Special Interest Service Providers

If you are interested in obtaining a permit during the evening (6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m.) or on a weekend (8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m.), visit our School Permits page.

Special Interest Service Providers (SISPs) offer paid programs for students outside the instructional day, facilitated through outside service providers.  These programs begin in November and operate at lunch time or after school (prior to 6:00 pm) and must be approved in advance through a Board process. 

Applications for the 2025-2026 school year are now closed. 

All service providers, new and renewing, must submit a full application. All applications will be reviewed by committee, and consideration for inclusion on the approved SISP List will be based on the needs of the system. The review by committee will ensure that across the board, programs selected will:

  • align with board priorities
  • be available in all geographical areas
  • offer a variety of activities
  • include range of activities for multiple age groups
  • be inclusive and affordable
  • have received positive feedback, if previously offered
  • ensure costs to participants are minimized
  • provide accessibility for students who cannot afford to participate

Once approved, program providers must submit a permit request through the Community Use of Schools team.  Permit requests must be accompanied with a certificate of insurance naming York Region District School Board as additional insured and current Police Vulnerable Sector Check (PVSC), formally VSS, for instructors.   

SISPs will be on the SISP List for a maximum of 1 year after which time, they may need to reapply.

 

Application Information

  • For each permit an administrative charge of $51.52 + HST is due
  • Permit fees are an hourly rate:
    • $23.90 + HST per SISP program/per classroom/per use; and
    • $39.83 + HST per SISP program/per gymnasium/per use

Applications for 2025-2026 are now closed and will be reviewed in October 2025.  

If your application is successful, you will receive a confirmation email mid October 2025 and your access to the online permit system will be activated. A permit is required to provide programming. 

Please do not contact schools directly as this may result in you forfeiting your application.
 

Applications are accepted early August to mid September and reviewed in October each year. 

  • Schools may only offer programs that are on the Approved SISPs List.
  • SISPs are required to submit an application form for each school year.
  • SISPs who have previously been approved and wish to offer a different program are required to submit a separate application.
  • Groups added to the Approved SISP list will have their programs shared with schools through a board process. SISPs shall not reach out to school councils and/or schools advertising their programs. Should an SISP be found in contravention of this requirement they will not be considered for future programs.
  • SISPs must abide by all Board policies and procedures.
  • School board operations cannot be negatively impacted.
  • Programs may run for up to 10 weeks at a school site. Sessions will only be approved a maximum of 3 times per year at the same school site.
  • SISP programs should be extracurricular in nature and not duplicate delivery of classroom curriculum.
  • Activities must be non-contact, e.g. Karate
  • SISPs are not able to use school equipment including, wi-fi, gym equipment such as nets and poles.
  • SISPs are expected to be financially accessible to families. Factors include the nature of the program, length and number of sessions, and pricing of other approved SISPs with a similar program. 

Program Requirements

Groups looking to offer a School Day Special Interest program will be required to answer the following questions in the SISP Online Application Form:

  1. Program Title
  2. Goals and Objectives of the Program
  3. Program Description
  4. Target Age Group
  5. Municipalities of the Board willing to Operate (e.g. Georgina, Newmarket)
  6. Cost per participant per Program
  7. Plan to support students requiring financial assistance
  8. Length of Program (maximum 10 weeks/maximum 3 sessions)
  9. How does your Program align with Board priorities/values/expectations
  10. How will you ensure all students will be able to access this Program

Documentation Requirements Upon Approval

Provide annually, evidence of general liability insurance of an amount not less than $2,000,000.00 to the Community Use of Schools Department. The York Region District School Board must be a named insured on the policy. Failure to provide the required insurance will result in the cancellation of the SISP Permit and removal from the current list.

Provide original copies of Police Vulnerable Sector Check criminal reference certificates for each instructor. Instructors must be at least 18 years old. Checks must have been completed within the last 6 months.

Provide 3 recent reference letters including the name, whether the named person is a service contractor or user, and phone number of same.

Read and understand the following York Region District School Board Policies and Procedures:

For sport and physical activities, please review Ophea Guidelines. The Safety Guidelines are organized into three modules for each of the elementary and secondary levels: Elementary and Secondary Curricular Programs, Elementary and Secondary Intramural Clubs and Activities, and Elementary and Secondary Interschool Athletics.

2025-2026 School Year Special Interest Service Providers (SISPs) List 
 

Children will learn how to become confident young people by participating in a musical such as The Wizard of Oz, Annie, The Lion King etc.  Act One Productions has been directing children for twenty five years and their program involves children learning how to sing, act and dance in a wonderful team oriented setting.  

Municipalities: Aurora, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-879-3241

Arcadia Academy of Music provides fun, engaging enrichment programs in piano, voice, and ukulele for students of beginner skill levels. Our sessions support creativity, confidence, and well-being through inclusive, hands-on musical experiences.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-414-1422

B-Ballerz Academy offers fun, high-energy basketball programs focused on skill development, confidence, and teamwork for students of all levels. Our sessions are led by certified coaches and align with YRDSB priorities of well-being, inclusion, and student growth.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Newmarket, Richmond Hill

Contact: 905-237-9508

Chess with Mr. S offers high-quality chess programs that inspire critical thinking, creativity, and confidence. Our engaging classes are designed to challenge and support young learners at every level.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-456-1599

The Chess World program offers an exciting, enriching and dynamic chess experience, using the game as an educational tool to build character, strengthen social skills, and enhance cognitive abilities. It is open to students from SK to Grade 6 at all levels, from complete beginners to advanced players.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 647-855-4971

For the past 40 years, the Chess’n Math Association, National Scholastic Chess Organisation, has been giving chess lessons in Canadian elementary schools both as an extra-curricular and regular classroom activity. Our Chess Program teaches chess at all levels, while making it fun at the same time.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-488-5506/416-486-3395

Create It offers a very wide variety of quality STEM and STEAM programs for kids aged 5-13. Our offerings include Multi-Media, Robotics, Coding, LEGO, Photography, Art, Engineering, and Science-themed activities, designed to foster exploration and creativity. Students will create and produce exciting end-result projects such as HD Stop-Motion Animation Movies, Digital Photography, Photo Slideshows, Digital Video Production, Coding, Robotics (including Sphero Robotics), Video Game Design, App Creations, Movie Trailer Creations, iPad Projects, and Special Effect Movie Creation Projects, and MORE! To celebrate their achievements, students receive ALL Multi-Media projects and Video Game creations to take home on Brand New USB KEYS at the end of each program!

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-841-4343

Creative Genius Academy offers engaging art programs that nurture creativity, self-expression, and confidence in every student. Our inclusive workshops support well-being, celebrate diversity, and inspire achievement through the power of art.

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-887-1999‬

Creative Kids Club programs are designed by experienced teachers who know how to blend play and learning in ways that feel natural, exciting and engaging for students. Each program (Drawing and Cartooning, Music and Movement, & Creation Station) is unique and carefully crafted to spark curiosity, encourage creativity and support growth. 

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 647-291-0065

Echo Kidz offers creative/educational lunchtime and after-school programs like Sing & Shine (Glee/Music), Sketch Masters (Drawing & Cartooning), Groove & Flow (Yoga/Dance), and more. We inspire kids to discover their talents and have fun expressing themselves.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 647-835-8882/416-834-6394

Elite Soccer Clinics offers a comprehensive and enriching program that fosters holistic development, promotes physical fitness, enhances cognitive skills, and cultivates positive social interactions among students through soccer. Our inclusive and affordable program ensures that every child has the opportunity to benefit from our engaging soccer curriculum.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 647-227-2505

Engineering For Kids York Region brings exciting, hands-on STEM learning to Grades 1–8, sparking curiosity through mechanical, civil,  aerospace, marine, robotics engineering and more. Our interactive programs let students design, build, and explore real-world engineering challenges in a fun, engaging way!

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-963-0053

Envision Robotics offers engaging STEM programs that inspire creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Students develop practical skills in AI, coding, microcontrollers, 3D design, and video game design while building confidence for the future.

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 647-502-6319

Welcome to our Youth Fitness program that is designed for all levels of fitness. We focus on improving total body strength by working with our own body weight, rubber bands, stability balls and more. You will challenge yourself with exciting cardiovascular exercises such as box jumps, ground parachute training and partner cardio exercises. Join us today and have a blast!

Municipalities: King, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-821-2384

Let your students explore the world of music with our affordable group piano lessons right at your school. We are here to nurture their passion and foster a lifelong love for music.

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-513-0346

Creative Kids Craft Club by iheartcrafts: Hands-on arts and crafts for students aged 6–10, exploring a variety of mediums and techniques. Fun, engaging, and inclusive sessions offered after school or during nutrition breaks.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 647-802-9753

Imagine Arts Academy lunchtime and after school programs are both educational and fun. Our hands-on, one-hour, 8-week art programs are themed around specific art topics which not only introduce the children to different art mediums but also introduce them to different vocations, cultures around the world and conservation issues.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-630-5282

JJB Futbolito – Soccer and Physical Literacy Lunch-Time and After-School Program. Our inclusive program builds physical literacy, teamwork, and student well-being through fun, active soccer sessions, aligned with YRDSB priorities for achievement, health, and equity.

Municipalities: Aurora, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-457-3772

Our Karate Kids class takes place once per week, in the school gymnasium, during the lunch hour or nutrition break which is a huge help and relief for busy parents, especially those on a budget. Offered to students in grades 1 through 5, the Karate Kids program is an exciting and motivating fusion of non-contact martial arts, fitness, and character education. 

At half the price of after school programs combined with the distribution of our scholarships, more of your families will be given an opportunity they may not otherwise have. 

Municipalities: Aurora, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-706-3257

Since 2013, Kidz Can Play Inc. has offered exciting physical & health education (P.H.E) programs in addition to March Break and Summer Camps for children ages 4-13. Our P.H.E. programs are based on the current, research-based philosophy of “Teaching Games for Understanding” (TGFU), which aligns with the Ontario P.H.E Curriculum initiative to develop physically literate students-specializing in basketball, soccer, volleyball, and ball hockey.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-418-8514

L’Dance offers fun, non-competitive dance, movement, and musical theatre classes for children across the GTA and in the YRSB. Each session delivers a high-energy, skills-focused curriculum designed to inspire creativity, build confidence, and keep dancers engaged from start to finish.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 647-248-2933

Unique handmade crafts for kids to bring home to show off to their parents, what could be better! In this program students will be exposed to a wide variety of art forms, materials and techniques. Students will be encouraged to try something new, make mistakes and be creative. 

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 289-879-0463

Little Jammerz Provides engaging Guitar, Glee and Ukulele programs for elementary students. By jamming together with their fellow students, students enjoy a supportive and motivating environment in which to learn.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-787-1782

This hip hop dance program allows students to tap into their creative side and find their individuality through a physical art. It helps students build memory, self confidence and commitment while keeping fit and having fun! 

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-648-1825

Mad Science Extracurricular activities introduce your children to the many wonders of science in a fun, hands-on and interactive way. Our programs are facilitated by well trained Instructors who create a safe, fun and engaging environment for all of the registered participants.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-630-5282

Markham Cricket Academy school cricket program promotes student achievement, teamwork, and well-being through culturally relevant sport. It affirms diverse identities while building inclusion, belonging, and cross-cultural understanding across YRDSB schools.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-939-6202

Northern Karate Personal Best Program will introduce your child to the benefits of Karate. Kids will learn respect, gain confidence, learn to co-operate and set goals to achieve their personal best.

Municipalities: King, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-910-5521

Northern Karate Personal Best Program will introduce your child to the benefits of Karate. Kids will learn respect, gain confidence, learn to co-operate and set goals to achieve their personal best. 

Municipalities: Vaughan

Contact: 905-265-7777

No-contact karate learning the benefits of being physically active and the importance of developing good character, while building confidence and having fun.

Municipalities: Vaughan

Contact: 416-999-9345

The babysitting certificate course will provide the students with the confidence and knowledge to care for the children in their care. They will cover basic first aid, how to handle emergency situations including fire safety and medical emergencies.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-478-1744

Roma Crafts Inc offers enriched art programs that are created and designed to help students to improve their drawing skills, develop creativity and discover techniques. 

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 647-299-6670

With Jonathan's Shytoons Cartoon Classes, children will learn about cartoons and the basic fundamentals of art all done by hand, while exploring their creativity with drawing and painting.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-303-6649

Stayin Alive with First Aid CPR & AED Training Inc. has been teaching Babysitting and Stay Safe courses in the York region since 2017, our company is well known both in the YRDSB and the communities that YRDSB supports. We also teach First Aid courses to adults in the communities.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-509-1946

1. Empower and Connect: Strong Food & Creativity - Creative cooking projects empower students to lead, innovate, and connect through food while learning healthy eating and sustainability.
2. Empower and Connect: Eco Guardians & Stewardship - Students investigate ecosystems, sustainability, and human impact through hands-on projects that promote environmental leadership and stewardship.
3. Empower and Connect: 3D Design & Innovation - Students bring ideas to life through 3D design and printing, learning problem-solving, digital literacy, and creative thinking.
4. Empower and Connect: Chess & Strategic Thinking - Students enhance critical thinking and leadership by playing chess, mentoring peers, and tackling strategy challenges.
5. Empower and Connect: Public Speaking & Confidence - Students build confidence, communication, and leadership skills through storytelling, debates, and collaborative presentations in a safe space.
6. Empower and Connect: Future Millionaires – Financial Literacy: Hands-on activities teach students real-world financial skills, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial thinking for lifelong confidence and success.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-885-5303

TenTen Sport Programs (Tennis, Soccer, Basketball, Floor Hockey, Pickleball, Dodgeball, Multi Sport) are fun, engaging, and great exercise. The TenTen Sport Programs offer a well-formulated program consisting of ball skills, drills, exercises, and game play.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-771-7511 x 101

The Martial Arts Training Centre offers school-based martial arts programs that build confidence, focus, and self-defense skills. Programs are inclusive, affordable, and aligned with YRDSB’s goals for student achievement and well-being.

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 905-787-2326

Our Taekwondo school offers impactful programming like the 'Fight Against Bullying Seminar,' serving as a valuable resource to students. We aspire to be education partners, promoting physical well-being and mental health through structured training that builds resilience and fosters a sense of inclusivity and respect for all.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 289-475-5900

LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Students take part in dynamic games and challenges that strengthen leadership, teamwork, and meaningful peer connections.
LEAD Through Movement & Connection: Students build confidence and resilience through creative movement, cooperative challenges, and inclusive group activities.
LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Soccer World Cup! Students celebrate global culture and teamwork while experiencing the excitement of the World Cup through inclusive soccer challenges.
LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Badminton Challenge. Students sharpen focus, adaptability, and collaboration through engaging badminton activities and team challenges.
LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Basketball Leadership. Students practice leadership and communication through basketball drills, cooperative games, and shared team goals.
LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Volleyball & Team Dynamics. Students strengthen trust and group cohesion through volleyball-based activities emphasizing teamwork and shared success.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-627-1092

Ukulele Kids offers students from SK-Grade 8 the opportunity to learn, perform and succeed in a nurturing environment. The ukulele is an ideal resource to encourage these outcomes.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-722-9065

Unionville Soccer Club’s School Program uses the power of soccer to help every student build confidence, teamwork, and healthy habits. Rooted in inclusion and diversity, the program supports achievement, well-being, and belonging for all learners.

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-477-5425

Vaughan Cricket Club, Inc cricket program promotes physical activities, teamwork, and cultural inclusion through the sport. It empowers all students to participate, learn, and celebrate diversity in a fun, supportive and engaging environment.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-272-7824

Wize Computing Academy® after-school programs offer engaging, hands-on learning experiences in coding, robotics, and design. Our project-based learning method meets educational standards, equipping students for future technological advancements.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 647-242-2175

Young Rembrandts is an engaging art enrichment program for children up to Grade 6 that builds creativity, drawing skills, and self-confidence through fun, step-by-step lessons. All materials are provided, and every class offers a supportive environment where students are encouraged to express themselves and explore diverse art techniques.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Markham, Newmarket, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 416-720-2007