Catalyst PD Day Workshops

Thursday January 29

Morning Workshop - Introduction to Coding

Available for youth in Grade 9-12. This introductory workshop is designed to give students a foundational understanding of script-based coding. Participants will explore core concepts such as variables, conditionals, and basic logic through accessible, hands-on activities. No prior coding experience is required; this session focuses on building confidence and familiarity with how coding works.


Date: Thursday, January 29

Time: 10am-11:30am

LocationIn person at the University of Waterloo, Waterloo Campus*

Price:  Free

*Please note: The specific location will be emailed to registrants closer to the programming date.

Friday January 30

Morning Workshop - Introduction to Coding

Available for youth in Grade 9-12. This introductory workshop is designed to give students a foundational understanding of script-based coding. Participants will explore core concepts such as variables, conditionals, and basic logic through accessible, hands-on activities. No prior coding experience is required; this session focuses on building confidence and familiarity with how coding works.


Date: Friday, January 30

Time: 10am-11:30am

LocationIn person at the University of Waterloo, Waterloo Campus*

Price:  Free

*Please note: The specific location will be emailed to registrants closer to the programming date.

Afternoon Workshop - Python Coding Activity

Available for youth in Grade 9-12. Building on foundational concepts, this interactive afternoon session introduces participants to Python through a guided coding activity. Educators will work through practical examples that demonstrate how Python can be used to solve problems, automate tasks, and support computational thinking. This workshop emphasizes hands-on learning and shows how Python can be used to generate applicable code.


Date: Friday, January 30

Time: 1:30-3pm

LocationIn person at the University of Waterloo, Waterloo Campus*

Price:  Free

*Please note: The specific location will be emailed to registrants closer to the programming date.

AM Soldering

Morning Workshop - Introduction to Soldering 

Available for youth in Grade 9-12. This introductory workshop is designed to give students a foundational understanding of basic soldering techniques used in electronics. Participants will explore core concepts such as soldering safety, identifying components, proper tool use, and making reliable solder joints through accessible, hands-on activities. No prior experience is required; this session focuses on building confidence and familiarity with how soldering works. 

Date:  Friday March 20

Time:  10 am - 12 pm

Location:  In person at the University of Waterloo, Waterloo Campus*

Price:  Free

*Please note:  The specific location will be emailed to registrants closer to the programming date.

PM Soldering

Afternoon Workshop - Soldering Activity

Available for youth in Grade 9-12.  Building on foundational concepts, this interactive afternoon session introduces participants to applied soldering through a hands-on electronics activity. Participants will work through practical examples that demonstrate how soldering is used to assemble circuits, connect components, and troubleshoot basic electronic systems. This workshop emphasizes experiential learning and shows how soldering skills can be applied to create functional electronic projects. Participants do not need to attend the morning introductory workshop to join the afternoon session, as long as you are already familiar with basic soldering techniques.

Date:  Friday March 20

Time:  2 pm - 4 pm

Location: In person at the University of Waterloo, Waterloo Campus*

Price:  Free

*Please note: The specific location will be emailed to registrants closer to the programming date.