To access the ITA Youth Programs Online Registration System, click here.
Overview
Secondary School Apprenticeship (SSA) is a career program that provides students with the opportunity to begin an apprenticeship while still in high school, and to earn high school credits for doing so.
It provides a smoother transition from school to work, and a quicker route to certification in a trade - and to the earning power that goes with it. SSA students complete up to 480 hours of work experience that counts towards their apprenticeship and course credits. SSA youth apprentices must be 19 and under and complete their SSA work based training by 3 months past graduation.
Like other apprentices, Secondary School Apprentices are responsible for finding an employer who will hire them and commit to their training as a sponsor.
Note that it is possible for students to take part in both the Secondary School Apprenticeship and ACE IT program.
If you have an interest in a Secondary School Apprenticeship but are unsure of what type of trade you'd like to pursue, have a look at BC and Red Seal TRADES Programs. This section of our site outlines the wide variety of trades available in BC, and provides detailed information on each one.
Questions regarding Secondary School Apprenticeship can be directed to Glenn Rowan at the Ministry of Education at 250-387-6430 or glenn.rowan@gov.bc.ca
Hidden Apprentices
Secondary School Apprentiseships aren't just for students who are looking to enter the working world. You might already be eligible to be a secondary school apprentice and not know it.
If you are a high school student working part-time in a trade, you are probably a "hidden apprentice". By registering as a Secondary School Apprentice, you will be able to earn dual credit for the work you're already doing, become eligible for a $1,000 scholarship, and get a head start on earning your trade certification. Talk to your school's career counselor about the kind of work that qualifies, and about registering as a Secondary School Apprentice.
Secondary School Apprenticeship Scholarships
As an added bonus, secondary school apprentices can qualify for a $1,000 scholarship if they:
Been registered in a school district Secondary School Apprenticeship Program prior to graduation
Graduated with a Grade 12 Dogwood Diploma or Adult Dogwood
Maintained a C+ average or better on Grade 12 numbered courses
Continued working or training full-time in the trade 5 months after secondary school graduation or have 1100 hrs reported to ITA.
Employers and high school students can become involved by contacting the high school career programs department.
Applications for a SSA Scholarship must be received within 12 months of your graduation date. Scholarship Application Forms should be submitted to your school district.
Questions regarding Secondary School Apprenticeship can be directed to Glenn Rowan at the Ministry of Education at 250-387-6430 or glenn.rowan@gov.bc.ca
