Specialist High Skill Major Programs
We are proud to offer a variety of learning experiences for students in Ontario Specialist High Skill Major (SHSM) programs.
Our highly engaging workshops allow students to develop creative thinking and entrepreneurial skills while solving authentic challenges for sector-specific industry partners. Our programs are challenging, flexible, and can be tailored to any SHSM sector program.
Programs at a Glance
ICE Training workshops are full day experiences where students explore Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship by solving authentic challenges posed by real companies in their sector.
ICE Training is a requirement for students to complete their Specialist High Skills Major certificate. It counts towards the “Sector-Partnered Experience (SPE)” component of the program which refers to learning experiences in which students connect with outside people working in their area of interest.
All SHSMs require sector-recognized certifications and/or training sessions designed to provide students with the skills necessary to thrive in their respective pathways. We offer a variety of full-day and half-day workshops to fulfill compulsory and elective certifications.
Sample Schedule (ICE Training Full Day Workshop)
9:00-10:00: Introduction/Welcome to SOAR, Facilitated group instruction on Innovation, Creativity, and Entrepreneurship
10:00-11:00: Empathy Building/Discovery, Idea Generation in large/small groups
11:00-12:00: Lunch
12:00-1:00: Prototyping, Feedback Cycle, Iteration, Refining ideas
1:00-2:30: Developing elevator pitches, Sharing ideas through storytelling
2:30-3:00: Wrap-Up, Group Discussion, Self Reflection
How we support you?
In both ICE Training and Certificate Workshops, SOAR supports the learning process through:
Sourcing a relevant sector partner to provide an authentic context for the learning.
Developing an engaging full-day learning experience and preparing accompanying curricular materials
Facilitating and supporting students throughout the day.
Providing materials such as chart paper, markers, handouts, slides, etc.
*Ideally, students will bring their own technology and/or use school laptops/Chromebooks to participate in activities.