By Arlene Gerbasi
Special to The Toronto Sun

Americo Neves, a student currently participating in the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP), is looking forward to graduating in June of this year.

Hands-on instruction from John Guadagno (left), head butcher at Aloia Supermarket, has enabled OYAP student Americo Neves (right) to hone his skills as a butcher.

As someone who prefers a hands-on approach to learning, Neves chose to apply for the program last year. His participation affords him the opportunity to continue his education at York Humber High School while working toward a career. A part-time position at Aloia Supermarket sparked his interest in becoming a butcher.

Joe Aloia, Neves' employer, readily agreed to support him in his efforts to succeed.

Pat Pincente, head of co-operative education at York Humber and Neves' placement teacher, was responsible for arranging his apprenticeship with Aloia. Concerns about Neves academic record at the time was a key factor in determining his acceptance into the program. "Americo wasn't excelling in school," Pincente says. "It was agreed he would be better served in the program."

OYAP introduces students to the work environment, prior to their graduation from high school. Valuable job and life skills are taught, and students are provided the tools required to succeed in their chosen field.

The program has been a definite asset to those students experiencing difficulty in a standard classroom/academic setting, offering them an alternative method of learning and accomplishing work-related goals.

Local businesses participate in sharing their knowledge and educate those students involved in the program on specific industry requirements. The transition time between graduating school to becoming a member of the work force is substantially reduced for students successfully completing the program.

In the short time Neves has been involved in his placement, Pincente has noted the positive changes that have occurred in him. "He's really shown a motivation to learn and has successfully earned four credits with the program," Pincente says.

Education requirements Students must complete a minimum of three in-school credits per year. Schools are required to monitor the program offered in the workplace to ensure it meets secondary school credit requirements. To receive their high school diploma, students must still complete all compulsory credits. Apprenticeship requirements Students must be placed with a qualified employer. Students must follow an on-the-job training program based on the specific standards for the trade. They may also receive related theoretical instruction. How to apply To apply to the Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program, contact your school's guidance department or your local apprenticeship office. Visit www.youthjobs.gov.on.ca or call the training hotline at 416-326-5656 or at 1-800-387-5656 for more information. -- Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities

"Our customers think he's great," Joe Aloia says. Neves' confidence and self esteem have shown marked improvement in the past year.

The family-owned operation, originally established by Aloia's father in 1980, has enjoyed great success, and is well known for its quality veal. "We use the European style of cutting meat," Aloia says.

In essence, the meat is dissected as opposed to being carved with power tools. Aloia took a personal interest in Neves and has been instrumental in educating him on appropriate practices in the industry.

"Americo really wants to learn," Aloia says.

Neves is now well-versed in working with weigh scales, and identifying and packaging specific cuts of meat, and has become an old pro at deboning veal legs.

"It's been a really positive experience for me," he says. "I like serving the customers." Staff at the market have shown him endless support and he acknowledges his current successes to his participation in the program.

His schedule is a hectic one; he juggles both school and working at his placement during the week, and continues to gain experience at the Aloia Supermarket on Saturdays. Neves enjoys one of the perks offered at the job: "All my lunches are free!"

It seems that Neves future is secure: Joe Aloia is so impressed with Neves' performance, he has offered him a full-time position upon graduation.


(Arlene Gerbasi is a Toronto-based freelance writer who can be reached at AGerbas1@aol.com)



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