Birchmount Exceptional Athlete Program (BEAP)

BEAP is a unique TDSB Specialized Program that develops student-athletes, integrating academics with a rigorous athletic training program.  BEAP is the only Exceptional Athlete program in the TDSB.  Students in the program are dedicated and willing to do the extra physical and academic work needed to achieve their sport and educational goals. Superb training facilities are provided at school as well as at Variety Village.

The aim of the Birchmount Exceptional Athlete Program is to develop well-rounded students who excel in academics, athletics, leadership and community development.

Throughout the BEAP, students will develop:

• Healthy active lifestyle
• Leadership 
• Communication 
• Community building
• Perseverance
• Discipline 
• Commitment 
• Athletic skill development
• Sportsmanship 
• Compassion for others

Throughout the program, students will build research, inquiry, leadership and asset-based community development skills that will culminate in a capstone project.  A capstone project is a culminating project that integrates and applies the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course of BEAP. Students in the program have the option to complete the Health and Wellness SHSM to meet the course requirements for a BEAP certificate or they can opt to take the listed electives. 

Required Program Courses*

The Exceptional Athlete Program is designed to provide programming for students interested in athletics, healthy active living, nutrition, community development and leadership.  Students in the program have the option to complete the Health and Wellness SHSM to meet the course requirements for a BEAP certificate or they can opt to take one of the listed electives. 

Students in the Birchmount Exceptional Athlete Program will select all other OSSD compulsory and elective courses from the regular program course selection options.

* Course Offerings are subject to change.

** A capstone project is a culminating project that integrates and applies the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the course of BEAP. 

Health & Wellness Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM)

A Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a ministry-approved specialized program that allows students to focus their learning on a specific economic sector while meeting the requirements to graduate from secondary school. It also assists in transitions after graduation to apprenticeship training, college, university or the workplace.

Students in the BEAP will have the option of meeting the program requirements by participating in the Health & Wellness SHSM.  Students who elect to meet program requirements through SHSM will graduate with an OSSD, a BEAP certificate and a Red Seal with numerous industry recognized certifications. 

For more information about the Health and Wellness SHSM at Birchmount Park C.I., visit our Health & Wellness SHSM webpage. 

TDSB Specialized Programs Application and Admissions

The TDSB offers Specialized Programs that are focused on the Arts, Math, Science & Technology, Leadership and more! All students meeting the eligibility requirements with an interest in the program focus are invited to apply. Please note that the application and admissions process has changed. 

The application for September 2026 will be open from Monday, November 24 to Friday, December 12, 2025 at noon.

Visit the Applications and Admissions website for more information.