Introducing the Panther Academy After-School Program
UPEI Athletics and Recreation is proud to introduce the Panther Academy After-School Program, coming this fall in the Chi-Wan Young Sport Centre. The Panther Academy is dedicated to providing all of our participants with opportunities to learn in a safe and fun environment.
UPEI offers a large selection of age-appropriate games, activities, and sports to help develop the social, physical, intellectual, creative and emotional needs of children. We have a large, spacious gymnasium with play-centered equipment for younger children and more game-oriented play for older children. A quiet classroom space for learning and homework and a smaller activity area for one-on-one learning and activities are also available.
“We are very excited to expand our Panther Academy to include after school programming,” said Chris Huggan, director of Athletics and Recreation at UPEI. “We have excellent facilities, staff and programs in place, and we are eager to further engage children in the community in an active, educational manner.”
The Panther Academy’s philosophy is entrenched in the belief that individual and group play through physical activity enhances a child’s ability to learn and improve intellectually as well as develop their ability to cooperate, learn individual responsibility, and foster caring partnerships. The psychological and physical well-being of each of our participating children is the utmost priority, and their safety and enjoyment in our programs is our number one concern. We encourage participation in all activities to better enhance the children’s overall experience.
The Panther Academy After-School Program is run by certified staff and qualified university students. Student staff are chosen for their maturity, ability to relate to children, and leadership skills. All staff receive High-Five training along with CPR/First Aid/AED training and a mandatory extensive learning week led by our Programming Coordinator.
The University of Prince Edward Island prides itself on people, excellence, and impact and is committed to assisting students reach their full potential in both the classroom and community. With roots stemming from two founding institutions—Prince of Wales College and Saint Dunstan’s University—UPEI has a reputation for academic excellence, research innovation, and creating positive impacts locally, nationally, and internationally. UPEI is the only degree granting institution in the province and is proud to be a key contributor to the growth and prosperity of Prince Edward Island.
