Ever wish you knew how to change a flat tire before getting stranded on the side of the road? Or learn how to marinate the perfect steak (Thanks, Mr. Speirs) so you’re not stuck eating mac and cheese every night at university? What about discovering a career you didn’t even know existed – one that sparks your passion and sets you on a whole new path? All before graduating from high school.

At Collingwood, this is the reality for our Grade 12s!

With 70+ sessions to choose from over four weeks, our grads have the opportunity and choice to create their unique schedules and sign up for presentations, conversations, and experiences that provide a sense of autonomy over when and what they learn—a little sneak peek into the world of post-secondary.

Collingwood U was founded in 2021 to prepare students for life beyond the classroom. Sparked by Morgan McLaughlin's vision, with input from students and alumni, the bespoke third semester for Grade 12’s aims to incorporate practical life skills, not taught in a traditional classroom setting, into the heart of Collingwood’s curriculum.

During COVID, Ms. McLaughlin was inspired by another school that stayed connected through virtual sessions with alumni and industry professionals. These sessions opened students up to mentorship, networking, goal-setting, work-life balance, and the value of staying open to new perspectives and opportunities. She knew Collingwood students would embrace something similar. What began as a fully online initiative has since grown into a dynamic, in-person program with enthusiastic participation from students, faculty, and guest speakers alike.

With support from Ms. McLaughlin, Mr. Wong, faculty leaders, and the incredible involvement of current parents, alumni, alumni parents, and friends of the Collingwood community, Collingwood U has grown into something truly special. The hands-on program allows students to build real-life skills before entering the world. Whether it’s learning how to cook a healthy meal, sew a button, budget their money, or navigate relationships and mental wellness, it’s all about preparing grads for what comes next.

A huge part of what makes this program so meaningful is the role our alumni play. They come back to share stories, give advice, and help students see what life after Collingwood can look like. Some lead sessions or workshops, and others invite students into their workplaces to see a day in the life of their careers. It is an unparalleled program that gives our grads a head start and provides our alumni with an opportunity to give back in a rewarding and lasting way.

This year, grads are hearing directly from professionals in fields like marine biology, film and media, investment banking, baking, aerospace engineering, journalism, medicine, and more! They also connect with current university students who offer insight into the transition from Collingwood to campus life, sharing lessons learned, mistakes made, and advice they wish they’d known.

Take a look at what our grads have been up to this year!