PHS Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) in Sports

SHSM – What is it and how does it work? video

SHSM Sport Slideshow

Ministry of Education’s SHSM Sports page

SHSM Sports Brochure

Get a jump-start on a possible career​

A Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) allows you to focus on a career area that interests you while you earn your high school diploma. No matter what education you plan to pursue after high school—apprenticeship, college, university or workplace training—a Specialist High Skills Major can help you focus on a future career. 

The Sport sector includes the following components

  • a specific bundle of 8 – 10 high school courses in grade 11 and 12 tailored to the career you want to pursue
  • the chance to work with industry leaders and experience training related to sports
  • recognition on your high school diploma
  • participation in a Reach-Ahead activity and Career exploration activity
  • completion of 3 additional certificates in a variety of areas, such as event planning, working with individuals with disabilities, instructor certification, and leadership skills
  • participation in a Sector Partnered Conceptualized Learning experience with a community partner in the sport economic sector 
  • review the SHSM Sport Registration Form to see the bundle of courses for a SHSM in Sports

What students are eligible for the SHSM in Sports?

Grade 11 and 12 students who are:

  • heading for an apprenticeship, training, college, university or the workplace.
  • wanting to identify, explore and refine their career goals and make informed choices about their next steps after secondary school.

Students have the opportunity to:

  • Gain important skills such as Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurial training on the job with actual employers through Co-op, skills training centres, and school
  • Earn valuable certifications, including first aid and CPR qualifications, and National Coaching Certification Program (NCCP) Certificates,
  • Participate in a variety of hands-on experiential programs in the Sport sector including professional sports experiences, career forums, and leadership programs

When should students register for this program?

Grade 11 is the time to start, new participants can sign up in Grade 12 as well.  See your guidance counsellor to create a plan when in Grade 10. There are many components of SHSM.   Take PLF4MI and Coop in your Grade 11 or 12 high school year. Expect that your coop placement will be in a Sports related career field.