SHSM ARTS & CULTURE

ABOUT OUR ARTS & CULTURE SPECIALIST HIGH SKILLS MAJOR

The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a specialized program that allows students to focus their learning towards their interests and talents, while gaining credits toward their Ontario Secondary School Diploma. Upon completion, SHSM Arts students graduate with a red seal on their diploma.

BENEFITS OF A SPECIALIST HIGH SKILLS MAJOR

Pursuing an SHSM can help students:

• customize their high school education to suit their interests and talents
• develop specialized knowledge and skills
• earn credits that postsecondary educational institutions and employers recognize
• earn industry certifications like first aid and CPR qualifications
• gain sector-recognized certification and career-relevant training
• engage in STEM-related activities that develop innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship
• identify, explore and refine career goals and make informed decisions about their future
• transition after graduation to apprenticeship training, college, university or the workplace

GRADUATING WITH AN SHSM

Students who successfully complete an SHSM receive:

• an Ontario Secondary School Diploma with an embossed SHSM seal
• an SHSM record documenting their achievement
• formal recognition on their Ontario Student Transcript

SHSM BY GRADE

Grade 9 & 10:

• Before course registration for the grade 11 year (usually in January), students speak to guidance to complete an application for the Arts & Culture SHSM.
• They can speak to their arts teacher about their interest in the program as early as grade 9.

Grade 11 & 12:

• SHSM students begin to specialize, taking the appropriate courses (as explained through guidance).
• Students engage in reach-ahead and experiential learning activities in conjunction with community partners (guest speakers/field trips/etc.).
• Co-op placement in a field of interest related to the arts discipline.