For high school students, the summer is more than simply a time off from classes; it's a chance to discover new interests, gain worthwhile experiences, and be ready for the future. Many summer programmes in Toronto, a bustling city with a robust educational scene, serve a wide spectrum of interests. We'll look at some excellent summer programmes in architecture, maths, and science for high school students in Toronto in this article.
1. Daniels Design Discovery
Overview
- Age Group: 15-19 years old
- Duration: Two 2-week courses
Program Details
Daniels Design Discovery
It provides a unique introduction to architecture, fostering creative thinking and design skills. Participants explore various design tools and techniques, establishing a solid foundation for unleashing their creative potential.
Nikibii Dawadinna Giigwag – Flooded Valley Healing
- Age Group: Grade 9-12+ (ages 15-25)
- Duration: 7 weeks (July 11 to August 24, 2022)
- Financial Assistance: Free registration with a paid learning experience ($15/hr, up to $3300 for the summer)
This Indigenous Youth Program blends cultural teachings with landscape architecture and environmental conservation fieldwork. With Elders guiding them, participants develop confidence, cultural identity, and connections to the land. The program serves as a pathway to postsecondary education in Landscape Architecture, Ecological Science, and Indigenous Studies.
2. Science Unlimited
Overview
- Department: Department of Physics
- Age Group: Grade 10 or 11 (must have completed grade 10 or 11 by August)
Program Details
Science Unlimited
- Program Dates: 1 week, August 14-18, 2023
- Financial Assistance: Available
This unique program, offered by the Department of Physics, provides high school students with a week of workshops covering various scientific disciplines. While planning for an in-person camp in 2023, Science Unlimited aims to offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students to delve into astronomy, chemistry, computer science, earth sciences, math, physics, and the environment.
3. Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science: Blueprint
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 10-11
- Program Dates: July – August (2022 details not announced)
- Residence Component: Online Program (due to Covid-19)
- Contact: [outreach@engineering.utoronto.ca](https://engineering.utoronto.ca)
Engineering Excellence for Black Students:
Blueprint, an academic enrichment program, caters to motivated Black students in Grades 10 and 11, passionate about STEM and Engineering. The program, previously in-person, is currently conducted online due to the pandemic.
Program Highlights:
- 5 weeks of summer programming
- Monthly webinars and meet-ups
- Exposure to top engineering facilities
- Insights from students and researchers
- Design and Innovation Week for real-world problem-solving
4. Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science: DEEP Summer Academy
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 9-12
- Program Dates: July 4-29
- Residence Component: Not offered in 2022, expected to return in 2023
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: Yes
- Contact: [outreach@engineering.utoronto.ca](https://engineering.utoronto.ca)
Unleashing Engineering Passion:
The Da Vinci Engineering Enrichment Program (DEEP) Summer Academy caters to high school students globally, offering advanced study in engineering, technology, business, and science disciplines. With diverse course offerings, students explore innovative topics taught by faculty members, PhD candidates, and undergraduate students.
Sample Engineering Streams:
- Designing Our Cities
- Experimenting with Elements
- Health Technologies and Pharmaceutical
- Intelligent Computing Operations
- Physics and Dynamics Fundamentals – Research in Autonomous Robots
5. Faculty of Engineering & Applied Science: DEEP Spring Seminar Series
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 9-12
- Program Dates: Not offered in 2022
- Application Dates: February to March
- Residence Component: Optional
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: Yes
- Contact: [outreach@engineering.utoronto.ca](https://engineering.utoronto.ca)
Condensed Engineering Exploration:
The DEEP Spring Seminar Series mirrors the DEEP Summer Academy experience in just two weeks. With a variety of courses and residence options, students can dive into engineering streams like "Engineering a Healthier World" and "Smart Everything: Intelligent Systems."
6. U of T Engineering Academy
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 9-11
- Program Dates: Not running this summer
- Residence Component: Optional
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: Yes
- Contact: [outreach@ecf.utoronto.ca](https://www.ecf.utoronto.ca)
Engineering Immersion:
The U of T Engineering Academy invites motivated high school students to engage with STEM curriculum in the lecture halls and labs of Canada's leading engineering school. Through a blend of classroom learning, experiential activities, and city excursions, students prepare for university life while discovering U of T's renowned engineering programs.
Residence Experience:
For an immersive experience, students can opt for the residence program, offering a glimpse into university living.
7. Math Academy
Overview
- Department: Department of Mathematics
- Age Group: Grade 9-12 (flexible, based on merit)
Programs
Math Academy
- Program Dates: March Break and August 8-12, 2022
- Financial Assistance: Available based on financial need
Toronto's elite math course for high-schoolers, Math Academy, introduces a new curriculum each session, providing students a taste of university-level math. Admission is based on creative problem-solving ability rather than specific curriculum knowledge.
Math Summer Camps & Courses
- Age Group: Grade 9-11
- Program Dates: Various weeks in July and August
- Financial Assistance: Available based on financial need
Designed for math enthusiasts seeking challenges beyond their grade level, these interactive courses showcase the practical applications of mathematics to stimulate interest and creativity.
8. Engineering High School Saturdays
Overview
- Age Group: High School
- Program Dates: Multiple times during the year (fall and winter sessions)
- Residence Component: No
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: Yes
- Contact: [outreach@ecf.utoronto.ca](https://www.ecf.utoronto.ca)
Weekend Exploration:
The Engineering High School Saturdays program encourages students to explore science, engineering, math, and technology in a community-oriented, confidence-building environment. With classes divided by grade, participants experience interactive workshops and activities.
Note:
This program provides a broad overview and is not an in-depth investigation of a specific topic. Motivated students seeking focused study in a particular discipline may consider the DEEP Summer Academy.
ENGage High School Saturdays
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 10-11
- Program Dates: Future sessions not announced yet
- Residence Component: No
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: Yes
- Contact: [outreach@engineering.utoronto.ca](https://www.engineering.utoronto.ca)
Mentorship for Black Students:
The ENGage High School Saturday Program is a mentorship initiative for Black high school students interested in STEM. Focused on community-building, this program enhances academic skills in science and engineering while fostering valuable life skills. Through workshops and hands-on experiences, participants gain insights into various engineering fields and the life of a U of T Engineering student.
9. Indigenous Design and Engineering Academy (IDEA) – Horizons Program
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 3-6
- Program Dates: August 8-12 and August 15-19 (on campus)
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: N/A (Free Program)
Culturally Grounded Learning:
The IDEA – Horizons Program is designed for Indigenous youth in grades 3-6. This on-campus program combines Indigenous knowledge with design and engineering concepts, offering a culturally rich and engaging educational experience.
10. School of Continuing Studies: Online Programs in Video Game Coding and Virtual Reality Creation
Overview
- Age Group: 13-18
- Program Dates: Starting July 24, 2023
- Contact: (https://utoronto-scs.xrcourse.com/preuni#courses)
Embrace the Future of Technology:
The School of Continuing Studies, in collaboration with Circuit Stream, presents online programs in video game coding and virtual reality creation. Tailored for high school students, these programs blend industry-leading instruction with hands-on learning experiences, providing a unique platform to explore the realms of computer science, gaming, and STEM.
Course #1: Video Game Coding
- Learn fundamental game development using Unity and C# scripting to bring 2D games to life.
Course #2: Virtual Reality Creation
- Delve into university-level computer science concepts while creating immersive VR experiences.
11. Camp U of T - Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 9-10
- Program Dates: Visit the [site](https://www.campuoft.ca) for 2023 offerings
- Residence Component: No
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: No
- Contact: [campuoft@utoronto.ca](https://www.campuoft.ca)
Summer Fun and Fitness:
Camp U of T, with 28 diverse programs, provides a range of experiences for children aged 4 to 16. The camp encourages kids to try new activities, make friends, and discover new ways to enjoy sports and recreation.
12. Youth Summer Program – Law (Law YSP) - Faculty of Law
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 10-12
- Program Dates: June 28 – August 13 (Online)
- Residence Component: No
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: Restricted
- Contact: [ysp.law@utoronto.ca](https://www.law.utoronto.ca)
Legal Exploration:
In partnership with the Faculty of Medicine, the Law YSP offers high school students a unique opportunity to delve into advanced legal concepts, Canadian legal systems, and participate in simulations. With modules like Criminal Law, International Law, and Trial Advocacy, students gain a deeper understanding of the legal field.
13. International Programs Online Learning
Overview
- Age Group: Ages 15-18
- Program Dates: Throughout the year (Online)
- Residence Component: No
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: No
- Contact: [learnonline@utoronto.ca](https://www.learnonline.utoronto.ca)
Global Perspectives Through Online Courses:
U of T's International Programs offer online courses for high school students worldwide. The Global Citizenship Challenge, Perspectives on Global Business, Global Health, and Global Media courses provide insights into real-world issues, fostering teamwork and problem-solving.
14. Youth Summer Program – Medicine (Med YSP) - Temerty Faculty of Medicine
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 10-12
- Program Dates: July to August 2024 (Four separate modules)
- Residence Component: No
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: Yes
- Contact: [med.ysp@utoronto.ca](https://www.ysp.utoronto.ca/med)
Exploring Medical Careers:
The Med YSP offers an engaging program for students interested in science, research, and medical careers. With four disciplines to explore, including physiology, molecular biology, pharmacology & toxicology, and microbiology, students get a comprehensive view of the medical field.
15. STEAM Design Program
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 10-12
- Program Dates: July 2 – 26, 2024
- Residence Component: No
- Cost/Scholarship: Free
- Contact: [steamdesign.oao@utoronto.ca](https://www.steamdesign.utoronto.ca)
Inclusive Experiential Learning:
The STEAM Design Program, emphasizing Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics, focuses on experiential learning with an equity focus. It's tailored for students underrepresented in health sciences, including Black, Indigenous, Filipino, Latin American, and those facing socio-economic barriers. Learners engage in interactive sessions, design challenges, and a Design Competition with post-program support.
16. Reach Ahead to Kinesiology - Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education
Overview
- Age Group: Black and Indigenous youth aged 15 – 17 (Grade 10-11)
- Program Dates: March Break
- Application Deadline: December 8th, 2023
- Contact: [reachahead.kpe@utoronto.ca](https://www.kpe.utoronto.ca)
Explore Kinesiology:
This week-long program allows Black and Indigenous youth to experience student life at U of T while exploring the field of kinesiology. Through interactive workshops, mentorship, and career exploration, students gain insights into health and physical activity.
17. Pre-University Programs
Overview
- Age Group: Ages 15-18
- Program Dates: July/August 2023
- Residence Component: Yes
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: No
- Contact: [summeracademy@utoronto.ca](https://www.summeracademy.utoronto.ca)
Preparing for University:
The Global Citizenship Program and Advanced Academic Program offer immersive experiences. The former explores global citizenship through lectures and workshops, while the latter challenges students with academic courses, culminating in an independent research paper and presentation.
18. Summer Mentorship Program (SMP)
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 10-12
- Program Dates: July 2 – 26, 2024
- Residence Component: No
- Cost/Scholarship: Free
- Contact: [oao.outreach@utoronto.ca](https://www.smp.utoronto.ca)
Exploring Health Sciences:
SMP provides Indigenous or African ancestry high school students a four-week exploration of health sciences at U of T. With a deadline of March 22, 2024, this program offers mentorship, academic insights, and a glimpse into potential career paths within health sciences.
19. International Summer Academy – Youth International English Program (IEP)
Overview
- Age Group: Ages 13-18
- Program Dates: July/August 2023
- Residence Component: Yes
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: No
- Contact: [summeracademy@utoronto.ca](https://www.summeracademy.utoronto.ca)
Enhancing English Skills:
Youth IEP is a 3 to 4-week summer program designed for international ESL students. Offering courses like General English, Academic Preparation, Intensive English, and IELTS Preparation, students also participate in afternoon activities and weekend excursions, fostering language improvement and cultural experiences.
20. UC Summer Drama for International Students
Overview
- Age Group: Ages 15-18
- Program Dates: 3 weeks, July 10 to July 29, 2023
- Residence Component: Yes
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: No
- Contact: [summer.drama@utoronto.ca](https://www.ucsummerdrama.utoronto.ca)
Creative Exploration:
UC Summer Drama introduces participants to post-secondary theatre training. With streams in acting and sound design, students also benefit from "Embodied English" classes, improving language skills through performance. Cultural excursions expand creative capabilities, making it a holistic theatre experience.
21. Summer High School Pre-University Virtual Program – Mississauga Campus
Overview
- Age Group: High School
- Program Dates: Session 1: July 6-20, 2021; Session 2: July 26-August 8, 2021
- Contact: [liz.coulson@utoronto.ca](https://www.utm.utoronto.ca)
Introduction to University Life:
This two-week program at the Mississauga campus offers high school students leadership training, career planning, coaching, and language and communication training. World-class professors guide participants, and a University of Toronto Certificate is awarded upon completion.
22. Math Circles
Overview
- Age Group: Grade 10-12
- Program Dates: Thursdays from January 26, 2023, to April 6, 2023
- Residence Component: No
- Cost/Scholarship: Free
- Contact: [e.hossain@utoronto.ca](https://www.mathcircles.utoronto.ca)
Challenging Mathematical Exploration:
Math Circles provides a unique opportunity for students to work with UTM’s Mathematics and Computer Science Department on mathematical puzzles. Covering topics beyond standard high school curriculum, this program encourages students to expand their mathematical horizons.
23. Camp U of T Mississauga
Overview
- Age Group: Ages 14-16
- Program Dates: July 4 – August 25, 2023
- Residence Component: No
- Financial Assistance/Scholarship: No
- Contact: [camp.utm@utoronto.ca](https://www.camputm.utoronto.ca)
Summer Fun and Leadership Building:
Camp U of T Mississauga offers sport, recreation-based camps, and academic-themed opportunities for youth aged 4-16. Leadership Camp for ages 14-16 focuses on communication, collaboration, and teaching skills through various activities and mentorship.
24. Children’s Camps – Scarborough Campus
Overview
- Age Group: 6-12 years old
- Program Dates: July 4 – August 25
- Residence Component: N/A
- Contact: [camp.utsc@utoronto.ca](https://www.camp.utsc.utoronto.ca)
Diverse Summer Adventures:
Children’s Camps at Scarborough Campus offer a range of programs from sports and arts to coding and science. Tailored for 6-12-year-olds, these camps provide an enriching summer experience with activities like soccer, basketball, arts & crafts, dramatic arts, coding, and more.
25. Youth Leadership Certificate Program – Scarborough Campus
Overview
- Age Group: 13-15 years old
- Program Dates: July and August (2-week sessions)
- Contact: [camp.utsc@utoronto.ca](https://www.camp.utsc.utoronto.ca)
Comprehensive Leadership Training:
The 2-week Youth Leadership Certificate Program for ages 13
15 offers character-building workshops, global topic exploration, and leadership skill development. Facilitated by U of T staff, faculty, alumni, and community partners, this program builds confidence, self-awareness, and motivation in a supportive environment.
Conclusion
Toronto's summer programs for high school students not only enrich academic knowledge but also provide a platform for personal and cultural growth. Whether delving into architecture, mathematics, or the sciences, these programs offer unique and valuable experiences. As the summer approaches, consider exploring these opportunities and unlocking your potential in the heart of Toronto.