Training and Education
This page will help you learn about training and education options that can lead you to a job you’ll enjoy. Whether you’re just starting out or want to build new skills, we’re here to help you plan your learning journey.
Planning Your Journey
Planning your education and training is a key step in reaching your job goals. Let’s figure out what kind of training or education you might like, how to get ready for it, and what steps to take.
What Skills Do I Need?
To do well in your chosen job, you’ll need a mix of skills. You can learn some skills on your own in everyday life. However, some jobs need special skills that you will need to learn from training or in school.
Essential Skills
Some skills are needed for almost all jobs, like reading and writing English, basic math, or talking to others. If you need help improving these skills, you can get it through academic upgrading programs.
Specialized Skills
These are extra skills that are important for specific jobs. These might include things like working with tools, solving problems, or using computers. Depending on the job you want, you might need to develop different supplementary skills through your training.
Types of Training and Education
There are different types of training and education you can choose from. Knowing your options can help you pick the right path for your job goals.
Continuing Education
If you left high school early, you can take a continuing education program to get your high school diploma. Another kind of continuing education is in-person or online courses for learning a new skill. Once you finish a continuing education program, you will receive a high school certificate or diploma.
Vocational Training
Vocational training means hands-on training for specific trades, like electrical, carpentry, or welder work. You can do it through trade school or an apprenticeship, and you can earn money while you’re learning with an apprenticeship. Once you finish vocational training, you will get a certificate or license.
College and University
College and university programs give you a more in-depth education in a specific field. College usually focuses on practical skills for a job, while university focuses more on theory and research. Depending on your job goals, you can go to college or university to get a certificate, diploma, or degree.
Choosing the Right Training
Choosing the right training and education is an important step in your job journey. Here are some things to think about:
What to Study
Think about what subjects or skills you need to learn for the job you want. Look at different programs to see what they offer and how they match your job goals.
Location
Think about where you want to study. You can take some programs online, while you have to take others in person. Do you want to stay close to home? Or, are you looking to study in a different community or city?
Cost
Cost is also important to think about when choosing your training and education. Look into tuition fees, the cost of books, and other expenses. If you plan on moving to a different city to study, you should also know how much it costs to rent a place to live, buy groceries, pay utilities, get a bus pass, and pay for other expenses.
Before You Apply
To get into the training or education program you want, you may need to have certain training or experience already.
Prerequisites
Prerequisites are classes or skills you need before you can start a new course or program. An example might be grade 12 math so you can start a carpentry apprenticeship or training course.
Academic Upgrading
If you need to brush up on reading, writing, or math to get ready for college or training, there are special classes to help you. You can find these at adult high schools and colleges. Many offer them online as well as in-person. Some also offer them for free.
Tip!
Most colleges and training centres now have Indigenous centres and advisors who can help you decide where to go for your training and education. They can connect you to resources and answer any questions you may have.
Learning new skills and getting the right training is the first step to a future that you’ll be proud of. Remember, the path you choose is just for you, and that’s what makes your journey special!
