All forms of experiential learning are a valuable complement to students’ academic experience and preparation for the future. When organized in a sequential fashion that meets career development needs, experiential learning can maximize student growth and development.

Co-operative Education is a culmination of different types of experiential learning. It is offered in the form of credit courses that are scheduled for one semester. o-op also includes such programs as Dual Credits, OYAP (Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program) and SHSM (Specialist High Skills Major).

Co-operative Education is a planned learning experience for which credits are earned. It integrates classroom theory and learning experiences at a workplace to enable students to apply and refine knowledge and skills acquired in a related curriculum course or a locally developed course. 

All Co-operative Education courses require the following:

• Application, interview,  counselling and screening process in order to determine suitability 
• Personalized placement learning plan 
• Earning of credits  (up to four per semester) 
• Monitoring by Co-operative Education Teacher 
• Integration classroom and workplace learning 
• Reflective Learning 
• Student Assessment 
• Portfolio Development and Career Research

A Sample of Placement Opportunities enjoyed by Ascension Students: 

• Restaurants (Fast Food and Full Service) 
• Elementary Schools, ECE Centres, Daycares 
• Hospitals (All departments) 
• Nursing Homes 
• Hairstylists and Estheticians 
• Fitness Centres 
• Community Centres 
• Trades—automotive, welding, plumbing, electrician 
• Offices—law, architecture, radio and television (including production) 
• Galleries 
• Fashion and Design 
• Security and Law Enforcement 
• Military

If you are interested in a career and would like to try it out:  Speak with Ms. Hecimovic in the Co-op office on the second floor.