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Artificial Intelligence Lab
Unleashing creativity
The Artificial Intelligence Lab, delivered in partnership with SureStart, AI experts connected with MIT and Carnegie Mellon, aims to introduce students to the foundational concepts of AI and generative AI and to foster creativity through hands-on technology applications. You’ll discover how to harness emerging technologies for impactful solutions, turn ideas into reality, solve real-world challenges and have fun while learning.

key information
Ready to lead the way? Let's make it happen!
Two-Week Program
(co-ed for ages 13–16)
Bring Your Own Device. For more information, please see our FAQs.
Dates
July 7–18, 2025 or
August 11–22, 2025
Hours
9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m.
Location
Branksome Hall - In-person
Fee
$1,800.00 CAD
(includes daily hot lunch)
Key Focus Areas
- Python programming fundamentals with a focus on modularity and efficiency
- Utilize Pandas and Matplotlib for data analysis and visualization
- Process real-world datasets and present insights effectively
- Explore the use of large language models (LLMs) for generating and augmenting code
- Use LLMs with application programming interface (API) calls in Python
- Build functional, AI-integrated applications
- Definitions and real-world examples
- Contextual discussion
Program Features

Industry Mentors
One-on-one mentors will not only provide support and accountability, but also help participants envision a future that they may not yet see themselves.

Guest Speakers
Members of Branksome Hall’s community and experts in AI from Toronto’s technology sector.

Capstone Projects
Participants have a unique opportunity to carry out research to devise an innovative, AI-driven solution for a real-world problem. They will present their findings at the end of the program to a panel of experts.
Program outcomes
Upon finishing the program, participants will earn a certificate of completion and be equipped with a portfolio showcasing their completed projects and an enhanced resume highlighting their technical skills and experiences.
About SureStart
Founded by award-winning AI scientist Dr. Taniya Mishra, SureStart builds AI competencies in young learners, fostering the skills necessary to excel in the rapidly evolving technology landscape. SureStart collaborates with leading educational institutions such as MIT RAISE and Carnegie Mellon University, as well as organizations like the Global Learning Council, to deliver innovative AI learning experiences to K-12 and college-age students globally. Alumni have gone on to study at top-ranked universities and work with renowned science and technology organizations like NASA, Microsoft, Google and Amazon.
Given SureStart's holistic approach to AI education, students with varied technical pre-skills and educational backgrounds can learn about, build with and innovate using AI, leading to standout portfolios and demonstrable “power skills."
FAQs
Founded by Branksome Hall, the Slingshot Innovation Academy propels students on a learning trajectory like no other, as they tackle real-world problems, gain hands-on experience, learn from industry experts and discover technology-driven solutions to re-invent the world as we know it.
At the heart of its creative approach is teamwork, building leadership, marketing and presentation skills to enable students to turn their ideas into realities. Rigorous standards and a comprehensive approach mean brighter careers for our students.
Young, innovative and curious minds ages 13–16 who have an interest in leadership, entrepreneurship and/or artificial intelligence will benefit from the programs.
No previous experience is required.
Yes, both programs will require students to bring their own device.
Here are the minimum requirements:
- Operating system: Windows 10 or 11 or macOS 11.7+ (no iPads/tablets as some Slingshot Innovation Academy software requires full laptop operating systems)
- Memory (RAM): 8 GB minimum, 16 GB recommended
- Processor (CPU): Intel Core i5 processor or higher, AMD Ryzen 5 or higher, or Apple M1 or higher
- Storage (SSD): 256 GB or higher
Necessary software for the Slingshot programs will be provided, with instructions on how to download it before the first day. IT Support will be provided once the program begins, as needed. If you have any questions about the above requirements, please email slingshotia@branksome.on.ca.
Those registered for the Venture Lab program will visit DMZ’s headquarters at Toronto Metropolitan University to explore proven business models and network with a vibrant community of experts, influencers and entrepreneurs. They will travel there as a group via public transit. Details will be provided to families in advance of the program start date.
Venture Lab: Upon finishing the program, participants will earn a certificate of completion and a digital badge to include on their LinkedIn profile showcasing their elevated leadership skills and potential.
Artificial Intelligence Lab: Upon finishing the program, participants will earn a certificate of completion, and be equipped with a portfolio showcasing their completed projects and an enhanced resume highlighting their technical skills and experiences.
We accept Visa/Mastercard and eChecks.
All cancellations must be made in writing to the Slingshot Innovation Academy by email at slingshotia@branksome.on.ca.
For cancellations prior to February 14, 2025, a full refund will be issued.
For cancellations prior to or on March 31, 2025, a full refund, minus a $500 administrative fee, will be issued.
Cancellations on or after April 1, 2025 are not eligible for a refund unless the cancellation is related to medical reasons for the participant and accompanied by a doctor’s note, at which point a partial refund of up to 50% may be granted, at the discretion of Slingshot Innovation Academy. Please reach out to us about the information required in a doctor’s note supporting a refund request. These partial medical refunds are only available for students who must miss three or more consecutive days of the course. No refund is available for full or partial day absences due to inclement weather or any course activities/field trips not fully utilized.
Please note that should you cancel a session and you are eligible for a refund, the 2.4% processing fee for credit card payments is not refundable at any time for any reason. Branksome Hall and the Slingshot Innovation Academy reserve the right to cancel/change any program at any time, in which case a full refund will be issued for any payment previously made in relation to that program. You will be notified by email of any changes or cancellations.
Please reach out to us by email to discuss any accommodations your child may need to fully participate in the program. We will do our best to support your child in achieving the maximum benefit from the program.