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Entry to Trades - General Carpenter

What to Expect


General Carpenter (Trade Code 403A) is an in-demand skilled trade and a Red Seal trade recognized through Skilled Trades Ontario (STO).

 

Through the “Try-a-Trade” stream, TDSB Community Services offers Entry to Trades – General Carpenter, a pre-apprenticeship program for women, newcomers and visible minorities. The program provides an accessible pathway to explore the trade, assess career fit, and pursue apprenticeship opportunities with employer sponsorship.

 

Participants are introduced to career opportunities in residential and commercial construction and renovation. Learning is supported by industry professionals, guest speakers, and includes demonstrations.

Program Structure

6 Weeks Pre-Apprenticeship Training

 

4 Weeks – Technical and Carpentry Training


Delivered by an experienced instructor, this component introduces foundational skills aligned with Level 1 apprenticeship expectations, including:


    • Safety, materials, and tools
    • Plans, specifications, and building codes
    • Residential estimating, calculations, and layout

Participants will also receive introductory exposure to the Drywall Finisher and Plasterer trade.

2 Weeks – Employability, Job Readiness, and Certifications


    • In partnership with Next-Steps Employment Centre (NSEC), participants receive workshops on networking, interviewing, résumé development, and social media use. Individual supports, referrals, and financial assistance are available to address personal or logistical barriers.
    • The Essential Skills Upgrading (ESU) program delivers training in computer skills, workplace communication, and math.
    • Participants complete key industry certifications, including Working at Heights, First Aid, and WHMIS.

 

Stipends will be provided to each participant to help reduce financial barriers and support consistent attendance.


8 Weeks Work Placement

 

Following in-class training, participants are supported by a Job Developer to secure an eight-week paid work placement. This provides hands-on experience and the opportunity to obtain an apprenticeship sponsor.

 

Employers benefit from wage subsidies to support onboarding and encourage apprenticeship registration. Registered apprentices may proceed to Level 1 in-school training toward certification. Ongoing participant monitoring and support are provided to address barriers, promote success, and guide career advancement.

Program Dates

Cohort # Start/End Dates
1 Apr 27, 2026 Jun 8, 2026
2 Apr 27, 2026 Sep 15, 2026
3 Dec 11, 2026 Dec 11, 2026

 

Eligibility

    • Visible minorities, newcomers and women
    • Minimum Grade 10 education
    • Legally entitled to work in Canada
    • Unemployed or underemployed
    • Not currently in school
    • Able to commit to the full duration of the program


Contact us to apply. Pre-screening for suitability is required to register.

Important Notice Regarding Social Insurance Number (SIN)

In accordance with requirements from the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development, participants are required to provide their Social Insurance Number (SIN). This information is collected under authorized use and is necessary for program service delivery.

Contact Us

Entry to Trades - General Carpenter 

    • Email: ETT_Carpenter@tdsb.on.ca
    • Phone: 416-393-0350
    • Training Location: Victoria Park Collegiate Institute, 15 Wallingford Road
    • Admin Office: Bickford Centre, 777 Bloor St W, Room 120