Specialist High Skills Major - AGRICULTURE

The Agriculture SHSM allows you to focus your secondary school education on the agricultural sector. The Agricultural sector includes all jobs related to agriculture things. Select this SHSM if you are interested in an Agricultural related career.

The agriculture sector plays a major role in the Canadian economy. According to Statistics Canada, about 327 000 people were employed in Canadian agriculture in 2008, which was 1.8% of the Canadian labour force. In 2008, agricultural production added a net value of $14.9 billion (in current dollars) to Canada's economy, an increase of $5.4 billion over 2007. As one of the world's leading agri-food trading nations, Canada continued to export more agri-food products than it imported in 2008.

What is required?

1) A bundle of nine (9) Grade 11 and Grade 12 credits that comprises:

• Four (4) agriculture major credits (see guidance counselor for complete list).
• Three (3) other required credits from the Ontario curriculum, in English, Mathematics and a choice of Business Studies or Science.
• Two (2) cooperative education credits tied to the sector.

2) Six (6) sector-recognized certifications and/or training courses/programs

(Three [3] compulsory and a choice of three [3] electives).

3) Experiential learning and career exploration activities within the sector to assist with identifying and refining career goals.

4) Reach ahead experiences connected with the student’s postsecondary plans.

5) Development of Essential Skills and work habits required in the sector, and documentation of them using the Ontario Skills Program.