What Is SYA?
Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship (SYA) is a high school program designed to help students discover the rewards of working in the skilled trades through hands-on experience. It provides students with a head start on apprenticeship and a better understanding of the steps to journeyperson certification. SYA consists of 12 challenges that students complete during high school in order to prepare them for their apprenticeship following graduation.
THE BENEFITS OF YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP
1. GAIN AN EDGE
Through SYA, you’ll get a head start on career planning in the skilled trades. Upon completion, you’ll have a record of your achievements, trades contacts and real-world experience—things that will make the process of interviewing and finding an apprenticeship after graduation easier!
2. SAVE TIME & MONEY
Complete all three levels and register as an apprentice in a designated trade within five years to receive the following benefits:
- Waiver of registration fee*
- No charge for Level 1 technical training tuition*
- 300 hours of trade-time credit*
*The SYA program may also be available to those who are not high school students. The financial waivers do not apply in those cases.
WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN YOUTH APPRENTICESHIP & REGULAR APPRENTICESHIP?
SYA is a high school program that gives students in Grades 9-12 the opportunity to explore careers in the skilled trades through research and hands-on learning. The program provides a strong foundation for securing and succeeding in an apprenticeship post-graduation.
Apprenticeship is the next step. It is a post-secondary education pathway that combines on-the-job learning with classroom training. About 85% of apprenticeship training happens on the job—apprentices are supervised by a journeyperson or other experienced mentor. Apprenticeship is voluntary for the majority of Saskatchewan’s designated trades. However, it is mandatory for the five compulsory trades: Construction Electrician, Plumber, Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Mechanic, Sheet Metal Worker and Sprinkler Fitter.
For more information, including entrance requirements, see: Apprenticeship Information.
SYA INDUSTRY SCHOLARSHIPS
Saskatchewan Youth Apprenticeship Industry Scholarships are awarded to selected, eligible high school graduates who have completed SYA and will be pursuing a career in the skilled trades. Read more about the SYA Industry Scholarships and how to qualify.
