A Catalogue of the Ridley College Middle School Exploratory Sessions
Learn about the various sessions being offered to Ridley College Middle School students through our engaging Exploratory Programme
2025/26
EXPLORATORY PROGRAMME
FAQ Exploratory Registration
How many Exploratory sessions are students signing up for?
Students will be signing up for four sessions this year.
How long will each session run?
Each session will be approximately 15 blocks of one hour.
What are the dates for each session?
Session 1: October 1st to November 22nd - Showcase is December 6th
Session 2: January 8th to February 21st – Showcase is February 28th
Session 3: March 26th to May 14th – Showcase is May 23rd
How can I learn more about each offering?
At the beginning of the school year, the aims and goals of the Exploratory Programme will be outlined during a group assembly. An Exploratory Fair will allow students (and parents) to ask questions about the explorations before signing up. You can also refer to this catalogue!
When and how will students sign up?
Students will be given time to consider all the yearly explorations following the Exploratory Fair and will complete a survey on interests. Students will choose their top choices in each session through a form.
What happens if students don’t sign up?
If registration is not received by the deadline, students will be placed in an available space.
Are Exploratory choices guaranteed?
Every effort is made to register students in their top Exploratory choices, but unfortunately, it can’t be guaranteed. Many explorations are available throughout the year, and all allocations are dependent on space, resources and enrollment.
Can Exploratory placements change after sessions have begun?
Unfortunately, no. Once lists have been distributed and materials purchased, switches will not be an option. It is encouraged to consider all the options before choosing. Please also be aware of the many opportunities for growth in diverse offerings and groupings. Each of the teachers leading an Exploratory brings their own unique vision and passion to the topic.
Will the explorations change?
Exploratory sessions are offered as a collaborative effort by the Middle School Faculty to provide opportunities appropriate for age and stage development and to explore interests and passions students may/may not know they have. The explorations may change as this is a working document.
SESSION 1 OPTIONS
CADETS & LEADERSHIP
Push your limits, lead your team and take on challenges that demand grit and determination. Learn survival skills, map-reading and emergency response while growing as a confident, capable leader.
If you’re ready for adventure and responsibility, this is the Exploratory for you.
Cadets and Leadership is an engaging Exploratory
Canadian Army Cadets’ Red and Green Star training skills in navigation, survival, drill, and first aid while teamwork and resilience. Each session combines structured for reflection, encouraging students to take initiative and
Note: Participation in this Exploratory is a requirement for any student wishing to be considered for a cadet leadership position during the Annual Parade and Inspection.
Learning experiences:
• Develop leadership and teamwork through scenario-based challenges and rotating leadership roles.
• Gain practical outdoor survival skills, including shelter building, fire safety and water purification.
• Learn navigation and map-reading techniques using compasses, bearings and pacing in real outdoor settings.
• Practice first aid and emergency response skills through hands-on simulations and role-play scenarios.
• Build discipline, confidence and resilience through drill, physical outdoor challenges and reflective activities.
Projected learning outcome:
Students will present what they have learned in all the activities, while earning credit toward the Royal Canadian Army Cadets Red and Green Star award standings.
Questions directed to: Mr. Ben Smith
THE COOL KITCHEN
Where Cooking Gets Cool!
Step into the kitchen and discover how fun cooking can be as you learn practical skills, explore new recipes and create dishes with confidence.
The on Exploratory session where students learn fundamental cooking engaging way, without even needing an oven! From creative nobake challenges, students will build confidence in the kitchen while problem-solving and creativity. To top it off, occasional
Teaching Executive Chef give students a chance to learn insider tips and professional. It’s the perfect blend of skill-building and fun, designed to spark curiosity and a love for cooking.
Learning experiences:
• Practice the fundamentals of cooking (kitchen safety, hygiene, measuring, food prep, creativity)
• Learn to cook healthy, no-bake recipes
• Teaching Kitchens led by Executive Chef Sidney Krick
• Cooking challenges with guest judges
Possible recipe ideas: Pinwheels, Fruit Skewers, No-Bake Cheesecake, Charcuterie Boards with Homemade Hummus, No-Bake Snack Balls, Trail Mix
Projected learning outcome:
Students will showcase their new cooking skills in various challenges focusing on presentation and the use of given ingredients (including mystery ingredients)!
Questions directed to: Ms. Averee Mitchell
FITNESS GLADIATORS
Get ready to push your limits, test your skills and discover the power of movement!
In Fitness Gladiators, you’ll take on fun and challenging fitness activities both as part of a team and on your own.
Step into the arena, bring your energy and rise to the challenge…are you ready to become a Fitness Gladiator!?
Students will take part in weekly team and individual fitness challenges earning points that will build up over the course of the session. These experiences will deepen their understanding of the six essential components of fitness: muscular strength, muscular endurance, cardiovascular endurance, agility, flexibility and balance. Students will build overall physical fitness, develop leadership skills, strengthen teamwork, and develop perseverance as they work through new challenges each week. Activities such as obstacle courses, relay races, and sport-based fitness games will allow students to put their fitness to the test in this fun, energetic, and rewarding environment.
Learning experiences:
• Understanding the importance and benefits of fitness
• Cardiovascular and mobility training
• Resistance training
• Fitness programming
• Leadership and team-building skills
• Gladiator Showcase – design and competition
Projected learning outcome:
Students will reflect on their growth and overall understanding of fitness as a life-long journey of health and well-being. They will also create and participate in a variety of Gladiator-style challenges.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Sandra Magee
Learning experiences:
THE HANDMADE MARKET
Create artisanal pieces, package them with care and sell them while fundraising at the Ridley College Middle School’s Holiday Handmade Market.
empower your entrepreneurial spirit and support our school's will embark on a hands-on adventure in crafting artisanal paper to create beautiful, customized products. They will experiment with various materials and techniques, inspired by mentors. Students will sell carefully created pieces while community initiatives.
• Conduct market research
• Collaborate on product ideas
• Explore the ceramics studio
• Dive into cricut crafting
• Learn to navigate software: Adobe Illustrator and Design Space
• How to package, promote and market
• Market set up and sale
Projected learning outcome:
Students will proudly present their products to the wider community, sharing their creations and connecting with customers who appreciate the value of handmade pieces.
Students will contribute to a greater cause through the fundraising efforts of our group, which are decided collectively.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Ashley Auld
MEDIEVAL MECHANICS
Step back in time and discover the power of physics! In Medieval Mechanics, you’ll learn woodworking and construction skills while building a functioning trebuchet and exploring the science of levers and mechanical advantage.
Medieval Mechanics invites students into the fascinating world engineering. Working in the school’s woodshop, students will safely use tools and miter saw to cut and assemble components for their own small way, they will develop woodworking techniques, learn essential principles construction design, and explore the physics behind levers, force, and mechanical This hands-on project combines creativity with science, offering students skills and a deeper understanding of how ancient technologies shaped
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to trebuchets
• Demo 3 models of trebuchet (floating arm, walking and traditional)
• Designate groups
• Distribute 3D models of traditional trebuchet to students
• Trebuchet launch competition (with 3d models)
• Intro to design technical drawings for trebuchet
• Cut prepping
• Safety training for working in the wood shop
• Cutting
• Assembly and testing
• Siege Projected learning outcome: By the end of the session, each student will have built a working trebuchet and gained insight into the timeless relationship between design, tools and physics.
Questions directed to: Mr. Aaron Smajda
MODEL UNITED NATIONS
Empowering young voices to explore global challenges, collaborate across cultures and lead with purpose.
Step into the world of diplomacy with our Model United Nations Exploratory session — an engaging experience where middle school students sharpen critical thinking, strengthen communication skills and deepen their understanding of global issues. Through debate, collaboration, and the use of reliable sources, participants will learn to craft compelling arguments and navigate international perspectives with confidence and clarity. This Exploratory is in preparation to potentially attend a formal MUN conference.
Learning experiences:
• What is the United Nations?
• Member states
• Developing position papers on a global issue
• Public speaking and persuasion
• Debate and negotiations
• Drafting resolutions
• Identifying key issues
• Mini simulations
Projected learning outcome:
Students will demonstrate their learning in a live presentation that will address a resolution with arguments that represent both sides of an issue.
Questions directed to: Dr. Derrick des Vignes
ROBOTICS
Discover how creativity and coding combine to make robots move, think and solve problems.
Students develop a foundation in STEM (Science, Technology, and Mathematics) concepts while enhancing their teamwork, and innovation abilities through the exciting process of designing robots. The Middle School Robotics Exploratory provides learning experience where they design, build and program or their creativity and problem-solving skills in a collaborative and exciting environment.
Learning experiences:
• Build a pre-designed robot to learn about parts, assembly and mechanical construction
• Learn basic programming to control robot movements and tasks
• Test and refine robots through hands-on problem-solving and iteration
• Design an original robot by brainstorming, planning and setting goals
• Prototype and build custom robots using creativity and trial-and-error
• Showcase final robots, presenting designs, challenges and solutions to an audience
Projected learning outcome:
Students will present their custom robots to peers, parents and teachers at the Showcase. They will explain the design process, the challenges faced, and the solutions implemented, showcasing their growth in technical skills and teamwork.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Eugenie Wiley
SESSION 2 OPTIONS
ARTISTIC KNOTS
Learn various crochet and macramé techniques and use your new skills to make creative projects!
Artistic Knots provides students with a hands-on experience crochet and macramé skills. Through creative projects develop their skills in both crafts. Students will complete a strong foundation and confidence to continue independently.
Learning experiences:
• Crochet
• Yarn types, hooks, and basic crochet terms
• Demonstrate how to hold the hook and yarn
• Practice making a simple chain stitch
• Practice basic stitches: single crochet, double crochet, and slip stitch
• Macramé
• Introduction to macramé cords, types of knots and basic tools
• Demonstrate and practice key knots: square knots lark’s head and half stitch
• Create a small swatch or sample using these knots
Projected learning outcome:
Students will display their finished works (ex: scarf, wall hanging, small stuffed animal, keychain, etc.) at the Exploratory Showcase. They can also choose to sell them to support the deaf community in Guatemala through the Johnson Family, care of The Shepherd’s Staff.
Questions directed to: Mme Ellen Duffus-Salvatore
CADETS & LEADERSHIP
Push your limits, lead your team and take on challenges that demand grit and determination. Learn survival skills, map-reading and emergency response while growing as a confident, capable leader.
If you’re ready for adventure and responsibility, this is the Exploratory for you.
Cadets and Leadership is an engaging Exploratory
Canadian Army Cadets’ Red and Green Star training skills in navigation, survival, drill, and first aid while teamwork and resilience. Each session combines structured for reflection, encouraging students to take initiative and
Note: Participation in this Exploratory is a requirement for any student wishing to be considered for a cadet leadership position during the Annual Parade and Inspection.
Learning experiences:
• Develop leadership and teamwork through scenario-based challenges and rotating leadership roles.
• Gain practical outdoor survival skills, including shelter building, fire safety and water purification.
• Learn navigation and map-reading techniques using compasses, bearings and pacing in real outdoor settings.
• Practice first aid and emergency response skills through hands-on simulations and role-play scenarios.
• Build discipline, confidence and resilience through drill, physical outdoor challenges and reflective activities.
Projected learning outcome:
Students will present what they have learned in all the activities, while earning credit toward the Royal Canadian Army Cadets Red and Green Star award standings.
Questions directed to: Mr. Ben Smith
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATORS
Unlock the Mystery: Dive into CSI, Fingerprint Fun and Crime-Solving Skills!
Dive into the thrilling world of crime scene investigation! In adventure, you’ll explore the secrets of CSI techniques, from fingerprinting collection, and apply your newfound knowledge by creating and examining . Put your detective skills to the test in interactive escape rooms, puzzles and crack codes. Plus, meet real-life police officers who will share and explain how they use these techniques in their work. Join us educational experience that will turn you into a junior detective in no time!
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to crime scene investigation
• Scavenger hunts to explore practical applications of biology in CSI
• Crime scene protocol and processing evidence
• Escape room field trip and online escape rooms
• Importance of fingerprints
• Clue board game tournament
• “Unsolved Case Files”
• Murder Mystery!
• Visit with the Niagara Police
Projected learning outcome: Students will learn from the Niagara Regional Police Service and from their problemsolving activities to explore the types of situations a detective may encounter.
Questions directed to: Miss Averee Mitchell
HEALTH CARE CREW
Step into the world of health and medicine! In this Exploratory, you’ll dive into hands-on activities that bring science to life learning real skills like first aid, injury care and more! Get ready to explore the fast-paced world of medical science and discover what it takes to be a health hero!
Students deeper understanding of human anatomy, body systems, sports injuries nutrition, while also earning certification in First Aid and AED training hands-on experience using diagnostic medical equipment and learn tape to support and manage injuries. Exposure to a range of medical practices will not only expand student knowledge but may also inspire interest in future careers across various medical and healthcare fields.
Learning experiences:
• Knowledge and understanding of:
• Human body
• Health and systems
• Measuring vitals
• First Aid and AED Training
• Sports injuries, actions and taping techniques
• Nutrition
• Careers in the medical and healthcare fields
Projected learning outcome:
Students will share their medical knowledge takeaways and showcase their injury taping proficiency in a friendly competition.
Questions directed to: Ms. Sandra Magee
PERFORMANCE EDGE
Enhancing athletic performance through developing smarter habits beyond sport-specific training and competition.
This programme is designed for students who are athletic potential by focusing on what happens outside of will introduce students to key elements of athlete health nutrition, hydration, stretching, injury prevention, sleep, muscle mental well-being. Through hands-on workshops, guest activities, students will explore how lifestyle choices directly impact performance and long-term health. This experience is ideal for student-athletes or any student curious about the science behind athletic excellence.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to holistic athletic performance
• Understanding the role of nutrition
• Hydration and electrolyte balance
• Sleep and recovery — why rest matters
• Athlete mental well-being and growth mindset
• Building healthy daily routines and time management
• Guest speaker/local athlete talk
Projected learning outcome:
Students will present their personalized Performance Edge Plan, highlight key strategies they’ve adopted in areas like nutrition, recovery, and mental well-being, and share personal reflections or successes from the programme that demonstrate how they’ve grown as holistic athletes
Questions directed to: Mr. Luc Brodeur
STORYTELLER’S STUDIO
Capture and tell stories through photography and creative writing.
Participants with both photography and creative writing to explore their imagination range of stories. While students will learn specific techniques, skills, photography on the one hand and writing on the other, they inspire and develop their artistic processes and final products. Participants creative projects individually and in small groups. Interested students multiple opportunities to share and publish their work at Ridley community.
Learning experiences:
• Learn how to operate a DSLR camera in manual mode
• Investigate a variety of photography genres
• Use photography techniques (rule of thirds, leading lines, golden hour lighting, depth of field, long exposure, silhouettes, framing, negative space, black-andwhite conversion, reflections, perspective, backlighting, etc.)
• Portrait and light painting workshops in the Photography Studio
• Learn Adobe Lightroom Studio
• Field trip to take photos off campus
• Workshop with a guest photographer or writer
• Publish work in Tiger Times and on Ridley’s TV screens
Projected learning outcome:
Students will enter the 2nd Annual Exploratory Photography Competition, where entries will be on display at Ridley.
Questions directed to: Mr. Jay Randall
TARTAN TUNES
From Zero to Highland Hero Bagpipes Start Here!
Get ready to make some noise — in the best way possible! adventure, students will receive their very own practice exciting world of bagpiping, guided by professional beginners into bold performers. Alongside learning students will also get the chance to explore the rhythm melodies of the tin whistle, rounding out a rich and Whether you're drawn to the power of percussion or the haunting beauty of Celtic tunes, there's something here for every curious ear. It’s not just music it’s tradition, creativity and a whole lot of fun.
Learning experiences:
• History of the bagpipes
• Learn to play your very own chanter
• Drum pads/sticks and tin whistles
• Focus on playing and learning
• Preparation to eventually play the bagpipes (one day)
• Marching and performing
• Masterclass/performance with Grade 1 pipers (the highest ranking in the world)
Projected learning outcome:
After mastering the basics of the chanter, students will take the spotlight, performing alongside professional pipers at the Showcase. In the spring, they'll step into tradition and pride as they play in the Cadet Parade — an unforgettable experience!
Questions directed to: Miss Jocelyn Fralick
TIGER TUBE
Unlock your creative potential! With Tiger Tube, you will leverage Adobe CC programs like After Effects and Premiere Pro to create engaging video shorts.
Tiger Tube introduces students to the dynamic world of Through this programme, students will learn the art of conducting interviews, mastering audio collection techniques, and understanding of videography and lighting theory. They will gain hands creating compelling short video clips using industry-standard software Premiere Pro and After Effects. By the end of the programme, students a comprehensive skill set that prepares them for future and communication.
Learning experiences:
• Planning a shoot and storyboarding
• Adobe Creative Cloud
• Premiere Pro, After Effects
• Scene preparation
• Lighting a scene
• Conducting an interview
• Collecting audio/video
• Editing audio/video
• Special and practical effects
Projected learning outcome: Students will create video shorts in a combined Tiger Tube segment to be shown at the showcase.
Questions directed to: Mr. Aaron Smajda
SESSION 3 OPTIONS
CRIME SCENE INVESTIGATORS
Unlock the Mystery: Dive into CSI, Fingerprint Fun and Crime-Solving Skills!
Dive into the thrilling world of crime scene investigation! In adventure, you’ll explore the secrets of CSI techniques, from fingerprinting collection, and apply your newfound knowledge by creating and examining . Put your detective skills to the test in interactive escape rooms, puzzles and crack codes. Plus, meet real-life police officers who will share and explain how they use these techniques in their work. Join us educational experience that will turn you into a junior detective in no time!
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to crime scene investigation
• Scavenger hunts to explore practical applications of biology in CSI
• Crime scene protocol and processing evidence
• Escape room field trip and online escape rooms
• Importance of fingerprints
• Clue board game tournament
• “Unsolved Case Files”
• Murder Mystery!
• Visit with the Niagara Police
Projected learning outcome: Students will learn from the Niagara Regional Police Service and from their problemsolving activities to explore the types of situations a detective may encounter.
Questions directed to: Miss Averee Mitchell
INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
Join the Investigative Journalism Exploratory if you enjoy uncovering hidden stories and surprising facts.
How might investigative journalism provide Middle School students with information they crave? For instance, what really happens in the Great Hall kitchen? What are the hidden stories which make up the history of Ridley? How was Tiger Court designed and paid for?
Participants in this Exploratory will learn how to conduct effective interviews, investigate multiple perspectives and communicate their findings.
Learning experiences:
• Investigate publications
• Work with guest experts from local media outlets
• Ask questions like:
• How do they identify stories/design interviews?
• What matters to their audience?
• What was the most difficult to uncover?
• Brainstorm story ideas
• Pitch and refine story plans
• Contact and interview potential sources
• Draft a journalistic piece by maintaining a focus on the 5W's and including quotes from sources
Projected learning outcome: Students will share their process and exciting discoveries at the Showcase.
Questions directed to: Ms. Andrea Charlton
SAVVY INVESTORS
Learn. Trade. Grow. Curious about investing? In Savvy Investors, you’ll build and manage a virtual portfolio, track real-time markets, and make smart investment decisions.
New this year: students from the Tiger’s Den Exploratory will pitch their business ideas to you! Channel your inner Shark as you decide whether to invest your virtual capital in their companies.
Students will learn the basics of investing by managing exploring key concepts like risk, reward and ethical knowledge in a stock trading game and take on the role of investors as they evaluate business pitches from the Tiger’s Den Exploratory, deciding how to invest their virtual capital. Along the way, they’ll build critical thinking, teamwork and real-world financial skills.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to investing and financial decision-making
• How the stock market, ETFs, bonds and crypto work
• Risk vs reward and how to manage it
• Building and managing a virtual investment portfolio using various investment strategies
• Understanding ethical investing and global impacts
• Analyzing business pitches and making investment decisions
• Participating in a Dragon’s Den-style simulation with peer entrepreneurs
Projected learning outcome:
Students will present their virtual investment portfolio and justify their investment decisions — including those made during the Shark Tank-style pitches — demonstrating their understanding of financial concepts, strategy and risk analysis.
Questions directed to: Mme Tricia Poulin
STITCH & STYLE
Express your unique style and build confidence through sewing and embroidery!
Stitch and Style invites students to explore the creative world Through hands-on projects, they’ll learn essential techniques and collaborative work. This fun and skill-building solving, creativity and personal growth.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to sewing
• Learn about fabric types, needles, threads and basic tools
• Practice stitches: running stitch, backstitch and whip stitch
• Create a simple sewing project, like a fabric pouch or mini pillow
• Visit to the Ridley Sewing Room
• Introduction to Embroidery
• Learn about hoops, needles and threads
• Combine sewing with embroidery and add embellishments
Projected learning outcomes:
Students may sell their items to support the deaf community in Guatemala through the Johnson Family, care of The Shepherd’s Staff.
Questions directed to: Mme Ellen Duffus-Salvatore
THE GROOVE COLLECTIVE
Groove, Improvise, Jam — Find Your Sound in Jazz & Blues!
S jazz and blues, where creativity meets collaboration. In this dynamic will learn the fundamentals of both genres while discovering improvisation making music in the moment. Guided by experienced explore rhythm, melody, and harmony, and come together to you're laying down a bluesy riff or trading solos in a jazz jam, this experience is all about finding your voice and making it heard. No sheet music required just passion, curiosity and a whole lot of groove.
Learning experiences:
• Learn the basics of the blues scale
• Use the blues scale in different keys
• Explore and build improvisation skills
• Use classic blues tunes such as Freddie the Freeloader, Take 5 and C blues
• Learn new songs
• Play different instruments
• Visits with local musicians
• Performance opportunities
Projected learning outcome: Students will take the stage and shine at exciting school events like the Exploratory Showcase, Chapel and the Celebration of Learning — showcasing their skills and experiencing the thrill of live performance!
Questions directed to: Miss Jocelyn Fralick
TIGER’S DEN
Transform big ideas into bold business pitches in Tiger’s Den! Will the Tigers pass or invest?!
Students will step into the role of young entrepreneurs products or services and learn how to pitch them with brainstorming, product design, marketing strategy, participants will gain real-world business skills while working pitch their ideas to the Savvy Investors group and a panel
Learning experiences:
• Examine the qualities of entrepreneurs and big thinkers
• Identify problems worth solving
• Use design thinking to explore strengths and passions
• Watch clips of Shark Tank or Dragon’s Den
• Collaborate on business ideas in pairs or small groups
• Write a business plan
• Learn about marketing strategies
• Practice public speaking and delivering an elevator pitch
• Collaborate with the Savvy Investors Exploratory
• Guest experts will offer insights and feedback
Projected learning outcomes: The experience will culminate in an exciting pitch competition where students will share their ideas with a panel of “Tigers.” The winners and their businesses will be featured at the Exploratory Showcase!
Questions directed to: Mrs. Ashley Auld
TIGER TUBE
Unlock your creative potential! With Tiger Tube, you will leverage Adobe CC programs like After Effects and Premiere Pro to create engaging video shorts.
Tiger Tube introduces students to the dynamic world of Through this programme, students will learn the art of conducting interviews, mastering audio collection techniques, and understanding of videography and lighting theory. They will gain hands creating compelling short video clips using industry-standard software Premiere Pro and After Effects. By the end of the programme, students a comprehensive skill set that prepares them for future and communication.
Learning experiences:
• Planning a shoot and storyboarding
• Adobe Creative Cloud
• Premiere Pro, After Effects
• Scene preparation
• Lighting a scene
• Conducting an interview
• Collecting audio/video
• Editing audio/video
• Special and practical effects
Projected learning outcome: Students will create video shorts in a combined Tiger Tube segment to be shown at the showcase.
Questions directed to: Mr. Aaron Smajda
SESSION 4 OPTIONS
Learning experiences:
DEBATING
Find your voice, sharpen your arguments and build the confidence to debate any resolution. In Debate Club, you will learn how to craft powerful arguments, think on your feet, and gain the confidence to speak persuasively in front of others.
communication and critical thinking skills as they learn persuasive arguments and respond to opposing viewpoints.
warm-up speaking activities, team debates, and research tasks, confidence and presence on their feet. The Exploratory will through which students reveal their debating skills and have made as public speakers.
• Practice impromptu speaking to build quick thinking
• Learn the PEEL structure to bolster strong arguments
• Analyze sample debates to spot effective strategies
• Explore different resolutions and points of view
• Work in teams to prepare cases and rebuttals
• Strengthen research skills to support arguments
• Take on formal debate roles with growing confidence
• Learn the conventions and traditions of a formal debate
Projected learning outcome:
Students will demonstrate their learning by participating in a showcase debate, presenting well-structured arguments and confident rebuttals that reflect their growth as critical thinkers and public speakers.
Questions directed to: Ms. Andrea Charlton
GAME ON
Master the Game: Where Strategy Meets Play and Learning Comes Alive.
strategy in a dynamic, multi-format game experience and build skills. From classic chess and card games to 5 video challenges and outdoor team building, this handsgamesmanship with critical thinking, teamwork and tactical you're mastering a chess opening, bluffing in a card game, or each activity is crafted to engage students in meaningful learning through play equipped classroom and the flexibility to expand, this is more than just games — it’s a launchpad for strategic thinking and skill development.
Learning experiences:
• Play board games and gain strategic thinking skills (Chess, Risk, Chinese Checkers, 7 Wonders, Carcassone)
• Play card games that promote critical thinking and decision-making
• Engage in Esports games that encourage collaboration and thinking skills
• Outdoor team building games to further enhance interpersonal skills and communication
Projected learning outcome:
Students will know and or be able to identify and explain strategies utilized in games that transfer to real-life problem solving and critical thinking. Learning will be presented live or as a video.
Questions directed to: Dr. Derrick des Vignes
LEGO MASTERS
Where Engineering Meets Imagination: Build it, Code it, Bring it to Life!
Lego Masters invites students to combine creativity, robotics, and engineering challenges in a fast-paced, hands-on building experience inspired by the hit TV show Lego Masters.
Lego skills by integrating motors, sensors and code into their challenges inspired by the hit show, students will learn concepts like stability, balance, and modular design while also coding practices using LEGO Spike Prime and Technic building earthquake-resistant towers to exploring mechanical students will explore the full range of STEAM disciplines. dynamic opportunity to develop innovation, critical thinking, collaboration, and digital literacy — all through the universal language of play.
Learning experiences:
• Basic structural techniques using bricks, plates and tiles
• Interlocking techniques for stability
• Foundations and techniques for strong bases
• Symmetry and aesthetics in design
• Modular building and techniques for building detachable sections
• Advanced structural techniques such as arches, hinges and curves
• Gears, pulleys, levels and moving parts
• Building with purpose: functional elements such as doors, windows and ramps
• Creativity and storytelling in Lego
• Complex mechanisms and automation with Lego Technic
Projected learning outcome:
Students will apply learned techniques to create an innovative build that solves a realworld problem. They will explain the various techniques and elements of engineering involved in their builds.
Questions directed to:
Mme Tricia Poulin
RASPBERRY PI IN THE SKY
Looking to take your coding to the next level?
With Raspberry Pi in the Sky, you can launch it into the stratosphere! In this Exploratory session, we will code a Raspberry Pi data logger with video cameras, build a microsat style payload, observe and predict wind patterns and launch a payload into the stratosphere with a high-altitude weather balloon.
In this exciting Middle School Exploratory programme, students world of coding and data collection using a Raspberry Pi. They the Raspberry Pi to gather crucial atmospheric data such as temperature, and altitude, as well as record video footage. The highlight of the Exploratory of a large helium balloon carrying the Raspberry Pi payload into Students will engage in hands-on calculations to determine the volume the balloon, predict the altitude at which it will burst, and analyze wind patterns to select the optimal launch site. This project not only enhances their coding skills but also introduces them to real-world applications of physics and meteorology.
Learning experiences:
• Circuit building with solderless breadboards
• Python coding in a Linux environment
• Designing a stratospheric payload
• Modelling and predicting trajectory
• Preparing and filing a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM)
• Broadcasting over Amateur Radio (APRS)
• Weight and volume calculations
• Travel to St. Mary’s, Ontario, to launch our payload into the stratosphere
PREDICTED LAUNCH DATE: FRIDAY MAY 8TH 2026
Projected learning outcome: Students will discuss the process of preparing for launch and execute a high-altitude balloon launch. They will analyze the data collected.
Questions directed to: Mr. Aaron Smajda
SCRAPBOOKING
Craft Your Story: A Scrapbooking Adventure for Creative Minds!
You’ll begin by taking your own photos, learning how your scrapbook, and then dive into the creative process and mementos. With collaborative discussion and guided principles of storytelling through scrapbooking while the session, you'll have a personalized scrapbook that to cherish for years to come. Get ready to capture, create your whole new way!
Learning experiences:
• Photography process
• Categories
• Scrapbook design
• Paper selection
• Field trip to Michael’s
• Visit with Lower School students to assist them in making Mother’s Day cards
Projected learning outcome: Students will create a scrapbook ranging from 10 to 15 pages to document memories from throughout the year. They can present this scrapbook to peers and at the showcase.
Questions directed to: Miss Averee Mitchell
SOCCER MANAGERS
Are you the next Sarina Wiegman or Pep Guardiola?
Start on your journey to becoming a soccer coach while improving your understanding of the game and your skills as a player.
future coaches while also further developing each as a player. Participants will investigate innovations in technical aspects, such as formations, set pieces and to make soccer activities fun, engaging and meaningful will then have many opportunities to plan and lead for their peers and Lower School soccer groups. develop their leadership skills by learning how to experiences to best meet their intended aims and the various needs and abilities of their players.
Learning experiences:
• Attacking and defending principles, styles of play and tactics
• Formations: strengths and weaknesses of 4-3-3, 4-2-3-1, 4-4-2, 3-4-3
• Historical and current innovations from professional and national team managers (e.g. zonal vs. person-marking, counterattacking, build-up, inverted wingers, inverted backs, false nine, set pieces, penalties, etc.)
• Approaches to team training: tactical and technical
• Approaches to team selection
• Performance psychology, especially for penalties
• Practice running drills/activities for peers
• Use soccer coaching software
Projected learning outcome:
Opportunities will be provided to each learner to practice running soccer activities for their peers and to support MS/LS soccer teams during the spring.
Questions directed to: Mr. Jay Randall
THE MUSIC LAB
By experimenting with rhythm, melody, harmony, and effects, you’ll transform your ideas into awesome, professional-sounding tracks that show off your creativity.
Students will explore creativity through digital composition, original music while building skills in collaboration, expression will explore the art of music creation using Soundtrap, a digital will learn how to build beats, write melodies, create chord and experiment with sound design. Students will also collaborate record lyrics and vocals, and try their hand at different musical
Learning experiences:
• Explore Soundtrap’s interface and create short sound collages
• Build drum patterns and beats using rhythm, tempo and percussion tools
• Write melodies with virtual instruments like piano, synth and guitar
• Use chords and harmony to support melodies and set moods
• Map out song structures (intro, verse, chorus, bridge) and compose multi-section tracks
• Experiment with sound design and effects (reverb, delay, EQ, panning)
• Collaborate on shared tracks in Soundtrap’s online workspace
• Write lyrics, record vocals and practice mixing techniques
• Explore different music genres and create style-inspired tracks
• Create a polished final composition
Projected learning outcome:
Students combine everything they’ve learned to create a polished original composition. They’ll present their track to the group, explaining their creative choices at the Showcase.
Questions directed to: Mrs. Eugenie Wiley
WILDERNESS WONDERS
Learning essential outdoor survival skills while building confidence, teamwork, and a deeper connection with nature.
Get ready to step into the wild with Wilderness Wonders, experience for Middle School students! In this programme, and student-friendly survival skills such as building a fire their leaves, recognizing animal tracks on trails, tying different much more. Through outdoor activities and group challenges, confident in nature while developing teamwork and problem solving abilities. Whether you're new to the outdoors or already love exploring, this programme will spark your curiosity and prepare you for any adventure.
Learning experiences:
• Introduction to survival skills
• Trail skills
• Navigation
• Animal tracking
• Knots, shelter basics, fire building
• Wilderness first aid
• Team outdoor challenge
Projected learning outcome:
Students will present a creative showcase of their survival skills learning, which may include posters, models, knot demonstrations, fire-building techniques, shelter designs, tree and track ID guides, or short skits that highlight what they would do in real-life wilderness scenarios.
Questions directed to: Mr. Luc Brodeur