands-on project based activities allows students to develop skills required to safely operate and maintain hand tools/machinery; and identify careers related to the horticultural industry.

Green Industries, Grade 11, Workplace Preparation                                         THJ3EW

This course focuses on project based applications related to the development of employment skills and preparation for apprenticeships /training programs in the Horticulture/Landscaping industry. Students will learn safe trade practices related to use of: materials, processes, tools /equipment used in the landscaping industry; building codes; explore career opportunities; and the impact of landscaping technology on society and the environment.

Green Industries, Grade 12, Workplace Preparation                                       THJ4EW

This course focuses on students learning landscape techniques through project activities allowing students to design, install and maintain: irrigation systems; interlocking/retaining walls; lawns/trees/flowers and ground covers. Students will have the opportunity to participate in apprenticeship/training programs and career opportunities, including “Horticulture Technician” certification. Student project participation will demonstrate knowledge of: health and safety; materials, processes, tools/equipment; career opportunities and the impact of landscape technology on society and the environment.

Hairstyling and Aesthetics

Hairstyling and Aesthetics, Grade 10, Open                                                      TXJ2OW

This course presents hairstyling, make-up, and nail care techniques from a salon/spa perspective. Through a variety of school and community-based activities, students learn fundamental skills in hairstyling, giving manicures and facials and providing hair/scalp analyses, and treatments. Students also consider related environmental and societal issues and explore secondary and post-secondary pathways leading to careers in the field of hairstyling and aesthetics.

Hairstyling and Aesthetics, Grade 11, Workplace Preparation               TXJ3EW

This course provides students with opportunities to learn techniques in hairstyling and aesthetics that meet industry standards, using appropriate materials and equipment. Students identify trends in the hairstyling and aesthetics industry, describe scientific and physical processes used in beauty services, learn to respect environmental, health and safety laws, and explore career opportunities. The course may focus on either hairstyling or aesthetics, or may include a combination of both subjects.

Hairstyling and Aesthetics, Grade 12, Workplace Preparation               TXJ4EW

This course builds on the Grade 11 course to provide a solid foundation for students wishing to pursue a career in cosmetology. Students continue to develop practical skills and knowledge pertaining to the beauty industry. They also gain an awareness of the entrepreneurial skills required to own and operate a salon. The course may focus on either hairstyling or aesthetics, or may include a combination of both areas.

 Hospitality and Tourism                 

Hospitality and Tourism, Grade 10, Open                                                         TFJ2OW

This course emphasizes the scope of the hospitality and tourism industry. Students will study food origins, food-handling techniques and food preparation, health and safety standards, and the use of specialized tools and equipment. They will also investigate travel and tourism activities in Ontario, develop effective communication and management skills, and identify career opportunities in the hospitality and tourism industry. Emphasis on the culinary arts and skills with the application of technique will be developed throughout the program.

Hospitality and Tourism, Grade 11, Workplace Preparation                               TFJ3EW

This course focuses on hospitality and tourism activities, equipment, and facilities as well as food preparation and management. Students learn to prepare, present, and serve food, and to plan, manage, and promote activities, using the necessary equipment. Throughout the course they learn the fundamentals of providing high-quality service and ensuring customer satisfaction. Students study the occupational health and safety standards and laws regulating the hospitality and tourism industry. They also explore the industry’s social and environmental impacts and identify possible career paths.

Hospitality and Tourism, Grade 12, Workplace Preparation                               TFJ4EW

This course focuses on advanced food preparation and presentation skills; event and activity planning; the equipment and facilities used in the hospitality and tourism industry; and tourist attractions. Students study the nutritional value of foods, plan menus and recipes, develop management techniques, design and implement an event, and learn effective communication skills. They also explore careers, the impact of the hospitality and tourism industry on society and the environment, and health and safety standards in the workplace.

Transportation Technology

Transportation Technology, Grade 10, Open                                                    TTJ2OW

This course requires students to build projects and to learn service procedures related to different modes of transportation.  Students will learn about support systems for transporting people and products; measurement systems and methods; the analysis, design, and construction of a system to convert and make practical use of energy; the function of major vehicle system components; the impact of transportation systems on the environment; communication skills; and transportation-related careers.  Minor vehicle and small engine operating procedures, repairs and

                                maintenance may be covered.

Transportation Technology, Grade 11, Workplace Preparation             TTJ3OW

This course examines the various types of land, air, and/or marine vehicles and vehicle systems found within the transportation sector. Students acquire identification, troubleshooting, repairing, and testing skills that meet industry standards and government regulations. In addition to developing employability and technical skills, they explore the broad range of career opportunities within this sector and examine the impact of the transportation sector on people, society, and the environment. Because teaching/learning activities in this course may involve moving vehicles, teachers must be aware of, and discuss in detail with students, board and school policies pertaining to safety in the operation and moving of vehicles. These should be supplemented with industry standards and provincial regulations. Regular updating will be necessary.

Transportation Technology, Grade 12, Workplace Preparation             TTJ4EW

This course examines the commonalities of land, air and marine vehicles, and transportation systems. Students will develop safe workplace habits and business management skills and effectively use diagnostic, hand and power tools to service and repair vehicles to meet industry standards and safety inspections. They will also research the entry requirements for apprenticeship training programs and develop the employability and technical skills required for entry into the workplace.

Fashion and Creative Expression Technology

Fashion and Creative Expression, Grade 11, Workplace Prepartion               HNC 3OW

Course Description to follow:

Prerequisite: None