Special Interest Service Providers

If you are interested in obtaining a permit during the evening (6:00 pm - 10:00 pm) or on a weekend (8:00 am - 10:00 pm), 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 2026-2027 school year are now closed. 

All service providers, new and renewing, must submit a full application each year. 

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.   

Application Information

  • For each permit an administrative charge of $65.00 + HST is due
  • Permit fees are an hourly rate:
    • $24.38 + HST per SISP program/per classroom/per use; and
    • $40.63 + HST per SISP program/per gymnasium/per use

Applications for 2026-2027 are now closed.

If your application is successful, you will receive a confirmation email 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 may 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 Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) 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.

2026-2027 School Year Special Interest Service Providers (SISPs) List 

Academy of Integrated Arts program emphasizes respect and self-discipline integrated with healthy exercise and fun for kids, exposing them to martial arts at a young age greatly improves their focus, attention, and social skills.  

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill

Contact: 416-795-7750
 

Act One offers a musical theatre program where kids will gain the much needed confidence to improve their presentation skills through the magic of musical theatre. Kids will learn to sing, act and dance and learn to work as a team in presenting a musical theatre production for all to enjoy.

Municipalities: Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-879-3241

ARIS Martial Arts provides engaging Taekwondo programs that help students develop confidence, focus, discipline, and respect while improving physical fitness. Inclusive programs support student growth through positive mentorship, teamwork, and a safe, welcoming learning environment.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Newmarket, Richmond Hill

Contact: 416-716-5253

B-Ballerz program builds confident, active, and resilient young people through basketball, physical literacy and positive mentorship.

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

Contact: 905-237-9508

Shakhtar Academy Toronto offers an inclusive, non-contact after-school soccer skills program for students in Grades 1-8. Age-appropriate activities informed by FC Shakhtar's youth development methodology develop physical literacy, coordination, ball control, decision-making and teamwork; no previous soccer experience is required.

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

Contact: 437-424-3277

A high-energy, non-contact lunchtime martial arts program combining physical fitness, safety strategies, and character growth for students ages 5–13. Empowers children to build self-discipline, conflict resolution skills, and healthy habits in a fun, inclusive, and highly engaging team environment.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, Newmarket

Contact: 905-758-2900

Chess with Mr. S offers high-quality chess programs that inspire critical thinking, creativity, and confidence. 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

Create IT is the ultimate one-stop shop for lunchtime and after school programs offering a wide variety of high-quality STEM & STEAM programs for students in JK–SK through Grades 1–6. Designed to spark innovation and discovery, our hands-on activities span, Movie Making, Video Game Design, Sphero Robotics & Coding, Junior Robotics, HD Stop-Motion Animation using LEGO + CLAY or TOYS, Epic Movie Trailer & FX Production, Science Experiments, LEGO, Engineering, Pottery, Painting and Tactile Arts (including Tie-Dye). Students build real-world skills and produce tangible digital projects, taking home all of their games and media on a brand-new USB key at the end of each session!

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

Contact: 905-841-4343

Creative Kids Lab offers unique hands-on arts, crafts and STEAM enrichment directly after school dismissal. Students design, build and create a different project each week to take home.

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

Contact: 416-400-0809

QYMOX – The Cube Intelligence Program transforms the 3×3 colour-matching puzzle cube into an exciting hands-on learning experience. Students develop logic, concentration, memory, problem-solving and perseverance through progressive challenges, algorithms, teamwork and creative pixel art.

Municipalities: Aurora, King, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 647-564-9018

Vaughan Young Engineers – Bricks Challenge brings STEM to life through exciting hands-on engineering experiences. Students build and experiment with motorized models while discovering principles of physics and mechanics and developing creativity, problem-solving, teamwork and critical-thinking skills.

Municipalities: Vaughan

Contact: 647-564-9018

ECHO Kidz provides innovative, inclusive, and engaging lunchtime and after-school programs for children from Kindergarten to Grade 8. Offering a diverse range of creative programs designed to inspire confidence, creativity, and self-expression beyond the traditional classroom curriculum. From Sing & Shine: Glee Performing Arts, to Sketch Masters: Drawing, Painting & Cartooning, Groove & Flow, Dance Starz, and, Music ’n’ Movement, our programs give every child the opportunity to discover their talents, explore new interests, and shine in their own unique way.

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

Contact: 647-835-8882

Elite Camps delivers high-quality basketball programs that promote physical literacy, teamwork, leadership, and confidence for students of all skill levels. Experienced coaches create safe, inclusive, and engaging environments through in-school clinics, extracurricular programs, and camps that support student growth both on and off the court.

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

Contact: 905-326-9214

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. Inclusive and affordable programs ensure 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: 647-527-2505

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. 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

Greater Toronto Music School runs a ten-week beginner ukulele club where every student is playing and performing by the end, with an instrument provided for use in each session and no experience needed. Led by professional musician-educators, Grades 1 to 8, ending in an informal performance for classmates and families.

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

Contact: 416-639-2099

Let your students explore the world of music with our affordable group piano lessons right at your school. Hutt Family Piano Lessons nurtures their passion and foster a lifelong love for music.

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Whitchurch-Stouffville

Contact: 905-513-0346

Creative Arts & Crafts Enrichment Program for Grades 1–4. Students will explore a wide variety of hands-on craft mediums and techniques, from painting and paper crafts to yarn, sculpting, mixed media, and more. Each project is fun, creative, and designed to build confidence and new skills.

Municipalities: Aurora, East Gwillimbury, 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. The 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 environmental 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 builds physical literacy, teamwork, and student well-being through fun, active soccer sessions, aligned with YRDSB priorities for achievement, health, and equity.

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

Contact: 416-457-3772

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

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
 

Mad Science Extracurricular activities introduce your children to the many wonders of science in a fun, hands-on and interactive way. The programs are facilitated by professionally 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’s 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 - Markham’s non-contact karate learning the benefits of being physically active and the importance of developing good character, while building confidence and having fun.

Municipalities: Markham

Contact: 905-475-0044

Northern Karate Schools Personal Best program is a great way for children to be introduced to martial arts. The  5 week program will teach children basic karate skills, as well work on their focus, discipline and confidence.

Municipalities: King, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 905-508-5811
 

Northern Karate - Thornhill North York Concord offers 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

Northern Karate Schools - Willowdale offers an in-school program that promotes physical fitness, builds focus & discipline, provides students with basic, practical self-defence skills while raising funds for your school.

Municipalities: Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 416-499-5555

Each Northern Karate Schools Personal Best Program (NKSPB) class introduces participants to karate basics and life skills in a fun, educational format. Every session incorporates a character development theme, high energy warm-up and new techniques. Over 5 weeks, themes will include: Respect, Honesty & Confidence, Kindness & Cooperation, Goal Setting, and Personal Best.

Municipalities: Vaughan

Contact: 905-265-7777

OMAC Martial Arts offers engaging Taekwondo programs that build confidence, respect, focus, and physical fitness in a fun and supportive environment. Programs are available for students of all ages and skill levels, with opportunities for in-school workshops and after-school classes.

Municipalities:  Markham, Richmond Hill

Contact: 905-616-1408

Overtime Athletics provides professionally delivered, high-energy sport programs designed to build skills, confidence, teamwork and physical literacy. From specialized sport academies to dynamic multi-sport programs, we create inclusive and engaging experiences for students of all abilities.

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

Contact: 416-888-6965

The babysitting certificate course will provide 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

Experience the enjoyment of Art Classes & Cartoon Animation, as taught by a professional who worked in the industry for 8 years, and was honoured by the National Academy of Television Arts & Science, for working on the Emmy Award Winning episode of ARTHUR!!

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

Contact: 905-303-6649

Stars of the Stage provides engaging, curriculum-connected dance and musical theatre programs that bring professional performing arts instruction directly into schools. Programs build confidence, creativity, teamwork, and performance skills while creating a fun and inclusive experience for students of all ages.

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

Contact: 289-301-0676

Babysitting and Stay Safe courses that teach independence and leadership skills to the youth. Babysitting course covers managing difficult behaviours, leadership qualities and professional conduct as a babysitter. Stay Safe course teaches the skills needed to stay safe while home alone or in the community, respond to unexpected situations (like strangers or visitors), and even first aid treatment (including calling 911).

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

Contact: 416-509-1946

Steamoji Newmarket offers a 10-week, hands-on Build to Solve™ Intro program for children ages 7–10. Students explore fabrication, coding, physical computing and applied design while building creativity, confidence and problem-solving skills through projects involving 3D pens, digital design and fabrication technologies.

Municipalities: East Gwillimbury, Georgina, King, Newmarket

Contact: 416-529-2022

  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 ext 101

Tiger Kicks Martial Arts offers a fun and engaging beginner Taekwondo program that develops confidence, focus, discipline, coordination and physical fitness. Students learn fundamental Taekwondo skills while building respect, perseverance and positive character in a safe and inclusive environment.

Municipalities: Richmond Hill, Vaughan

Contact: 289-475-5900

  1. LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Students take part in dynamic games and challenges that strengthen leadership, teamwork, and meaningful peer connections.

  2. LEAD Through Movement & Connection: Students build confidence and resilience through creative movement, cooperative challenges, and inclusive group activities.

  3. LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Soccer & Teamwork! Students build leadership, teamwork, and meaningful connections through inclusive soccer challenges, cooperative games, and engaging team-building activities.

  4. LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Badminton Challenge. Students sharpen focus, adaptability, and collaboration through engaging badminton activities and team challenges.

  5. LEAD Through Sport & Connection: Basketball Leadership. Students practice leadership and communication through basketball drills, cooperative games, and shared team goals.

  6. 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 teaches elementary students the value of cooperation, teamwork and a healthy appreciation for the Arts while learning a musical instrument.

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

Contact: 416-722-9065

Young Artist Club provides fun, inclusive art programs that inspire creativity, self-expression, and artistic skill development. Programs are available for schools as before-school, after-school, lunch-hour, and workshop sessions.

Municipalities: Aurora, Richmond Hill

Contact: 647-829-4266

Young Rembrandts is an acclaimed art enrichment and drawing program for children aged 4-12 (JK to Grade 6) that is designed to develop students’ foundational art skills, self-confidence, and core learning skills through engaging step-by-step lessons. Inclusive program features new lessons every term (ie: students who have previously taken the program will not encounter a repeated lesson) and provides an environment for young learners to explore different art techniques, self-expression and diverse topics.

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

Contact: 647-286-9750

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