Classroom to Careers
Ontario’s Commitment to Skilled Trades, Coding, and STEM Education
Ontario's education system is undergoing a transformation aimed at equipping students for the evolving job market of the future. This evolution centres on three key pillars: Skilled Trades, Coding, and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
Ontario's approach to education ensures students are well-prepared for a future that demands innovation and competitiveness. The pillars of Skilled Trades, Coding, and STEM education are central to this preparation, enabling students to thrive in a rapidly changing job market. By focusing on these critical areas, Ontario is enhancing the prospects of its students and contributing to the province's economic growth and development.
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SKILLED TRADES
We offer various programs to introduce students to skilled trades and encourage them to consider these careers. Skilled trades provide rewarding and high-paying opportunities, with an increasing demand expended by 2026. There are over 140 skilled trades across four sectors: Construction, industrial, transportation, and service. Maple International College of Secondary Studies intends to be amongst the leaders and provide job skills programs like Specialist High Skill Majors (SHSM) for grade 11 and 12 students, focussing on specific career paths and industry certifications. Dual credit programs allow high school students to earn credits towards their diploma and postsecondary certificates or apprenticeships. The Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) lets students explore apprenticeships in Grade 11 and Grade 12. Cooperative (Co-op) education offers students work placements alongside classroom learning. Partnerships with organizations like FIRST Robotics Canada and Skills Ontario provide hands-on experiences and career exploration for students, focusing on encouraging girls and underrepresented groups to pursue a career in STEM and skilled trades.
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CODING
Maple International College of Secondary Studies is taking steps to equip students with coding skills. Grade 9 students engage with Coding and gain practical experience, preparing them for future workforce proficiency. Embedding Coding into the educational framework empowers students to adapt and thrive in the evolving landscape of the digital age.
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STEM
Ontario is prioritizing Science, technology, engineering, and maths (STEM) education to better prepare students for the demands of the future workforce by fostering STEM proficiency at an early age and eliminating streaming. Ontario ensures that students are well-equipped to meet these critical fields' evolving challenges and opportunities, contributing to a more innovative and competitive future.