O2 Description

Options and Opportunities (O2) is an exciting new high school program which offers students more hands-on learning experiences with a career focus. It's designed to prepare students for successful transitions from high school to work, a career path, or a post-secondary program.

O2 was first established in 27 schools in the 2006-2007 school year. In 2009-2010, the program involves more than 1,600 students in 46 high schools.

The program focuses on students who have become disengaged from their learning, are not achieving their academic potential, and are prepared to commit to a new approach to their learning.  O2 provides multiple opportunities for cooperative education, where students learn in community and workplace settings, link their in-school learning to the workplace, and enhance their employability skills.

A critical element in the success of O2 is the participation of the Nova Scotia employers and communities who open their doors to students. Whether it's helping to shape curriculum, attending a career fair or hosting a student for a co-operative education work placement, O2 gives employers and communities an opportunity to play an active role in the education of our youth and to help create the workforce of the future.

Schools organize the O2 program around one or more of the following Career Academies:

• Arts, Culture, and Recreation
• Business Education
• Health and Human Services
• Hospitality and Tourism
• Information Technology (IT)
• Trades and Technologies