To all educators, you are absolute rockstars making a significant difference in students’ lives every day. We understand and deeply appreciate that you are already going above and beyond to deliver the SHSM program.
One of the reasons we provide full autonomy in customizing our program is so you can seamlessly integrate it with your SHSM sector experiences. While it provides a standard model, you have full autonomy to customize it to fit SHSM requirements, sector, and student needs. Personalize it and make it your own. We’re here to support you and your incredible efforts!
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The Playbook is designed for SHSM Leads (Award Leaders) to guide students through both SHSM and the Award. From Month 1, students can start both programs in tandem. If they don’t have a SHSM-specific activity for a section, they can use what they’re already doing—and when SHSM overlaps, it’s a bonus for their learning! For example, community service hours for graduation can count toward the Award’s Voluntary Service section. Whether it’s a robotics team or something outside your SHSM focus, it all works if it meets the 7 Elements of the Award Canada Way.
This is an exciting and unique pilot program. Together, we’ll be learning from the experience, gathering feedback, and refining it as we explore ways to better support your needs as educators.
Award Delivery At-a-Glance
Before you begin, depending on who will be the Award Coordinator, please refer to the Award-SHSM Management Playbook for a pre-delivery checklist.
Note: Level One training is an internationally recognized training, standardized across the world. It is asynchronous and takes approximately 2 hours to complete. There is also a more advanced Level Two training, which is conducted online and typically lasts around 4 hours. While both trainings are mandatory for the Award Coordinator (Board-Level Coordinator), the Award Leader (SHSM Lead) is only required to complete Level One.
SHSM Lead = Award Leader (delivers the Award). Board level/SHSM Coordinator = Award Centre Coordinator (manages the Award Centre).
Award Delivery Calendar Complete list of resourcesMonth 1-2: Award and SHSM Start-Up
Welcome to the exciting launch phase of your SHSM Award journey! Month 1 of the Playbook is when students begin their SHSM, and at the same time, they can start the Award. Over the next few months, you’ll be setting up and managing key elements of the Award. Leverage the resources available to streamline the process and ensure a smooth setup. Remember, you’re not alone—our team is here to support you every step of the way as you integrate the Award into SHSM and prepare for a rewarding and transformative experience!
Month 3-4: Midpoint Milestones and Adventurous Journey
Welcome to the next phase of your SHSM Award journey! As you move forward, focus on crucial elements like the Adventurous Journey. In addition, monitor participant progress by having students regularly update their activity logs on the ORB after each SHSM training experience. This period is crucial for ensuring participants remain committed to their chosen activities, aiming to support participants in overcoming challenges and celebrating achievements thus far. We’re here to support you as you guide students through these important milestones!
Month 5: Qualifying Journey and Continue Monitoring Progress
In Month 5, the focus shifts to completing the Qualifying Journey (QJ) and continuing to monitor participants’ progress. If participants have not yet completed their QJ during months 3-4, this is the recommended time to schedule and finalize it. In addition, maintaining regular oversight of participant progress remains key, ensuring they are consistently logging activities in the Online Record Book (ORB).
Month 6: Celebration Planning and Initiate Award Submission
As your students draw near to their conclusion of their journey with SHSM and the Award, it’s a time for celebration. This phase is dedicated to honouring the perseverance, achievements, and personal growth each participant has demonstrated.
In planning your celebration, aim to highlight the individual and collective milestones achieved that allow everyone’s experiences to be shared. This celebration is not just an end, but a bridge to future adventures, encouraging participants to reflect on their learnings and how they can be applied in their continuing journey of self-discovery and development.
Month 7: Finalizing Award Completion and Transitioning to the Next Level
Completing the Award journey is an exciting milestone, and it’s also an opportunity to prepare participants for what comes next. This stage focuses on ensuring all requirements are met, guiding participants through the submission process, and celebrating their achievements. It’s also the perfect time to help them transition to the next level, offering resources and encouragement to continue building on the skills and experiences they’ve gained.
When the time comes to celebrate according to what you planned, take the opportunity to honor participants’ Award journeys. Acknowledge their hard work, express gratitude to your team, and reflect on the impact of this transformative experience.