SPARKS ACADEMY

Sparks Academy is a unique learning centre where students explore the digital frontier and gain a deep understanding of how science and technology shape our lives. It opened in Kerrisdale in 2018 and moved in 2020 to its present location on East Boulevard.

This cutting-edge institution is at the forefront of science and technology education. Children and teenagers aged 3 to 16 are provided with a systematic and interactive learning experience.

Sparks Academy’s pioneering STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education system cultivates a multidisciplinary approach that encourages inquisitive minds and innovative thinking. Educators help develop essential skills and equip students with tools to thrive in an everevolving world through hands-on experiences and personalized attention.

A project-based approach to learning helps develop children’s critical thinking skills and asks them to solve complex puzzles and problems.

Co-founder and CEO Lulu Wang says, “We encourage students to think outside the box and bring innovative solutions to issues that others may not have thought of, helping solve twenty-first-century problems.”

Collaborating and working with others is a necessity of life. We build children’s confidence in team environments to help them succeed in the future.

Lulu says, “With a focus on holistic development, we strive to instill a lifelong love for learning, foster a growth mindset, and cultivate essential skills. Through our engaging and stimulating environment, we aim to ignite curiosity within each student and fuel their thirst for knowledge.”

Small classes reflect a commitment to quality education, allowing personalized attention and tailored learning experiences. The dedicated team of instructors is passionate about guiding students on their educational journey by providing mentorship and support every step of the way.

“We believe in the power of hands-on learning. Our dynamic curriculum and project-based approach empowers students to develop their investigative skills, creative prowess through our STEAM education system, technological expertise, collaborative abilities, and problemsolving capabilities. We nurture their ability to think critically, adapt to challenges, and apply knowledge in real-world contexts,” says Lulu.

Twenty professional educators, engineers and staff work at Sparks Academy. In addition, licensed ECE teachers run the Early Years program.

Enrichment programs are offered during the fall semester (September to December), winter semester (January to March) and spring semester (April to June). Programs include Robotics and Coding, Creative Engineering and MindSpark Science.

In addition, camps for ages five and up are scheduled during winter, spring, and summer breaks and on professional development days. Groups are kept small, with a ratio of one educator to five students.

Participants in this summer’s five-day Global Citizen camp discovered the impacts of waste and garbage on our planet. Through engaging activities using STEAM, they delved into reusing, reducing, recycling, and upcycling, empowering students to apply these principles. Hands-on projects, group discussions and creative arts provided an interactive platform for young learners to become environmentally conscious and make a positive impact on Earth.

The Tinker Planet half-day Early Years programs are offered in the morning (9:30 to 12:00) and afternoon (12:30 to 3:00).

Tutoring services are available for math, science, and coding. Competition clubs include robotics and coding, math, and an innovators club. Special events such as movie night, science night and robotics night offer fun outside regular program hours.

One parent remarks, “Sparks is one of the best academies in Vancouver that teaches children from an innovative, hands-on, and professional perspective. My children always look forward to going to classes and camps.”

Lulu is thrilled that Sparks has been well received and has plans to establish franchises in the future. She lives in the area and feels the community is an excellent fit with its strong sense of community, active residents, and community organizations.

“Kerrisdale is known for its diverse demographic, which benefits an educational institution. Diversity enriches the learning environment by exposing students to different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. It promotes inclusivity and fosters a broader understanding of the world, preparing students for a globalized society.”

“The opportunity to positively impact students' lives is one of the most rewarding aspects of running Sparks Academy. Seeing students grow, learn, and succeed is incredibly fulfilling. It’s satisfying to witness their transformation and development as they gain knowledge, skills, and confidence,” Lulu says.

Sparks Academy

6272 East Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6M 3V7

Phone 672-515-7893

www.sparksedu.com