The SHSM program allows students the opportunity to focus their learning on a specific area or industry. If the student is successful in meeting the SHSM requirements a special designation is awarded on their Ontario Secondary Diploma. The areas or sectors currently offered at Holy Cross are:

• Arts and Culture
• Construction
• Health and Wellness
• Horticulture/Landscaping
• Hospitality and Tourism
• Non-Profit
• Transportation (Automotive)

The SHSM program offers students the opportunity to acquire the skills and expertise that will assist them in all four of the post-secondary pathways- apprenticeship, college, university and workplace. The components are area/industry specific but include required “bundled credits”, two cooperative education credits in that area, sector recognized certifications and / or training sessions, area specific “reach ahead” experiences and the earning of the Ontario Skills Passport (OSP).

See https://www.ontario.ca/page/specialist-high-skills-major for more information from the Ministry of Education of Ontario.