Branksome Hall Junior School

Explorers Programming

Where every path leads to discovery!

Explore It! brings creative, engaging programming right into the Junior School day. From art, science and cooking to performing arts, technology and adventure, there’s something for every kind of curious learner.



Upcoming Explorers Dates are as follows:

(Note the following information and dates are subject to change.)

  • Tuesday, September 15: Fall Program Registration opens at 10:00 AM.
  • Wednesday, September 23: Rehearsals begin for our Grade 5–6 production of Shrek.
  • Monday, September 28 – Friday, October 2: Fall Programming begins.
  • Thursday, November 12: Winter Programming details available online.
  • Tuesday, November 24: Winter Program Registration opens at 10:00 AM.
  • Friday, November 27: Grade 5 – 6 Musical Performance Day • Shrek!
  • Monday, December 7 – Friday, December 11: Fall Programming Term ends.


Fall 2026 Programming:

Fall Program Registration opens here at 10:00 AM on Tuesday, September 15!


Choose the day—or days!—that works best for your family and discover the exciting programs available for your child’s grade level.

All after school programs include a light afternoon snack and seamless after-school transitions!


Monday Programming

9 Weeks • September 28 through December 7, Skip October 12 and November 16

Ballet

Senior Kindergarten – Grade 1 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $337.50

Students will explore the fundamentals of ballet and creative movement in an age-appropriate and supportive environment. Through basic ballet exercises, movement activities, and simple choreography, dancers will develop coordination, balance, musicality, and body awareness while building confidence and enjoying the opportunity to move to music.

Fairy Tale Theatre Creators

Senior Kindergarten – Grade 2 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $335.25

Once upon a time, the story was up to you! Young performers will step into the magical world of fairy tales through creative drama, imaginative play, storytelling, and theatrical games. Students will explore favourite characters and familiar tales while dreaming up their own heroes, villains, magical creatures, unexpected twists, and happily-ever-afters. Through acting, movement, character creation, and collaborative storytelling, children will build confidence, creativity, communication skills, and imagination while discovering the joy of bringing a story to life on stage.

Mini Makers Crafting Club

Grade 1 – 3 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $335.25

Stitch it, stuff it, decorate it, and make it your own! Young makers will discover the joy of sewing and crafting through fun, hands-on projects designed to spark creativity and build confidence. Students will learn beginner sewing skills, explore a variety of crafting materials and techniques, and create unique keepsakes they’ll be proud to take home. From felt creations and simple hand-sewn projects to seasonal crafts and imaginative designs, every class encourages creativity, patience, problem-solving, and the satisfaction of making something by hand.

Innovation Station: STEAM Explorers

Grade 2 – 4 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $344.25

Imagine it, build it, test it, improve it! At Innovation Station, young creators will explore the exciting world of STEAM through hands-on experiments, engineering challenges, inventive builds, and creative problem-solving. Students will design, construct, investigate, and experiment as they tackle challenges inspired by science, technology, engineering, art, and math. From building clever contraptions and testing surprising solutions to transforming everyday materials into imaginative inventions, every class encourages curiosity, collaboration, critical thinking, and the confidence to keep experimenting when the first idea doesn’t quite work.

Graphic Design: Artists Workshop

Grade 4 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $353.25

Bring your ideas to life through the exciting world of graphic design! Students will think like real designers as they create eye-catching posters, logos, illustrations, digital artwork, branding projects, and creative visual campaigns. Along the way, they’ll explore colour, typography, layout, composition, and visual storytelling while developing creativity, design thinking, and artistic confidence. Whether designing for print or screen, every class encourages students to solve creative problems and produce polished work they’re excited to share.

Kitchen Mythbusters: The Science of Cooking!

Grade 4 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $353.25

Can science make food taste even better? Let’s find out! Young chefs will put common kitchen myths to the test while exploring the fascinating science behind cooking and baking. Through hands-on recipes and delicious experiments, students will discover how ingredients react, why recipes work, and how chemistry, physics, and creativity come together in the kitchen. From fluffy baked goods and perfect sauces to surprising food experiments, every class combines science, problem-solving, and practical cooking skills—proving that the kitchen is one of the most exciting laboratories of all!

Note to parents: All Explore It! culinary programs are vegetarian friendly. We also make every effort possible to ensure that ingredients are nut-free. It may not be possible to accommodate other allergies or dietary needs – please contact us for more information.

Noodle Jr

  • BH Teacher Run Club • Fall and Winter, 2 Term Commitment

Grade 5 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $179.00

Noodle Jr is Branksome Hall’s business accelerator program that helps students develop and harness their powers of imagination and brings our students’ most inventive ideas to life with the support of faculty, expert advisors and entrepreneurs. Students gain an unforgettable hands-on learning experience that teaches them how to innovate, adapt and thrive while learning critical entrepreneurial and business skills, using the design cycle to guide their thinking. Students must be committed to every Monday for both the Fall and Winter Co-curricular terms and are not able to sign up for a co-curricular or sport that would conflict with this.


Tuesday Programming

11 Weeks • September 29 through December 8

Draw, Paint & Play Art Workshop

Senior Kindergarten • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $409.75

Calling all little artists! Join us for a colourful creative adventure where imagination takes the lead. Young creators will draw, paint, print, collage, sculpt, and explore a variety of exciting art materials and techniques through playful, hands-on projects. Inspired by stories, nature, the seasons, and the world around them, children will discover the joy of creating while building confidence, creativity, and fine motor skills. Every class is filled with wonder, exploration, and plenty of artistic fun!

Carol Service

  • BH Teacher Run Club

Grade 1 – 2 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $124.00

This Carol Service choir is open to students in Grades 1 and 2  who enjoy singing with others and want to develop their musical skills. Choir members will learn a variety of songs while exploring vocal techniques and performance skills in a supportive group setting. Participation includes preparing for the Carol Service on Sunday, December 13, where students will be part of our annual celebration involving school-wide musical ensembles. This is a rewarding opportunity to grow as a singer and be part of a collaborative music experience.

Snack Attack Cooking Club

Grade 1 – 3 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $431.75

Get ready to mix, measure, chop, spread, and taste! Young chefs will create delicious snacks and tasty treats while learning practical kitchen skills, safe food preparation, measuring, and basic cooking techniques. From colourful dips, wraps, and bite-sized creations to baked goodies, seasonal favourites, and creative treats, every class offers something new to make and enjoy. Along the way, students will build confidence in the kitchen, explore new flavours, and discover just how much fun it can be to make their own snacks!

Note to parents: All Explore It! culinary programs are vegetarian friendly. We also make every effort possible to ensure that ingredients are nut-free. It may not be possible to accommodate other allergies or dietary needs – please contact us for more information.

Chess’N Math: Chess

Grade 1 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $412.50

Students will learn and develop chess skills in a welcoming and engaging environment. Through instruction, practice games, and friendly play, participants will explore the rules of chess, basic strategies, and problem-solving techniques. Open to a range of experience levels, the program encourages concentration, patience, critical thinking, and good sportsmanship while giving students plenty of opportunities to enjoy the game.

Quest Masters Adventures: Dungeons & Dragons

Grade 3 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $409.75

Gather your party and get ready for adventure! In this imaginative introduction to Dungeons & Dragons, young adventurers will create characters, explore fantastical worlds, solve puzzles, overcome challenges, and work together to shape an ever-changing story. Guided through exciting quests and collaborative gameplay, students will use creativity, strategy, problem-solving, and a little roll-of-the-dice luck to decide what happens next. Whether negotiating with mysterious creatures, uncovering hidden clues, or embarking on an epic mission, every session offers a new adventure where imagination leads the way!

JUMP Math

  • BH Teacher Run Club • Fall and Winter, 2 Term Commitment

Grade 4 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $109.00

Jump Math is a research-based, incrementally challenging and fully scaffolded Mathematics program which supports the development of foundational math skills and conceptual understanding. It is designed to support students who experience math anxiety, have low confidence in their mathematical ability and need to consolidate foundational number sense skills and concepts. Jump Math participants are supported by a personal student mentor from our Senior School and a teacher.

Rookie Patrol Swim

  • BH Teacher Run Club

Grade 4 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $499.00

The Rookie Patrol course offers students a fun, active introduction to the worlds of swimming, lifesaving sport, and first aid. Designed specifically for grades 4–6, this program builds water confidence, teamwork, and essential safety skills in a supportive environment.


Wednesday Programming

11 Weeks • September 30 through December 9

Monster Munchies Cooking Club

Senior Kindergarten • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $431.75

Get ready to mix, munch, and make some deliciously silly creations! Little chefs will explore the fun of cooking as they create playful snacks and treats inspired by monsters, creatures, characters, and their own imaginations. From funny faces and colourful creations to spooky snacks and seasonal surprises, students will practice simple kitchen skills like mixing, measuring, assembling, and decorating while discovering new foods and flavours. Every class combines creativity, hands-on learning, and plenty of tasty fun as our little chefs turn ordinary ingredients into monstrously delicious masterpieces!

Note to parents: All Explore It! culinary programs are vegetarian friendly. We also make every effort possible to ensure that ingredients are nut-free. It may not be possible to accommodate other allergies or dietary needs – please contact us for more information.

Dance & Games

Senior Kindergarten – Grade 1 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $412.50

Students will get moving through a fun combination of dance, movement activities, and active games. Through simple choreography, music, and group play, children will develop coordination, rhythm, balance, and body awareness while building confidence and enjoying movement with friends. Each class offers an upbeat and age-appropriate opportunity to stay active, learn new skills, and have fun.

Art Adventures: Art Through The Ages

Grade 1 – 3 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $409.75

Travel through time as you explore the fascinating world of art! Young artists will discover famous artists, artistic styles, and creative traditions from different cultures and time periods while creating their own masterpieces. From ancient cave paintings and Egyptian art to the works of Van Gogh, Monet, and beyond, students will experiment with a variety of materials, techniques, and artistic styles. Every class encourages creativity, curiosity, and self-expression while inspiring young artists to see the world through the eyes of great creators throughout history.

Code-IT-Hacks:Maker Robotics

Grade 1 – 3 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $599.50

In this hands-on robotics adventure, students become engineers and creators as they design and build their own “Junk SMART Bot” using a blend of recyclable materials and advanced technology. Using micro:bits, motors, and sensors, students will make their creations “smart” to solve specific real-world problems. This program introduces core circuits and programming concepts through interactive testing and debugging. It’s a fun, engaging environment where students learn problem-solving and computational thinking while transforming everyday items into interactive robotic creations.

Performers Academy: Triple Threat Skills Development

Grade 2 – 4 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $431.75

Sing, dance, act—and bring it all together! In this dynamic Performers Academy program, young performers will develop skills across all three areas of musical theatre: vocal performance, dance, and acting. Through songs, choreography, scene work, theatrical games, and performance exercises, students will strengthen technique while learning how to connect character, movement, and music on stage. Designed to complement our Musical Theatre programming throughout the school year, Triple Threat Skills Development gives performers the opportunity to build and strengthen the skills they can bring directly into rehearsals and productions. Along the way, students will develop confidence, creativity, stage presence, and versatility as they grow into well-rounded performers.

Content Creators: Journalism Club

Grade 4 – 5 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $431.75

What’s the story—and how will you tell it? Young journalists will step into the exciting world of media and content creation as they investigate ideas, conduct interviews, write articles, create reviews and features, and explore different ways of sharing stories with an audience. Students will experiment with headlines, photography, reporting, editing, and digital content while learning how great journalists find interesting angles, ask thoughtful questions, and communicate their ideas clearly. From covering school happenings and current trends to sharing opinions and uncovering stories of their own, every class encourages curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and a confident voice.

Musical Theatre: “Shrek

NOTE: Rehearsals begin on Wednesday, September 23!

Grade 5 – 6 • Dismisses at 5:35 PM (6 PM on Select Weeks) • $800.00

This fall, our Grade 5–6 performers will journey to the faraway kingdom of Duloc in Shrek—a hilarious and heartwarming musical based on the beloved DreamWorks film. Filled with unforgettable characters, larger-than-life adventures, and catchy songs, Shrek celebrates the importance of friendship, self-acceptance, and discovering that true beauty comes from within.

Designed for older elementary performers, this production offers exciting opportunities for students to develop their acting, singing, and dance skills while bringing a full-scale musical to life. From fairy tale creatures and dragons to daring rescues and comedic twists, students will work together to create an energetic and memorable theatrical experience.

Rehearsals will run on Wednesdays from school dismissal until 5:35 PM from September 23 through November 25, with additional rehearsals on Thursday, November 19 and Thursday, November 26.

Please note that select rehearsals may run until 6:00 PM as we approach performance week.

Performance Day: Friday, November 27.

The registration fee includes all materials:

• A snack at each rehearsal plus a cast party
• All materials, costumes, and makeup
• A performance package with tickets, photo set, video recording, and more

We can’t wait to bring the hilarious world of Shrek to the stage—filled with laughter, adventure, and the reminder that what makes us different is often what makes us special.

Robotics Team

Grade 6 – 8 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $190.00

  • BH Teacher Run Club • Fall and Winter, 2 Term Commitment
  • Grade 6 students register here. Grade 7 – 8 students will receive more information about signups through their advisor in the fall. 

Sign up for our inaugural 16-week VEX IQ Robotics program where Grade 6 students design, build, and program their own robots in our brand new iCAST Robotics Lab. Working in small teams alongside Middle School students and an External Robotics Coach, students develop critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration through hands-on engineering challenges.

Please note that sign-up is a two-term commitment spanning Fall and Winter.

Thursday Lunch Programming

  • BH Teacher Run Club • Fall and Winter, 2 Term Commitment

Alternate Weeks • Fall and Winter Terms

Forest of ReadingBook Club

Grade 4 – 6 • $89.00

All Grade 4-6 readers are welcome to join the Forest of Reading Book Club! Students will be introduced to 10-20 nominated books from the Fiction and Nonfiction categories. Opportunities to vote in one or both categories will take place in the Spring. Questions, activities, and games will help us explore the stories and themes. With meetings every two weeks, you’ll have plenty of time to read the books and prepare for book talks as a club or in small groups.


Thursday Programming

9 Weeks • October 1 through December 10, Skip October 22 and December 3

Messy Science Explorers

Senior Kindergarten • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $344.25

Get ready to wonder, experiment, and make a mess—in the best way possible! Young scientists will explore the amazing world around them through hands-on experiments, sensory activities, and exciting STEM challenges designed just for little learners. From bubbling reactions and colourful creations to building, testing, and discovering, every class encourages curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Children will ask questions, make predictions, and uncover amazing discoveries as they learn that science is all about exploring, experimenting, and having fun!

Holiday Sweets & Treats Cooking Club

Grade 1 – 3 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $353.25

Mix, measure, bake, decorate, and celebrate! Young chefs will explore the sweetest side of the season as they create delicious treats inspired by autumn celebrations, festive traditions, and favourite flavours from this special time of year. From cookies, bars, and baked goodies to colourful confections and creative seasonal treats, students will learn practical kitchen skills while measuring, mixing, decorating, and discovering new recipes. Every class offers something delicious to make, taste, and share as we celebrate the season one sweet creation at a time!

Note to parents: All Explore It! culinary programs are vegetarian friendly. We also make every effort possible to ensure that ingredients are nut-free. It may not be possible to accommodate other allergies or dietary needs – please contact us for more information.

Mad Scientists Lab

Grade 1 – 3 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $344.25

Put on your lab coat and get ready to experiment! Young scientists will dive into the exciting world of science through hands-on investigations, amazing experiments, and fascinating discoveries. From bubbling reactions and surprising transformations to testing predictions and uncovering the science behind everyday mysteries, every class is packed with curiosity, exploration, and fun. Budding scientists will ask questions, investigate ideas, and develop critical-thinking and problem-solving skills while discovering just how exciting science can be!

Carol Service

  • BH Teacher Run Club

Grade 3 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $114.00

This Carol Service choir is open to students in Grades 3 to 6 who enjoy singing with others and want to develop their musical skills. Choir members will learn a variety of songs while exploring vocal techniques and performance skills in a supportive group setting. Participation includes preparing for the Carol Service on Sunday, December 13, where students will be part of our annual celebration involving school-wide musical ensembles. This is a rewarding opportunity to grow as a singer and be part of a collaborative music experience.

Code-IT-Hacks:Coding with Python

Grade 4 – 5 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $490.50

Students will dive into game design and development to enhance their computational skills by creating their own interactive game using Python. This program introduces fundamental programming concepts, including variables, loops, conditionals, and data types, in an exciting and approachable way. Aspiring game designers will learn algorithmic thinking as they architect their game structure, write code, and test their games. It’s the perfect blend of creativity and logic, helping students build strong problem-solving skills while engineering their own playable digital adventures.

Adventure Academy: Trailblazers & Teambuilders

Grade 4 – 5 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $335.25

Adventure starts here! In this action-packed program, students will tackle team challenges, outdoor-inspired adventures, creative problem-solving missions, and hands-on activities designed to put their skills—and their teamwork—to the test. From navigation, scavenger hunts, and survival-inspired challenges to puzzles, competitions, collaborative builds, and unexpected missions, Trailblazers will learn to think on their feet, communicate effectively, take positive risks, and discover the strengths they bring to a team. Along the way, students will develop leadership, resilience, independence, and confidence while learning how to work together, solve problems, and rise to a challenge. Every week brings a new adventure—and a new opportunity to lead, explore, and discover what you’re capable of!


Friday Programming

7 Weeks • October 2 through December 11, Skip October 9, October 23, November 13 and December 4

Magical Movement Yoga Adventure

Senior Kindergarten – Grade 2 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $260.75

Stretch, breathe, imagine, and explore! Young yogis will embark on playful movement adventures that combine beginner yoga poses, creative movement, storytelling, mindfulness, and imagination. Students might stretch like animals, balance their way through an enchanted forest, travel on an imaginary adventure, or wind down with calming breathing and relaxation activities. Along the way, children will develop balance, coordination, flexibility, body awareness, and confidence while discovering simple tools for focus and calm. Every class offers a joyful opportunity to move, imagine, and recharge!

Multi Sport

Grade 1 – 3 • Dismisses at 4:20 PM • $267.75

Students will participate in a variety of sports, active games, and movement activities throughout the term. Through age-appropriate instruction and group play, participants will practice fundamental skills such as throwing, catching, kicking, running, coordination, and teamwork. The program encourages physical activity, participation, sportsmanship, and the development of basic athletic skills in a supportive group environment.

Rec Swim

  • BH Teacher Run Club

Grade 1 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $34.00

Recreational Swim is for students who want to relax and enjoy playing, swimming and spending time in the water. A variety of swim equipment will be available for students to use, such as life jackets, noodles, hula hoops, balls and more. In order to swim in the lap pool, students must swim 15m non-stop and return without touching the floor to pass the swim test. Students might be asked to wear a life jacket if they cannot meet this requirement. Students of all swimming abilities are welcome to join Recreational Swim. Swimmers are required to wear a one-piece bathing suit (preferably a BH suit), swim cap (Optional ONLY for Recreational Swim), and goggles.

Pawsitively Pets

Grade 1 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $255.50

Pawsitively Pets after-school programs give students the opportunity to learn about animals, science, and nature through hands-on experiences. The program encourages responsibility and empathy as students explore the world of animals in a safe and supportive environment. Participants will work with animals and take part in structured, skill-based activities that connect to STEAM learning goals. The program promotes caring for living things and helps students better understand their role in the natural world.

Modern Craft Collective

Grade 3 – 6 • Dismisses at 4:30 PM • $260.75

Design it, make it, and make it uniquely yours! In this hands-on creative studio, students will explore modern crafting techniques while designing stylish, functional, and one-of-a-kind projects. From beginner sewing, embroidery, and textile art to home décor, accessories, paper crafts, and mixed-media creations, makers will experiment with a variety of materials and techniques while developing creativity, craftsmanship, and design skills. Every class encourages imagination, problem-solving, and attention to detail as students create handmade pieces they’ll be proud to use, wear, or display.


2026 – 2027 Musical Theatre Preview

Winter: Grade 3–4 • Musical Theatre Production

SpongeBob The Musical

This winter, our Grade 3–4 performers will dive beneath the waves and into the colourful world of Bikini Bottom with SpongeBob The Musical! Packed with unforgettable characters, high-energy songs, and plenty of laughs, this exciting musical follows SpongeBob and his friends as they work together to save their home from an impending disaster.

Filled with optimism, creativity, and teamwork, SpongeBob The Musical encourages students to embrace their unique talents, solve problems together, and discover that even the most unlikely heroes can make a difference. Through acting, singing, dancing, and ensemble work, students will build confidence and develop their musical theatre skills while bringing this beloved story to life on stage.

Rehearsals will run on Wednesdays from school dismissal until 5:35 PM from January 6 through March 10.

Please note that select rehearsals may run until 6:00 PM as we approach performance week.

Performance Day: Thursday, March 11.

The registration fee includes:

• A snack at each rehearsal plus a cast party
• All materials, costumes, and makeup
• A performance package with tickets, photo set, video recording, and more

We can’t wait to bring the underwater world of SpongeBob The Musical to the stage—filled with laughter, friendship, and the reminder that when a community comes together, anything is possible.


Spring: Grade 1–2 • Musical Theatre Production

Frozen

This spring, our Grade 1–2 performers will journey to the snowy kingdom of Arendelle in Frozen! Filled with beloved characters, memorable songs, and magical adventures, this enchanting musical follows sisters Anna and Elsa as they discover the power of love, courage, and being true to themselves.

Specially adapted for younger performers, Frozen provides a fun and supportive introduction to musical theatre. Through singing, movement, storytelling, and imaginative play, students will build confidence, creativity, and teamwork skills while bringing this beloved Disney story to life on stage.

Rehearsals will run on Wednesdays from school dismissal until 5:35 PM from March 31 through May 19.

Please note that select rehearsals may run until 6:00 PM as we approach performance week.

Performance Day: Thursday, May 20.

The registration fee includes:

• A snack at each rehearsal plus a cast party
• All materials, costumes, and makeup
• A performance package with tickets, photo set, video recording, and more

We can’t wait to bring the magical world of Frozen to the stage—filled with adventure, friendship, and the reminder that love is the greatest power of all.



Thank you for visiting! We’re proud to support Branksome Hall families with creative, enriching programs that make after-school time meaningful and fun.

Contact Liz, the Explore It! Programming Director, any time with comments, questions or suggestions.


Please see our Terms and Conditions here.