Toolkit4Success is for the new, upcoming Grade 10 students, serving as a way to equip students with the necessary tools and skills to succeed at OSA. Success can be interpreted in many ways, whether it be social, academic, or emotional -- regardless, this event intends to teach students more about OSA, our culture, and things to expect and be aware of.

Orientation is an event aimed at familiarizing incoming students with Old Scona, providing important information regarding OSA councils, and allowing students to form lasting connections with one another. The event will consist of various presentations from both councils (including SET) and teachers, as well as games and activities. There will also be a short nature walk in the OSA neighbourhood at the end of the event.

Registration is the time at which students will receive their textbooks, class schedules, and student IDs. Incoming students will be meeting with their set groups in a designated area at their registration timeslot so that they can go through registration as a group. Registration is meant to sort out any logistical tasks that must be completed before the beginning of the school year, but is also a great time to further get to know other students (e.g. in your SET group for incoming students).

The potluck will take place after the school day, and allow students to enjoy food and snacks while forming new connections, playing games, and simply having fun outside. There will be some pre-planned time for new students to spend within their SET groups, talking to one another and playing games. All students attending the potluck are expected to contribute something to the food, snacks or drinks, for which there will be a signup sheet (SIGN UP SHEET HERE!).

Multiple times throughout the year, grade 10 students, mentors, and SET leaders will meet with their SET group during lunch periods. Students will be able to share their experiences at OSA, as well as discuss pretty much anything on their mind in a controlled, confidential environment. SET Circles are an excellent opportunity to build friendships and share any feelings or concerns you may have throughout your transition into the school.

Over the course of the year, OSA alumni are invited back to share about their university experience, answering questions like: what they wish they knew about the application process, how university is different from high school, and things that helped them adjust to this big life change. This year, we had the pleasure of bringing back students from universities across the world including Cambridge, Northwestern, Brown, Waterloo, UofT, UBC, and UofA.  

In a short 45 minute lunch period, 16 SET Groups competed with each other to see who could best decorate a door in our school, getting into the holiday spirit! We saw some wonderful artistic talent displayed during this activity.