On Tuesday, February 17, Madonna Catholic Secondary School's Arts and Culture and Non-Profit, Education, and Child Care Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) students had the unique opportunity to visit the TIFF Lightbox for an enriching, career-connected learning experience.
During their visit, students participated in a private guided tour of the TIFF Film Reference Library, including access to its extensive vault of film props and artifacts. They were given an up-close look at rare and significant pieces of cinematic memorabilia, offering insight into the preservation and curation of Canada’s film heritage. A highlight of the day was exploring the John Candy Exhibit, which celebrated the life and legacy of one of Canada’s most beloved performers, and deepened students’ appreciation for storytelling and cultural impact in the arts.
Beyond the exhibits, the experience emphasized the wide range of career pathways connected to both SHSM programs. Students were introduced to opportunities spanning creative production, archival preservation, curatorial work, education programming, event coordination, and non-profit leadership. The tour also highlighted the historical significance of the TIFF Lightbox site, once home to Toronto’s first General Hospital, demonstrating how spaces can evolve to serve new cultural and community purposes.
Overall, the visit provided students with meaningful exposure to post-secondary pathways and careers in arts, culture, non-profit work, and education, while reinforcing the value of preserving and celebrating Canada’s creative legacy.
