Apprenticeship programs

• Most trades require the completion of an OSSD or its equivalent.
• You must be a resident of Ontario.
• You must be sponsored as an apprentice.

Apprentices who have previous work experience and education may be able to receive credits/exemptions which could reduce the duration of their apprenticeship. Otherwise, individuals who wish to challenge the in-school apprenticeship program can write exemption exams at all levels. These examinations are available at all community colleges in the province.

Students will have to purchase books for the first level that will carry through to levels two and three.

The college will provide a list of required tools for your program. Some apprentices may be able to loan tools from their employer and some may be required to buy their tools. The Government of Ontario offers a ‘Loans for Tools’ program to all new apprentices to assist them with the cost of purchasing the tools and equipment that they need for their trade.

You will receive an academic transcript from the Registrar’s Office (Enrolment Centre) for each of your levels. Upon completion of level three, you will also obtain a Cambrian College certificate. You will be invited to attend Convocation.

The Red Seal is the recognized passport to mobility in trades across Canada. Not all skills training programs have a Red Seal designation. Visit the Red Seal website to see which trades are designated.

• College Apprenticeship Forum (CAF)
• Careers in Trades
• Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) – If you do not have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, you can complete the ACE program free of charge through Cambrian’s Academic Upgrading office.
• Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program – Offered through Dual Credit for students under 21 still trying to complete an OSSD
• Canada Apprentice Loan Service Centre – An initiative of the Government of Canada to help you complete your apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade.
• Apprenticeship Grants – An initiative of the Government of Canada that provides up to $4,000 in federal apprenticeship grants to help you progress in or complete your apprenticeship in a designated Red Seal trade.
• Skilled Trades Training at Cambrian
• Become Tradesperson