Issuu

DISCOVER THE 2026-27 SESSION OFFERINGS

Learn about the various sessions being offered to Ridley College Middle School students through our engaging Exploratory Programme.

2026/27

CONTENTS

YOUR GUIDE TO THE EXPLORATORY PROGRAMME CATALOGUE

Frequently Asked Questions

Session 1 Offerings : Basketball Coaches Broadway Beats Cadets and Outdoor Leadership Fitness Gladiators Happy Houseplants Lots of Knots Medieval Mechanics The Global Kitchen The Handmade Market

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

Session 2 Offerings : Cadets and Outdoor Leadership Choreo Lab Crime Scene Investigators Game On! Minecraft and Beyond Model United Nations (MUN) Robotics Tartan Tunes The Music Lab

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Session 3 Offerings : American Sign Language (ASL) Check Your Pulse Crime Scene Investigators Digital Art Studio Movement Studio Savvy Investors The Art of Photography The Groove Collective Tiger Publishing House

22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

Session 4 Offerings : Coding Unlocked Film Studies Game Changers Health Care Crew Lego Masters Passion Project Raspberry Pi in the Sky Scrapbooking Tiger Treats

31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS PROGRAMME STRUCTURE, PROGRAMME REGISTRATION, SHOWCASES AND PINNACLE PINS

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, culminating in a presentation at the Showcase. What are the dates for each session? Session 1: October 2 nd to November 18 th - Showcase is November 20 th Session 2: November 24th to January 19 th – Showcase is January 21 st Session 3: January 25 th to March 9 th - Showcase is March 11th Session 4: March 30 th to May 13 th - Showcase is May 17 th How can I learn more about each offering? At the beginning of the school year, the aims and goals and a preview of the offerings will be outlined during an Exploratory Launch. The Exploratory Fair will allow students (and parents) to ask questions about the explorations before indicating interest. 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 rank their choices in each session through a form, completed with their Advisor. 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 Exploratory Leaders brings their own unique vision and passion to the topic. Who decides the offerings? 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 yearly. How are students assessed? Exploratory is not formally graded. Instead, the programme celebrates growth, engagement, curiosity, perseverance, creativity, leadership, and positive contributions to the learning community. At the end of each session, Exploratory Leaders may recognize a student with a Pinnacle Pin, aligned with one of these areas: Creative Visionary, Innovative Thinker, Inspiring Performer, Wellness Champion, Emerging Leader, Curious Investigator, or Community Builder. The Pinnacle Pin is not necessarily awarded to the most skilled student; it recognizes a student who meaningfully embodies the spirit and values of the Exploratory Programme.

Basketball Coaches SESSION 1

Are you the next Cheryl Reeve or Steve Kerr?

What You’ll Do: Basketball Coaches aims to inspire future coaches while helping students further develop their knowledge and abilities as players. Participants will investigate basketball tactics and strategy while learning how to make activities fun, engaging, and meaningful. Students will plan and lead activities and practices for peers and Lower School groups while connecting with the wider basketball community.

Key offensive principles and strategy Defensive systems and tactics Technical skill development Psychology, motivation, and team management Plan, run, and adapt basketball activities and practices Community connections with basketball programs

You Might Enjoy This If... You love basketball You enjoy leadership opportunities You like teaching and mentoring others You want to understand the game on a deeper level

Led By: Jay Randall

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Broadway Beats SESSION 1

Learn Musical Theatre Dances from Popular Musicals!

What You’ll Do: Students will learn musical theatre dances inspired by Broadway and West End productions such as & Juliet, Wicked, Dear Evan Hansen, and Newsies. Participants will develop jazz dance technique, performance skills, musicality, expression, and confidence while bringing stories and characters to life through movement.

Learn energetic choreography from popular musicals while developing jazz dance technique Explore characters, emotions, and storytelling through movement Build performance skills through rehearsal, collaboration, and performance

You Might Enjoy This If... You love music and movement You enjoy dancing or performing You like working creatively with others You want to build confidence on stage Led By: Sarah Schryburt

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Cadets and Outdoor Leadership SESSION 1

Confidence, Discipline, and Leadership Through Adventure.

What You’ll Do:

This exploratory combines cadet leadership training with outdoor adventure and practical skill development. Participants build confidence through cadet drill, hikes, fire building, knot tying, campcraft, first aid, and mentoring younger students. Students may also participate alongside Upper School Cadets and take part in a camping experience while developing leadership and outdoor skills.

Learn and practice cadet drill, parade movements, and leadership techniques Build outdoor skills through fire building, knot tying, campcraft, navigation, and basic first aid Explore local trails and take part in outdoor leadership challenges and hikes Mentor and work with younger students Participate in an overnight camping experience Join Upper School Cadets on Thursday evenings

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy being outdoors You like adventure and challenge You want to develop leadership skills You enjoy working as part of a team

Led By: Second Lieutenant Ben Smith

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Fitness Gladiators SESSION 1

P u s h Yo u r L i m i t s a n d Discover the Power of Movement!

What You’ll Do:

Students will take part in weekly team and individual fitness challenges that deepen their understanding of the six components of fitness. Through obstacle courses, relay races, and sport-based games, students will build physical fitness, leadership, teamwork, and perseverance in a fun and energetic environment.

Understanding the importance and benefits of fitness Leadership and team-building skills Cardiovascular, resistance, and mobility training Variety of movement and sport-related experiences Gladiator Showcase (Design and Competition)

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy being active You like friendly competition You enjoy teamwork You want to challenge yourself Led By: Sandra Magee

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Happy Houseplants SESSION 1

Creating Greener Spaces

What You’ll Do:

Have you ever wondered why plants make a space feel calmer, brighter, and more inviting? In Happy Houseplants, students will discover how greenery can transform the environments where we learn, work, and connect. This hands-on exploratory focuses on the care, benefits, and impact of indoor plants while helping students contribute to a greener, healthier Middle School community.

Learn how to care for a variety of houseplants Explore soil, watering, lighting, and propagation techniques Visit The Watering Can and learn from plant experts Help build and maintain a Middle School plant nursery Select plants that can thrive in classrooms around the school Create simple care guides to help others keep plants healthy

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy plants, gardening and nature You like caring for living things You are interested in creating beautiful spaces You enjoy hands-on learning experiences You want to make a lasting impact on our school community

Led By: Ashley Auld

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Lots of Knots SESSION 1

Unplug, Create, and Discover the Art of Handmade Crafts!

What You’ll Do:

This hands-on exploratory introduces students to crochet and cross stitch through engaging, beginner-friendly projects. Students will learn foundational techniques, develop creativity and perseverance, and create handmade pieces in a relaxed workshop environment. Students will also explore other textile arts, such as macrame and sewing.

Learn basic crochet and cross stitch techniques through guided projects Create handmade items such as bookmarks, decorations, coasters and small crochet creations Explore creativity by choosing colours, patterns, and project designs Work in a maker-style environment that encourages collaboration and problemsolving Participate in a special guest workshop

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy arts and crafts You like creating with your hands You enjoy a relaxed creative environment You want to learn a timeless skill Led By: Ellen Duffus-Salvatore

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Medieval Mechanics SESSION 1

Step Back in Time and Discover the Power of Physics!

What You’ll Do: Medieval Mechanics invites students into the fascinating world of medieval engineering. Working in the school’s woodshop, students will safely use tools to cut and assemble components for their own trebuchet. Along the way, they will develop woodworking techniques, learn principles of construction design, and explore the physics behind levers, force, and mechanical advantage. This hands-on project combines creativity with science, offering practical skills and a deeper understanding of how ancient technologies shaped the world. You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy building and creating You are curious about engineering & physics You like working with tools You enjoy hands-on projects

Work with woodworking tools in Ridley’s wood shop Build a functional trebuchet Launch projectiles at a cardboard castle

Led By: Aaron Smajda

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

Back to Table of Contents

PAGE

The Global Kitchen SESSION 1

Ta s t e t h e W o r l d

What You’ll Do:

Travel the world without leaving the kitchen. Students will explore the history, traditions, and stories behind foods from around the world before making and tasting them together. Through hands-on experiences and guest workshops with professional chefs and family cooks, students will discover how food connects us to different cultures and communities.

Explore food and traditions from around the world Discover the stories and history behind different dishes Learn from professional chefs and guest cooks Make and taste a variety of traditional foods Participate in hands-on cultural cooking experiences Share food, traditions, and experiences with one another

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy food and cooking You like learning about different cultures You enjoy hands-on experiences You like trying new things Led By: Grace Voelkner

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

The Handmade Market SESSION 1

Create Artisanal Pieces, Package Them with Care and Sell Them!

What You’ll Do: Unleash your creativity, entrepreneurial spirit, and support school fundraising efforts. Students will create artisanal products using ceramic, vinyl, paper, and other materials while learning from experienced artisans and mentors. They will then market and sell their creations in the Ridley Middle School Holiday Handmade Market.

Create handmade products using a variety of materials Experiment with different techniques and tools Learn from artisans and mentors Package and market your creations Sell products at a Holiday Market Raise funds for a local charity or service organization

You Might Enjoy This If... You love being creative You enjoy making things You are interested in entrepreneurship You like seeing your ideas come to life You like working on a team Led By: Jocelyn Fralick

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Cadets and Outdoor Leadership SESSION 2

Build Confidence,Resilience, and Leadership Through Winter Adventure.

Step outside the traditional classroom and develop leadership skills through hands-on winter outdoor experiences and cadet training. Students will explore winter campcraft, cold-weather safety, navigation, first aid, fire building, and outdoor leadership while building confidence, teamwork, and resilience through challenges, hikes, and a winter camping experience.

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy being outdoors in all seasons You like adventure and challenge You want to develop leadership skills You enjoy working as part of a team

What You’ll Do: Learn and practice cadet drill, parade movements, and leadership techniques Develop winter outdoor skills, including cold-weather safety, winter campcraft, fire building, and navigation Explore local trails and participate in winter hikes and outdoor leadership challenges Build confidence and teamwork through winter survival and problem-solving activities Participate in an overnight winter camping experience at the BOERC. Join Upper School Cadets on Thursday evenings

Led By: Second Lieutenant Ben Smith Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Choreo Lab SESSION 2

Have you Ever Wanted to Create your own Dance Routine?

Students will learn the tools and techniques of choreography while creating their own original dance pieces. Through movement challenges, collaboration, feedback, and rehearsal, students will experiment with musicality, formations, transitions, and choreographic structures to bring their ideas to life. Whether experienced dancers or simply lovers of music and movement, students will have the chance to become the choreographer.

What You’ll Do: Create: Develop original movement and learn the tools of choreography through fun movement challenges Collaborate: Work with classmates to create, experiment, rehearse, and combine ideas into group pieces Move: Experiment with the elements of dance to refine your piece Perform: Present your piece to an audience

You Might Enjoy This If... You love music and movement You enjoy expressing yourself creatively You like collaborating with others You want to create something original Led By: Sarah Schryburt Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Crime Scene Investigators SESSION 2

Unlock the Mystery: Dive into Crime-Solving Skills!

Dive into the thrilling world of crime scene investigation. Students will explore CSI techniques, from fingerprinting to evidence collection, before applying their skills by creating and investigating their own crime scenes. Along the way, students will tackle escape rooms, solve puzzles, play mystery games, and learn from a real Niagara Police Inspector.

What You’ll Do: Meet Inspector Steve from Niagara Police and learn about major cases and investigative techniques Create your own crime scenes and collect evidence from others Take part in an Escape Room experience Participate in a Clue Board Game tournament Solve a Murder Mystery Investigate Unsolved Case Files

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy mysteries and detective stories You love puzzles and challenges You notice small details You enjoy hands-on problem solving Led By: Averee Mitchell Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Game On! SESSION 2

Let the games begin!

Get ready to play. Each week, students will explore a different type of game while discovering new rules, strategies, and ways to connect with others. From classic card and board games to cooperative and online games, students will challenge themselves, develop strategic thinking, and enjoy friendly competition in a fun and welcoming environment.

What You’ll Do: Explore and learn new card games Discover board games and different game strategies Try a variety of online games Play cooperative and team-based games Challenge yourself through friendly competitions Develop strategy, problem-solving, and communication skills

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy games of all kinds You like strategy and problem solving You enjoy friendly competition You want to meet new people and have fun Led By: Grace Voelkner Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Minecraft and Beyond SESSION 2

Build. Code. Create.

Step into a world where imagination has no limits. Students will work together as architects, engineers, storytellers, coders, filmmakers, and project leaders to create a large-scale interactive world in Minecraft Education. Through design challenges, coding missions, collaborative building projects, and storytelling activities, students will transform their ideas into an immersive experience and share it with an authentic audience.

You Might Enjoy This If...

What You’ll Do: Collaborate as a professional gamedesign team Participate in design challenges and build competitions Learn to code within Minecraft Education using MakeCode Explore immersive virtual environments and student-designed worlds Develop original characters, stories, and quests Produce and present a professional showcase experience

You love Minecraft You enjoy building and creating You are interested in coding and game design You enjoy teamwork and storytelling Led By: Luc Brodeur Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Model United Nations SESSION 2

Big Issues. Bold Ideas. Yo u n g L e a d e r s .

Step into the world of diplomacy with this engaging introduction to Model United Nations. Students will sharpen critical thinking, strengthen communication skills, and deepen their understanding of global issues through debate, collaboration, and research. This exploratory also prepares students for the possibility of attending a formal MUN conference during the winter.

What You’ll Do: Understanding the role of the United Nations and Member States Developing position papers on a global issue Public speaking and persuasion Debate and negotiations Drafting resolutions Identifying key issues Mini simulations

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy discussing big ideas You are interested in global issues You like debating and public speaking You enjoy working collaboratively to solve problems Led By: Derrick des Vignes Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Robotics

SESSION 2 Build it, code it, test it!

Dive into the exciting world of robotics as you design, build, code, and test robots. Starting with pre-designed robot kits, students will develop foundational engineering and coding skills before moving on to creating and programming their own robotic designs. Through teamwork, experimentation, and innovation, students will bring their ideas to life while developing valuable STEM skills.

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy technology and innovation You like building and creating things You are curious about coding You enjoy solving problems as part of a team

What You’ll Do: Build and assemble a robot using robotics kits and learn how mechanical systems work Learn introductory coding skills to control robot movements and complete tasks Test, troubleshoot, and improve robot performance through real-world challenges Design and build an original robot based on your own ideas and goals Collaborate with peers to solve problems and refine designs Showcase completed robots through demonstrations and interactive presentations

Led By: Ellen Duffus-Salvatore Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Tartan Tunes SESSION 2

Discover Celtic Music Through Performance

Tartan Tunes is an introduction to Celtic culture through music. Students will have the opportunity to explore traditional instruments such as the bagpipes, snare drum, bass drum, tenor drum, Irish tin whistle, and bodhrán. This exploratory encourages students to step outside their comfort zones, try something new, and have fun while developing musical skills. Along the way, students will experience traditional Celtic music and have opportunities to create music of their own.

What You’ll Do: Learn how to play the bagpipes Learn how to play the snare drum, bass drum, and tenor drum Learn to play the Irish tin whistle and bodhrán Explore traditional Celtic music and performance Create and perform original musical ideas

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy music and performance You want to learn a unique instrument You like trying new challenges You are curious about Celtic culture and traditions Led By: Matt Stevens Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

The Music Lab SESSION 2

Explore Music, Podcasts, and Sound Design

The Music Lab is a creative space where students can explore music production, songwriting, podcasting, and digital audio creation using Soundtrap. Students will learn how to build beats, write melodies, create chord progressions, structure songs, and experiment with sound design. Whether you're interested in music production, storytelling, or audio technology, this exploratory offers the opportunity to develop new skills while creating original projects in a professional digital environment.

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy music, podcasts, or audio storytelling You are curious about how songs are created and produced You enjoy experimenting with technology and creativity You like working independently on creative projects

What You’ll Do: Explore Soundtrap's interface and create sound collages Map out song structures (intro, verse, chorus, bridge) and compose multisection tracks Experiment with sound design & effects such as panning, reverb, delay, and EQ Practice mixing techniques Try songwriting with lyrics Use chords and harmony to support melodies and create different moods Explore different music genres and create style-inspired tracks

Led By: Eugenie Wiley Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

American Sign Language SESSION 3

Discover the language of sign.

Want to learn a useful new skill that lets you communicate in a whole new way? Students will learn beginner ASL vocabulary, develop fingerspelling skills, build confidence through conversation and activities, and gain an appreciation for Deaf culture and community.

What You’ll Do: Learn to fingerspell names and words Build an extensive signing vocabulary through themed lessons Participate in sign games and challenges Learn basic ASL grammar and sentence structure Explore facial expressions and body language Gain awareness of Deaf culture and the ASL community You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy learning new languages You like communicating with others You want to challenge yourself with a new skill You are curious about Deaf culture

Led By: Eugenie Wiley Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Check Your Pulse SESSION 3

Get in the zone!

This active, hands-on exploratory investigates what happens inside your body when you move. Students will wear heart-rate monitors, collect data, and explore how different activities affect cardiovascular response while learning about fitness, effort, and recovery.

What You’ll Do: Try a different sport or fitness challenge each week Wear a heart-rate monitor and see how your heart rate changes Get in the Zone! Learn about heartrate zones Be Your Own Lab! Collect and compare data Challenge Yourself! Compete and test your limits Discover and Reflect! Learn how your body responds to exercise

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy sports and fitness You are curious about how the body works You like data and experiments You enjoy active challenges Led by: Sarah Schryburt Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Crime Scene Investigators SESSION 3

Unlock the Mystery: Dive into CrimeSolving Skills!

What You’ll Do: Meeting Inspector Steve from the Niagara Police and learning about major cases and investigative techniques Create your own crime scenes and collect evidence from others Field Trip to Escape Rooms Clue Board Game Tournament Play a Murder Mystery Investigate Unsolved Case Files

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Digital Art Studio SESSION 3

Build a Portfolio of Creative Possibilities

Learn how to turn your ideas into digital artwork using Procreate and Apple Pencil. From custom stickers and animated designs to digital paintings and creative illustrations, you'll explore the tools and techniques that digital artists use every day. Along the way, you'll experiment, create, and build a collection of artwork you can be proud to share.

What You’ll Do: Learn how to use Procreate and Apple Pencil for digital illustration Explore creative effects, brushes, layers, and digital painting techniques Create typography and calligraphy designs Design custom stickers and digital elements Experiment with simple animations Complete tutorials and creative challenges Build a portfolio of digital artwork You Might Enjoy This If...

Led by: Ashley Auld

A h le y

u ld

You enjoy drawing, designing, or creating artwork You are interested in digital tools You enjoy turning ideas into finished products iPad, Apple Pencil and Procreate app are required

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Movement Studio SESSION 3

More ways to get moving.

Get moving and try something new. Students will explore cheerleading, dance, yoga, and Pilates through hands-on classes and guest experiences with certified instructors. Along the way, they will discover how movement supports physical and mental well-being while building confidence, strength, flexibility, and balance.

What You’ll Do: Try cheerleading and learn basic skills and routines Explore different styles of dance Learn yoga with a certified instructor Experience Pilates with a certified instructor Explore the connection between movement and well-being Build confidence through movement You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy being active You like trying new things You are interested in fitness and wellness You want to build confidence in a supportive environment

Led By: Grace Voelkner Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Savvy Investors SESSION 3

L e a r n . Tr a d e . G r o w .

Students will learn the basics of investing by managing a virtual stock portfolio and exploring key concepts like risk, reward and ethical investing. They’ll apply their knowledge in a stock trading game deciding how to invest their virtual capital. Along the way, they’ll build critical thinking, teamwork and realworld financial skills.

What You’ll Do: Learn about investing and financial decision-making Use a stock market simulator that allows you to invest in stocks, ETFs, bonds, mutual funds and cryptocurrency Understand basic rules of investing Build and manage a virtual investment portfolio Hear from people working in the field of financial planning You Might Enjoy This If... You are interested in business, money, or entrepreneurship You enjoy strategy and decisionmaking You like analyzing information and spotting trends You are curious about how the financial world works You want to learn skills that apply in the real world

Led by: Tricia Poulin

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

The Art of Photography SESSION 3

Capture and tell stories through photography

Students will learn how to take interesting and original photographs using DSLR cameras while working with community experts. Through workshops, editing, competitions, and publication opportunities, students will build a photography portfolio and share their work with authentic audiences.

What You’ll Do: Learn how to operate a DSLR camera in manual mode Investigate photography techniques and genres Participate in expert-led workshops Photograph Ridley events and activities Edit photographs using Adobe Lightroom Participate in photography competitions and publication opportunities You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy photography You like technology and visual storytelling You want to learn professional camera skills You enjoy sharing your creative work with others

Led by: Jay Randall Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

The Groove Collective SESSION 3

From Marvin to Motown: Discover the Music that Changed the World

Step into the world of Motown and discover the music that changed popular culture forever. Through singing, listening, performing, and creative activities, students will explore the artists, stories, and sounds behind legendary Motown hits while developing their own musical confidence.

What You’ll Do: Explore the signature Motown sound, including rhythm, groove, and harmony | Study iconic songs by artists such as The Supremes, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Temptations, and The Jackson 5 Play and experiment with instruments used in Motown music Create original musical ideas inspired by the Motown style Participate in workshops with local musicians Enjoy opportunities to perform You Might Enjoy This If... You love music You enjoy singing or performing You are curious about musical history and culture You enjoy collaborating with others

Led By: Jocelyn Fralick Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Tiger Publishing House SESSION 3

Have you ever dreamed of being the author of your own story?

Tiger Publishing House is a creative, hands-on exploratory for students who have a story to tell. Students will experience the journey of creating a book from beginning to end, including research, story development, writing, illustration, design, and publication. By the end, each student will have created their own original book.

What You’ll Do: Visit the library or local bookstore for inspiration Develop characters, settings, and story ideas Write, revise, and edit an original story | Illustrate and design a book Learn about the publishing process Work with guest speakers and publishing opportunities You Might Enjoy This If... You love reading and writing You have a story to tell You enjoy drawing and illustrating You want to create something entirely your own

Led By: Kaitie Kerr Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Coding Unlocked SESSION 4

Think like a programmer.

Discover the creative side of coding. Students will explore the basics of coding through interactive challenges, games, animations, and creative projects. No previous coding experience is required, just a willingness to experiment, troubleshoot, and bring ideas to life. What You’ll Do: Discover the basics of coding and computational thinking Explore how games and interactive programs are created Complete coding challenges and puzzles Create animations, stories, and interactive projects Experiment with code and learn from mistakes Develop and share your own coding creation You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy technology You like solving puzzles and problems You want to learn coding You enjoy creating your own projects

Led By: Grace Voelkner Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Film Studies SESSION 4

From Story to Screen

Ever wonder how movies capture our attention, tell powerful stories, or create unforgettable moments? In Film Studies, students will explore the art of filmmaking by examining how directors, writers, actors, and cinematographers work together to bring stories to life. Through film clips, discussions, creative activities, and hands-on projects, students will learn to view films through a new lens while developing their own understanding of storytelling and visual communication.

What You’ll Do: Explore film genres and what makes them unique Analyze memorable scenes, characters, and cinematic techniques Learn how filmmakers use camera angles, sound, lighting, and editing Discuss themes, storytelling, and visual communication Create film reviews, storyboards, or short film projects Participate in screenings and collaborative film discussions

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy movies and television You are curious about storytelling and filmmaking You like discussing ideas and sharing opinions You enjoy creative projects and visual media Led By: Daniel O’Rourke

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Game Changers SESSION 4

Discovering your athletic potential.

This active, hands-on experience explores a variety of sports while helping students understand what allows athletes to perform at their best. Through sport, fitness, wellness, and expert guidance, students will discover how healthy habits contribute to success on and off the field. What You’ll Do: Try a variety of sports and physical activities Learn how nutrition, hydration, sleep, and recovery influence performance Explore strength training, yoga, and injury prevention Learn from guest speakers and athletic experts Reflect on strengths, interests, and goals as athletes Discover how performance principles apply across sports You Might Enjoy This If... You love sports and physical activity You enjoy trying new challenges You are interested in athlete development You like learning from athletes and experts Led By: Luc Brodeur Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Health Care Crew SESSION 4

Step into the world of health and medicine!

Students will develop a deeper understanding of human anatomy, body systems, injuries, nutrition, and first aid while gaining hands-on experience with medical tools and practices. This exploratory may inspire future interests in healthcare and medical careers. What You’ll Do: Knowledge and understanding of the human body Health and body systems Measuring vital signs First Aid and AED training Sports injuries and responses Nutrition principles Learn about careers in healthcare and medicine

You Might Enjoy This If... You are curious about the human body, science and medicine You enjoy hands-on learning You are interested in helping others Led By: Sandra Magee Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Lego Masters SESSION 4

Where Engineering Meets Imagination

Students will level up their LEGO skills by integrating motors, sensors and code into their builds. Through engaging challenges inspired by the hit show, students will learn essential engineering concepts like stability, balance, and modular design — while also diving into real-world coding practices using LEGO Spike Prime and Technic components. What You’ll Do:

You Might Enjoy This If... You love building with Lego You enjoy engineering and design challenges You are curious about coding and robotics You enjoy working with teammates to bring big ideas to life

Learn structural building techniques using bricks, plates, and tiles Explore stability, balance, and interlocking building methods Design modular creations with detachable sections Build with gears, pulleys, levers, and moving parts Create functional elements such as doors, windows, and ramps Experiment with advanced techniques including arches, hinges, and curves Combine creativity and storytelling through Lego design Explore complex mechanisms and automation using LEGO Technic

Led By: Tricia Poulin

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Passion Project SESSION 4

D i s c o v e r Yo u r P a s s i o n . E x p l o r e Yo u r P o t e n t i a l . M a k e Yo u r M a r k .

The Passion Project gives students the opportunity to pursue a topic they genuinely care about. Whether interests lie in science, technology, sports, arts, business, social causes, or innovation, students will investigate, create, and share meaningful work driven by curiosity and self-directed learning. What You’ll Do: Explore personal interests and identify an area of inquiry Conduct research using reliable sources Connect with experts and mentors Experiment, design, build, create, or test ideas Reflect on challenges and growth Create a final product and share learning with an authentic audience

You Might Enjoy This If... You love exploring your own ideas You enjoy independent projects You are curious and self-motivated You want to create something meaningful

Led By: Derrick des Vignes Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Raspberry Pi In The Sky SESSION 4

Looking to take your coding to the next level?

Take your coding skills into the stratosphere. Students will program a Raspberry Pi data logger, build a microsatellite-style payload, analyze weather patterns, and launch a highaltitude weather balloon. Along the way, they will explore coding, physics, meteorology, and engineering through an authentic real-world project.

What You’ll Do: Code a Raspberry Pi data logger with video cameras Build a micro satellite-style payload Observe and predict wind patterns Calculate helium requirements and flight characteristics Launch a payload into the stratosphere with a high-altitude weather balloon

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy coding and technology You are curious about space and weather You like hands-on engineering projects You enjoy solving real-world problems Led By: Aaron Smajda

Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Scrapbooking SESSION 4

C r a f t Yo u r S t o r y : Scrapbooking Adventure for Creative Minds!

Capture, create, and celebrate your memories. Students will learn how to tell stories through photos, mementos, and creative design while building a personalized scrapbook that reflects their own experiences and interests. What You’ll Do: Create a personalized scrapbook using photos and keepsakes Explore junk journaling and creative storytelling Visit Michaels for inspiration and materials Experiment with a variety of creative supplies Bring your ideas to life through design and reflection

You Might Enjoy This If... You love arts and crafts You enjoy photography and memories You like creative projects You want to tell your story in a unique way Led By: Kaitie Kerr Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE

Tiger Treats SESSION 4

Learn to make delicious treats from scratch.

Students will learn baking skills while giving back to their community. From choosing recipes and creating shopping lists to packaging finished products, participants will experience the full process of creating treats with purpose.

What You’ll Do: Get hands-on in the kitchen and learn baking skills Choose recipes and create shopping lists Work as a baking team Design packaging and ingredient labels Donate creations to Ridley events and community causes

You Might Enjoy This If... You enjoy baking and cooking You like creative hands-on projects You enjoy working with others You want to make a difference through your work

Led By: Sarah Schryburt Back to Table of Contents

WHERE CURIOSITY LEADS LEARNING

PAGE