How Academic Upgrading Helps You Qualify for Apprenticeships in the Trades (Ontario)

Ontario has tons of opportunities in skilled trades, from construction and electrical, to automotive, welding, HVAC, and more. These are hands-on careers where you can learn on the job, earn money, and build a future you can be proud of.

But there’s one problem many adults run into:

You’re ready to start, but you’re missing a requirement like Grade 12 math or English.

That’s where Academic Upgrading at Durham College can help.

This post will walk you through:

  • What Ontario apprenticeships usually require
  • Why missing credits is a common roadblock
  • How Academic Upgrading can help you qualify
  • Your next steps to get moving

First, what does it mean to qualify for an apprenticeship in Ontario?

An apprenticeship is a training path where you learn a trade with an employer (often called a sponsor). You get real work experience, and you may also do in-class training along the way.

In Ontario, Skilled Trades Ontario says that to qualify for an apprenticeship, you must:

  • Be at least 16
  • Have legal permission to work in Canada (for example, a valid SIN)
  • Meet the education requirements for your chosen trade
  • Have a sponsor in Ontario

The key part for many adults is this:

“Meet the education requirements for your chosen trade.”

Those requirements can be different depending on the trade. Some trades ask for specific courses. Some ask for a certain grade level. Some are more flexible, but still want you to have strong basics.

Skilled Trades Ontario also has a trade info page where you can look up details by trade.

Why math and English matter in the trades (even if you’re not a school person)

A lot of people hear about Grade 12 math requirements and immediately think, “That’s not me.”

The reality is that trades use math and communication all the time. Real-world math.

Here are a few examples:

You’ll use math for things like:

  • Measuring and cutting materials
  • Reading plans and drawings
  • Figuring out area, volume, and angles
  • Estimating materials and costs
  • Working with ratios, units, and conversions

You’ll use English and communication for things like:

  • Reading safety rules and work orders
  • Filling out forms and job documents
  • Writing simple notes or reports
  • Talking with a crew, a supervisor, or customers

Academic Upgrading helps with building the skills you need for the trade you want.

Do most trades in Ontario require Grade 12?

Many trade pathways list Grade 12 (or equivalent) as a common requirement. For example, most trades typically look for completion of Grade 12 (or equivalent).

Skilled Trades Ontario also publishes a chart that shows the recommended education level for many trades, and Grade 12 is common across a lot of options.

Important note: requirements can also vary by trade and by employer.

So if your goal trade is very specific, it’s smart to check the details and talk to someone who can help you plan.

What is Academic Upgrading at Durham College?

Durham College’s Academic Upgrading offers FREE Grade 12 equivalent C-level courses for adults (18+) who want to qualify for apprenticeships or college programs.

You don’t have to pay out of pocket, as the program is covered by government funding.

If you learn best with real support, real instructors, and a real classroom, our program is in-person at our Oshawa campus.

How Academic Upgrading connects to apprenticeships in Ontario

There are two important ways Academic Upgrading can help you move toward an apprenticeship:

1) You can take the courses you’re missing (like math and English)

We offer courses that match common requirements for trades and college programs.

Like:

  • ACE Communications
  • ACE Apprenticeship Math
  • Other ACE courses depending on your goals

ACE Apprenticeship Math includes topics like number sense, measurement and geometry, proportional reasoning, trigonometry, statistics, and personal finance.

That’s the kind of math that shows up in real work and real life.

2) You may be able to earn the ACE Certificate (Grade 12 equivalency)

The ACE Certificate is recognized as a high school equivalency for registration as an apprentice in Ontario.

To earn the ACE Certificate, you complete:

  • ACE Communications
  • One ACE Math course
  • Two additional approved ACE courses from our list

This can be a powerful option if your goal is to meet Grade 12-equivalent expectations and can be completed in as little as one semester (about 4 months).

I want a trade… but I don’t even know which one yet.

A lot of adults don’t have one perfect trade picked out. They just know they want:

  • steady work
  • better pay
  • hands-on skills
  • a career that feels real

The nice thing about upgrading your math and communication skills is that it supports almost every trade path, including:

  • electrical
  • plumbing
  • carpentry
  • welding
  • HVAC and refrigeration
  • automotive service
  • machining
  • construction and maintenance
  • and many more

Even if you’re still deciding, Academic Upgrading can help you build a stronger base, so you have more options once you figure it out.

Real-life support: help with childcare or transportation may be available

Going back to school as an adult is not always simple.

You might be juggling:

  • work
  • kids
  • commuting
  • tight budgets

Training and Support Allowance (TSA) funds may help eligible learners with costs like childcare or transportation. Funding isn’t guaranteed, but the team can help you understand what may be possible.

If this kind of support would make a big difference for you, bring it up early when you connect with the Academic Upgrading office to plan ahead.

Next steps: how to move forward (simple plan)

If you’re serious about getting into a trade in Ontario, here’s a simple path:

  1. Pick a trade goal (or a short list)

     Even one-word answers on what you’re drawn to, like construction or electrical, is a good start.

  2. Check the apprenticeship basics in Ontario

     Remember: education requirements + sponsor are key parts. The Skilled Trades Ontario site is a helpful resource.

  3. Start Academic Upgrading at Durham to fill the gaps

     Build the math and English you need, and work toward a Grade 12-equivalent goal if that’s the right fit.

Want help choosing the right courses?

Durham College’s Academic Upgrading team can help you figure out your next step.

  • Email: academicupgrading@durhamcollege.ca
  • Phone: 905.721.3131

You can also check upcoming Student Info Nights on our website if you’d like to explore Durham and ask questions in person.

If the trades have been on your mind for a while, this can be your sign to take the first step.

Quick Apprenticeship FAQs

Do I need Grade 12 to start an apprenticeship in Ontario?

Many trades commonly list Grade 12 (or equivalent) as the recommended education level, but requirements vary by trade.

What does Skilled Trades Ontario say I need to start an apprenticeship?

You typically need to meet the trade’s education requirements and have a sponsor (employer) in Ontario, plus other basic requirements.

What is the ACE Certificate?

It’s a Grade 12 equivalency offered by Ontario colleges and recognized for registration as an apprentice in Ontario. You can complete it for free at Durham College in as little as one semester and still work around your busy schedule, as it’s part-time with up to 4 courses per semester.