The Second Career Program is a government program designed to help laid-off workers get the skills and training they need to find jobs in high-demand occupations in Ontario.
Second Career is a cost-sharing grant provided on the basis of need. Therefore, applicants may be required to contribute to their training or education.
The Second Career grant may cover such things as tuition, books, transportation, and a basic living allowance. Additional support may be available to accommodate the needs of people with disabilities, dependent care, costs of living away from home and academic upgrading.
Do I qualify for Second Career funding?
- Students are equipped with iPads and eBooks, saving them money on textbooks and providing valuable workplace skills
- You have been laid off and have not been working.
- You have been laid off and are working a temporary job just to cover costs.
- You’re receiving Employment Insurance (EI), or have in the past.
Priority is currently being given to those who have lost their jobs due to COVID-19 and want to re-train for jobs in sectors with good potential for future employment.
What are the new enhancements to the Second Career Program?
With changes made to the government of Ontario’s newly reinstated Second Career program those who have been left unemployed or laid off because of COVID-19 may get additional support to train in new fields with optimal job prospects.
Under the enhanced Second Career Program, qualifying Ontarians may be eligible for up to $28,000 in funding to assist with the cost of their tuition, fees, books, transportation, childcare and other applicable expenses including a basic living allowance up to a maximum of $410 per week.
Funding for programs in one of the 4 priority streams below will be fast-tracked, meaning you can start your education sooner knowing you’ve been approved under the Second Career Program. A list of our current programs that fall within the 4 fast track streams is also listed below. Other programs not listed below may also qualify for Second Career Program. Your Education Consultant will help you better understand all of the options available to you.
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Which Gates College Programs Qualify for Second Career Fast-track Priority Stream Funding?
- Personal Support Worker
- Medical Office Assistant
- Community Services Worker
What do I have to prepare for my application?
- How long you have been unemployed, or working your temporary job, and looking for work;
- Places you have applied and positions you have applied for (e.g. cover letters, CV and responses from potential employers.);
- What level of education you reached;
- Where you worked before, for how long and what skills you needed for that work;
- What skills you want to get and where you can get trained in them;
- Information showing that the skills and job you want to train for are in demand.
What Are My Next Steps and How do I Apply?
To find out more about how to successfully apply and which programs are eligible, book an appointment with one of our Educational Consultants who can guide you through the process. Call us now to get started on the next step towards your new career!
For general information about the Second Career initiative, visit the Ontario Second Career Government website.
