Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)

Program Overview

This Construction SHSM program at Georgetown District High School (GDHS) is designed to support all students interested in learning more about careers related to the construction industry. The construction industry is very diverse and offers the opportunity to participate in all sorts of projects. Whether your interest is in design, equipment operation, project management, hands on construction or finish work this program will provide insight into future opportunities and a chance to develop skills and earn sector related certifications. At GDHS, students have the opportunity to focus their SHSM training related to cabinetmaking, construction or architecture / design. GDHS also runs a concentrated OYAP program in construction that students may enroll in.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Trips to various organizations such as construction or heavy equipment
• Presentations related to different careers within the sector such as architect, cabinet maker or framer
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Design and develop construction projects
• Participate in a Skills Canada competition

Related Careers

• Architect
• Bricklayer / Stonemason
• Building Inspector
• Carpenter/Cabinetmaker
• Construction Worker
• Civil Engineer / Technician / Technologist
• Contractor & Supervisor
• Interior Designer
• Landscape Designer
• Mechanical Engineer
• Residential Home Builder or Renovator

Certifications & Training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid and WHMIS
• Basic Health & Safety
• Portfolio Development
• Working at Heights
• Lock Out / Tag Out Safety
• Customer Service
• CAD / CAM Certification
• Chainsaw Safety
• Fall Protection

Credits

Course Package

Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 - 10 credits. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in the Construction sector.

The Bundle Includes:

• 4 “major” credits related to construction in grade 11 and 12
• Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to learn the subject in the context of the construction sector):
  > 1 Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  > 1 Grade 11 or 12 Business Studies or Science credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to experience life in the construction sector

Contact

Cam Slessor at slessorc@hdsb.ca

Program Overview

The manufacturing sector, with its production of consumer and industrial goods, accounts for the greatest number of jobs in Ontario. Automobiles, petroleum, electricity iron and steel mills, and primary and fabricated metal products are all aspects of the manufacturing sector. Ontario’s manufacturing industry generates $270 billion in annual sales and accounts for 18% of the province’s GDP, employing over 12% of Ontario’s total workforce. The SHSM in manufacturing provides students with a strong foundation for a wide variety of careers in the manufacturing sector. The different components of the program will provide students the opportunity to gain qualifications, develop transferable and trade specific skills, and learn about various options in this large employment sector. Georgetown District High School offers the manufacturing program with a focus on welding.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Trips to various organizations such as manufacturing facilities or welding fabricators
• Presentations related to different careers within the sector
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Design and develop a manufacturing project
• Fabricate a variety of structures
• Tour of a range of manufacturing enterprises
• Participate in Skills Canada competition

Related Careers

• Instrumentation and Controls Technician
• Machinist
• Manufacturing Engineer
• Metal Fabricator
• Millwright (Industrial Mechanic)
• Production Worker
• Quality Process Engineer
• Robotics Engineer
• Welder

Certifications & Training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid
• WHMIS
• Canadian Welding Bureau (flat)
• CAD / CAM
• Fire Safety & Fire Extinguisher Use
• Health & Safety (basic)
• Hoisting & Rigging
• Leadership Skills
• Working at Heights

Credits 

Course Package

Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 - 10 credits. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in the manufacturing sector. 

The Bundle Includes:

• 4 “major” credits in manufacturing, robotics & engineering (dependent on pathway)
• Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to learn the subject in the context of the Manufacturing sector):
  > 1/2 Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  > 1 Grade 11 or 12 Science credit
  depending on pathway
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to
  experience life in the manufacturing
  sector

Contact

Paul Barnes at barnesp@hdsb.ca 

Program Overview

Environment SHSM is a program designed to develop environmental awareness while fostering leadership skills and healthy lifestyles. The Specialist High Skills Major is a ministry-approved specialized program that allows students to focus their learning on a specific economic sector while meeting the requirements for the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD). This SHSM will inspire young people, build their confidence and help to improve our environment. Field trips will provide unique opportunities for hands on learning and a chance to foster connections with professionals within their field and in the community. Students participate in certification and training opportunities which can lead to accreditation that is helpful in obtaining employment and gaining entrance to competitive postsecondary education programs and the job market.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Trips to various environment related organizations and associations
• Presentations related to different careers within the sector
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education
  credits
• Trips to colleges and universities
• Complete experiences related to math, coding or the design thinking process related to the environment sector
• Attend camping, tree planting and other outdoor excursions

Related Careers

• Canoeing Guide/Outfitter
• Chemical Engineer
• Conservation Officer
• Energy Consumption Consultant
• Environmental/Geological Engineer
• Hydrologist
• Landscaping and Grounds
• Maintenance Workers
• Mapping and Related Technologist/Technician
• Nursery Worker
• Silviculture and Forestry Workers

Certifications & Training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid and WHMIS
• Compass / Map Global Positioning Systems (GPS)
• Species Identification
• Geographic Information System (GIS)
• Leadership Skills
• Wilderness Survival
• Working at Heights
• Leave No Trace
• Pleasure Craft Operator
• Introduction to stream assessment protocol

Credits

Course Package

Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 - 10 credits. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in the environment sector. 

The Bundle Includes:

• 4 “major” credits related to environment in Grade 11 and 12
• Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to learn the subject in the context of the environment sector):
  > 1 Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  > 1 Grade 11 or 12 Science, Business Studies
  or Social Sciences credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to
  experience life in the environment sector

Contact

Dwight Norgaard at norgaardd@hdsb.ca or Isabel McLelland at mclellandi@hdsb.ca 

Program Overview

The Hospitality & Tourism SHSM program gives students an opportunity to specialize, gain qualifications, and prepare for a career in the hospitality and / or tourism industry. Employment opportunities include restaurants, hotels, theatres, golf courses, spas, sporting venues and many other types of tourism & hospitality related businesses. This program has various components, including industry recognized certifications, designed to give students a “leg up” in their future pathway. Whether a student is entering the workforce, completing an apprenticeship, or attending college or university, a SHSM graduate has the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the Hospitality & Tourism sector.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Trips to various organizations such as food production facilities, restaurants, theatres and production companies
• Presentations related to different careers within the sector
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Create and prepare various food dishes or participate in school performances
• Participate in Skills Canada competition or Theatre competitions

Related Careers

• Baker / Chef / Cook
• Banquet Manager
• Butcher
• Cruise ship actor/singer/
  dancer/musician
• Dietician
• Entertainment Concierge or Director
• Event Planner
• Food & Beverage Manager
• Food Scientist
• Guest Services Representative
• Stage Manager 

Certifications & Training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard
  First Aid / WHMIS
• Customer Service
• Advanced Training in a Technique
• Event Coordination
• Fire Safety & Fire Extinguisher Use
• Food Handler Certification
• Guest Services
• Leadership Skills
• Portfolio Development
• Safe Food Handling

Credits

Course package

Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 - 10 credits. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in the hospitality and entertainment sector. 

The Bundle Includes:

• 4 “major” credits related to hospitality and
  entertainment
• Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to learn the subject in the context of the hospitality and entertainment sector):
  - 1 Grade 12 English credit
  - 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  - 1 Grade 11 or 12 Science, Business Studies credit
  - 2 Cooperative Education credits to experience life in this sector

Applying to the Hospitality & Tourism SHSM

All students in Halton are able to attend the Hospitality & Tourism SHSM at Georgetown District High School in Grade 11 and Grade 12. Each student’s goals will be assessed and course selection will be determined based on their needs. Students may choose to select courses that involve both hospitality and performance or may decide to focus on one of these areas. 

Contact

Paul Mitchell (Hospitality) at mitchellp@hdsb.ca

Program Overview

The Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services SHSM is designed to help students prepare and develop the skills necessary for pursuing careers in these areas. In these very competitive programs, it is critical that students demonstrate a commitment to their community at large and a genuine concern for others. Postsecondary institutions and recruiting officers are looking for individuals that have a broad range of experiences and skills that set them apart from others. Through the Justice, Community Safety & Emergency Services SHSM students will be exposed to many opportunities and challenges that extend beyond the classroom experience.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Trips to various JCSES related organizations and associations such as fire station, correctional facility, hospitals and regional buildings
• Observe presentations related to different careers within the sector
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Attend trips to colleges and universities
• Complete experiences related to math, coding or the design thinking process related to the JCSES sector

Related Careers

• Air Traffic Controller
• Correctional Officer
• Court Clerk
• Fire Fighter
• Lawyer
• Paralegal
• Paramedic
• Police Officer
• Security Management Specialist

Certifications & Training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid / WHMIS
• Conflict Resolution
• Customer Service
• Ethical Consideration
• Fire Safety & Fire Extinguisher Use
• Leadership Skills
• Legal Terminology
• Mental Health Awareness
• Pleasure Craft Operator
• Self Defense 
• Working at Heights

Credits

Course Package

Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 - 10 credits. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in the justice, community safety and emergency services sector.

The Bundle Includes: 

• 4 “major” credits related to justice, community safety and emergency services in grade 11 and 12
• Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to learn the subject in the context of the JCSES sector):
  > 1 Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  > 1 Grade 11 or 12 Science, Business Studies or Social Sciences credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to experience life in the JCSES sector

Contact

Joe Prokopec at prokopecj@hdsb.ca

Program Overview

The Sports SHSM at GDHS will allow students to build upon their leadership skills through specific sport learning opportunities and experiences. Activities will be geared towards developing important leadership qualities such as, but not limited to, building perseverance, decision making, creativity, commitment, and empathy. Community partners, teachers and fellow students will all work together to foster these important skills.

This SHSM will inspire young people, build their confidence and give back to their sport communities. Field trips will provide unique opportunities for hands-on learning and a chance to foster connections with professionals within their field and in the community. Students participate in certification and training opportunities which can lead to accreditation that is helpful in obtaining employment and gaining entrance to competitive postsecondary education programs and the job market.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Trips to various sports related businesses
• Presentations related to different careers within the sector 
• Plan and run various sports/athletic events within the school and community
• Promote healthy activity and wellness throughout the school and community
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Participate in workshops and training of various types and providers 

Related Careers

• Athletic Therapist
• Fitness/ Sports Instructor
• Health and Physical Ed. Teacher
• Kinesiologist
• Nutritionist
• Outdoor Recreational Guide
• Personal Trainer
• Recreation Facility Manager
• Special Events Coordinator
• Sports Marketer

Certifications & Training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid / WHMIS
• Concussion Awareness
• Customer Service
• Officiating and/or Instructor Certification
• Leadership Skills
• Personal Training
• Sport Nutrition
• Working with Individuals with Disabilities 
• Wrapping and Taping for Performance and Injury

Credits 

Course Package

Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 - 10 credits. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in the sports sector.

The Bundle Includes:

• 4 “major” credits related to sports in grade 11 and 12
•  Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to learn the subject in the context of the Sports sector):
  > 1 Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  > 1 Grade 11 or 12 Science, Business Studies
  or Social Sciences credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to
  experience life in the sports sector

Contact

Andrew Costley at costleya@hdsb.ca or Stacey McCormack at mccormacks@hdsb.ca 

Program Overview

The Transportation Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) aligns students with a strong broad base foundation in either the engineering, business, service, repair and modification of vehicles. Students in the Transportation SHSM are working towards an OSSD Diploma with an extra focus put on their chosen career path within the transportation sector (e.g. auto service technician, service manager, heavy equipment design, aviation engineer, parts clerk, emissions analyst, small business owner, marine installer, etc). Our goal is for students to have as many transportation-related classes, some of which contain Contextualized Learning Activities (CLA’s are extra emphasis units) which can be used toward post-secondary, universities, colleges, apprenticeships, or world of work opportunities - career pathways.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

• Trips to various transportation related businesses such as car dealers, car manufacturers, airports,
  heavy equipment organizations and military bases
• Presentations related to different careers within the sector
• Complete a minimum of 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Trips to colleges and/or universities
• Complete experiences related to math, coding or the design thinking process related to the transportation sector

Related Careers

• Automobile Salesperson
• Automotive Painter
• Automotive Service Technician
• Automotive/Mechanical Engineer
• Bus Driver, Subway Operator, and Truck Driver
• Heavy Equipment Operator/ Mechanic
• Motorcycle/Marine Technician
• Parts Technician/Manager
• Service/Logistics Manager
• Truck and Coach Technician
• Engine Rebuilder/Machinist

Certifications & Training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid
• Occupational Health & Safety
• Advanced Training in a Technique
• Ozone Depletion
• Pleasure Craft Operator
• Vehicle Lift Safety
• Professional Portfolio Development
• Transportation of Dangerous Goods
• Specialized Skills Training Program
• Electronic Scan Tools
• Fire Extinguisher Training
• WHMIS

Credits

Course Package

Each SHSM program offers students a bundle of 8 - 10 credits. These courses are regular Ontario secondary school courses that allow students to work towards their Ontario Secondary School Diploma, but have been bundled as the most relevant courses to prepare students for a future in the transportation sector. 

The Bundle Includes:

• 4 “major” credits related to transportation in grade 11 and 12
• Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to learn the subject in the context of the transportation sector):
  > 1 Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  > 1 Grade 11 or 12 Science, Business Studies
  or Social Sciences credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to
  experience life in the transportation sector

Contact

Rick Jarvie at jarvier@hdsb.ca