Exploring Passions and Building Community Through Clubs and Councils

At SMUS, learning extends well beyond the classroom. Through clubs and councils, students at every level — from Junior School to Grade 12 — can discover new interests, deepen existing passions and build connections that last well beyond their school years.

Junior School: Trying Something New

For our youngest students, clubs are all about fun, exploration and making friends. Junior School students can try their hands at everything from art and gardening to robotics, yoga and public speaking. These experiences give students the chance to learn new skills in a supportive environment, while also building confidence and discovering joy in teamwork. Parents often remark on the wide variety of opportunities offered in one place — and the way these activities enrich their children’s early school experience.

Middle School: Following Curiosity

By Middle School, students’ curiosity and passions take centre stage. With options ranging from Honour Band and Math Challengers to Mandarin Club and Robotics, there is a place for every interest. Leadership also becomes a focus at this stage, with opportunities such as WEB Leaders and the five Middle School student councils: Service, Social, Sustainability, Athletics and Arts. These councils give students a voice in shaping school culture while learning responsibility and collaboration.

Senior School: Leading and Contributing

At the Senior School, the opportunities expand even further. Students can choose from over 65 clubs and councils — from Model United Nations to Debate, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Pride Council, Jazz Band and countless service initiatives. Councils play a key role in student life, empowering young people to take leadership roles in areas that matter most to them, from sustainability and social action to athletics and the arts. These experiences help students refine their interests, take on meaningful responsibilities and contribute to the broader school community.

Beyond the Classroom

Across all three schools, clubs and councils offer something essential: the chance to pursue passions, take risks in a safe environment and find belonging. Whether planting seeds in the Junior School’s Gardening Club, preparing for Math Challengers in Middle School or leading a Senior School council, students gain more than new skills — they gain confidence, friendships and a deeper sense of community.

As one Senior School student put it during this week’s Clubs and Councils Fair, "There's something here for everyone. It's where you find your people."