A SHSM enables a student to focus on an area of interest that suits their talents and at the same time meet the diploma requirements, and prepare for transition to apprenticeship training, college, employment or university education.

The Five Components

1. The package of courses taken at school. These include the 4 “major” credits (two credits in the construction (including plumbing, or electrical) or one of the arts (including drama, media, music, guitar, visual or communication tech or design tech in grade 11 and 12) and the compulsory courses grade 12 English and grade 11 and 12 mathematics (a science or a business depending on which SHSM program) See the guidance for the exact courses required. You also must have cooperative education. These required courses will contain a unit that is delivered in the context of the sector of interest.
2. Sector-Recognized Certificates. These focus on safety awareness. This training will give students an advantage when entering the workforce. In the major students will be required to earn: Basic Safety, Standard First Aid, WHMIS, Fall Protection, CPR and at least two others.
3. Experiential Learning. These are short term planned learning experiences that will take place in the community. Students will gain workplace experience, awareness of sector-specific career opportunities, networking with employers and awareness of employability skills.
4. OSP. This is a website that provides the student with clear descriptions of skills and important work habits used in the sector. The OSP work plan can be used to identify and track a student’s demonstration of essential skills and work habits during their work experiences.
5. Reach Ahead. These experiences enable students to gain confidence in their ability to be successful, refine skills, and work habits and make an informed choice about future careers and next steps.

High Skill Major - Arts and Culture

High Skill Major - Construction