Program Description:
Apprenticeship training is a combination of on-the-job learning and in-class instruction related to a skilled trade. There are currently over 140 apprenticeable trades in Ontario in four sectors: construction, industrial/manufacturing, motive power and service.

A person wishing to become an apprentice has to find a company/an employer/a union willing to hire and train him/her as an apprentice. The next step is to contact the local Apprenticeship Office to arrange for a meeting with a Training Consultant who will outline how the program works and then help with the apprenticeship registration.

Apprentices are registered by the by the regional office of the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities Workplace Training Branch. A “Training Agreement” is signed by the apprentice and employer. Apprentices are paid while gaining work experience and their wages increase with their level of skill.

Most apprenticeships last 2-5 years and apprentices must log their hours worked. The final step to becoming a journeyperson is the Certificate of Qualification exam. (Click here for a guide for applicants wishing to write the exam).

• Apprentices must be at least 16 years old
• A minimum of Grade 12 (or equivalent) for most trades [some skilled trades do accept Grade 10 as an entry grade]. For a breakdown the over 140 skilled trades and related entry grade, visit the tradeability.ca website.

• A $40 fee is required to register as an apprentice
• Fees for in-class instruction (check with training deliverer)
• $100 to write the Certification of Qualification exam

Supports:
The Ontario government provides a number of supports for people entering and continuing through an apprenticeship program. Through the Loans for Tools program, the government will provide up to $800 to help with the purchase of tools needed on the job.

For further information, call the Employment Ontario Hotline at 1-800-387-5656 or contact the local apprenticeship office. Please note that newcomers to Ontario can ask for information in the language of their choice.

Toronto Central Apprenticeship Office – [serving Toronto and York Region]
625 Church Street (1st Floor)
Toronto, ON M7A 2B5
Tel. (416) 326-5800

More helpful information on apprenticeship: Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities
www.apprenticesearch.com – An excellent website to assist both aspiring apprentices and employers looking for apprentices.