Pathways Towards Graduation

The Ontario Secondary School Certificate will be granted on request to students who leave school before earning the Ontario Secondary School Diploma, provided that they have earned a minimum of 14 credits (7 compulsory, 7 elective) distributed as follows:

Compulsory credits (Total of 7):

• 2 credits in English
• 1 credit in Canadian Geography or Canadian History
• 1 credit in Mathematics
• 1 credit in Science
• 1 credit in Health and Physical Education
• 1 credit in the Arts or Technological Education

Students who leave school before fulfilling the requirements for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma or the Ontario Secondary School Certificate may be granted a Certificate of Accomplishment. The Certificate of Accomplishment may be a useful means of recognizing achievement for students who plan to take certain vocational programs or other kinds of further training, or who plan to find employment after leaving school.

The Locally Developed Pathway in Grades 9-12 is designed to support students who benefit from a more personalized and practical approach to learning. These courses focus on building essential literacy, numeracy, and learning skills while connecting learning to real-life applications. The goal is to help students gain confidence, experience success, and develop a strong foundation for future academic and career planning.

The locally developed pathway keeps future options open. With continued growth and achievement, students:

• Continue in locally developed courses if ongoing support is beneficial

• Explore experiential learning, cooperative education, and workplace-focused courses in senior grades

• Work towards apprenticeship, workplace, and employment pathways after high school

Our Guidance staff and school team work closely with families to review progress each year and adjust course selections to best support student success.

Students may, with careful planning, successful skill development, and with the support of administration and guidance, work towards upgrading courses for admission to future college programs.

What does the Locally Developed Pathway offer?

Students enrolled in locally developed courses receive:

• Smaller class sizes and additional learning support

• Modified curriculum expectations that meet students at their current skill level

• Hands-on and applied learning activities

• Opportunities to strengthen reading, writing, and math skills

• Explicit instruction in organization, study habits, and independent learning

• A supportive environment that promotes confidence and engagement

Locally Developed Options at STA:

Students may take locally developed courses in:

• English

• Mathematics

• Science

Alongside these, students typically take credit courses in other subjects such as Physical Education, Arts, or Technology, depending on individual learning needs and strengths.

Options After Grade 12

Students who follow a Locally Developed Pathway in high school still have many opportunities after graduation. Throughout high school, students work with teachers, guidance counsellors, and families to identify strengths, interests, and career goals so that an appropriate transition plan is in place by Grade 12.