Direct from the Operating Room
DIRECT FROM

The Operating Room

With Alberta Health Services

WHEN

Oct 21, 2025

Nov 18, 2025

Dec 16, 2025

Spring Dates coming soon!

GRADES

Grades 9–12

PARTNER

Alberta Health Services

PRICE

Per class online (up to 35 students): $295
Individual student: $21

Paging all students to the operating room!

Students and teachers are invited to the operating room at Rockyview General Hospital for a live knee surgery led by Dr. Jason Werle (Clinical Section Chief of Orthopedic Surgery, University of Calgary).

Participants watch the live surgery, and are able to ask questions to a medical resident onsite at Spark and speak with the surgical team at Rockyview, including the orthopedic surgeon, the anaesthesiologist, and the circulating nurse.

This program offers a unique way to learn about anatomy, preventative medicine, biomedical engineering and careers in medicine!

In-Person Session
Location: Inspiration Stage at TELUS Spark Science Centre
Cost: $21 per person
Arrive at Spark by 7:45 AM

Virtual Session
Location: online
Cost: $295 per class of 35
Time: 8:00 – 10:00 AM MT (approximate)

Alberta curriculum connections:

Biology 20:

  • Human Systems.

Physical Education:

  • Recreational Leadership (Health, Recreation & Human Services).
  • Sports Medicine.
  • Sports Performance.

Topics explored:

  • Human anatomy.
  • Surgical procedures and equipment.
  • Rehabilitation.
  • Medical careers.

How to Book

Direct From the Operating Room is limited to schools with teacher supervision only.

Book to secure your spot!

Individual bookings are not available at this time. Limited spaces available.

Book Now

Due to the demand for this program:

• Full payment is required one month in advance of the program

• If we do not receive payment one month in advance, your booking may be released to make it available to our waitlisted teachers

• If you require any changes to your booking, please let us know as far in advance as possible so that we have time to fill empty seats

FAQ

    • Teacher Tips and Tech Requirements

      - Register early to secure your spot! Spaces are limited.

      - Students and participants may feel nausea during the program. A sick bucket is advised to have on hand.

      - The program will be streamed via zoom. A laptop, microphone and zoom account is required.

      - One connection per booking. Each booking will be permitted to connect to the surgery using one device. It is highly recommended to project the program onto a larger screen.

      - Due to the sensitivity and nature of the program, a recording will not be available.

      - This offering is limited to schools with teacher supervision only. At-home and individual bookings are not available at this time.

    • Payments and Cancellations

      - Booking changes or cancellations for the Direct From the Operating Room program must be completed at least two weeks before the scheduled program. Any changes are subject to availability. Cancellations within 10 business days of your visit or connection will be charged a $50 cancellation fee.

      - For questions about field trip costs, availability or general inquiries, please contact the School Bookings team at 403.817.6800.

      - Participants acknowledge that patient safety is the priority, and that the Direct From the Operating Room experience is provided for learning purposes. Spark and the Alberta Health Services reserve the right to cancel a broadcast at any time to maintain patient safety. Unfortunately, refunds cannot be provided.

Winner of the Canadian Museums Association / Association des musées canadiens Award for Outstanding Achievement in Audience Outreach.

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