Innovation in Middle School

Student Projects Advancing Real Change (SPARC) gives students the opportunity to pursue their passions, learn new skills, and make a difference in our community.

Building on the strong foundation of our Middle School Pillar Years program, SPARC will provide students more time for experiential learning, fostering real-world connections and impactful experiences that enrich students’ understanding and growth. Students will tackle projects in small teams with an interdisciplinary mindset, developing skills while taking action that results in positive change in their community.

SPARC epitomizes cutting-edge experiential learning by immersing students in projects connected to the community around them, extending their practical knowledge far beyond the classroom. As Middle School Director Julie Clement explains, the learning opportunities through SPARC not only deliver the curriculum in a realworld context but also delve deeply into an area they care about and build a range of skills and knowledge.

“Students thrive in this environment, as hands-on activities and realworld problem-solving make education more relevant and meaningful, enhancing critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills,” says Clement. “Experiential learning nurtures a sense of ownership and motivation, with students becoming deeply invested in projects that have tangible outcomes and personal significance.”

The Middle School years are a pivotal time for students to discover their passions and delve deep into learning on topics that excite them. “SPARC is an inspired program—it takes us away from the factory model of education where children move from room to room subject to subject — instead they are working on authentic real challenges making changes that will have an impact on our community.”

Dr. Cinde Lock, Head of School, is enthusiastic about the difference this program will have in how the students approach learning. “The work the students produce through these projects is authentic—they are working with faculty and community members to solve a real challenge, and through this, it reframes what school means and what success means. They will feel empowered and see the purpose in their learning—all at a key, impressionable age,” says Dr. Lock.

The SPARC program will provide not just an inspiring learning environment but support the desire to give all students a sense of drive, coupled with compassion as they work to contribute to the community around them.

“This is what schools should be and what all children should experience—this is learning that will support the society that we want and make a larger difference in the world,” says Dr. Lock. “Shouldn’t that be what school is all about?”

To get involved in SPARC as a community member or organization, please contact Julie Clement, Director of Middle School (jclement@pickeringcollege.on.ca), or Jennifer Brett Fraser, Manager of Community Relations & Advancement Communications (jbrettfraser@pickeringcollege.on.ca).

Throughout their time in Middle School, students will spend time in each theme area, working together with faculty and community members.

Technology: Robotics & Coding

Environmental Stewardship

Social Justice & Advocacy

Designing for Now and the Future

Identity & Community

Students will work in authentic partnerships with community organizations, creating solutions to make the world greater, better and more beautiful than they discovered it.