The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a specialized, ministry-approved program that allows students in Grades 11 and 12 to focus their learning on a specific economic sector while meeting the requirements of the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).

The SHSM program assists students in their transition from secondary school to apprenticeship training, college, university, or the workplace.

This program enables students to gain sector-specific skills and knowledge in engaging, career-related learning environments and to prepare in a focused way for graduation and postsecondary education, training, or employment.

• Specific Bundle of Credits- Grade 11 & 12 Courses

• Co-operative Education Placement

• Certifications & Trainings

• Reach Ahead Opportunities- sector specific

• Sector Specific Partnered Experiences in Math, Coding or ICE (Innovation, Creativity & Entrepreneurship) 

• Customize their secondary school education to suit their strengths, interests and abilities;

• Develop specialized knowledge and skills;

• Earn post-secondary and sector recognized credits;

• Gain sector-recognized certification and career-relevant training (e.g. CPR, and First Aid);

• Develop valuable transferable skills;

• Identify, explore and refine career goals and make informed decisions about their future; and,

• Remain flexible, with the option to shift between pathways, should their goals and plans change.

At Nottawasaga Pines we offer two SHSM programs; Health & Wellness and Hospitality & Tourism. We have over 50 students enrolled in the programs this year. We continuously add new students to the programs based on demand and the strong desire to be a part of SHSM.

Students have been engaged in a variety of exciting activities contributing not only to SHSM programming requirements, but also providing personal growth and development opportunities. Here are a few of the opportunities that NPSS SHSM students have been completing this year:

• Nursing Programs & Opportunities

• Career Forum- Toronto Marlies

• Organic Farming Field Trip- Sustainable Foods & Farming

• Standard First Aid & CPR Training

• Guest & Virtual Experienced Chef's in the Industry

• Wellness Ambassador Program

• Treetop Trekking

• Addiction Awareness Week

• Mental Health Awareness

• Behavior Management Training

• Tiffin Conservation Centre

• Various workshops focusing on: Group Dynamics, Leadership Skills, Customer Service, Infection Control, Project Management, Communication, and Mental Health Awareness