Trillium Lakelands District School Board (TLDSB) is proud to announce a significant milestone for 22 ambitious secondary school students who officially launched their careers in the skilled trades earlier this week.
On January 20, the Board held a Registered Training Agreement (RTA) Signing and Information Night, where students from Fenelon Falls Secondary School, Haliburton Highlands Secondary School, I.E. Weldon Secondary School, and Lindsay Collegiate and Vocational Institute finalized their entry into the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP) Level 1.
This program is a premier dual-credit opportunity that allows students to begin their formal apprenticeship training while still completing their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. By signing these agreements, students are no longer just “looking into” a trade; they are officially registered apprentices with Skilled Trades Ontario and can gain practical experience by working alongside certified journey persons in high-demand sectors. This pathway also allows students to benefit from tuition-free training and specialized equipment, providing a massive financial head start.
“The skilled trades are the backbone of our community, and these students are now on the fast track to becoming the master plumbers, electricians, carpenters, hairstylists, industrial mechanic millwrights, welders, and technicians of tomorrow,” said TLDSB Pathways consultant and OYAP recruiter, Penta Ledger. “A sincere thank you to the families who were able to join the event. Your support is the foundation of your student’s future success.”
Congratulations to our newest apprentices! We look forward to seeing your skills grow.