Specialist High Skills Major

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What is a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)? 

A Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a ministry-approved specialized program that allows students to focus their learning on a specific economic sector while meeting the requirements to graduate from secondary school. It also assists in their transition after graduation to apprenticeship training, college, university or the workplace. 

To complete an SHSM, students will:

  • complete a specific bundle of 8-10 courses in  the student’s selected fieldSHSM Diploma
  • earn industry certifications like first aid and CPR qualifications
  • gain on-the-job skills through cooperative education placements
  • participate in experiential learning related to their sector and post-secondary options
  • collaborate with community partners in the sector to engage in real-world problem-solving 

When students complete an SHSM, they will get:

  • a high school diploma with an embossed SHSM seal
  • an SHSM record that has details of credit bundle, certifications, placements and other experiences
  • formal recognition on their Ontario Student Transcript 

Students enroll in an SHSM starting in grade 11, and must complete all the requrements by graduation. 

Key Benefits of a Specialist High Skills Major 

Pursuing an SHSM helps students to: 

  • tailor their high school education to their interests and talents
  • develop specialized knowledge and skills
  • explore a variety of careers, including those in the skilled trades
  • gain sector-recognized certifications
  • get career-relevant training
  • engage in STEM-related activities that develop innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship
  • identify, explore and refine career goals
  • make informed decisions about their future

What SHSM Programs are Offered in RRDSB Schools?

  • Fort Frances High School:
    • Arts and Culture
    • Business
    • Health and Wellness
    • Manufacturing
  • Northern Lakes K-12 School:
    • Environment
    • Hospitality and Tourism
  • Rainy River High School:
    • Environment
    • Hospitality and Tourism
    • Health and Wellness (pending Ministry approval to start in 2025-26)

Enrolling in SHSM:

An SHSM is a 2-year program that occurs in a student's grade 11 and 12 years, and requires specialized timetabling to ensure they get the required courses.
Students planning to participate in a SHSM should indicate their interest to a Guidance counsellor during course selections of their grade 10 year, and confirm their interest and participation once they start grade 11 in September. 
Once they are enrolled in an SHSM, students will be provided with information about the program from a lead teacher, who will help ensure they will have opportunities to complete all the requirements before graduation.

To find out more:

Ask your Guidance counsellor or principal about SHSM programs at your school.
For more detailed information about SHSM from the Ministry of Education, including specific requirements for each sector:
Specialist High Skills Major - Ministry of Education site

  

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