TAS1O – Technology and the Skilled Trades (Grade 9): Now Offered at Aubrey Academy
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Aubrey Academy is proud to announce that we now offer TAS1O – Technology and the Skilled Trades, a Grade 9 open credit course designed to introduce students to technological education through project-based learning and real-world problem-solving.
This engaging course allows students to explore technology, innovation, and skilled trades while building foundational skills that support future success in secondary school and beyond.
What Is TAS1O – Technology and the Skilled Trades?
TAS1O is a Grade 9 Ontario technological education course that introduces students to the engineering design process, practical problem-solving, and the safe use of tools, materials, and digital technologies.
Students will:
Apply the stages of the engineering design process to solve authentic problems
Design, build, and test prototypes and models
Explore multiple areas of technology and skilled trades
Develop awareness of health and safety practices
Investigate career pathways in technology and skilled trades
There are no prerequisites, making TAS1O accessible to all Grade 9 students regardless of previous experience.
Why TAS1O Matters: Ontario Graduation Requirement
Beginning with students who entered Grade 9 in September 2024, the Ontario Ministry of Education requires that all students earn at least one Grade 9 or Grade 10 technological education credit as part of their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) requirements.
TAS1O fulfills this graduation requirement while providing students with meaningful exposure to technology-focused learning early in their high school journey.
This provincial change reflects Ontario’s commitment to preparing students for a rapidly evolving workforce and increasing demand in skilled trades, engineering, manufacturing, construction, and applied technologies.
The Bigger Picture: Preparing Students for Tomorrow’s Workforce
Ontario and Canada continue to experience growing demand for professionals in:
Skilled trades (electricians, carpenters, HVAC, mechanics)
Engineering and applied sciences
Manufacturing and automation
Construction and infrastructure
Renewable energy and sustainability sectors
By introducing technological education in Grade 9, students gain early insight into these pathways and can make more informed course selections in Grades 10–12.
TAS1O helps students connect classroom learning to real-world applications, making education more relevant, engaging, and future-focused.
What Learning Looks Like in TAS1O
Rather than relying solely on traditional worksheets or lectures, TAS1O emphasizes:
Project-based learning
Design challenges
Collaborative problem-solving
Digital tools and simulations
Reflection and iterative improvement
Students are encouraged to test ideas, learn from mistakes, and refine their designs—mirroring how real engineers and technologists work.
Skills Students Develop in TAS1O
Through hands-on and collaborative learning, students build both technical and transferable skills, including:
Critical and creative thinking
Communication and teamwork
Time management and organization
Problem-solving and innovation
Responsibility and safety awareness
These skills support success across all postsecondary pathways: university, college, apprenticeship, and workforce entry.
Who Should Take TAS1O?
TAS1O is well suited for:
Students who enjoy hands-on or visual learning
Students who struggle in heavily text-based courses
Creative and curious thinkers
Students interested in engineering, architecture, or trades
Students who are unsure of their future career path
Because the course is exploratory, it provides a low-pressure environment for students to discover interests and strengths.
How TAS1O Supports Future Course Planning
Completing TAS1O in Grade 9 can lead to:
Grade 10–12 technological education courses
Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) programs
Co-operative education placements
Apprenticeship-focused pathways
Early exposure helps students build a strong foundation and keeps multiple pathways open.
A Strong Fit for Flexible and Online Learners
At Aubrey Academy, we support diverse learners, including student-athletes, independent learners, and students who benefit from flexible pacing.
Our online-supported TAS1O course maintains alignment with Ontario curriculum expectations while offering structured guidance, clear milestones, and accessible learning materials.
Parent Insight
If your child is uncertain about future plans, TAS1O is an excellent Grade 9 choice. The course fulfills a required graduation credit and provides valuable exposure to practical, real-world learning—helping students discover interests early and build confidence.
Enroll in TAS1O at Aubrey Academy
Registration is now open for TAS1O – Technology and the Skilled Trades (Grade 9).
Give your student the opportunity to explore, design, build, and innovate—while earning a required Ontario diploma credit.
Contact Aubrey Academy today to learn more or begin the registration process.