Are you planning your future?

The Government of Canada recognizes that the key to global competitiveness, job creation and long term economic growth lies in education and skills training. The Next Phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan remains committed to jobs and growth by making post-secondary education and training more affordable and accessible. 

To succeed in today’s changing labour market Canadians need the right tools and resources- so find them today.

Training for the future with apprenticeship grants

For those looking to enter the workforce or are planning to switch career paths, there are many career opportunities in the trades- everything from construction and roofing to cooking and hairstyling. Skills Canada will provide you with the tools to learn more about a career in the trades.

The government of Canada offers apprentices up to $4,000 in grants to pay tuition, travel, tools, or other expenses through the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant  and the Apprenticeship Completion Grant.  If you are considering an apprenticeship visit Red Seal for information on how to get started and more.

Thinking of higher education?

Are you planning your future? A post secondary education will give you a head start.

Budget 2011 includes many initiatives to ease the financial burden of continued education.  Below are some highlights:

• Increasing the exemption on in-study income for full-time students from $50 to $100 per week, allowing students to earn more without affecting their loan allocation.

• Increasing income thresholds for loans and grants for part-time students, allowing more part-time students to access financial assistance.

• Eliminating the in-study interest for part-time students, changing it from prime plus 2.5 per cent to zero, making part-time study more affordable for Canadians.

• Beginning in 2012-13, new family physicians, nurses and nurse practitioners who practice in under-served rural or remote communities, will be eligible to have a portion of their Canada Student Loan forgiven.

To plan ahead for yourself or your children, visit CanLearn.ca to find a program of study and to access various quick links related to education preparation.

The Canada Student Loans and Grants website is also available to calculate your eligibility for financial assistance.

A new career?

Looking for more information and perhaps a little inspiration to make that switch in careers?

WorkinginCanada.gc.ca makes it easy to browse job postings, see what education and training you will need and to find out if your desired occupation is in demand.

Search jobs by keyword and location, or explore job and career options by education program, skills and knowledge interests, or by completing a career quiz.