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Extra Curricular Handbook 2025-26

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CDS MS/SS Extracurricular Handbook 2025/26 After-School Programming: Extracurricular programs run Monday to Thursday from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m., with select sports teams also holding morning practices. Offerings vary each term based on interest and scheduling. The following is a comprehensive list of our offerings. Sport and Fitness Development ● CISAA Sports Teams (Grades 7-12) are competitive athletic programs for independent schools in Ontario, promoting teamwork, sportsmanship, and skill development. Each term marks a new season, with different sports to choose from. ● Fitness Club (Grade 9-12) offers students access to workouts focused on overall health, strength, and endurance. It’s a welcoming space for all levels to develop personal fitness routines and healthy habits. ● Powerlifting Club (Grade 9-12) helps students build strength and proper technique in key lifts like the squat, bench press, and deadlift. It emphasizes safety, discipline, and personal fitness goals in a supportive environment. ● Speed and Agility Training (Grade 9-12) is designed for athletes looking to improve quickness, reaction time, and movement efficiency. Sessions incorporate drills and exercises to boost performance across various sports. ● Table Tennis Club (Grade 7-12) gives students the opportunity to play recreationally or competitively while improving coordination and reflexes. It’s a fast-paced, fun activity open to players of all levels. Academic Clubs & Enrichment Activities ● MS Debate and Public Speaking (Grade 7 and 8) introduces students to the fundamentals of argumentation, public speaking, and critical thinking. Participants engage in friendly debates, learning how to structure and present persuasive ideas. ● SS Debate and Public Speaking (Grade 9-12) allows students to refine their public speaking, reasoning, and rhetorical skills through formal debates. It often includes competitive opportunities at regional or national levels. ● Mock Trial (Grade 9-12) simulates real courtroom experiences, where students take on roles as lawyers, witnesses, and judges. It develops legal reasoning, teamwork, and effective communication under pressure. ● Model United Nations (MUN) (Grade 9-12) challenges students to represent countries and debate global issues in a diplomatic setting. It builds research, negotiation, and public speaking skills while fostering global awareness. Updated: July 24, 2025 - A Leacock Page 2 of 6

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CDS MS/SS Extracurricular Handbook 2025/26 Academic Support ● Academic Support (Grade 7-12) This provides a quiet, supervised environment where students can complete homework, catch up on assignments, or study independently. It promotes time management and academic responsibility ● Idea Lab (Grade 7 and 8) is a creative, hands-on space where students explore innovation, design thinking, and STEAM-based projects. It encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and experimentation with new ideas. ● Study Tables/Peer Tutoring (Grade 7-12) connects students who need academic support with fellow students who can help explain concepts and offer study strategies. It fosters collaboration, leadership, and a stronger sense of community through shared learning. ● SSC After-School Support (Student Services Centre) (Grade 7-12) provides additional support to students with diverse learning needs. It offers individualized strategies, accommodations, and a safe space to help students succeed in all areas of school life. Drama, Visual Arts & Creative ● Middle School Drama Production (Grade 7 and 8) This fall production is a theatrical program where students in Grades 7 and 8 participate in acting, singing, and stagecraft. It builds confidence, collaboration, and creativity through live performance. ● Senior School Drama Production (Grade 9-12) This winter production invites students in Grades 9–12 to take on challenging roles in drama and musical theatre. Participants develop advanced performance skills while contributing to a full-scale, professionally staged show. ● Open Art Studio (Grade 7-12) provides students with the time, space, and materials to explore visual art independently or with peers. It encourages experimentation, self-expression, and skill development across various mediums. ● Pottery Club (Grade 7-12) introduces students to ceramic techniques such as hand-building, wheel-throwing, and glazing. It’s a relaxing, hands-on creative outlet that nurtures patience and artistic growth. ● Portraits Magazine (Grade 9-12) is the school’s arts and literary magazine, showcasing student work in poetry, prose, photography, and visual art. It offers a platform for creative voices and fosters editorial and design skills. ● Stitch Squad (Grade 7-12) teaches students to learn how to crochet and knit through fun, hands-on projects. It’s a creative, relaxing space to build skills and connect with fellow crafters. Updated: July 24, 2025 - A Leacock Page 3 of 6

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CDS MS/SS Extracurricular Handbook 2025/26 ● The Eversley Register (Grade 9-12) is the school’s student-run newspaper, covering events, opinions, and features. It develops journalism, writing, and critical thinking skills in a real-world publishing environment. ● Yearbook (Grade 7-12) is a collaborative project that documents the school year through photography, design, and storytelling. Students gain experience in layout, editing, and digital publishing while capturing lasting memories. Musical Performance ● Senior School Soul Band (Grade 9-12) is a performance-based music group focused on soul, funk, and R&B genres. Students refine their musicianship through rehearsals and live shows, often featuring vocals, brass, and rhythm sections. ● MS and SS Jazz Band (Grade 7-12) offer students the opportunity to perform jazz standards and contemporary pieces. It emphasizes improvisation, ensemble playing, and musical expression. These are two separate ensembles. ● MS and SS Choir (Grade 7-12) bring students together to sing a wide variety of choral music, from classical to pop. It enhances vocal technique, harmony, and group performance skills. These are two separate ensembles. ● MS and SS Concert Band (Grade 7-12) are large instrumental ensembles where students develop technical and ensemble skills. They perform a diverse repertoire, fostering musical growth and teamwork. These are two separate ensembles. STEM & Clubs ● MS and SS Robotics (Grade 7-12) give students hands-on experience in designing, building, and programming robots to solve challenges or compete. It promotes teamwork, critical thinking, and STEM innovation. These are two separate programs - one per division. ● Health Science Club (Grade 9-12) explores topics related to medicine, biology, and health care. It is ideal for students interested in pursuing careers in science or health fields through hands-on activities, guest speakers, and discussions. ● Chess Club (Grade 7-12) brings together students of all skill levels to play, learn strategies, and compete in friendly matches or tournaments. It fosters concentration, logical reasoning, and strategic planning. ● Card Club (Grade 7-12) offers a space for students to play a variety of card games in a relaxed, social environment. It encourages critical thinking, math skills, and friendly competition. Updated: July 24, 2025 - A Leacock Page 4 of 6

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CDS MS/SS Extracurricular Handbook 2025/26 ● Retro Video Games Club (Grade 7-12) celebrates classic video games and consoles, giving students a chance to explore the history of gaming through play. It’s a fun, nostalgic, and inclusive club that promotes connection and discussion. ● Finance Club (Grade 9-12) introduces students to the fundamentals of personal finance, investing, and economic principles. Members engage in simulations, case studies, and discussions to build real-world money management skills. ● MS and SS Cooking Club (Grade 7-12) teaches practical culinary skills in a fun, hands-on setting. Students learn everything from basic techniques to creative recipes while building confidence in the kitchen. ● Book Club (Grade 7-12) provides a welcoming space for students to read and discuss literature across genres and styles. It fosters a love of reading, critical thinking, and community through thoughtful conversation. Leadership Groups and Lunch Clubs: These groups meet outside of extracurricular times during the school day, usually over lunch and/or recess. SS Student Council and MS Student Council serve the school community by running assemblies and by organizing events that enrich the daily experience of students throughout the year. Students go through an application process to be selected for these two groups. Social Justice Club (Grade 9-12) raises awareness about social and environmental causes and supports individuals in need. Members help plan events and fundraisers, promote community service, and stay informed about local and global issues. All are welcome. Diversity Club (Grade 9-12) promotes a school environment that celebrates and appreciates race, culture, and religion through education and awareness. The group explores current issues, collaborates with other student initiatives, and helps lead activities that foster inclusivity within the CDS community. The Gender and Sexuality Alliance (GSA) (Grade 9-12) is a safe and supportive space for the LGBTQ+ community and their allies, and works to raise awareness about issues affecting the LGBTQ+ community. All are welcome. Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Program (Grade 9-12) challenges students to develop independence, resilience, and leadership through community service, physical activity, skill-building, and adventurous journeys. Participants set personal goals and work toward earning Bronze, Silver, or Gold level awards. Updated: July 24, 2025 - A Leacock Page 5 of 6

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CDS MS/SS Extracurricular Handbook 2025/26 House Captains (Grade 9-12) These students will work to increase student involvement and school spirit in community activities. They will represent their Houses at school events, keep their peers informed of upcoming initiatives/activities, and be positive, spirited ambassadors. Students go through an application process to be selected for this group. SS Grade Representatives (Grade 9-12) serve as the voice of their peers in Grades 9, 10, 11, and 12. They will advocate for student concerns, collaborate on grade-specific events to foster engagement and connection, and work alongside other student leaders and faculty. Students go through an application process to be selected for this group. LINK Crew (Grade 9-11) These students will support new students, particularly Grade 9s, as they transition into the Senior School. Mentors will provide guidance, run Orientation Day, receive leadership training on being a mentor and help create a welcoming school environment for students in the Senior School. Students go through an application process to be selected for this group. Student Ambassadors (Grade 9-12) represent the school with pride, helping to welcome new students and tour prospective families at admissions events. They model leadership and community spirit across all grade levels. Sustainability Club (Grade 9-12) promotes environmental awareness and action through student-led initiatives. Members work together to support eco-friendly practices within the school and beyond. The Sustainability Club promotes environmental awareness and action through student-led initiatives. Members work together to support eco-friendly practices within the school and beyond. MS/SS Intramurals (Grade 9-12) offer fun, inclusive lunchtime activities where students can stay active and enjoy friendly competition. It promotes school spirit, wellness, and community building. Updated: July 24, 2025 - A Leacock Page 6 of 6