Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)

A Specialized High Skills Major (SHSM) allows students to customize their secondary school experience to fit career interests.

Offered in Grade 11 and 12, an SHSM allows students to receive a specialized secondary school diploma that is recognized in various economic sectors in all four pathways.

What does a SHSM look like?

A SHSM is a bundle of 8 to 10 Grade 11 and Grade 12 credits that include two experiential learning (co-op) credits.

What do you get by taking a SHSM?

• Sector-recognized certifications and training
• Real work experience
• Learning experiences connected with post-secondary opportunities
• Skills and work habits required for employment success

The Communication Technology SHSM provides students with a strong foundation for a wide variety of careers in the cinematography industry. Students focus on storyboarding, composition, editing, script writing, filming and directing as well as the process of making a video from start to finish

“I like that the Communication Technology program teaches me everything I need to bring all my ideas to life and encourages my creativity.” 
Cole Weber, former SCS student

Benefits of the Communication Technology Program

• Learn use of professional equipment and software
• Learn essential skills for careers in the cinematography industry
• Reach-ahead opportunities available including trips to tour different facilities, recording studios, broadcasting departments and trade shows
• Gain specific training and certifications in the industry

The Construction SHSM provides students with a strong foundation for a wide variety of careers in the construction sector.

“The SHSM program was a great experience and gives students who are pursuing a trade career an advantage. I feel confident that the extra training received in high school will serve me well in the future.” 
Carter Kendrick, SHSM Graduate

Benefits of the Construction Program

• Customize their secondary school education to suit their interests and talents 
• Develop specialized knowledge and skills 
• Earn credits that post-secondary educational institutions and the sector recognize 
• Gain sector-recognized certification and career-relevant training 
• Develop essential skills and work habits