Innovation Takes Root

Blending nature, technology, and purpose-driven learning, the Sphere Program redefines what education can be

In September, Pickering College will launch an exciting new program for Grades 4 and Grade 5 students where they will spend the majority of their day out in the field … literally.

The Sphere Program will reimagine what learning can be, empowering students to master cutting-edge technology while crafting real-world solutions to problems they care deeply about. This enriched learning environment extends beyond the classroom walls to instead spend much of the day surrounded by nature at Blue & Silver Farm, the school’s outdoor education property.

Blue & Silver Farm was bequeathed to Pickering College by the late Charles Boyd, who left an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of Pickering College students, alumni, and staff during his 53 years as a teacher, coach, mentor, advisor, and alumni ambassador. Thanks to his generosity, generations of students will continue to benefit from his legacy and dedication to making the Pickering College community greater, better and more beautiful.

With access to 75 acres of natural spaces, a state-of-the-art maker space on campus, and flexible indoor and outdoor classrooms, students in the Sphere Program are encouraged to explore, inquire and innovate.

“We want Sphere students to not just learn about environmental science, but to actively tackle real-world challenges,” explains Julia Hunt, Assistant Head of School, Strategic Initiatives. “It’s turning learning on its head so that instead of being passive learners, our students are young scientists, innovators, and changemakers. They might build robots designed to weed and water gardens at the farm, or use sensors to analyze soil microbiology, all while thinking critically about how their work impacts their community.”

By providing students with the opportunity to engage with real issues, they learn early on how to ask tough questions, seek honest answers, and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways. The Sphere Program will create opportunities for students to practice these skills and share their findings with local organizations, not-for-profits, and even government bodies.

“It’s everything that I wish I learned sooner: inquiry-based, problem-based, self-directed but also a lot of group-based learning, experiential and it’s all in the context of STEM which is amazing,” says Caroline Chua, a Pickering College parent of three whose daughter Sawyer will be amongst the first cohort beginning in September.

We look forward to providing further updates about this program, once it launches this fall. For more information about the Sphere Program, visit us online at www.pickeringcollege.on.ca/sphere

GRADE 4 & 5 PROGRAM FEATURES:

• Rigorous academics in all curriculum subjects

• Tech-based learning (AI, coding, robotics)

• Enriched, immersive science exploration

• Farm-to-table, health and wellness

• Art, design and prototyping

• Outdoor education and leadership

• Community engagement and action

• Interdisciplinary curriculum

• Pathway to the Middle School SPARC program at Pickering College

• Small class sizes with self-directed inquiry

SPHERE STUDENTS ARE:

• Curious, active problem solvers

• Eager and passionate to be challenged

• Seeking enrichment opportunities

• Motivated to test solutions with hands-on projects

• Enthusiastic to understand complex ideas