There could be many reasons why you don’t have your high school diploma, but there are even more reasons why you should. And with nearly 60 public, Catholic, and French school boards in Ontario that offer flexible adult and continuing education (A&CE) programs, boosting your skills or kickstarting your career has never been more accessible.

“Many courses are available both in class and online — whenever you have time to take them,” says Bernadette Beaupre, Executive Director of the Ontario Association of Adult and Continuing Education School Board Administrators (CESBA), an organization that supports A&CE. “Our staff support you to develop your own plan, at your own pace,” says Beaupre.

The best part is that most courses are free.

A plan for success

Adult learners can earn credits for previous work and life experience, including caregiving and managing a household. Those with grade 9 and 10 credits can gain their high school diploma in six months or less via this unique program. CESBA is then able to support them in finding jobs that pay a living wage.

Each year, the organization’s members support over 300,000 adults in improving their skills, earning credits, finding better jobs, and transitioning to post-secondary education. With a new set of skills and an Ontario high school diploma, they can be successful in positioning themselves to truly contribute to Ontario’s growing economy.

If you’re looking to advance your career, learn more about A&CE opportunities by contacting your local school board.