Bell HS

What is a Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)?
Students explore a career path that matches their skills, interests and talents while earning a Specialist Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD).  At Bell HS, we are offering a SHSM for Construction which may be of interest to students entering skilled trades through apprenticeships, diploma programs, or degree programs.  

Who is it for?
Grade 11 and 12 students can upgrade their OSSD while they try out the Construction sector through hands-on, industry specific experiential learning and see if it is the direction they want to take.  Students can express interest while they are still in Gr 10, but officially, you are not a SHSM student until Gr 11. 

What are the key benefits of SHSM? 

• Build Relevant Industry skills that could lead directly to employment or apprenticeship
• Gain sector experience through Co-op, while also accumulating apprenticeship hours
• Earn Industry Recognized Certifications for FREE 
• Workshops and learning from Industry partners;
• Unique field trips where you learn by doing in the field
• Reach Ahead Opportunities to earn Apprenticeship Level 1 Certification or college credits through  Dual Credit, or OYAP

What are the SHSM program requirements for Construction? 
Students receive the Specialist seal on their diploma when they:

• complete a specific bundle of 10 credits;  These courses include construction and technology courses

• earn valuable industry-recognized certifications (5 compulsory & electives); 
  
• gain important skills on the job through cooperative education placements in the construction sector.
  

What is the registration process?
If you are currently at student at Bell, speak to your guidance counselor, Mr Martin, or Ms Leyland about how to get involved!
If you are NOT a Bell HS students who wish to enroll in the Construction Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) program can do so through this SHSM Supplementary Option Sheet. Please contact your Guidance Counsellor to know about SHSM opportunities and for help with registration.

SHSM programs have limited enrolment. Students will be admitted on a priority basis in the following order: 

1. Currently a student at Bell HS
2. Neighbouring schools; and
3. Remaining schools in the OCDSB.