SHS

SHS is an acronym that most commonly refers to Senior High School, the final two years of secondary education in countries that have adopted the K-12 reform. In many contexts, SHS denotes a transition phase intended to prepare students for higher education, vocational training, or immediate entry into the workforce. The term can be used in general discussions of secondary education policy and curriculum design.

In the Philippines, SHS was established under the Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013 as part of the K-12 program. The two-year senior high school follows Junior High and typically serves students aged about 16 to 18. The purpose is to boost college readiness and provide career pathways through specialized tracks and strands, rather than a single, uniform curriculum.

Curriculum and tracks are central to SHS. The Academic track includes strands such as Accountancy, Business and Management; Humanities and Social Sciences; and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. The Technical-Vocational-Livelihood (TVL) track offers various technical and livelihood specializations. There are also tracks for Sports and Arts and Design. A work immersion or internship component is often required, alongside core general education subjects and specialized coursework. Allocation of resources and teacher training are key factors in successful implementation.

Beyond the Philippines, SHS can refer to other educational or policy terms in different countries, and the acronym has multiple potential meanings in various professional contexts. When encountered, the intended meaning is usually clarified by the surrounding discussion or jurisdiction.