Find Your Fleming Day Offers Future Students a Closer Look at Campus

By Scott Arnold

Anyone considering Fleming College, or preparing to begin their studies, will have a chance to explore the Sutherland Campus during Find Your Fleming Day on July 30th.

Find Your Fleming Day visitors will have an opportunity to experience the Sutherland Campus community first-hand, explore Fleming’s in-demand academic programs, learn about bursaries and entrance scholarships, and take guided campus tours of Fleming’s state-of-the-art facilities (photo courtesy of fleming college)

The free event will take place from 3 to 5 p.m. at Fleming College's Sutherland Campus in Peterborough and is designed for both students who have already received an offer of admission and those still exploring their post-secondary options for 2026 or 2027.

Visitors will be able to tour the campus, learn more about Fleming's academic programs, explore student services, and get information about bursaries and entrance scholarships. Guided tours will showcase the college's facilities, while members of the Student Recruitment Team will be available to answer questions and help prospective students apply or accept their offers.

As an added incentive, the first 25 people who apply to a 2026 or 2027 program during the event will have their application fee waived. Students who accept an existing offer of admission at the event will also be entered into a draw to win a Fleming hoodie.

Prospective students, applicants and their families are encouraged to register online in advance before attending.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Fleming College Blasting Program Featured on TVOkids Series

By Scott Arnold

A unique Fleming College program is getting a national spotlight, as TVOkids takes young viewers behind the scenes of the specialized world of blasting and skilled trades.

rock blasting expert bill smith, coordinator of fleming college’s blasting techniques program, reacting to a blast with brody agmon, host popular TVOkids educational series, Trading Skills (screenshot from youtube/@tvokids)

The College’s Blasting Techniques program at the Frost Campus in Lindsay will be featured in an upcoming episode of the TVOkids series Trading Skills, giving viewers a closer look at one of Canada’s most specialized trades programs.

The episode was filmed at Fleming’s outdoor learning facilities and features Bill Smith, Program Coordinator for the Blasting Techniques program, alongside Trading Skills co-host Brody Agmon.

Brody agmon, one of the host of the TVOkids series Trading Skills was at Fleming colleges Frost campus to learn about rock blasting from the coordinator of fleming’s blasting techniques program bill smith (screenshot from youtube/@tvokids)

During the episode, viewers learn how blasting professionals contribute to infrastructure projects and the Canadian economy, while also discovering a career path that many may not know exists.

Fleming’s Blasting Techniques program is the only training program of its kind in Canada and prepares students for careers in the explosives industry through hands-on learning.

“Many people don't even know this trade exists, so we’re glad to showcase the Frost Campus and plant that seed early for kids,” said Smith. “Our program is perfect for anyone who loves working outdoors and wants a rewarding career.”

fleming colleges blasting techniques program was featured in an episode of the popular TVOkids educational series,Trading Skills (screenshot from youtube/@tvokids)

The partnership with TVOkids is aimed at introducing young people to skilled trades and highlighting the variety of career opportunities available in technical fields.

The episode featuring Fleming College is scheduled to air on TVOkids on Sunday, July 12 at 12:10 p.m. It is also available to watch through TVOkids’ digital platforms and YouTube channel.

Fleming College offers a variety of skilled trades training opportunities, including programs at the Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre at the Sutherland Campus in Peterborough and drilling and blasting programs at the Frost Campus in Lindsay.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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Registration to Open For Fleming College's Fall Continuing Education Courses This Thursday

Online registration for Fleming College’s fall continuing education courses opens this Thursday.

File Photo.

The Fall 2026 intake features courses and certificate programs including Health and Community Services, Environmental, Business, Languages and Skilled Trades. 

Fleming’s Continuing Education full course and program offerings and registration are available online.

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Ontario Government Invests $56 Million to Fleming College For Post-Secondary Education Expansion

To protect students’ access to education and successful careers, the Ontario Government has invested $56 million into Fleming College announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of Dave Smith.

This investment is part of the government’s new funding model, which will bring an additional $6.4 billion to universities, colleges and Indigenous Institutes across the province to build long-term sustainability in the sector, according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“This historic $56 million investment represents a vital commitment to the future of our region,” he said. “By delivering this targeted support directly to Fleming College, our government is ensuring that local students can continue to access world-class education right here at home. This funding provides the long-term stability needed to keep our postsecondary sector strong, while empowering the next generation with the practical skills required for rewarding, high-demand careers.”

“Fleming College plays a critical role in preparing the next generation of skilled workers, innovators, and community leaders” said Laurie Scott, Haliburton – Kawartha Lakes – Brock MPP. “This investment will help ensure students continue to benefit from high-quality education and hands-on training while strengthening the college’s long-term sustainability. By supporting Fleming today, we are helping build a stronger workforce, stronger communities, and greater opportunities for future generations to launch rewarding careers right here in Ontario.”

The investment helps ensure that Fleming College can keep preparing students for rewarding, in-demand careers that meet labour market demands, spanning several generations. Operating funding for the sector will increase by 30 per cent to $7 billion in fall 2026, with a focus on delivering programs that align with student demand as well as regional and provincial labour-market demands. The model also includes specialized funding for small, rural, northern and French institutions, so that students in all corners of the province have access to a world-class education.

According to the Ontario Government, through this new model, the government is investing $1.7 billion to fund 70,000 in-demand seats across the province. This investment will expand enrollment in health care, skilled trades, teaching and STEM programs to build the highly skilled workforce businesses and communities depend on. A call for proposals to access this funding will launch this spring, with seats opening in fall 2026.

“We are grateful to the Government of Ontario for this significant $14 million average annual investment in Fleming College, provided over the next four years,” said Dr. Theresa Knott, Interim President, Fleming College. “This funding will provide important stability for the College as we continue to focus on our students and their success. By investing in career-focused education and training, the province is helping ensure Fleming graduates are prepared with the skills they need to succeed in rewarding, in-demand careers and contribute to the communities and industries that depend on them.”

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Fleming College Celebrate Phoenix Athletes With 53rd Varsity Awards Banquet

Over 130 student-athletes from Fleming College celebrated another athletic season and recognized exceptional players at the 53rd Annual Phoenix Varsity Awards Banquet on April 10.

Nicole Roy (left) and Thomas Kitchen (right) winning Women’s and Men’s Athlete of the year respectively and other high-honour awards at the banquet. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The special highlighted team, following their historic double-gold national championship win this season, were the Men’s and Women’s Loggersports teams. The Loggersports program took home the Male and Female Athlete of the Year, Female All-Around Athlete of the Year, All-Academic and Coach of the Year awards.

The 2025-2026 Fleming Phoenix varsity athlete awards were presented to:

Eric O’Rourke Memorial All-Around Athlete: Presented to a male and female athlete who performed at a high level while demonstrating leadership, commitment, and dedication.

• Nicole Roy – Women’s Loggersports

• Ryan Clarke – Men's Volleyball and Men’s Soccer

Jack Barley Memorial Athlete of the Year: Presented to a male and female athlete who performed exceptional achievements within their sport while maintaining academic eligibility.

• Nicole Roy – Women's Loggersports

• Thomas Kitchen – Men's Loggersports

Rachel Spearing Award: Presented to a women’s rugby player who demonstrated heart, spirit, sportsmanship, and dedication on the field.

• Sara Petersen – Women's Rugby Sevens

Kris Starr and Adam Evans Awards: Presented to a loggersports athlete who shows heart, spirit, dedication, and love of the sport.

• Kris Starr Award: Sayre Hart – Loggersports

• Adam Evans Award: Jacob Ricker – Loggersports

All-Academic Award: Presented to the athlete with the highest academic average who achieved a balance in their sport and in academics.

• Sarah Porter – Women’s Loggersports

Fred Batley Coach of the Year Award: Presented to a coach driven by the passion they have for their sport, who goes above and beyond to create a positive atmosphere, and ensure their student-athletes have the best possible experience.

• Al Cavers – Loggersports

OCAA Academic and Athletic Excellence Award: Presented to OCAA athletes who achieve an honours GPA at their college, as well as receiving an OCAA honours award.

• Ashley Smith – Women's Rugby Sevens

Most Valuable Player Award: Recognized by their respective team for significant contribution to their team’s success.

• Ashley Smith – Women’s Rugby Sevens

• Emma Radley – Women’s Soccer

• Ryan Clarke – Men’s Soccer

• Mattea Miller-Evans - Women’s Loggersports

• Thomas Kitchen – Men’s Loggersports

• Owen Wisman – Men’s Basketball

• Samantha de Koning – Women’s Volleyball

• Calvin Dekok – Men’s Volleyball

Rookie of the Year Award: Recognized by their respective team for outstanding skills and positive integration with the team.

• Charlotte Murray – Women’s Rugby Sevens

• Claire Deschatelets – Women’s Soccer

• Aidan Sproule – Men’s Soccer

• Morgan Specht – Women’s Loggersports

• Lyndon Jarbeau – Men’s Loggersports

• Nathan Walters – Sundararajah – Men’s Basketball

• Guinevere Hallock – Women’s Volleyball

• Jordan Flynn – Men’s Volleyball

There were 30 student athletes were awarded for achieving an honours-level grade point average (GPA) while balancing the demands of varsity-level competition.

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Ten Local Women Facing Employment Barriers Complete Welding Training at Fleming College

Through a training and program-delivery partnership with the Canadian Welders Bureau (CWB) Foundation, 10 local women facing barriers to employment have successfully completed eight weeks of hands-on welding and computer training at Fleming College.

photo courtesy of fleming college.

The training is part of CWB’s free 16-week WeldHER+ pre-employment program, which also includes an eight-week paid placement with one of Fleming’s placement employers.

With the first WeldHER + cohort recently completing the program, each participant has now taken their next steps towards meaningful, skilled trades careers. Eight participants gained full-time employment with their placement employer and two chose to advance their professional skills through full-time studies in the Welding and Fabrication program.

Fleming College delivered a technical training experience, led by welding faculty in the Kawartha Trades and Technology Centre. Through the program, the women had the opportunity to earn up to eight CWB welding qualifications and become well prepared for apprenticeships and immediate employment. Employers affirmed this high-skill-level training, consistently reporting strong performance, job readiness, and strong growth among WeldHER+ participants.

Applications are now being accepted for the next WeldHER+ pre-employment program intake. In-class sessions at Fleming College run from May 19 to July 3, followed by a placement opportunity from July to September. Community members, referral agencies and employer partners are encouraged to connect early to support participation and placement opportunities.

For more information or to apply, reach out via e-mail.

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Fleming College Student Administrative Council Recognizes Student Leaders

Fleming College students celebrated some of the school’s top leaders at their annual awards ceremony held in the Steele Centre on April 9.

photo courtesy of fleming college.

“We are thrilled to be celebrating these students who have been actively engaged in the Fleming community and the broader Peterborough community,” says Joel Willett, General Manager.

The Student Leaders are as follows:

Street Team Awards

Fletcher Boultbee, Janveet Singh, Logan Stacey, Peyton Kemp, Rashi Nandal, and Sophiya Thakuri

Awarded to student representatives who demonstrate exceptional involvement, engage their peers and bring campus life to the next level.

Student Administrative Council President’s Award (dedicated in honour of Bill Johnson): Janveet Singh

Selected by the SAC Board Chair and Board of Directors, this award is given to a student who exemplifies school spirit.

Iain Steele Leadership Award: Princy Rana

Awarded to a student who demonstrates great ambition, is innovative and has a high degree of moral standards and integrity.

Iain Steele Community Service Award: Jan Daryl Bautista

Awarded to a student who demonstrates a commitment to serving the community and has a high degree of integrity.

Renie Steele Award: Dee Brathwaite

Awarded to a student who displays citizenship, understanding and compassion towards fellow students.

Environmental Stewardship Award: Micheal Rodin

Given to a student who displays a responsible use and protection of the natural environment through conservation and sustainable practices.

Fleming SAC Advocacy Award: Shraddha

Given to a student who demonstrates advocacy and a strong passion for invoking change.

Student Experience Awards

Student Life Volunteer Award - Nabeelah Lookman

Through volunteer contributions, the recipient of this award has demonstrated initiative, leadership and commitment in support of Student Life programs and services.

Diversity & Inclusion Award- Bridget Amankwaa

The recipient of this award has contributed to building a welcoming campus that celebrates diversity, advances equity and fosters inclusion. They have made a direct contribution through leadership and engagement in student life.

Greg Riddle Award for Emerging Student Leader: Dorothy Joan Lavoie

Presented to a current full-time Fleming College student who successfully completed the Emerging Student Leaders program sponsored by Student Life. This student's actions enhanced individual and group experiences for fellow students during the program through understanding leadership, communication, team work and commitment.

International Student Services Leadership Award- Olivia Azar Martinez

Presented to a current full-time international student who, through their leadership and initiative, has assisted and supported the successful transition and integration into campus life for their fellow international students.

Indigenous Student Leadership Award- Timothy Stewart

This award is given to students who have demonstrated leadership by incorporating the Anishinaabe 7 Grandfather Teachings in their morals, values and interactions with the Fleming community, Indigenous student Community and beyond. Humility, Bravery, Honesty, Wisdom, Truth, Respect and Love are the 7 Grandfathers and are the foundation of many Indigenous ways of being. We, as Indigenous peoples choose to live by these principles in order to achieve balance; with ourselves, our community and the land.

Residence Awards

Team Play of the Year - Sutherland Residence Village: Olivia Azar Martinez

Team Player of the Year - Frost Residence Village: Isabelle Daley

This award recognizes a Residence Life Staff member who consistently demonstrates collaboration, reliability and a strong commitment to supporting their team. The recipient of this award goes above and beyond to foster a positive team environment, offers support to fellow staff members and contributes to the overall success of the Residence Life community. Through their willingness to step in when needed, share ideas and encourage others, they embody the spirit of teamwork that helps our residence community thrive.

Each year Fleming Student Administrative Council works with students to advocate for the enrichment of student life on and off campus. The Student Leadership Awards are an opportunity to recognize students who contribute positively to the overall student environment at Fleming. Awards are given as bursaries in varying monetary values and have been donated by key partners and long-time supporters of student success at Fleming College.

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Fleming College and Fairhaven Long-Term Care Celebrate first PSW Living Classroom Graduates

Fleming College and Fairhaven Long-Term Care celebrated the first cohort of Personal Support Worker (PSW) students to complete the Living Classroom program with a ceremony on Friday.

photo courtesy of fleming college.

The event marked both the official recognition of the Living Classroom partnership at Fairhaven and the graduation of seven students who have completed their PSW training through this on-site learning model. 

The Living Classroom program enables students to complete their theory, skills training and clinical placement directly within a long-term care home. The approach provides hands-on experience in a real care environment, allowing students to work alongside care teams while developing practical skills and confidence for careers in health care.

This cohort represents the first group of students to complete the program at Fairhaven, following a pilot launch in Fall 2025.  

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Fleming College and St. Lawrence College Announce Merger

To ‘create a stronger institution with greater scale, broader access for students to programs and services and improved long-term financial sustainability,’ Fleming College and St. Lawrence College have announced a merger on Friday.

File Photo.

According to Fleming, this is a significant step toward building a larger, more capable institution that can expand access and strengthen long-term sustainability. As a result of the integration, the merger will create greater scale and capability and better align programs and capacity with regional labour market needs. This will allow students to benefit from expanded academic pathways, increased access to specialized programs, enhanced research opportunities and broader work-integrated learning experiences, stated Theresa Knott, Fleming interim president.

“This integration represents a forward-looking investment in our students and communities,” she said. “By bringing our strengths together, we are positioning ourselves to deliver more opportunities, more innovation, greater access, and a stronger foundation for the future across our combined regions and campuses.”

Both colleges have been working closely with the Ontario Government to ensure a smooth integration with minimum impacts on students and communities. Both Colleges assure that there are no planned changes to local brands, programs, campuses, services or student supports from this announcement.

“We are committed to ensuring that students have the tools, programs, and support they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving economy,” said Glenn Vollebregt, St. Lawrence College president and CEO. “This integration gives us the scale and capability to serve more students, offer more opportunity, and build a stronger institution for the long term.”

The boards of both Fleming College and St. Lawrence College have approved an integration framework agreement that outlines the steps toward full integration.

“As governors, our responsibility is to help ensure our institutions remain strong, relevant and sustainable for the students and each of the communities we serve,” said Don Gillespie, Fleming Board Chair. “This integration process reflects a thoughtful, long-term approach to building greater capacity, expanding opportunities, and protecting the strength of college education across our region.”

“This is an important step toward creating a stronger future for students, employers and communities across eastern Ontario,” said Julie Caffin, St. Lawrence College Chair of the Board of Governors. “By bringing together the complementary strengths of our two institutions, we have an opportunity to build a more resilient college that can respond to changing needs while preserving our commitment to student success and community impact.”

The new college will have a single management team. Vollebregt will serve as the initial President and CEO and Knott will serve as the initial Associate President and Chief Academic Officer of the New College.

Both colleges have stated that the integration will proceed through the next phase of implementation, which includes detailed due diligence, operational planning, and community engagement. These steps will be undertaken under board oversight and in line with provincial requirements, with further updates to be shared as more information becomes available.

Fleming College has campuses in Peterborough, Lindsay, Haliburton and Cobourg. St. Lawrence College operates in Kingston, Brockville and Cornwall.

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Fleming College Launches Entrance Scholarships to Support Student Success and Workforce Needs

Fleming College has announced the launch of its first-ever Entrance Scholarships program, a new initiative designed to reduce financial barriers for incoming students while supporting enrolment in high-demand program areas aligned with workforce needs.

photo courtesy of fleming college.

Beginning in the 2026 to 2027 academic year, Fleming will invest $100,000 in entrance scholarships, benefiting 50 full-time domestic students. The scholarships will provide $2,000 awards across five key student groups: mature learners, students entering the new Diagnostic Cardiac Sonography program, skilled trades students, applied health students and Fleming alumni returning to study.

This initiative builds on Fleming’s long-standing commitment to student support through bursaries, awards, and scholarships, while introducing a strategic approach to enhancing recruitment, improving conversion and supporting priority program growth. It is being launched at a critical time as institutions consider how to address gaps in student support due to recent changes to the OSAP program.

“These entrance scholarships represent a meaningful investment in our students and in the future of our communities,” said Dr. Theresa Knott, Interim President of Fleming College. “By reducing financial barriers at the point of entry, we are helping more students access education in high-demand fields while strengthening the talent pipeline for critical sectors like healthcare and skilled trades.”

The scholarships are made possible through a combination of donor contributions, including the Fleming Forward Fund, private donors and TD Insurance Affinity program revenue.

The program directly supports Fleming College’s strategic priorities, including expanding applied health programming, growing skilled trades education and enhancing student recruitment and retention.

“This initiative demonstrates how philanthropy can directly impact student success and institutional growth,” said Katie Pezoulas, Executive Director of Advancement and External Relations. “We are proud to work with our donors to create opportunities that not only support students financially but also align with the evolving needs of our communities and economy.”

Entrance scholarships will be automatically awarded based on academic achievement and eligibility criteria. They are available to full-time domestic students who accept their offer of admission by May 1, with recipients selected based on academic performance.

By targeting key demographic groups and program areas, the initiative is expected to improve enrolment conversion among highly qualified applicants while supporting sectors identified in Ontario’s Strategic Mandate Agreement, including skilled trades and applied health.

For more information about entrance scholarships at Fleming College, visit the website.

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