Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)

Program overview

The arts and culture sector offers opportunities for students to get inspired and use their unique skills and abilities to explore visual arts, drama and performance, technical theatre, media arts, design, dance, music, arts and technology and many other creative areas. Students who are interested in exploring their options related to the arts can take the Specialist High Skills Major program to engage in authentic learning and experiences that will be an asset for a future in the arts.

Experiential learning opportunities 

• Learn a variety of performance\ styles
• Participate in workshops with industry professionals
• Develop studio skills in a variety of traditional and emerging media
• Incorporate digital technologies into the creative process
• Develop transferable skills compatible with multiple pathways to all post-secondary destinations

Related careers

• Actor, Comedian or Dancer
• Animator, Graphic Artist, Designer, Illustrator or Technician
• Announcer, Broadcasters or Broadcast Technician
• Musician, Singer or Video Recording Technician
• Painters, Sculptors, and Other Visual Artists
• Producer, Director, Choreographer and Related Occupations
• Professional Occupations in Public Relations and Communications
• Theatre, Fashion, Exhibit, and Other Creative Designers 

Certifications and training

• CPR Level C / AED Training, Standard First Aid / WHMIS
• Communication Skills
• Costume Design
• Choreography in Dance Audition Preparation
• Customer Service
• Directing
• Electrical Safety Training
• Makeup and Hair Design
• Stage Combat
• Voice Training

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 arts and culture sector

The bundle includes:

• 4 “major” credits related to arts and culture 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 or 12 Business Studies or Canadian and World Studies credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to experience life in the arts and culture sector

Contact

Caitlin Ferrone at ferronec@hdsb.ca

Program overview

The business sector offers opportunities in finance, marketing, retail, real estate, human resources, management and budget-related careers in the other sectors of our economy. Students who are interested in exploring their options related to business can take the Specialist High Skills Major program to engage in learning and experiences that will be an asset for a future in business. This program is designed to help students develop their awareness of the diverse opportunities that are available in the broad field of business. This program will create authentic learning experiences, allowing students to refine, extend and apply business knowledge.

Experiential learning opportunities

• Trips to various business related organizations and associations
• Engage with entrepreneurs and other business professionals
• Observe presentations related to different careers within the sector
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Attend trips to colleges & universities
• Participate in DECA
• Complete experiences related to math, coding or the design thinking process related to the business sector

Related careers

• Accounting, Banking, Insurance, & Other Financial Clerks
• Assessor, Valuator & Appraiser
• Business Development Officer
• Marketing Researcher
• Entrepreneur
• Financial & Investment Analyst
• Adjuster and Claims Examiner
• Personnel and Recruitment Officer
• Retail and Wholesale Buyer
• Securities Agent, Dealer or Broker

Certification and training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid / WHMIS
• Customer Service
• Counterfeit Detection
• Leadership Skills
• Personality Inventory
• Effective Networking
• Specialized Business Program / Competition
• Business Etiquette 

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 business sector. 

The bundle includes:

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

Contact

Marcus Mossuto at mossutom@hdsb.ca

Program overview

This Electrical Construction SHSM program at M.M. Robinson is designed to support all students interested in learning more about careers related to the electrical construction industry. The electrical construction industry is very diverse and offers the opportunity to participate in all sorts of projects. Whether your interest is in electrical, energy, design, solar and equipment operation, project management, hands-on electrical construction, this program will provide insight into future opportunities and a chance to develop skills and earn sector related certifications. At M.M. Robinson students have the opportunity to focus their SHSM training related to construction with an electrical focus. M.M. Robinson also runs an electrical 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 electrician, security and fire alarm systems installer, construction worker or electrical engineer
• Complete 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Design and develop construction projects
• Participate in a Skills Canada competition

Related careers

• Construction Managers
• Electricians
• Electrical & Electronics Engineers
• Electrical Project Manager
• Electrical Technologist
• Industrial Maintenance Electrician
• Line Installers
• Power Plant Operators

Certification and training

• CPR Level C / AED Training & Standard First Aid / WHMIS
• Basic Health & Safety
• Portfolio Development
• Working at Heights
• Lock Out / Tag Out Safety
• Customer Service
• 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 electrical construction sector.

The bundle includes:

• 4 “major” credits related to electrical 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 electrical construction sector):
  > 1 Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 11 Math credit
  > 1 Grade 11 or 12 Physics credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to experience life in the construction sector

Students enrolled in this program also complete a Dual Credit course as part of the course offerings.

Contact

Carlo Crechiola at crechiolac@hdsb.ca or Mike Sydor at sydorm@hdsb.ca

Why consider Concentrated OYAP in Electrical?

• The Electrical Concentrated OYAP is specifically designed to help students make a smooth transition directly into their postsecondary Electrical apprenticeship
• The Electrical Concentrated OYAP is a dual credit program with Mohawk College, where students earn college credits and high school credits at the same time
• This program can also be completed as a Specialist High Skills Major

In the Electrical OYAP program, you may:

• Shorten your apprenticeship by receiving apprenticeship hours while being registered as an OYAP student in Cooperative Education
• Receive Fall Protection, Standard First Aid, Adult CPR, Young Worker Awareness and WHMIS certification
• Demonstrate skills and apprenticeship knowledge while in co-op with a potential employer, accelerating the hiring process
• Get a head-start on your program before leaving high school, instead of taking similar courses (and paying for those) offered at colleges or private vocational training facilities after high school 

How does this program work?

This program consists of 2 grade 11 and 2 grade 12 construction credits that have a focus on electrical and a minimum of 2 Cooperative Education credits. It is recommended that the student begin the concentrated OYAP in grade 12. Grade 12 math and grade 11 or 12 physics are both recommended before applying for this program.

Opportunities in the Electrical OYAP

You could find a very rewarding career as a Construction Maintenance Electrician, Industrial Electrician, Powerline Technician, Domestic or Rural Electrician, Fire Alarm Technician, Video Surveillance or Alarm Technician.

Apprenticeships

• Lets you earn money while you learn
   
• Are a combination of on-the-job training and College courses
   
• Allows you to be taught one-on-one by a Skilled Tradesperson

An apprenticeship contract is an agreement between the employer, the employee and the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development.

Information 

For information about Concentrated OYAP programs:

• Visit your Pathways Guidance contact
• Attend a Parent/Student Pathways Information Evening
• Visit a Concentrated OYAP facility to see the program in action
• Visit www.apprenticesearch.com/AboutTrades for more information about apprenticeship

To register go to: www.myblueprint.ca/halton or contact Mr. Crechiola at crechiolac@hdsb.ca 

Program overview

The manufacturing, engineering and robotics 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. M.M. Robinson offers the manufacturing, engineering and robotics program with an advanced manufacturing focus.

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 construction 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 and 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 and 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

Dave Hammel at hammeld@hdsb.ca

Why consider a Niagara College Concentrated OYAP
Hairstyling program at M.M Robinson High School?

• Hairstyling Concentrated OYAP is specifically designed to help secondary school students make a smooth transition to a career through college or Apprenticeship
• The Hairstylist OYAP program offers the Ministry of Labour Training and Skills Development curriculum for level 1 and 2 apprenticeship training
• Students may earn Niagara College credits while completing high school credits towards their apprenticeship 

In the Hairstylist OYAP program, students may:

• Shorten their apprenticeship by receiving apprenticeship hours while being registered as an OYAP Apprentice in Cooperative Education
• Earn the Level 1 and 2 apprenticeship training and Niagara College credits
• Transportation is available for students who live outside M.M. Robinson’s catchment area
• Start the program before you leave high school and earn credits towards your OSSD at the same time? Similar courses offered at colleges and private vocational training facilities can cost between $6,000 - $10,000.

How does this program work?

This program consists of 4 OYAP Hairstyling credits and a minimum of 2 Cooperative Education credits. It is recommended students complete at least one Hairstyling credit before applying for the Hairstylist OYAP program.

Opportunities in Hairstyling OYAP

You could find a very rewarding career in a salon, barber shop, or spa as a Hairstylist or an Aesthetician. Maybe you could even work in film or theatre! There are many exciting careers in this field!

Apprenticeship

• Earn money while you learn
• Will be taught one-on-one by a Licensed Hairstylist
• An apprenticeship contract is an agreement between the employer, the employee and the Ministry of Labour Training, and Skills Development

Information

For information about Concentrated OYAP programs:

• Visit your Pathways Guidance contact
• Attend a Parent/Student Pathways Information Evening
• Visit a Concentrated OYAP facility to see the program in action
• Visit www.apprenticesearch.com/AboutTrades for more information about apprenticeship.
• To register go to: www.myblueprint.ca/halton or contact Sherry Braine at braines@hdsb.ca 

Program overview

The demand for professionals in the healthcare sector in Ontario is rapidly increasing as Canada’s population ages. The Healthcare sector includes a wide variety of career opportunities and employs close to 2 million people across Canada. The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) Health & Wellness program prepares students to pursue occupations in a broad range of health and medical-related fields. 

Specialist High Skills Major programs offer first-hand experience and unique training in all four career pathway destinations: Apprenticeship, College, University and the Workplace. The SHSM program in health and wellness gives students an opportunity to specialize, gain qualifications and receive additional industry-related experiential learning opportunities through on-the-job placements and training within the healthcare sector.

Experiential learning opportunities

• Job-shadow health professionals
• Complete two Cooperative Education credits
• Get work experience in the healthcare sector
• Field trips to local college/ university campuses to experience anatomy or kinesiology labs
• Listen to guest speakers experiences as part of career exploration

Related careers 

• Fitness Instructor
• Reflexology
• Naturopath
• Child & Youth Worker
• Medical Assistant
• Nurse
• Personal Support Worker
• Physical Therapist or Therapy Assistant
• Sports Massage Therapist
• Strength and Conditioning (S&C) Coach

Certifications and training

• CPR Level C / AED Training / Standard First Aid / WHMIS
• Infection Control
• Child Safety and Injury Prevention
• Coaching Level 1 Theory
• Communication Skills Certificate
• Complementary & Alternative Healthcare
• Conflict Resolution
• Group Dynamics Training
• NCCP - Initiation in Sport
• Personal Fitness Trainer Certificate
• 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 health and wellness sector.

The bundle includes:

• 4 “major” credits in health science and wellness in grade 11 and 12, which focus on health and medical theory with an emphasis in health sciences and includes anatomy, physiology, kinesiology and biology
• Supporting credits, which include Contextualized Learning Activities (opportunities for students to
  learn the subject in the context of the health and wellness sector):
  > Grade 12 English credit
  > 1 Grade 12 Math credit
  > Grade 11 Chemistry or Physics or Grade 12 Nutrition Science and Health credit
  > 2 Cooperative Education credits to experience life in the healthcare sector

Contact

Michael Defalco at defalcom@hdsb.ca or Kaitlyn Teszeri at teszerik@hdsb.ca 

Why consider Concentrated OYAP in Transportation?

• The Transportation Concentrated OYAP is specifically designed to help students make a smooth transition directly into their post-secondary Transportation apprenticeship
• The Transportation OYAP students may complete their first level of automotive apprenticeship theory training then challenge the exemption exam
• This program can be completed in conjunction with the Specialist High Skills Major Program (SHSM)
• May shorten the apprenticeship term by working towards your Ministry appointed Competency Book and Apprenticeship Hours while in high school

In the Transportation OYAP program, you may:

• Demonstrate skills and apprenticeship knowledge through a co-op placement with a potential employer, accelerating the hiring process
• Receive Standard First Aid, Adult CPR, Young Worker Awareness with a WHMIS certification
• Get a head-start on your program before leaving high school, instead of taking similar courses (and paying for those) offered at colleges or private vocational training facilities after high school

How does this program work?

This program takes 2 semesters to complete. In the first semester, you will take a minimum of 2 grade 11 Transportation credits plus an additional 2 other credits. In the second semester, you will take 2 grade 12 Transportation credits plus 2 Cooperative Education credits in your area of specialty.

Opportunities in Transportation OYAP

You could find a very rewarding career as a mechanic or technician working on cars, planes, motorcycles, small engines, trucks, coaches or heavy equipment.

Apprenticeship

• Lets you earn money while you learn
• Are a combination of on-the-job training and College courses
• Allows you to be taught one-on-one by a Skilled Tradesperson
• An apprenticeship contract is an agreement between the employer, the employee and the Ministry of Labour, Training and Skills Development

Information 

For information about Concentrate OYAP programs:

• Visit your Pathways Guidance contact
• Attend a Parent/Student Pathways Information Evening
• Visit a Concentrated OYAP facility to see the program in action
• Visit www.apprenticesearch.com/AboutTrades for more information about apprenticeship 
• To register go to: www.myblueprint.ca/halton or contact Joe Cannella at cannellaj@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 which include extra emphasis on Contextualized Learning Activities (CLA’s) that can be used toward postsecondary, universities, colleges, apprenticeships or world of work career pathways. M.M. Robinson also runs a concentrated OYAP program in transportation that students may enroll in.

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 2 Cooperative Education credits
• Trips to colleges and 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/Driver Manager
• Truck and Coach Technician

Certifications and training

• CPR Level C
• AED Training & Standard First Aid
• WHMIS
• Occupational Health & Safety
• Ozone Depletion Prevention Certificate
• Vehicle Lift Safety
• Fire Extinguisher Use

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

Joe Cannella at cannellaj@hdsb.ca or Brittany Doyle at doyleb@hdsb.ca