Key Messages

• Explore without deciding .... Take courses that interest you and expand your knowledge and interests.
• Choose courses that are consistent with your interests, most recent achievement, strengths, needs and/or preferred learning style to build success, confidence, and optimism.
• Begin considering unique programs and courses (e​.g., Cooperative Education, Specialist High Skills Majors, International Baccalaureate Program, Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program). Even though you usually begin these programs in Grade 11 , it is a good idea to be sure you plan out your courses. See your Guidance Counsellor for more information.
• Keep in mind that Learning Skills and Work Habits are key to your success: Responsibility, Organization, Independent Work, Collaboration, Initiative, and Self-regulation.
• In Grade 10 Careers, GLC20, you will continue to explore personal portfolios, resumes, careers, and pathways (i .e., Apprenticeship, College, University, and the World of Work).
• Continue working on your community service hours and Individual Pathway Plan (formerly referred to as the Annual Education Plan).
• Stay involved in your school community (i.e., clubs, committees, athletics). 

Grade 10 to 11

• Review​ your IPP (Individual Pathway Plan) with your Guidance Counsellor to ensure you are taking the courses you need to graduate.
• Choose courses that are consistent with your interests, most recent achievement, strengths, needs and/or preferred learning style. Remember that it is not taking certain courses that opens doors, it is your achievement in those courses that will open doors.
• Research your chosen pathway (i.e., Apprenticeship, College, University, or Work) and begin planning properly to ensure you have all prerequisites. Be open to all pathways. Make an informed decision. Also, consider financial planning for your post-secondary pathway; visit your Guidance Centre for more information.
• If needed, consider alternative ways to achieve credits (e.g., summer school).
• Speak to your Guidance Counsellor if you were not successful on the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT).
• Remember that Grade 11 marks are seen by Colleges and Universities.
• English, Math, and Science are important for many Apprenticeships.
• Now is the time to start programs such as Cooperative Education, Specialist High Skills Majors, International Baccalaureate Program, and Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program. See your Guidance Counsellor regarding the application process.
• Continue researching career options and interests, and completing community service hours.

• Review your IPP (Individual Pathway Plan) to ensure that you meet final graduation requirements:
• *all of your compulsory credits as well as the correct number of credits
• *specialized program requirements
• *Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) requirement
• *community service hours
• Research your chosen pathway (i.e., Apprenticeship, College, University, or Work) and ensure you have all prerequisites and check them again in case they have changed.
• Research all costs associated with your chosen pathway. Continue to develop your Personal Portfolio, Resume, and pathway options. Keep in mind that it is always a good idea to have another pathway option; at this point, you are not choosing a career for the rest of your life.
• Consider another semester in secondary school to take more courses, save money, upgrade your marks, or better prepare for the journey after secondary school.​​​