Activity Zone

Specialist High Skills Major (Ontario SHSM)

Design Your Own Award with SHSM

Celebrate your SHSM sector pathway! Take your SHSM diploma to a national level by setting goals and reflecting on your experiences to build your portfolio with Award Canada.

Get started here FAQ For Educators Ontario Co-Curricular Pilot Launch Letter

Throughout your SHSM experience you will have the opportunity to also earn your

 

Portfolio Certification

Leadership Certification

Project Management Certification

Advanced Training in a Technology Certification

Note: Participation in these certifications is entirely optional. As a teacher, you have the flexibility to provide one, two, all, or none of these certifications based on student experiences, tailored to the unique interests and goals of your SHSM sectors.

Why link Award Canada with SHSM?

  • Get recognized for what you’re already doing through SHSM. Use the ‘Does Your Activity Count?’ resource to see if your activities meet the 7 elements—if they do, they count and are enriched through the Award Canada Way

  • Earn a prestigious, internationally recognized accreditation that enhances your appeal to colleges, universities, and employers.

  • Gain additional SHSM certifications through the Award.

  • Enjoy flexibility by choosing activities that align with your interests and setting your own goals.

  • Continue pursuing your Award even if you can’t complete your SHSM course bundle, celebrating your learning achievements.

  • Reflective learning deepens your understanding of your experiences and skills.

  • Boost your resume with both SHSM and the Award for a competitive edge in jobs, scholarships, and post-secondary applications.

  • Develop key skills like problem-solving and leadership to thrive in the ever-changing job market.

  • Network with alumni worldwide for collaboration opportunities.

  • Receive individualized feedback from adult mentors throughout the Award journey. This approach, backed by positive youth development research, emphasizes that strong relationships with mentors fosters personal growth and success. 

  • Access tools to translate your Award skills into assets for your career, education, or personal growth, including resume and cover letter templates, reference resources, interview tips, and more.

Select your SHSM sector to get started…

Please note: The examples provided are just suggestions and do not need to be followed exactly. If your specific SHSM sector is not listed, that’s okay—these are simply ideas to inspire you. The Award is fully customizable to fit your SHSM program, and as an educator, you have the autonomy to tailor the Award-SHSM combination to meet your students’ needs. Feel free to adapt and personalize the experience! View our original Activity Zone for other ideas.

Agriculture SHSM

Are you working towards the Agriculture SHSM Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Construction SHSM

Are you registered to earn your SHSM Construction Red Seal Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Environment SHSM

Are you registered to earn the Environment SHSM Red Seal Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Aviation and Aerospace SHSM

Are you pursuing the Aviation and Aerospace SHSM Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Horticulture and Landscaping SHSM

Are you working towards the Horticulture and Landscaping SHSM Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Hospitality and Tourism SHSM

Are you registered to earn the Hospitality & Tourism SHSM Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Information and Communications Technology SHSM

Are you registered to earn the Information and Communications Technology SHSM Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Manufacturing SHSM

Are you registered to earn the Manufacturing SHSM Ontario Diploma?

Get started here
Transportation SHSM

Are you registered to earn the Transportation SHSM Ontario Diploma?

Get started here

FAQ for Student Participants and Parents

Joining the Award alongside your SHSM program is not just about getting recognized for your hard work—it’s also about having a blast with your friends! Imagine earning a prestigious, internationally recognized accreditation while diving into exciting activities that you love. You’ll get to choose your own adventures, set personal goals, and gain additional SHSM certifications along the way. 

Even if you can’t complete your SHSM course bundle, you can keep pursuing your Award and celebrate all your learning achievements! Plus, the reflective learning process helps you understand and appreciate your experiences and skills even more. 

With both SHSM and the Award on your resume, you’ll stand out to colleges, universities, and future employers. You’ll also develop awesome skills like problem-solving and leadership, network with a worldwide community of alumni, and receive personalized feedback from supportive adult mentors. So gather your friends, dive into new experiences, and have fun while building a future full of opportunities! 

For more details, view our brochure here or Activity Zone above examples of how to connect SHSM to the Award framework. 

No, not all activities in the Award sections need to be part of your SHSM. While all SHSM activities can be utilized for the Award, participants have the flexibility to engage in other activities as well. If a participant doesn’t have a specific SHSM activity for a section or is interested in something else they’re already doing—whether it’s during school, with friends, or in their own time—they can use those activities as part of their Award journey, as long as it follows the 7 Elements of the Award Canada Way. 

This flexibility allows participants to tailor their experiences to their interests and passions, enriching their learning and ensuring they stay engaged throughout the process. Whether it’s a hobby, sport, community service, or any other pursuit, participants can showcase their skills and achievements in a way that resonates with them. 

Absolutely! The integration of SHSM activities into the Award is a core component of this pilot program. Most SHSM activities can be co-facilitated and logged for the Award, allowing students to reflect on their SHSM experiences individually in the Online Record Book (ORB). This dual recognition ensures that students can maximize their efforts in both programs, leveraging their SHSM certifications and projects as valid contributions toward their Award achievements. This synergy enhances the overall learning experience and provides students with a comprehensive skill set that is highly regarded by post-secondary institutions and employers.

All SHSM sectors can align with the Award. However, if a student does not have a SHSM activity for a particular Award section, the Award encourages the use of other activities that students are already involved in. This includes school activities, extracurricular interests, or community engagements. The flexibility of the Award allows students to explore various avenues to meet the requirements, ensuring that they can still achieve their goals without feeling restricted. This approach promotes creativity and personal growth, allowing students to tailor their experiences to their unique interests and circumstances.

Encouraging your child to participate in the Award alongside their SHSM program is a fantastic way to enhance their educational experience while having fun with friends! The Award not only allows them to gain recognition for their hard work but also helps them build a prestigious, internationally recognized accreditation that colleges, universities, and employers highly value. 

By participating in the Award, your child can choose activities that resonate with their interests, ensuring they stay engaged and excited about their learning journey. They can integrate their existing SHSM activities, which means they can build on what they’re already doing. This flexibility allows them to continue pursuing the Award even if they can’t complete their SHSM course bundle, ensuring they celebrate their learning achievements. 

Moreover, the Award encourages reflective learning, which helps your child deepen their understanding of their experiences and develop essential skills like problem-solving and leadership. They’ll have the opportunity to collaborate and connect with their friends while taking on new challenges, making it a more enjoyable and social experience. 

Additionally, your child will benefit from networking with a global community of alumni, gaining valuable connections for their future. With ongoing support from adult mentors, they will receive personalized feedback that fosters their growth and success. By encouraging them to take on this challenge, you’re not just supporting their academic goals; you’re helping them build a brighter future filled with opportunities, friendships, and unforgettable experiences! 

For more details, view our brochure here. 

For Educators and Integrating SHSM with the Award

Educators interested in participating in the pilot program should reach out to Laura Briscoe, Education Consultant, for more information, at lbriscoe@dukeofed.org.

Get in touch here Download our brochure here

Resources supporting the Award Delivery

As an SHSM lead or SHSM System Coordinnator, the following resources are your guides to successfully deliver the Award. The SHSM Award Delivery Playbook is your guide to support your students to achieve the Award through an academic year. The SHSM Award Management Playbook is your guide to properly manage the Award Delivery within your School Board or school.

SHSM Award Delivery Playbook SHSM Award Management Playbook

The Award complements the SHSM program by adding a reflective element, internationally recognized accreditation, and personalized learning opportunities for students, allowing them to align their SHSM activities with their career goals. Additionally, students earn both SHSM certifications through the Award and the Award’s accreditation, which further enhances their appeal to colleges, universities, and employers. Many of the activities students complete for SHSM can count toward the Award, reducing the need for additional work while enhancing the SHSM experience. 

For teachers, the benefits go beyond the classroom. Integrating the Award into SHSM promotes Enhanced Student Engagement by extending learning beyond academic tasks, boosting student enthusiasm and motivation in alignment with the 7 Elements of the Award Canada Way. Teachers act as mentors, building Stronger Student-Teacher Relationships through personalized guidance. This mentorship enriches the curriculum, creating Experiential Learning opportunities that foster resilience, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving—skills that go beyond academic achievement. 

Moreover, the Award offers Professional Development opportunities for teachers, helping them grow through leadership roles and expanded teaching practices. By leading students on Adventurous Journeys, teachers also experience a break from traditional routines, enjoying hands-on learning experiences that are both exciting and memorable. 

The integration also contributes to School Culture, emphasizing empowerment, community engagement, and recognition of Non-Formal Learning through volunteer work and skill development. This holistic approach improves student outcomes, including increased confidence and motivation, which positively impacts academic success. 

Ultimately, Personal Fulfillment and job satisfaction for teachers grow as they mentor students, witnessing their personal and academic growth. The Award can reignite a teacher’s passion for education, offering a rewarding experience that enhances both student and teacher success. 

For more details, view our brochure here. 

Yes, attending a competition can count as an Adventurous Journey—as long as it’s adapted to fulfill AJ requirements. While simply attending doesn’t fulfill the criteria, the team can turn it into a meaningful AJ by setting a unique goal focused on learning and development. For example, instead of the goal being just to participate, they could work on enhancing team communication or conduct interviews with industry experts to prepare for future opportunities.

This way, the experience includes the core AJ elements of active participation, personal growth, and a unique challenge. Working together to add this extra layer not only meets AJ requirements but also allows students to fully engage with the experience, taking what they’re already doing to the next level.

It’s important that accommodations are self-catering and allow the team to be self-sufficient during the journey. If you’re struggling with accommodation arrangements, please have your Award Leader reach out to their Account Manager—we’re here to help. We’re committed to being responsive and collaborative, working closely with all groups to support a meaningful and engaging experience.

The purpose of this pilot initiative is to enhance the educational experience in Canadian secondary schools by acknowledging and celebrating a diverse range of career paths, including but not limited to skilled trades. By connecting and recognizing real-world experiences with classroom learning, the initiative aims to validate the various skills and talents students acquire outside traditional academic settings.

This co-curricular approach supports learning outcomes and curriculum requirements, enriching students’ overall education and preparing them for future opportunities in multiple fields. Ultimately, this pilot demonstrates a deeper appreciation for diverse paths, encouraging students to see the value of their unique experiences in their personal and academic development. 

Participation is open to students aged 14-24 who are enrolled in SHSM programs in participating Ontario schools. This pilot is tailored for students seeking to enrich their educational experience by pursuing the Award alongside their SHSM requirements. This dual engagement not only facilitates a comprehensive skill set but also empowers students to make meaningful contributions to their communities while achieving personal goals. 

The Award complements SHSM; however, it is not exclusive to SHSM if you have a student who would benefit, we welcome you to include them. For example, if a student is participating in experiences but missing a specific course in SHSM this would not exclude them from earning the Award. 

The Award comprises four key sections: Voluntary Service, Skills, Physical Recreation, and Adventurous Journey. Each section is designed to foster different aspects of personal development: 

  • Voluntary Service focuses on making a positive impact in the community through various volunteer opportunities. 
  • Skills encourages students to develop and refine personal interests or skills, providing opportunities for growth and achievement. 
  • Physical Recreation emphasizes the importance of staying active and healthy, allowing students to engage in sports and recreational activities. 
  • Adventurous Journey promotes teamwork and leadership through organized group experiences, encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new challenges. 

Students have the flexibility to select activities within these sections that also fulfill their SHSM requirements, creating a well-rounded and enriching experience. 

The Award involves a structured time commitment across three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold, aligning with students’ progression through their SHSM journey. 

  • Bronze Level (6 months) – Grade 11: Participants must commit a minimum of six months to complete this level. It serves as an introduction to the Award, allowing students to engage in activities that spark their interest while developing foundational skills. 
  • Silver Level (12 months – *6 months if Bronze is completed) – Grade 12: For the Silver level, participants are required to commit twelve months. This phase builds upon the experiences gained during the Bronze level, encouraging participants to deepen their involvement and explore more complex activities. 
  • Gold Level (18 months – *12 months if Silver is completed): If participants finish their Silver level, they have the opportunity to challenge themselves with the Gold Award level, requiring an additional commitment of eighteen months. This level encourages participants to take on leadership roles and mentor others, further enhancing their skills and experiences. 

This structured timeline allows participants to fully immerse themselves in their chosen activities, log a set number of hours, and reflect on their experiences. By adhering to these commitments, participants not only work towards earning their Award but also develop essential time management and organizational skills that will benefit them throughout their educational and professional journeys. 

Educators interested in participating in the pilot program should reach out to Laura Briscoe, Education Consultant, or Trudy Carlisle, the Senior Director of Program at Award Canada, for detailed information on registration and engagement opportunities. Trudy and Laura can provide insights into how educators can become actively involved in the program and assist in facilitating the integration of SHSM with the Award within their schools. Additionally, opportunities for greater involvement and resources can be obtained by contacting Laura Briscoe, the Education Consultant at Award Canada. Here are their contact details:

  • Trudy Carlisle
    Senior Director of Program, Award Canada
    Email: tcarlisle@dukeofed.org 
  • Laura Briscoe
    Education Consultant, Award Canada
    Email: lbriscoe@dukeofed.org 

Educators will receive support throughout the duration of the program. They will be provided with two Playbooks that clearly outline the necessary steps to facilitate the program, including timelines and best practices. This ensures educators have the full autonomy to customize the program according to their specific classroom needs and student interests.  

Additionally, each educator will be assigned a dedicated Account Manager who will serve as a primary point of contact for assistance. Check-ins with this Account Manager will help educators stay on track, address any challenges, and share best practices for effectively implementing the Award alongside the SHSM program. Educators will also have access to resources and training opportunities to enhance their skills in guiding students through this integrated experience. 

Upon successful completion of the Award, students will receive international recognition with a certificate that highlights their accomplishments. This recognition is valuable for academic and career advancement, as it demonstrates a commitment to personal growth, community service, and skill development. Schools may also host special recognition events to celebrate students’ achievements, further enhancing their sense of accomplishment and motivation to continue their engagement in meaningful activities.