Hello! Please note this is a draft webpage we are using to pilot a new program, and is only currently available to those GCO contacts directly. This program will be launched for the 2023 – 2024 school year. 

What to Expect: Spend the day at The Grove, an agri-business food hub, with Growing Chefs! Ontario! In a ​“Dragon’s Den” style competition, students will work in groups to create innovative, new ideas for social enterprises that address social or environmental challenges. Throughout the day, students will take part in an interactive cooking class and greenhouse scavenger hunt, learn about worm composting and more! Through these experiences and the opportunity to speak with our team of talented chefs and educators, students will be able to identify a challenge within the food system and pitch creative solutions that not only address the problem but also generate income to be financially sustainable. At the end of the day, teams will compete against each other to pitch their ideas, and a winner will be crowned. Did we mention the lunch menu is all TikTok recipe trends?! All students will go home with full stomachs, engaged minds, and inspiration to fuel a new passion!

Optional pre-learning and post-learning resources will be provided. 

Certifications: If you’re looking for Innovation, Creativity, Entrepreneurship (I.C.E) Training – look no further! This experience also includes a Reach-Ahead Experience.

Who can register: A Specialist High Skills Major Coordinator in Agriculture, Environment, Business, Horticulture and Landscaping, or Tourism and Hospitality. If your SHSM doesn’t have 24 students, please combine with other SHSMs at your school to reach a total of 24 students.

Date & Time: May 16^th, 9:30 – 1:30

Location: The Grove at The Western Fair District, located at 900 King St. This facility includes a learning kitchen equipped with audio/​visual supports, classrooms, greenhouses, and a worm composting project.

Pricing: $1000. Cost includes all programming and an amazing lunch. 

Masking and Vaccination: Growing Chefs! continues to work closely with Public Health as we continue to transition away from COVID-19 related health and safety protocols for our programming and events. We strongly recommend vaccinations and masking as tools to minimize the spread of COVID-19, but will not be continuing to require masks be worn in our facilities.

Food Allergies: If food allergies are a concern, rest assured that our team is highly experienced in managing dietary restrictions. Do not let a dietary concern prevent your students from participating in our programming. Let us know and we’ll do our best to make appropriate accommodations.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: We are proud to announce our facility at The Grove can accommodate wheelchair users, even including our greenhouse and washroom. We also have a gender-inclusive washroom available and are a safe space. Please let our staff team know of any mobility or any needed accommodations in advance, and we will plan accordingly.