May 9, 2025
The BrainGym KW Youth Scholarship Program: Empowering Youth in Waterloo Region
Want to help your child build confidence, sharpen their mind, and grow stronger? The BrainGym KW Youth Scholarship Program is the perfect opportunity! Designed for students aged 8 to 16 in the Waterloo Region District School Board (WRDSB) and Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB), this unique program blends tutoring, boxing training, and emotional support to help young learners thrive academically, in athletics, and beyond!
What is the BrainGym KW Youth Scholarship Program?
BrainGym KW Youth is a one-of-a-kind opportunity that brings together three incredible organizations:
- Oxford Learning Kitchener – Providing customized learning to boost academic success.
- SydFIT Health Centre – Offering boxing training that builds strength, discipline, and confidence.
- Upstream Counselling – Supporting emotional well-being with eight voluntary counselling sessions for students or their family members.
This powerful combination helps students grow academically, physically, and emotionally. And the best part? The value of each scholarship exceeds $10,000! 🎉
BrainGym KW isn’t just about improving grades or becoming a better athlete—it’s about building self-esteem, confidence, and resilience. Here’s a closer look at how this unique approach is designed to make a difference for youth:
- Tutoring with Oxford Learning Kitchener helps students excel in school by focusing on cognitive learning.
- Boxing training at SydFIT Health Centre teaches discipline, boosts confidence, and keeps youth active.
- Counselling sessions from Upstream Counselling provide emotional support, helping students and their families overcome challenges.
The Power of Partnership
The BrainGym KW Youth Scholarship Program was co-founded in 2023 by Jodi Pickles of Oxford Learning Kitchener and Syd Vanderpool of SydFIT Health Centre. They are two dedicated leaders with a shared vision of helping youth reach their full potential. Recognizing the power of combining academic support, athletic training, and emotional well-being, they created a scholarship program to equip young students with the skills they need to thrive in all areas of life.
In 2024, BrainGym KW expanded its impact by partnering with Brad Wilton of Upstream Counselling, further strengthening its mission to support youth academically, physically and emotionally. With Brad’s expertise, the program now includes eight voluntary counselling sessions for scholarship recipients or their family members, ensuring students have the emotional tools to navigate challenges confidently.
Together, they aim to make a lasting difference in the lives of youth across the Waterloo Region. Here’s what they have to say about their inspiring work:
Jodi Pickles – Co-Founder, Oxford Learning Kitchener
“This scholarship program is a dream come true for me,” says Pickles, who’s been an experienced educator for over 20 years and has a resolute determination to empower youth through cognitive learning. “The opportunity to incorporate this scholarship with SydFIT is perfect for youth to build their self-esteem and confidence in academics and athletics. I am so excited to see the participants flourish this year.”
Syd Vanderpool – Co-Founder, SydFIT Health Centre
“More and more, we understand how important it is to keep our bodies healthy and our minds strong,” says Vanderpool, who founded SydFIT Health Centre in 2007 to inspire a healthier community and share his passion for fitness. “It’s not just one or the other; they work together. Having both makes kids feel sure of themselves, like they can do anything. How could I not want to join forces with Oxford Learning Kitchener and deliver a 1-2 punch that delivers hope.”
Brad Wilton – Partner, Upstream Counselling
“I’m excited to partner with Syd and Jodi,” says Brad Wilton. “BrainGym is an excellent program run by great people making a real difference in our community. I’m thrilled to contribute to the amazing work they’re doing.”
With these passionate leaders at the helm, BrainGym KW is more than just a scholarship—it’s a life-changing experience!
Since September 2023, BrainGym KW has helped eight students flourish in academics, athletics, and life. With the powerful combination of academics, athletics and emotional support, students build confidence, gain discipline, and learn to overcome challenges. With limited spots, we encourage parents to apply for a chance to participate in this life-changing program.
Who Can Apply?
BrainGym KW is designed for students aged 8 to 16 enrolled in the WRDSB or WCDSB. If you want your child to:
- Improve their grades
- Build confidence and self-esteem
- Learn valuable life skills like discipline and resilience
- Receive emotional support when needed
How to Apply
Ready to give your child this fantastic opportunity? Applications for the 2025/2026 intake open in May 2025. Here’s how to apply:
- Visit the website: BrainGym KW
- Fill out the application form when it becomes available.
- Submit all required documents before the deadline.
