The Ambassador School Program is an alternative education program in partnership with the Pape Adolescent Resource Centre (PARC), the Children’s Aid Foundation of Canada (CAFC), ECN Capital and Toronto Public Health (TPH).

The Ambassador School Program provides educational support for the students to earn credits through the Independent Learning Centre (ILC).  The ILC offers opportunities for students to earn grade 9 to grade12 credits and grants Ontario Secondary School Diplomas (OSSD).  Students also have the opportunity to obtain their high school equivalency credentials by writing the GED Tests. They can also upgrade their credits for employment, apprenticeship, or post-secondary entry.

The Ambassador Program recognizes the importance of offering young people a diverse, balanced education; where various life and social skills opportunities are incorporated into the program daily. The Ambassador Program recognizes that youth face challenges and disruptions in their education due to personal and social circumstances. We offer youth an opportunity to achieve their educational, personal and career goals through non-traditional methods of learning and teaching.  The Ambassador Program provides youth with an opportunity to access supportive education in a safe, stable environment.

The school program has a long history of working with at risk youth across Toronto and understands that a combination of personal, family, and social conditions contribute to school dropout.  It is the goal of the Ambassador program to eliminate the barriers that prevent youth from achieving success and to support them in their life transitions.

Referral Process

Referrals to the Ambassador Program are made through PARC. All youth, who attend the Ambassador Program, must have a PARC worker prior to admission into the program.    

Eligibility: 

  • Youth must be a minimum of 16 years old.
  • All youth must complete the Ambassador Program Intake Package
  • All youth must submit a copy of their most recent high school transcript 
  • Attend an interview at the Ambassador Program with their PARC Worker and the Ambassador Program Coordinator/and or Educator. 
  • Have completed some of their OSSD credits
  • Required to participate in all aspects of the Ambassador Program including the “Speak Out” program.
  • Must be in the process of securing stable housing
  • Capable of working independently
  • Students are expected to sign a contract regarding behaviour and academic goals

 

The Ambassador Program recognizes that it may not be possible for all students to meet all of the eligibility criteria.  Exceptions can be made at the discretion of the PARC team.

Please contact PARC at 416-462-1010 for more information