The Spanning the Gaps - Indigenous Foundations Program, in partnership with The G. Raymond Chang School of Continuing Education, offers Indigenous TMU students a free, flexible and culturally grounded way to strengthen writing and critical thinking skills while preparing for post-secondary studies. Delivered online, the course includes Indigenous cultural teachings, articles by Indigenous authors and highlights an adaptable, relationship-based teaching style that respects students' cultural backgrounds, all within a trauma-informed learning environment. Developed by Diane Simone, Indigenous learning facilitator and TMU's Gdoo-maawnjidimi Mompii, Indigenous Student Services, this supportive program meets students where they are, so they can move forward on their terms.
The program is a non-credit preparatory program, and tuition and books are all provided free of charge to participants.
Who should take the TMU Indigenous Foundations Program?
- TMU Indigenous Students who want to be more successful in their studies
- Indigenous community members who are looking to improve their writing skills
- Indigenous professionals looking to improve skills for Professional Development opportunities at the post-secondary level
Format: Online
Length: 13 weeks
Classes are offered for one and a half hours, two evenings a week starting in the October 5th, 2026
Upcoming 2026 Virtual Information Session
Date: Wednesday, August 5th
Time: 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. EST
For more information, sign up for the evening online information session about the Indigenous Foundations Program.
These sessions will also highlight the Indigenous Foundations Writing Program, a 13-week virtual course starting Fall 2026, open to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit participants.
To register or ask questions, please contact Diane Simone, Aboriginal support facilitator, at dsimone@torontomu.ca
