ENTER Programs

ENTER Program (K–7)

Engineering, New Technology, Exploration & Robotics

Aspen Park Elementary is proud to offer the ENTER Program, an innovative and engaging learning model that integrates engineering, technology, robotics, and design as dynamic pathways to teach the core curriculum. This hands-on, inquiry-based approach empowers students to think critically, solve problems creatively, and apply their learning in authentic and meaningful ways.

Building on the proven success of our Grades 6–7 ENTER classes, Aspen Park is excited to expand the program to include Kindergarten through Grade 5, creating a seamless K–7 pathway for innovation, inquiry, and experiential learning. This continuum ensures that students at every stage of their educational journey can develop the foundational skills and mindsets needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The expansion of ENTER reflects Aspen Park Elementary’s ongoing commitment to compassionate, connected, and personalized learning for all students. Through this program, learners of all ages are encouraged to explore, create, and innovate in a supportive environment that values curiosity, collaboration, and the joy of discovery. 

Program Goals

  • Empower students from Kindergarten through Grade 7 to become curious, creative, and capable problem-solvers who engage deeply with their learning through design, and collaboration.
  • Engage all students in hands-on, meaningful learning that fosters curiosity and confidence.
  • Encourage mentorship opportunities, with older ENTER students supporting younger learners.
  • Strengthen home and school connections through flexible and collaborative learning experiences.

Program Structure

K–1 ENTER Class

  • Schedule: 4 days in class learning and 1 day of home-based learning, with in-school support available.
  • Focus: Exploration through play, creativity, and early design experiences. Students engage with simple engineering challenges, and design-based learning in a hands-on, engaging classroom environment. 

Grade 2–3 ENTER Class

  • Schedule: 4 days in class learning and 1 day of home-based learning, with in-school support available.
  • Focus: Building foundational STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) skills through hands-on projects in digital literacy, robotics, and design thinking. Students explore creative problem-solving while connecting technology to real-world ideas. 

Grade 4–5 ENTER Class

  • Schedule: 3 days in class learning and 2 days of home-based learning, with in-school support available.
  • Focus: Intermediate robotics, coding, and engineering design challenges. Students deepen collaboration and innovation skills while engaging in interdisciplinary, project-based learning. 

Grade 6–7 ENTER Class (Existing Program)

  • Schedule: 3 days in class learning and 2 days of home-based learning, with in-school support available.
  • Focus: This advanced, project-based program integrates the full curriculum through robotics, digital design, engineering principles, and innovation challenges. Students work both independently and collaboratively to design, build, and problem-solve using creative and critical thinking skills. The learning environment emphasizes inquiry, perseverance, and teamwork as students apply their knowledge to authentic, real-world contexts.
  • Mentorship: A key component of the Grade 6/7 ENTER experience is leadership and mentorship. Older students have opportunities to mentor younger learners in the K–5 ENTER classes, particularly the K/1 group, by sharing their skills in robotics, coding, and design. This peer-to-peer model strengthens community, fosters empathy, and reinforces the older students’ learning through teaching and collaboration. 

Why ENTER?

The ENTER Program provides students with the opportunity to:

  • Learn through hands-on, experiential projects that connect directly to the BC Curriculum.
  • Develop critical and creative thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills.
  • Engage in innovative learning that reflects the technologies and challenges of today’s world.
  • Build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning.
  • Participate in a flexible learning environment that values exploration, movement, and social interaction.

The ENTER Program has been recognized as a leader in innovative learning, with students having the opportunity to showcase their work in regional, provincial, and international events and competitions.

Aspen Park Elementary’s ENTER Program continues to prepare students for a future of limitless possibilities where imagination, innovation, and inquiry lead the way.

Will the program be accepting expressions of interest K-7 for this coming September 2026?
Yes, the program will be accepting expressions of interest for students in K-7 for this September.
Will it be one class, or one class for each grade?
It will be a multi-grade class consisting of 2 grade levels. The structure will be K/1, 2/3, 3/4 and 6/7.
Is this a pilot program?
It is not a pilot program. This program will continue to run if there is adequate registration.
Is there a specific percentage of each age group required to be represented in the classroom for the program to run?
Each program will run if adequate enrollment. It is hoped that each grade will have a similar number of students. If this is not the case, other grade configurations may be considered.
Are there specific school supplies required?
School supplies cost for K-3 will be $100. School Supplies cost for grade 4-7 will be $200.
Is it first-come, first-served for the program?
The program will not follow a first-come, first-served process of registration. Instead, participants will be selected through a lottery system after an initial Expression of Interest.
Does the program include home learning?
Yes. K-3 ENTER students will participate in home learning on Friday each week, starting in October. Students will also have the opportunity for drop-in support at school on the home learning day.

4-7 ENTER students will participate in home learning on Monday and Friday each week, starting in October. Students will also have the opportunity for drop-in support at school on home learning days.
Will there be priority for students/families that are currently in the Aspen Park School catchment?
No, this program is open to interested families from across all schools.
Does Aspen Park Elementary have before and after school childcare, and will it be available to students in the program?
Before and after school childcare is available on site through the Boys and Girls Club of Central Vancouver Island for children aged 5 to 12.

For information about space availability or general inquiries, please contact the Boys and Girls Club directly:

Email: aspenpark@bgccvi.com
Phone: 250-941-2123
If a student is given a spot but it doesn’t work out, can they return to their catchment school?
The ability for a student to register at their catchment school in the middle of the school year would depend on the space available at that school.
What will the class size be?
The class size will adhere to district class size and composition guidelines.
Can younger students practice leadership skills?
Yes, all students will have opportunities to develop leadership skills, regardless of age. While older students may naturally take on leadership roles in group activities, younger students also bring unique strengths and perspectives that allow them to lead in different ways. Leadership is not just about age, but about individual strengths, skills, and contributions. Students will have opportunities to mentor, collaborate, and take on responsibilities that align with their own abilities and areas for growth, fostering a balanced and supportive learning community.
Will expectations be to maintain or exceed grade level expectations when students come out of the program?
As with learning in all classes across the district, students will be supported in meeting and/or exceeding grade level expectations of the BC curriculum in relationship to their learning goals.
How much choice and personalization will be incorporated?
The teacher will determine appropriate opportunities for choice and how to personalize learning for the students based on BC curriculum learning standards; interests, strengths and learning goals of the students; and best practices in pedagogy.
Is there an Indigenous learning component to the program?
The First Peoples Principles of Learning are foundational to and an integral part of the BC curriculum, making them a component of all learning. In addition, the district’s Strategic Plan for Education includes indigenizing and decolonizing as a design principle for learning and is an important part of all district initiatives.
Will there be a technology component to the program?
Yes, technology of all kinds will be used as a learning tool in the classroom.
Will students get explicit reading, writing and math instruction?
Yes, academic learning will take place during large and small group instruction.
Will ENTER students be included in recess, lunch, assemblies, concerts, and other school-wide activities?
Yes. Students in the ENTER program are fully included in all aspects of school life at Aspen Park Elementary. They join their peers for recess, lunch, school-wide events, winter concerts, assemblies, theme days, and all other community activities. The ENTER program is part of the larger school community, and students benefit from shared experiences, relationships, and a strong sense of belonging.
What are Spark Meetings?
Spark Meetings are the initial connection point between a student, their family, and their teacher. These meetings are designed to build strong relationships, develop a shared understanding, and set the foundation for supporting each student’s unique learning journey.

During a Spark Meeting, the team discusses home learning options, reviews the learning process, and collaborates to develop a personalized plan that reflects the student’s strengths, interests, and needs. The goal is to identify and nurture the “spark” in every learner—fostering curiosity, motivation, and a sense of ownership in their learning.
How often do Spark meetings happen?
Spark Meetings take place twice during the school year. The first meeting occurs during the first week of school to establish relationships and create the initial learning plan. A second Spark Meeting is held at the midpoint of the year to review progress and adjust the plan as needed.

During the Spark meetings times classes are not in session.

In addition to these two meetings, students and families also participate in the regular parent-teacher conferences held in November.
Are siblings given first preference during the Expression of Interest process?
Yes. When possible, siblings are given priority to help keep families together.
I have another question that isn’t covered in this FAQ…
We’re happy to help! Email us at Aspenpark@sd71.bc.ca

ENTER2 (Grades 8-9)

Highland Secondary

The ENTER2 program is an innovative alternative to mainstream public education. It’s designed for students in grades 8-9 who have a passion for discovery in the fields of science and technology. The goal of the program is to encourage students to develop creative thought, independence, and critical thinking while exploring the exciting fields of robotics and engineering.

The ENTER2 program is a continuation of studies for students who have completed the ENTER program and combines 3 days of hands on instruction at Highland Secondary School in Comox, BC and two days of online learning at home. The learning cycles of the ENTER2 program incorporate related themes and offer a comprehensive academic program that is fully accredited by the BC Ministry of Education.

ENTER2 takes a student centred and project based approach, allowing each student to work at their own pace. It offers a special focus on creating and supporting a Maker Space environment, which offers a creative synergy of online tools, projects, and levels of expertise.

  • Develop creative thought, independence and critical thinking
  • Strengthen problem solving skills
  • Experience social and emotional learning
  • Work collaboratively with their peers
  • Recognize their own value and the value of others
  • Apply what they learn to real world issues and challenges