News

• News
• June 14, 2013

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Preparing More Guelph Students for 21st Century Careers

Ontario Government Expands Popular Program for Local Students

June 14, 2013

Ontario is expanding its Specialist High Skills Majors programto help more Guelph-area high school students succeed and prepare for their future careers.

This September, St. James Catholic Secondary School in Guelph will offer one additional Specialist High Skills Majors in Health and Wellness.

With this addition, there will be a total of 37 Specialist High Skills Majors offered in Guelph - area high schools next school year, both public and catholic, in sectors such as Agriculture, Arts and Culture, Business, Construction, Environment, Horticulture and Landscaping, Hospitality and Tourism, Manufacturing, Sports, Transportation, Information and Communications Technology and Non-Profit.

The specialized programs allow students to focus their learning on specific economic sectors while developing the skills needed for apprenticeship training, college, university and the workplace. New program components that focus on innovation, creativity and entrepreneurship are currently being developed for all majors within the program.

Helping students succeed while preparing them for 21^st century jobs is part of the new Ontario government’s plan to build a fair and prosperous society and a strong economy.

QUOTES

"We’re giving our students the opportunities they need to follow their passion, improve their skills and knowledge, and succeed in their careers beyond high school. Programs like the Specialist High Skills Majors are helping meet students’ individual learning needs and interests. By expanding these programs, we’re creating more opportunities for our students to succeed and prepare for the jobs of tomorrow."

Liz Sandals, MPP for Guelph and Minister of Education

QUICK FACTS

• This is the seventh year in a row Ontario is increasing the number of Specialist High Skills Majorsin Ontario high schools to meet growing demand.
• More than 42,000 students will be enrolled in the program across Ontario next school year – an increase of 4,000 students over this school year.
• Student Success programs such as the Specialist High Skills Majors have helped the graduation rateincrease to 83 per cent, from 68 per cent in 2003-04.
• In September 2013, about 22,000 high school students will also have access to 600 dual credit programs across Ontario. Dual credits can count towards a high school diploma and a postsecondary diploma, degree or apprenticeship certification.

LEARN MORE

Student Success programs

Specialist High Skills Majors available at your school

Specialist High Skills Majors in 19 different sectors 

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For more information, contact:

 

Jenny Waterston

Office of Liz Sandals, MPP

(519) 836-4190