TELUS Spark Calgary's Science Centre
NOW OPEN

BLUprint*

Build + Learn + YOU

Please note closed-toed shoes and PPE are required for participation.
DATES

Open Now - Sept. 15, 2024

TIMES

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

AGES

Suitable for ages 8+. Guests 14 and under require adult supervision.

COST

Included with General Admission or a Spark Membership

WELCOME TO BLUprint*

The Government of Alberta’s Advanced Education Ministry, announced a generous grant of almost $900,000 to TELUS Spark for a new program designed to spark curiosity and inspire Alberta youth to learn about the skilled trades. This grant, in addition to the very generous sponsorship of $100,000 from the Calgary Construction Association, has supported the opening of this exciting new experience. BLUprint (Build + Learn + YOU) is one of the first youth programs to explicitly showcase the application of STEAM in real-world trades careers in a Canadian science centre.

This new program consists of an outdoor space where youth can experience using real tools, get hands on learning and understand the science connections, inherent in all trades. Later in the year, the program will move inside of the science centre to continue hosting youth to learn about the trades through virtual reality and more.

  • OPEN DAILY
  • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM

Here's what to expect in BLUprint*!

- Future builders under 8 years, can hone their fine motor skills in the Little Builders Zone.

- In the Carpentry Corner, kids ages 8+ can craft masterpieces.

- Craving a bigger challenge? Team up on epic projects in the Big Builds Area every Monday through Thursday! On weekends it’s back to basics, with open-ended projects that rely on the imagination and whatever materials you can find.

- Plus, don’t miss the roaming activation carts, Plumbing Problems and Spark Switch, for hands-on plumbing and electrical adventures. Get ready to build, learn and ignite your genius!

  • New Hours
  • Sept 5 – 15

Visit Before It's Gone...

- Carpentry corner: open 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday through Sunday

- Little Builders Zone: open 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Monday through Sunday

- Activation Carts: 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm Monday through Sunday

- Big Builds Zone: open 10:00 am to 3:00 pm Saturday & Sunday ONLY

Plus, don't miss THE SCIENCE OF SKILL TRADES SHOWCASE on Beaker Days and Beaker Nights

THE BLUprint EXPERIENCE AT SPARK

WHY TRADES AT A SCIENCE CENTRE?

The skilled trades are not just practical jobs, they are vibrant STEAM careers. At their core, science, technology, engineering, art and math (STEAM) principles are the foundation of all skilled trades.

Whether it’s the precise measurements in carpentry, the physics of electrical circuits or the chemistry involved in plumbing, the trades rely on a deep understanding of scientific and technical concepts.

INTEGRATING ARTS INTO TRADES

Beyond the technical skills, the trades also encompass artistic creativity, adding the “A” in STEAM. Skilled tradespeople often use their expertise to create stunning, functional works of art. From intricately designed furniture to innovative architectural structures.

This blend of technical precision and creative expression makes the trades and exciting multifaceted field.

HANDS-ON LEARNING AND ENGAGEMENT

Hosting trades activities at Spark provides a unique opportunity for hands-on learning. Guests can directly engage with the practical applications of STEAM concepts, making the learning experience dynamic and tangible.

This approach not only demystifies the trades, but also highlights their complexity and importance.

INSPIRING FUTURE GENERATIONS

By showcasing the trades at Spark, the aim is to inspire young people to explore these vital careers. Demonstrating the real-world applications of their science and math lessons in an interactive and engaging environment can ignite a passion for the trades and encourage them to consider these paths for their future.

PROMOTING RESPECT & RECOGNITION

Elevating the trades to their rightful place within the STEAM framework promotes job parity and respect. It underscores that that trades careers are not just viable but essential, requiring a high level of skill, knowledge and creativity. This recognition helps to build a more balanced and appreciative view of all career paths.

A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO EDUCATION

Integrating the trades into Spark fosters a holistic approach to education, where academic knowledge and practical skills go hand in hand. It illustrates how different fields of study intersect and support one another, preparing individuals for a wide range of challenges and opportunities in their careers.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE TRADES

Looking to explore a new career in the trades, embark on an apprenticeship journey, or want to know more about working in the industry?

Visit the Government of Alberta’s Trade Secrets!

Learn More

FAQ

    • What kinds of shoes are needed for the space?

      Closed-toed shoes and PPE are required for participation. Crocs, toe-capped sandals and others styles of footwear that have holes anywhere on the shoe are not permitted.

    • What are the age requirements?

      Recommended for guests 8 years and older. Adult assistance is required for children under 8 years of age.

      Guests 14 and under require adult supervision at all times.

      Maximum 3 guests under 14 years old per adult.

    • Is the space open in all weather situations?

      This outdoor space is weather-dependent and may close during inclement weather such as thunderstorms, heavy rain, high winds, extreme heat and poor air quality. Small activations will take place in the Atrium during inclement weather.

    • Can I donate supplies?

      Yes! For donating supplies please email [email protected]

    • What tools will children have access to?

      Hammers, child-friendly jigsaws, sandpaper and other tools are all options that will be available to children.

    • What happens if my child gets hurt?

      By allowing your child into the new space you accept risks that exist (and also accept the huge amount of benefit!). If your child does get hurt, we have a First Aid process that will be followed just as it is in the rest of the building.

    • How is this playground safe?

      We do walkthroughs throughout the day to minimize hazards. Our staff are trained to remove hazards so that kids can play and take risks. Spark provides (Personal Protective Equipment) PPE for all children entering the space.

    • Who is BLUprint for?

      BLUprint is designed to be inclusive and welcoming to everyone, regardless of age, background, or skill level. Spark believes that the trades are for everyone and strives to create an environment where all visitors feel valued and inspired.

      By embracing the trades within the context of STEAM, we celebrate the ingenuity, skill, and creativity that define these careers and emphasize their critical role in our society.

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Train your brain in Spark’s year-round outdoor park.

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