Empowering Young Minds
Through STEM Education
Located in Vernon, BC. Ages 6–18. Hands-on learning in robotics, coding, 3D design, and innovation.
OARA is taking a strategic reset for 2026
After reviewing our capacity and priorities, OARA will not run a summer camp in 2026. We are taking a deliberate rest and strategic reset for the remainder of the year, operating in a lean model with only a small number of carefully chosen programs. We are also leaving our makerspace at 3125 31 Ave and moving to community venues (libraries, schools, partner spaces) for any events we run.
- No summer camp in 2026; regular weekly programs remain paused.
- Still ahead: Vernon Public Library STEM session — Thursday, July 23, 2026, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM.
- Partnership work with School District 22 (SD22) is in progress.
- Moving from our makerspace to community venues for any events we run.
Built for curious kids,
powered by real tools
Every session at OARA is hands-on — students build, code, and create real projects from day one.
Robotics & Electronics
LEGO Spike, micro:bit, sensors, and real-world prototyping that teach engineering thinking and problem-solving.
Coding & Programming
From Scratch to Python — students learn computational thinking and create games, apps, and digital solutions.
3D Design & Printing
Design in Tinkercad and Blender, then print real creations on professional 3D printing equipment.
Competitions
FIRST LEGO League robotics competitions, coding challenges, and innovation showcases with real stakes.
Project-Based Learning
Students work on real multi-skill projects with experienced mentors who adapt to each learner's pace.
Join a program
made for your child
OARA is in a strategic reset for 2026 — our regular programs are paused and summer camp is not running this year. A small number of selected community sessions are still going ahead. See the calendar, or reach out about collaborating.
No Summer Camp in 2026
OARA will not run a summer camp in 2026. We're taking a deliberate rest and reset, focusing our volunteer team on a small number of carefully chosen programs rather than a full schedule. We'll share future plans as they develop.
After School STEM Program
Our regular weekly after-school programs remain paused during the reset. We may run occasional sessions at community venues — email us if you'd like to be notified or to discuss a partnership.
During our strategic reset our capacity is limited, but we're still open to conversations — home school collaborations, partner programs at schools or libraries, or future private instruction. Reach out and we'll let you know what may be possible.
admin@oarayouthinnovationlab.ca · (236) 795-0470 (text only)
Why parents choose us
Small Groups
Personalized attention from experienced mentors who adapt to every learner.
Community-First
Local Vernon organization committed to building our community's future innovators.
Real Skills
Confidence, teamwork, critical thinking, and technical abilities that last a lifetime.
Real Projects
Students combine multiple skills into actual projects — not isolated lessons.