Life after high school

An alternative approach

Families want alternatives that support and honour who their child is. Even though Passages does not offer an OSSD that does not limit opportunities for post-secondary, trade schools, entrepreneurship, travel and more.
Homeschoolers have been doing this for years – most people don’t think or know there are other pathways because they haven’t *had* to think about it.

High school learning

Gain credits to earn the full OSSD through the Independent Learning Centre (ILC) or Virtual Learning Centre (VLC)
Gain your Canadian Adult Education Credit (CAEC - formerly known as the GED)
Portfolio creation as a Proof of Learning Document
Create a Homeschool Transcript
Distance education, night schools, adult education centres and summer schools

University and college pathways

Apply as a homeschooler with self-created transcripts and life experiences
Meet with institutions to discuss how your education created the path to the degree or diploma you’re pursuing - many allow homeschoolers/alternative learners to apply using this method
Obtain the 6 U/M high school courses through ILC or VLC

Take a “gap year” and apply as a College/University Mature Student (starting around age 19 or 20)
College and University Bridging Programs for ages 18+
Start university at 16! Open Universities like Athabasca Univerity and Thompson River University allow anyone age 16+ to take courses regardless of high school level. Many jump ahead into university since it’s more interesting.
AP courses completed to use as entrance requirements
Take your SATs

Entrepreneurship

Start a business and take smaller courses and workshops to learn skills specific to your needs
Build a website and sell items or your services/skills

Trades or skill-based programs

Work directly onsite - flexible hours at Passages means young people can work during some days
Smaller skill-based programs like hair services, make-up artistry, computer coding, UX Design and Graphic design. Many smaller institutes teach skills and make people career-ready without high school diplomas, college or university.

Or, something different!

It’s important to note that not everyone needs or wants post-secondary right after their teen years. Some need time to explore their own paths or maybe even travel! In fact, “gap years” are being encouraged these days.