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Creative Media SHSM is a hands-on program for students who are curious, creative, and interested in how ideas turn into real-world media. Through courses in graphic design, photography, video, animation, and digital storytelling, students learn by doing—using industry-standard tools, working on real projects, and building skills that matter beyond the classroom. While earning their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, students also gain valuable certifications, explore career pathways, and develop confidence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for college, university, apprenticeships, or the workplace.
What Is an SHSM?
What Is an SHSM?
A Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a Ministry-approved program that allows students to focus their high school education on a specific sector while still earning their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). Students who complete all requirements graduate with a red SHSM seal on their diploma, signalling sector-specific skills, certifications, and real-world experience.
At Longfields Davidson Heights Secondary School (LDHSS), the ICT – Creative Media & Design SHSM prepares students for careers and postsecondary pathways in digital media, technology, design, animation, game development, and interactive content creation.
Why ICT – Creative Media & Design?
Why ICT – Creative Media & Design?
Today, nearly every industry relies on digital communication, media, and technology. This SHSM blends creativity and technical skills, helping students learn how ideas move from concept to production using modern tools and workflows.
Students gain experience in areas such as:
Video and media production
Graphic and digital design
Animation and motion graphics
Game development and Unreal Engine
Web design and UX/UI
Live event production and streaming
AI-supported creative tools and digital literacy
Experiential Learning & Co-op
Experiential Learning & Co-op
Students participate in:
Co-op placements with media, design, and tech partners
Workplace tours and job shadowing
Sector-Partnered Experiences (SPEs)
Guest speakers and hands-on workshops
LDHSS works with a wide range of partners including media studios, production companies, digital agencies, live-event organizations, and postsecondary institutions. This variety of partnerships allows students in all four pathways to benefit from experiential learning and career exploration.
Real-World Projects
Real-World Projects
ICT SHSM students actively support the school and community by creating:
Promotional videos and livestreams
Event graphics, tickets, and signage
Robotics and engineering showcase media
Theatre production visuals and technical support
Culinary event branding and photography
Athletic highlight reels and coverage
These experiences mirror real industry workflows and build confidence, teamwork, and leadership.
SHSM Major Courses
SHSM Major Courses
Students in the ICT – Creative Media & Design SHSM complete hands-on major courses in Grades 11 and 12 that develop creative, technical, and digital skills. These project-based courses use industry-standard tools and real-world workflows, allowing students to build portfolios and gain practical experience.
Major courses support all postsecondary pathways—Apprenticeship, College, University, and Workplace—and align closely with co-op placements, certifications, and experiential learning opportunities. No prior experience is required; students develop skills progressively through guided instruction and real-world projects.
TGG3M/4M - Graphic Design
TGI3M/4M - Animation and/or 3D Game Development
TGP3M/4M - Digital Photography
TGV3M/4M - Video Production
ICS3U/4U - Computer Science
ICS3C/4C - Computer Science
Some of our Certifications
CPR
WHIMIS
Portfolio Development
Working at Heights
Recording Equipment/ Lights and Sound
Adobe Certified (ACA)
Unreal Engine Certification Exam
Industry Partners
Digitera Interactive
Barketing Solutions
Song Collaboration Studio
Vittual Roots
Coder Sports
Adobe Canada
Wall Sound Inc
College and University Partners
School of Information and Technology - Carleton University
Teaching and Learning Services - Carleton University
Algonquin Collage
How Do Students Join?
How Do Students Join?
Students typically enter the SHSM in Grade 11
Course planning support is provided through Guidance
Information sessions are held annually for students and families
Questions?
Questions?
If you have questions about the ICT – Creative Media & Design SHSM, please contact:
Guidance Department
SHSM Lead Teacher
Co-op Department
We are happy to discuss how this pathway can support your child’s interests and future goals.
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