When the bell rings on Friday afternoons at Frank Ryan Intermediate School, the excitement is palpable. Skates are packed, helmets are ready, and a group of eager students heads to the rink to take part in Skating Forward Together. This program builds confidence, friendships, and community through one of Canada’s favourite pastimes.
Creating Connections Through Movement
The program was designed with a special focus on welcoming new Canadians and helping them feel part of the school community. By focusing on a physical activity, teachers removed the language barrier that sometimes exists when students from diverse backgrounds are brought together.
“As both Alicia (Alicia Davis, Resource Teacher) and I grew up playing hockey, we knew skating would be a great way to build relationships and confidence,” explained Taylor Burns, Health and Physical Education teacher.
The Role Of CEFO In Making It Happen
The Catholic Education Foundation of Ottawa (CEFO) is a registered charity dedicated to supporting students and families within the OCSB. CEFO helps alleviate the effects of poverty by ensuring that every child has the opportunity to participate fully in school life. Through financial assistance, grants, and community partnerships, CEFO helps create pathways to success for students across the city.
Thanks to a grant from CEFO, Frank Ryan School was able to provide all equipment, transportation, and rink time at no cost to students. This support made the program accessible and inclusive from the very start.
Teamwork, Leadership, and Laughter
With help from the school’s Resource, Guidance, and English Language Learner departments, students who would benefit most from the experience were invited to participate. Five student leaders also volunteer each week as “coaches,” joining the group on the ice to share their skills and encouragement.
“Our student leaders have been incredible,” said Burns. They’re role models who help guide the practices and make everyone feel included. The younger students even call them ‘the professionals,’ which is really neat to see.”
Each Friday afternoon, students travel to Merivale Arena for skating lessons based on the national development model. The sessions combine skill-building with team games, laughter, and friendship.
Growth On and Off the Ice
Now in their fifth week, the transformation among the students has been remarkable.
“When we started, we had a group of shy, quiet kids,” said Davis. “Now they’re smiling, laughing, and cheering each other on. It’s been amazing to watch their confidence grow.”
Students have already begun asking how they can join the next round of sessions, a clear sign that the program is creating excitement and belonging.
A Program Rooted In Inclusion and Leadership
Skating Forward Together is more than just learning how to skate; it’s about embracing the joy of skating together. It is about building a sense of belonging and community, developing social-emotional skills, and providing students with leadership opportunities rooted in Catholic values. Thanks to CEFO’s funding, students participate freely, borrow equipment, and travel to the rink without financial barriers.
For Mr. Burns and Ms. Davis, the greatest reward has been seeing their students discover new strengths and friendships.
“We hope we’ve given them a unique experience where they can build relationships, have fun, and develop the skill of skating along the way,” said Burns.
In doing so, they embody the OCSB’s mission of putting faith into action by creating inclusive, compassionate, and vibrant communities where every student belongs and has the chance to thrive.
