What does Program Enrichment mean? You could define it as the continued annual enhancement of technology, equipment and facilities to advance academic innovation and enrich student experience.

For our students, however, it can be summed up in one word: Wow!

Thanks to funds available through the Program Enrichment strategy of Soaring Beyond: The Campaign for TFS, existing lab, classroom and gym spaces at TFS were redesigned, upgraded or renovated over the past summer. Teachers speak enthusiastically about these new spaces and consistently report the same reaction among their students: excitement. The new surroundings are inspiring students to learn, collaborate, create, imagine…excel.

Renovations to the Junior School gym have invigorated school spirit. The Cougar athletic logo displayed proudly has effectively rebranded the gym. “Now it really feels like the home of the Cougars,” says Walid Berrahal, Director of Athletics. Renovations involved not only the new banner system but also wall padding and four new adjustable basketball nets. The gym was also made ready to accommodate the new volleyball and badminton nets and equipment.

But for Genevieve Cholette, drama teacher, the creation of well-designed storage for the gym equipment means a clear stage for rehearsals. “The sports equipment had to be moved every time we needed the stage. Students really enjoy being on stage now. With interest in the arts continually growing at TFS, this renovation is important.”

For art teacher Vesna Markovic, the new art studio for Senior School students is so much brighter — perfect for the visual arts — thanks to a complete interior renovation to enhance student workspaces, lighting and storage. “It’s more functional, beautiful and welcoming,” she says. New cork wall surfaces have changed the way the students work as well. Rather than awkward easels that take up a lot of space, students use almost every inch of wall space. They can step back and assess their works in progress. New storage also keeps art materials neatly organized.

Science teacher Ulrik Bédos, when asked about the newly renovated science lab at Mississauga, summarized it thus: “It’s bigger, brighter, better!” The concept for the renovation was brilliantly designed around the lab’s 3D printers. He explains, “We’ve gone from a largely paper-based lab to a hands-on lab.”

The new tables and massive countertop allow students to move around the lab with ease and facilitate group work. They no longer have to work in pairs, but can work in groups of six at one table, sparking a synergy that did not exist before. Christophe Plantiveau, science teacher at the Toronto campus, concurs wholeheartedly. He has seen that same positive synergy swirling around his spacious new lab. “Classes can be taught more efficiently, which benefits the students.”

Program Enrichment. Two words, an infinite variety of practical applications, all ensuring that TFS can continue to provide an innovative academic environment for students. The next Program Enrichment projects promise to elicit even more excited reactions.  We’ll keep you posted!

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