SHSM ARTS & CULTURE
TAKE YOUR LOVE OF THE ARTS
AND LEARNING TO A NEW LEVEL
WITH AN SHSM ARTS AND CULTURE
RED SEAL DIPLOMA.
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.